Query: Is autoimmune hepatitis IgG or IgM?
Autoimmune hepatitis is an inflammatory liver condition that occurs when the body’s own immune system mistakenly attacks the liver cells. This type of hepatitis is caused by IgG antibodies, rather than IgM. IgG antibodies are the most common type of antibody, and they’re produced by B cells in response to a foreign antigen or pathogen. IgM antibodies, on the other hand, are generated in response to an antigen from a virus or bacterium, and are usually the first antibodies to be produced in response to an infection.
In autoimmune hepatitis, the IgG antibodies attack the liver cells, causing inflammation and disruption of the liver’s normal functioning. Common symptoms of autoimmune hepatitis include fatigue, jaundice, weight loss, and abdominal pain. Treatment for autoimmune hepatitis usually involves medications such as corticosteroids and other immunosuppressants, which help to suppress the production of the IgG antibodies and reduce inflammation.
In addition, patients with autoimmune hepatitis may need to have their liver function monitored regularly with blood tests, imaging tests, and/or biopsies. Blood tests are used to check for elevated levels of IgG antibodies, which can help doctors to determine the severity of the condition and how best to treat it. Imaging tests such as ultrasound and CT scans can also be used to detect any signs of liver damage. Finally, a liver biopsy may be used to confirm the diagnosis of autoimmune hepatitis and to assess the extent of damage to the liver.
To summarize, autoimmune hepatitis is an inflammatory condition of the liver caused by IgG antibodies, rather than IgM. Symptoms of autoimmune hepatitis may include fatigue, jaundice, weight loss, and abdominal pain. Treatment usually involves medications such as corticosteroids and immunosuppressants, and regular monitoring of liver function with blood tests, imaging tests, and/or biopsies.