Unusual Causes of Jaundice: A Diagnostic Challenge

• Published in: Curēus (Palo Alto, CA) Vol. 15; no. 11; p. e49760
• Main Authors: Ranjan, Amiya, Kumar, Manish, Sunder, Ashok, Nafe, Zaid
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: United States Cureus 30.11.2023
• Subjects: Gastroenterology; Infectious Disease; Internal Medicine; acute viral hepatitis; autoimmune hepatitis (aih); hepatic failure; autoantibodies; hepatitis a virus (hav)
• ISSN: 2168-8184; 2168-8184
• DOI: 10.7759/cureus.49760

This case report discusses a complex medical scenario involving a 25-year-old female patient initially diagnosed with acute hepatitis A virus (HAV) who later developed symptoms indicative of autoimmune hepatitis (AIH). The transition from uncomplicated HAV to impending subacute hepatic failure and autoimmune overlap syndrome highlights the importance of vigilant monitoring and a comprehensive diagnostic approach. The patient's medical evaluation revealed autoantibodies, elevated IgG levels, and liver biopsy findings consistent with steatohepatitis. Management included immunosuppressive therapy, resulting in a positive treatment response. The phenomenon of AIH following acute HAV infection, though rare, remains a subject of medical interest and presents diagnostic and therapeutic challenges. Further research and clinical experience are needed to develop effective strategies for these infrequent cases.