autoimmune hepatitis/primary billiary cirrhosis and pregnancy

I'm a  32 years old female diagnosed with autoimmune hepatitis and primary billiary cirrhosis. Last biopsy showed early cirrhosis. My Alkaline Phosphatate is 896 plus the other enzymes are also high (in the 200s). I had a baby 5 years ago when my problem wasn't as bad and did pretty good. I would like to get pregnat again but my doctor said that I could go into liver failure. Do you think this could happen, what are the probabilities, Is this something that could happen over night. Right now I'm taking 20 mg pregnisone, 500 mg cellcept and 2000 mg Urso. Please advise. Would you consider those enzymes high to the point of liver failure.

[Kevin Pho, MD]

There is a chance of worsening of the liver disease when pregnant.  Also, the medications that you are taking for the hepatitis may be harmful to the fetus.  

Without examination, I cannot predict the probability of going into liver failure.

Regarding pregnancy, I would discuss this option with another GI opinion, in conjunction with your obstetrician.  A referral to an academic medical center, where they deal with high-risk pregnancies, can be considered.

Followup with your personal physician is essential.

This answer is not intended as and does not substitute for medical advice - the information presented is for patient education only. Please see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.

Kevin, M.D.
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