Overlap syndromes: the International Autoimmune Hepatitis Group (IAIHG) position statement on a controversial issue

Distinct characteristics of various autoimmune liver diseases: A 22-year hospital-based study in Taiwan

BACKGROUND AND AIM

The characteristics of autoimmune liver diseases (AILDs), including primary biliary cholangitis (PBC), autoimmune hepatitis (AIH), and PBC-AIH overlap syndrome (OS), have rarely been investigated and compared in Asia.

METHODS

At the Taiwan tertiary referral center, 330 PBC patients (87% treated with ursodeoxycholic acid [UDCA]), 143 AIH patients (94.4% treated with immunosuppressive therapy [IST]) and 21 PBC-AIH OS patients (85.7% treated with UDCA and IST) were enrolled.

RESULTS

Compared with AIH patients, PBC patients were older at baseline and had greater female-to-male sex ratios, alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and γ-glutamyl transferase (γ-GT) levels, and liver cirrhosis (LC), dyslipidemia, and hepatic and cardiometabolic complication rates. PBC patients had the lowest transaminase levels, whereas AIH patients had the highest transaminase levels. PBC patients had greater 22-year all-cause mortality and liver transplantation (ACMaLT) (43.5 vs 25.4%, P = 0.004), LC (75 vs 58.5%, P < 0.01), dyslipidemia (54.4 vs 45.9%, P = 0.001), and cerebrovascular accident (11.3 vs 0.8%, P = 0.019) cumulative incidences (CIs) than did AIH patients; PBC-AIH OS patients had greater systemic lupus erythematosus (28.9 vs 8.9%, P = 0.009) CI than did PBC patients. Baseline ALP (hazard ratio: 1.001), albumin (0.514), platelet count (0.997), and LC (3.438) were associated with ACMaLT; age (1.110), albumin (0.350), cirrhosis (46.219), and hepatitis C virus antibody positivity (5.068) were associated with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC); and female sex (2.183) and body mass index (1.054) were associated with autoimmune diseases.

CONCLUSIONS

Compared with AIH patients, PBC patients had greater cardiometabolic CI, and ACMaLT CI, which was associated with cholestasis, liver functional reserve and LC. Older AILD patients with LC and females with obesity demand special caution for the development of HCC and extrahepatic autoimmune diseases, respectively.

SARS-CoV-2 mRNA vaccines do not worsen autoimmunity in patients with autoimmune liver diseases

INTRODUCTION AND AIMS

mRNA vaccines against Severe Acute Respiratory Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection have been associated with immune-related adverse reactions. We aimed at investigating whether SARS-CoV-2 vaccines may worsen autoimmune reactions in patients with autoimmune liver diseases.

METHODS

We centrally tested a large panel of liver- and non-liver-related autoantibodies in patients with primary biliary cholangitis (PBC), autoimmune hepatitis (AIH), primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC), and in healthcare workers (HW) before and after SARS-CoV-2 mRNA vaccines.

RESULTS

49 PBC, 35 AIH, 9 PSC and 38 HW were included. The proportion of subjects with at least one autoantibody positivization after vaccination was 11 % for HW, 37 % for AIH, 35 % for PBC and 56 % for PSC patients, patients having a significantly higher frequency of positivization as compared to HW. The proportion of seropositive subjects before vaccination who had at least one autoantibody negativization was 25 % for HW, 57 % for AIH, 40 % for PBC and 50 % for PSC, AIH patients having a significantly higher frequency of negativization as compared to HW. In the AIH group, the number of autoantibody negativizations was higher than the number of positivizations. The BNT162b2 vaccine was associated with a higher risk of developing new autoantibodies as compared to the mRNA-1273 vaccine. No new-onset autoimmune disease was observed after one year. One AIH patient had a relapse after vaccination.

CONCLUSION

mRNA SARS-CoV-2 vaccines do not induce short-term worsening of autoimmunity in patients with autoimmune liver diseases.

Serum IgG level in autoimmune liver diseases and its significance: Is there a need to revisit existing criteria? Experience from a tertiary care center

BACKGROUND

Serum immunoglobulin G (IgG) level is elevated in autoimmune liver diseases (AILDs), especially autoimmune hepatitis (AIH). However, its utility is limited in current practice as different criteria propose different cut-off values leading to considerable ambiguity.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A cross-sectional study was conducted among patients with AILD who underwent a liver biopsy over a ten-year period. From 17644 liver biopsies, 630 patients were included and divided into three groups-AIH (455 patients), primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) (97 patients), and overlap (78 patients). Clinical and laboratory details were collected and histological findings were reviewed. Non-cirrhotic non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) cases were taken as the control group for IgG level comparison.

RESULTS

Among AIH patients, IgG values of >2 times the upper limit of normal (ULN) were associated with significant elevation of aspartate transaminase (AST), alanine transaminase (ALT), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), bilirubin, and necroinflammatory activity. IgG level of >1.1 times ULN lacks specificity in differentiating AIH from the control group. The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve demonstrates maximum sensitivity and specificity at a cut-off value of >1.3 times ULN.

CONCLUSION

Serum IgG cut-off value for diagnosing AIH, either in isolation or as a component of overlap syndrome, needs revision and uniformity. IgG value of >2 times ULN in AIH is associated with severe AIH. A new cut-off value of >1.3 times ULN is proposed.

Rituximab is a safe and effective alternative treatment for patients with autoimmune hepatitis: Results from the ColHai registry

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Small series suggest that rituximab could be effective as treatment for autoimmune hepatitis (AIH), although data are scarce. We aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of rituximab in different cohorts of patients with AIH.

METHODS

Multicentre retrospective analysis of the 35 patients with AIH and its variant forms treated with rituximab and included in the ColHai registry between 2015 and 2023.

RESULTS

Most patients were female (83%), 10 (29%) had cirrhosis and four (11.4%) variant forms of AIH. Indication for rituximab were as follows: 14(40%) refractory AIH, 19(54%) concomitant autoimmune or haematological disorder, 2(6%) intolerance to prior treatments. In three (9%) subjects with a concomitant disorder, rituximab was the first therapy for AIH. Overall, 31 (89%) patients achieved or maintained complete biochemical response (CBR), including the three in first-line therapy. No difference in CBR was observed according to rituximab indication (refractory AIH 86% vs. concomitant disorders 90%, p = .824) or cirrhosis (80% vs. 92%, p = .319). Rituximab was associated with a significant reduction in corticosteroids (median dose: prior 20 vs. post 5 mg, p < .001) and the discontinuation of ≥1 immunosuppressant in 47% of patients. Flare-free rate at 1st, 2nd and 3rd year was 86%, 73% and 62% respectively. Flares were not associated with the development of liver failure and were successfully managed with repeated doses of rituximab and/or increased corticosteroids. Three (9%) patients experienced infusion-related adverse events (1 anaphylaxis and 2 flu-like symptoms) and five (14%) infections.

CONCLUSION

Rituximab is safe and effective in patients with refractory AIH and those treated due to concomitant autoimmune or haematological disorders.

Autoimmune diseases in primary sclerosing cholangitis and their first-degree relatives

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) is linked to inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). However, there is limited overlap between IBD and PSC risk genes, but a stronger association between PSC and other autoimmune conditions. We aimed to assess the coexistence and familial association of autoimmune disorders in PSC, and the influence of autoimmune comorbidity on severe outcomes.

APPROACH AND RESULTS

In a matched cohort study, 1378 individuals with PSC and 13,549 general population comparators and their first-degree relatives were evaluated. National registries provided data on diagnoses and outcomes (liver transplantation, hepatobiliary cancer, and liver-related death). The OR of autoimmune disease was estimated by logistic regression. The Fine and Gray competing risk regression estimated HRs for severe outcomes. The prevalence of non-IBD, non-autoimmune hepatitis, and autoimmune disease was 18% in PSC and 11% in comparators, OR: 1.77 (95% CI: 1.53-2.05). Highest odds were seen for celiac disease [OR: 4.36 (95% CI: 2.44-7.49)], sarcoidosis [OR: 2.74 (95% CI: 1.29-5.33)], diabetes type 1 [OR: 2.91 (95% CI: 2.05-4.05)], and autoimmune skin disease [OR: 2.15 (95% CI: 1.52-2.96)]. First-degree relatives of individuals with PSC had higher odds of developing IBD, autoimmune hepatitis, and any autoimmune disease than relatives of the comparators [OR: 3.25 (95% CI: 2.68-3.91); OR: 5.94 (95% CI: 2.82-12.02); OR: 1.34 (95% CI: 1.19-1.50)]. Autoimmune comorbidity in PSC was not associated with poorer outcomes [HR: 0.96 (95% CI: 0.71-1.28)].

CONCLUSIONS

Individuals with PSC and their first-degree relatives had higher odds of autoimmune disease compared to matched comparators. This finding provides validation for prior genetic discoveries at a phenotypic level. Autoimmune comorbidity did not impact severe outcomes.

Biliary fibrosis is an important but neglected pathological feature in hepatobiliary disorders: from molecular mechanisms to clinical implications

Fibrosis resulting from pathological repair secondary to recurrent or persistent tissue damage often leads to organ failure and mortality. Biliary fibrosis is a crucial but easily neglected pathological feature in hepatobiliary disorders, which may promote the development and progression of benign and malignant biliary diseases through pathological healing mechanisms secondary to biliary tract injuries. Elucidating the etiology and pathogenesis of biliary fibrosis is beneficial to the prevention and treatment of biliary diseases. In this review, we emphasized the importance of biliary fibrosis in cholangiopathies and summarized the clinical manifestations, epidemiology, and aberrant cellular composition involving the biliary ductules, cholangiocytes, immune system, fibroblasts, and the microbiome. We also focused on pivotal signaling pathways and offered insights into ongoing clinical trials and proposing a strategic approach for managing biliary fibrosis-related cholangiopathies. This review will offer a comprehensive perspective on biliary fibrosis and provide an important reference for future mechanism research and innovative therapy to prevent or reverse fibrosis.

Diagnostic criteria and long-term outcomes in AIH-PBC variant syndrome under combination therapy

Background & Aims

Autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) and primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) can co-exist in AIH-PBC, requiring combined treatment with immunosuppression and ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA). The Paris criteria are commonly used to identify these patients; however, the optimal diagnostic criteria are unknown. We aimed to evaluate the use and clinical relevance of both Paris and Zhang criteria.

Methods

Eighty-three patients with a clinical suspicion of AIH-PBC who were treated with combination therapy were included. Histology was re-evaluated. Characteristics and long-term outcomes were retrospectively compared to patients with AIH and PBC.

Results

Seventeen (24%) patients treated with combination therapy fulfilled the Paris criteria. Fifty-two patients (70%) fulfilled the Zhang criteria. Patients who met Paris and Zhang criteria more often had inflammation and fibrosis on histology compared to patients only meeting the Zhang criteria. Ten-year liver transplant (LT)-free survival was 87.3% (95% CI 78.9-95.7%) in patients with AIH-PBC. This did not differ in patients in or outside the Paris or Zhang criteria (p = 0.46 and p = 0.40, respectively) or from AIH (p = 0.086). LT-free survival was significantly lower in patients with PBC and severe hepatic inflammation - not receiving immunosuppression - compared to those with AIH-PBC (65%; 95% CI 52.2-77.8% vs. 87%; 95% CI 83.2-90.8%; hazard ratio 0.52; p = 0.043).

Conclusions

In this study, patients with AIH-PBC outside Paris or Zhang criteria were frequently labeled as having AIH-PBC and were successfully treated with combination therapy with similar outcomes. LT-free survival was worse in patients with PBC and hepatic inflammation than in those treated as having AIH-PBC. More patients may benefit from combination therapy.

Impact and implications

This study demonstrated that patients with AIH-PBC variant syndrome treated with combined therapy consisting of immunosuppressants and ursodeoxycholic acid often do not fulfill the Paris criteria. They do however have comparable response to therapy and long-term outcomes as patients who do fulfill the diagnostic criteria. Additionally, patients with PBC and additional signs of hepatic inflammation have poorer long-term outcomes compared to patients treated as having AIH-PBC. These results implicate that a larger group of patients with features of both AIH and PBC may benefit from combined treatment. With our results, we call for improved consensus among experts in the field on the diagnosis and management of AIH-PBC variant syndrome.

The phenotypic landscape of primary biliary cholangitis and autoimmune hepatitis variants

Autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) and primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) stand as distinct diseases, yet occasionally intertwine with overlapping features, posing diagnostic and management challenges. This recognition traces back to the 1970s, with initial case reports highlighting this complexity. Diagnostic scoring systems like IAIHG and simplified criteria for AIH were introduced but are inherently limited in diagnosing variant syndromes. The so-called Paris criteria offer a diagnostic framework with high sensitivity and specificity for variant syndromes, although disagreements among international guidelines persist. Histological findings in AIH and PBC may exhibit overlapping features, rendering histology alone inadequate for a definitive diagnosis. Autoantibody profiles could be helpful, but similarly cannot be considered alone to reach a solid and consistent evaluation. Treatment strategies vary based on the predominant features observed. Individuals with overlapping characteristics favoring AIH ideally benefit from corticosteroids, while patients primarily manifesting PBC features should initially receive treatment with choleretic drugs like ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA).

Treatment in primary biliary cholangitis: Beyond ursodeoxycholic acid

Primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) is a rare cholestatic immune-mediated liver disease. The clinical course varies from mild to severe, with a substantial group of patients developing cirrhosis within a decade. These patients are at risk of hepatocellular carcinoma, decompensation and liver failure. First line Ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA) treatment improves the cholestatic surrogate markers, and was recently associated with a favorable survival free of liver transplantation, even in case of an incomplete biochemical response. However, despite adequate UDCA therapy, patients remain at risk of liver disease progression. Therefore, on-treatment multifactor-based risk stratification is necessary to identify patients in need of additional therapy. This requires a personalized approach; especially as recent studies suggest that complete biochemical normalization as most stringent response criterion might be preferred in selected patients to optimize their outcome. Today, stricter biochemical goals might actually be reachable with the addition of farnesoid X receptor or peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor agonists, or, in highly-selected cases, use of corticosteroids. Randomized controlled trials showed improvements in the key biochemical surrogate markers with the addition of these drugs, which have also been associated with improved clinical outcome. Considering this evolving PBC landscape, with more versatile treatment options and treatment goals, this review recapitulates the recent insight in UDCA therapy, the selection of patients with a residual risk of liver disease progression and the results of the currently available second line treatment options.

The Autoimmune Gender Gap: A Rare Case of a Male Patient With Overlapping Autoimmune Hepatitis and Primary Biliary Cholangitis

Autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) is a condition resulting in chronic, inflammatory changes to the liver. Primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) is an autoimmune condition that destroys intrahepatic bile ducts. Overlap syndrome with concomitant AIH and PBC comprises a rare subgroup of patients with immune-mediated liver disease, with incidence rates of male patients being exceedingly uncommon in a predominantly female patient population. Our case report investigates a rare case of a 41-year-old male patient diagnosed with overlapping AIH and PBC. He initially presented with symptoms of fatigue, pruritus, and episodes of Raynaud's phenomenon, in addition to findings of persistently elevated liver enzymes despite lifestyle modifications. He had no past medical history, no history of alcohol use disorder, and no family medical history of chronic liver disease. Imaging did not reveal evidence of cirrhosis. Further diagnostic workup was significant for elevated immunologic markers for antinuclear antibodies (ANA) with positive centromere and cytoplasmic patterns, antimitochondrial antibodies (AMA) with F-actin antibodies, anti-smooth muscle antibodies (ASMA), and cytoplasmic antinuclear cytoplasmic antibodies (ANCA C). Liver biopsy showed prominent plasma cells and rare granulomas, consistent with the diagnosis of AIH with a component of PBC, respectively. He was started on ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA), demonstrating a near-complete clinical response with resolution of symptoms and normalization of liver enzymes. Studies investigating the low incidence of male patients with overlap syndrome are limited, as current research is overwhelmingly based on studies with predominantly female subjects. However, most studies generally recommend treatment with both UDCA and corticosteroids to reduce symptoms and biochemical markers. Our case report highlights a rare case of a male patient documenting excellent biochemical and clinical responses to monotherapy with UDCA. A possible theory is that our patient's early treatment (prior to advanced disease progression) is associated with his near-complete biochemical response and symptomatic resolution on UDCA alone. Further research is needed to fully understand the clinical course and long-term prognosis of male patients with overlap syndrome. Our patient remains in life-long follow-up to monitor if or when he requires treatment with corticosteroids in addition to current monotherapy with UDCA.​.

Autoimmune hepatitis-primary biliary cholangitis overlap syndrome complicated by various autoimmune diseases: A case report

BACKGROUND

Autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) and primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) are two common clinical autoimmune liver diseases, and some patients have both diseases; this feature is called AIH-PBC overlap syndrome. Autoimmune thyroid disease (AITD) is the most frequently overlapping extrahepatic autoimmune disease. Immunoglobulin (IgG) 4-related disease is an autoimmune disease recognized in recent years, characterized by elevated serum IgG4 levels and infiltration of IgG4-positive plasma cells in tissues.

CASE SUMMARY

A 68-year-old female patient was admitted with a history of right upper quadrant pain, anorexia, and jaundice on physical examination. Laboratory examination revealed elevated liver enzymes, multiple positive autoantibodies associated with liver and thyroid disease, and imaging and biopsy suggestive of pancreatitis, hepatitis, and PBC. A diagnosis was made of a rare and complex overlap syndrome of AIH, PBC, AITD, and IgG4-related disease. Laboratory features improved on treatment with ursodeoxycholic acid, methylprednisolone, and azathioprine.

CONCLUSION

This case highlights the importance of screening patients with autoimmune diseases for related conditions.

Autoimmune Hepatitis: A Diagnostic and Therapeutic Overview

Autoimmune hepatitis is an immune-mediated inflammatory condition of the liver of undetermined cause that affects both sexes, all ages, races, and ethnicities. Its clinical presentation can be very broad, from having an asymptomatic and silent course to presenting as acute hepatitis, cirrhosis, and acute liver failure potentially requiring liver transplantation. The diagnosis is based on histological abnormalities (interface hepatitis), characteristic clinical and laboratory findings (increased aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, and serum IgG concentration), and the presence of one or more characteristic autoantibodies. The large heterogeneity of these clinical, biochemical, and histological findings can sometimes make a timely and proper diagnosis a difficult task. Treatment seeks to achieve remission of the disease and prevent further progression of liver disease. First-line therapy includes high-dose corticosteroids, which are later tapered to decrease side effects, and azathioprine. In the presence of azathioprine intolerance or a poor response to the standard of care, second-line therapy needs to be considered, including mycophenolate mofetil. AIH remains a diagnostic and therapeutic challenge, and a further understanding of the pathophysiological pathways of the disease and the implementation of randomized controlled trials are needed.

Biliary disease progression in childhood onset autoimmune liver disease: A 30-year follow-up into adulthood

Background & Aims

Long-term follow-up studies of paediatric onset autoimmune liver disease (AILD) are invaluable in helping better understand the clinical course of disease. In day-to-day practice clinicians struggle with disease definitions whilst patients and parents lack clear prognostic information.

Methods

The clinical progression of 159 patients with childhood onset AILD between June 1990 and December 2013 was reviewed, capturing data up to adulthood (ending May 2021).

Results

Presentation with autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) was dominant (n = 119); biliary presentations accounted for 25%. During follow up, biliary disease progression confirmed by cholangiography and/or liver histology was observed frequently: 19.8% (20/101) patients with childhood onset AIH type 1 (AIH-1) developed biliary features by adulthood and of these 50% phenotypically transitioned to primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC); the remaining transitioned to an overlap disease phenotype. No patients with AIH type 2 developed biliary progression. Two-thirds of patients with overlap features (14/21) in childhood had phenotypically progressed to PSC by adulthood. Approximately 43% (6/14) of AIH-1 patients requiring a liver transplant in adulthood had explant evidence of biliary disease compared with 11% (1/9) in childhood, whereas 35.7% (5/14) of patients had histology diagnostic of PSC in their explant liver and 7.1% (1/14) had overlap features. All patients with biliary phenotypes (PSC, autoimmune sclerosing cholangitis, overlap) who required a transplant (n = 18) were found to have explant histology consistent with PSC. Twelve of 14 patients with biliary progression developed ulcerative colitis during follow-up with 92% progressing to PSC.

Conclusions

Three decades of follow-up demonstrated how children presenting with AILD had a significant risk of clinical transformation to PSC. Biliary progression was significantly associated with the development of inflammatory bowel disease.

Impact and implications

Childhood onset autoimmune liver disease remains very impactful for patients and families. Disease nomenclature can however be confusing. Long-term follow up studies as children become adults is important to help understand how and why disease behaves over time. Understanding more about the long-term course of childhood autoimmune liver disease will help patients, families and doctors striving to improve care and reduce poor clinical outcomes. We followed over 150 patients with childhood onset autoimmune liver diseases into adulthood. We found that amongst patients with classical autoimmune hepatitis, 1 in 5 developed biliary disease over time, mostly consisting of primary sclerosing cholangitis. This was associated with developing inflammatory bowel disease. Our study design was retrospective and has relevant limitations. Defining phenotypes of autoimmune liver diseases is difficult and there is insufficient consensus, especially between adult and childhood physicians. Our data confirms the critical importance of careful long-term follow-up of patients, including safe transition to adult care, as well as robustly demonstrates, using real-world data, how disease nature can change over time. Our study affirms the need for investment in prospective cohort studies.

Phenotypes of Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis and Differential Diagnosis

Primary sclerosing cholangitis is a heterogenous immune-mediated disorder characterized by chronic inflammation and stricturing of the bile ducts. Though the driving pathophysiologic mechanisms remain elusive, there are several observed clinical phenotypes of the disease. The distribution of bile duct involvement, presence of concomitant inflammatory bowel disease, significant infiltration of IgG4-positive plasma cells, and overlapping features with other autoimmune disease has significant implications for prognosis and treatment. As there remains no pathognomonic finding for primary sclerosing cholangitis, a broad differential diagnosis and extensive evaluation of other underlying causes is critical to appropriate management.

Immunosuppression induces regression of fibrosis in primary biliary cholangitis with moderate-to-severe interface hepatitis

BACKGROUND

In patients with primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) treated with ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA), the presence of moderate-to-severe interface hepatitis is associated with a higher risk of liver transplantation and death. This highlights the need for novel treatment approaches. In this study, we aimed to investigate whether combination therapy of UDCA and immunosuppressant (IS) was more effective than UDCA monotherapy.

METHODS

We conducted a multicenter study involving PBC patients with moderate-to-severe interface hepatitis who underwent paired liver biopsies. Firstly, we compared the efficacy of the combination therapy with UDCA monotherapy on improving biochemistry, histology, survival rates, and prognosis. Subsequently we investigated the predictors of a beneficial response.

RESULTS

This retrospective cohort study with prospectively collected data was conducted in China from January 2009 to April 2023. Of the 198 enrolled patients, 32 underwent UDCA monotherapy, while 166 received combination therapy, consisting of UDCA combined with prednisolone, prednisolone plus mycophenolate mofetil (MMF), or prednisolone plus azathioprine (AZA). The monotherapy group was treated for a median duration of 37.6 months (IQR 27.5-58.1), and the combination therapy group had a median treatment duration of 39.3 months (IQR 34.5-48.8). The combination therapy showed a significantly greater efficacy in reducing fibrosis compared to UDCA monotherapy, with an 8.3-fold increase in the regression rate (from 6.3% to 52.4%, P < 0.001). Other parameters, including biochemistry, survival rates, and prognosis, supported its effectiveness. Baseline IgG >1.3 × ULN and ALP <2.4 × ULN were identified as predictors of regression following the combination therapy. A predictive score named FRS, combining these variables, accurately identified individuals achieving fibrosis regression with a cut-off point of ≥ -0.163. The predictive value was validated internally and externally.

CONCLUSION

Combination therapy with IS improves outcomes in PBC patients with moderate-to-severe interface hepatitis compared to UDCA monotherapy. Baseline IgG and ALP are the most significant predictors of fibrosis regression. The new predictive score, FRS, incorporating baseline IgG and ALP, can effectively identify individuals who would benefit from the combination therapy.

Diagnosis of Autoimmune Hepatitis

Autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) presents a diagnostic challenge because it is relatively rare and heterogenous in presentation. This article presents the currently adopted approach to AIH diagnosis and explores the challenges with accurately identifying this disease entity. AIH offers no pathognomonic findings, instead relies on clinical presentation, serology, and histology to make the diagnosis. Diagnostic scoring systems support clinical judgment and serve as valuable tools in diagnosis and research. Histological analysis remains the cornerstone of diagnosis and to this day biopsy is essential to make the diagnosis.

Pediatric Cholestatic Diseases: Common and Unique Pathogenic Mechanisms

Cholestasis is the predominate feature of many pediatric hepatobiliary diseases. The physiologic flow of bile requires multiple complex processes working in concert. Bile acid (BA) synthesis and excretion, the formation and flow of bile, and the enterohepatic reuptake of BAs all function to maintain the circulation of BAs, a key molecule in lipid digestion, metabolic and cellular signaling, and, as discussed in the review, a crucial mediator in the pathogenesis of cholestasis. Disruption of one or several of these steps can result in the accumulation of toxic BAs in bile ducts and hepatocytes leading to inflammation, fibrosis, and, over time, biliary and hepatic cirrhosis. Biliary atresia, progressive familial intrahepatic cholestasis, primary sclerosing cholangitis, and Alagille syndrome are four of the most common pediatric cholestatic conditions. Through understanding the commonalities and differences in these diseases, the important cellular mechanistic underpinnings of cholestasis can be greater appreciated.

Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis: Diagnostic Criteria

Primary sclerosing cholangitis is a chronic cholestatic liver disease characterized by inflammation and fibrosis of intra- and/or extrahepatic bile ducts leading to the formation of multifocal strictures alternated to bile duct dilatations. The diagnosis of the most common subtype of the disease, the large duct PSC, is based on the presence of elevation of cholestatic indices, the association of typical cholangiographic findings assessed by magnetic resonance cholangiography and the exclusion of causes of secondary sclerosing cholangitis. Liver biopsy is not routinely applied for the diagnosis of large duct PSC but is mandatory in the case of suspicion of small duct PSC or overlap with autoimmune hepatitis.

Prevalence and clinicopathological Spectrum of Auto-Immune Liver Diseases & Overlap syndrome

Aims

Autoimmune liver diseases (AILD) represent a spectrum of related yet distinct immune-mediated disorders. The literature on the prevalence of these AILDs in Indian population is scarce. This study aims to assess the prevalence and clinicopathological spectrum of various AILDs especially the overlap syndrome.

Materials and Methods

A 10-year (2011-2020) cross-sectional, retrospective observational study of histological proven cases of AILD was conducted. Clinical, demographic, and laboratory parameters were retrieved. Two pathologists independently reviewed the liver biopsies and reassessed 18 histopathological parameters.

Results

During the study period, 17664 liver biopsies were received, out of which 1060 (6%) biopsies of AILD were identified. After exclusion, we had 721 cases which revealed a distribution of autoimmune hepatitis (AIH)-64.7%, primary biliary cholangitis (PBC)-14.8%, primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC)-7.6%, overlap AIH-PBC 11%, and overlap AIH-PSC 1.7%. AIH patients had significantly higher prevalence for severe lobular inflammation (27%, P ≤ 0.001), several lobular plasma cells (37%, P ≤ 0.001), central perivenulitis (30%, P ≤ 0.001), hepatic rosettes (51%, P ≤ 0.001), and necrosis (35.5%, P ≤ 0.001), while PBC patients had significantly higher frequency of florid duct lesions (11.2%, P ≤ 0.001), duct loss (83.17%, P ≤ 0.001), bile duct damage (76.6%, P ≤ 0.001), and periportal copper deposits (19.6%, P ≤ 0.001). Overlap AIH-PBC group had the highest proportion of severe portal inflammation (27.5%, P ≤ 0.001), prominent portal plasma cells (75%, P ≤ 0.001), moderate interface activity (53.7%, P ≤ 0.001), Mallory-Denk bodies (27.5%, P ≤ 0.001), and periportal cholate stasis (25%, P ≤ 0.001).

Conclusion

Prevalence of biopsy-proven AILDs in our study cohort is 6%. AIH (64.7%) is the most common AILD followed by PBC (14.8%). Overlap syndrome (AIH-PBC) showed prevalence of 11%.

Histology and clinical correlations in autoimmune hepatitis, primary biliary cholangitis, and autoimmune hepatitis-primary biliary cholangitis overlap syndrome

OBJECTIVES

The diagnosis of autoimmune hepatitis (AIH), primary biliary cholangitis (PBC), and AIH-PBC overlap syndrome (OS) relies on their histologic features and clinical findings. In this study, we aimed to identify specific morphologic features of these diseases and evaluate their clinical correlation.

METHODS

We included initial biopsies from untreated patients with AIH (n = 14), PBC (n = 10), and OS (n = 7). Histologic features of the portal tract, portal-lobular interface, and hepatic lobule, fibrosis, as well as clinical data including serology, autoantibodies, treatment, and prognosis were reviewed and analyzed.

RESULTS

Our results showed that several histologic features differed significantly between AIH and PBC (p < 0.05). Among these features, OS cases were more likely to present with bile duct-centered processes (presence of bile duct damage while absence of inflammation gradient from bile duct to interface, plasma cell cluster and pericentral inflammation) unlike those seen in AIH (p < 0.05), and interface-centered processes (unequivocal interface hepatitis, ductular reaction, and periportal fibrosis) which were not seen in PBC (p < 0.05). We observed a significant correlation between transaminase levels and lobular inflammation, including numbers of lymphocyte, plasma cell and eosinophil. Our study also found that anti-smooth muscle antibody positivity was associated with interface hepatitis (p < 0.01), while antimitochondrial antibody positivity was associated with duct damage (including ductopenia) and granulomas (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Our results highlight distinctive morphological features between AIH and PBC. The possibility of overlap syndrome should be considered when encountering AIH with bile duct-centered processes or PBC with interface-centered processes in morphology and correlation with autoantibodies.

Primary Biliary Cholangitis (PBC)-Autoimmune Hepatitis (AIH) Variant Syndrome: Clinical Features, Response to Therapy and Long-Term Outcome

INTRODUCTION

Standardization of diagnostic criteria of autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) and primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) variant syndrome (AIH-PBC VS) has not been achieved so far and evidence-based recommendations for monitoring and treatment of the disease are still lacking. Our study aimed to assess the prevalence, biochemical, and serological features, as well as the clinical course, of VS.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective study including all patients with VS between 1999 and 2020 in four German centers. Data on demographic parameters, biochemical and serological tests, treatment, and outcome were collected.

RESULTS

Of 90 patients (3.1%) meeting Paris criteria for VS diagnosis, 65.6% showed AIH and PBC histological features, while biochemical Paris criteria were observed comparatively rarely. Further antibodies, which were not part of the diagnostic criteria of VS, were found in a subgroup of patients with available data (ACA: 30.0%; anti-CENP-A: 25.0%; anti-CENP-B: 33.3%; anti-SP100: 21.4%). Biochemical response was more frequently observed in patients treated with a combined therapy of ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA) and immunosuppression (IS). Liver cirrhosis was detected in 31 patients (34.4%) and 25 patients (27.8%) developed clinical manifestations of portal hypertension.

CONCLUSIONS

Biochemical Paris criteria of VS were rarely detected, thus implying that these cut-off values should be redefined. Regarding pharmacological treatment, combined therapy of UDCA and IS appeared to be more effective than monotherapy with UDCA.

Global incidence and prevalence of autoimmune hepatitis, 1970-2022: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Background

Autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) varies significantly in incidence and prevalence across countries and regions. We aimed to examine global, regional, and national trends in incidence and prevalence of AIH from 1970 to 2022.

Methods

We conducted a thorough search of the PubMed/MEDLINE, Embase, CINAHL, Google Scholar, and Cochrane databases from database inception to August 9, 2023, using the search term "autoimmune hepatitis" in combination with "incidence," "prevalence," or "trend." Only general population-based observational studies with larger samples sizes were considered for inclusion. Studies that recruited convenience samples, and those with fewer than 50 participants were excluded. Summary data were extracted from published reports. A random effects model was used and pooled estimates with 95% CI were used to calculate the incidence and prevalence of AIH. Heterogeneity was evaluated using the I2 statistic. The study protocol was registered with PROSPERO, CRD42023430138.

Findings

A total of 37 eligible studies, encompassing more than 239 million participants and 55,839 patients with AIH from 18 countries across five continents, were included in the analysis. Global pooled incidence and prevalence of AIH were found to be 1.28 cases per 100,000 inhabitant-years (95% CI, 1.01-1.63, I2 = 99·51%; number of studies, 33; sample population, 220,673,674) and 15.65 cases per 100,000 inhabitants (95% CI, 13.42-18.24, I2 = 99·75%; number of studies, 26; sample population, 217,178,684), respectively. The incidence of AIH was greater in countries with high Human Development Index (>0.92), in North America and Oceania (compared with Asia), among females, adults (compared with children), and high latitude (>45°). Similar patterns in AIH prevalence were observed. Pooled AIH prevalence increased gradually from 1970 to 2019 (1970-1999; 9.95 [4.77-15.13], I2 = 95·58% versus 2015-2022; 27.91 [24.86-30.96], I2 = 99·32%; cases per 100,000 inhabitants). The overall incidence and prevalence of AIH, as well as some subgroup analyses of the studies, displayed asymmetry in the funnel plots, suggesting potential evidence of publication bias.

Interpretation

AIH incidence and prevalence have increased significantly and exhibit substantial variation across regions worldwide. Further research is required to assess the incidence and prevalence of AIH, specifically in South America and Africa.

Funding

National Research Foundation of Korea.

CT and MR imaging of primary biliary cholangitis: a pictorial review

Primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) is a rare chronic autoimmune-mediated cholestatic liver disease involving medium and small bile ducts that can lead to liver fibrosis and cirrhosis. To date, the pathogenesis of PBC remains elusive, and there is currently no curative medical treatment. Computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance (MR) imaging, as common technical tools that allow non-invasive monitoring of liver tissue in vivo, play crucial roles in the diagnosis, staging, and prognosis prediction in PBC by enabling assessment of abnormalities in liver morphology and parenchyma, irregular configuration of bile ducts, lymphadenopathy, portal hypertension, and complications of cirrhosis. Moreover, CT and MRI can be used to monitor the disease progression after treatment of PBC (e.g. the onset of cirrhotic decompensation or HCC) to guide the clinical decisions for liver transplantation. With the optimization of imaging technology, magnetic resonance elastography (MRE) offers additional information on liver stiffness, allows for the identification of early cirrhosis in PBC and provides a basis for predicting prognosis. Gadoxetic acid-enhanced MRI enables the assessment of liver function in patients with PBC. The purpose of this review is to detail and illustrate the definition, pathological basis, and clinical importance of CT and MRI features of PBC to help radiologists and clinicians enhance their understanding of PBC.Critical Relevance StatementCharacteristic CT and MR imaging manifestations of primary biliary cholangitis may reflect the course of the disease and provide information associated with histological grading and altered cellular function.Key points• Imaging has become highly useful for differentiating PBC from other diseases.• Key pathological alterations of PBC can be captured by CT and MRI.• Characteristic manifestations provide information associated with histological grade and cellular function.• Despite this, the CT or MRI features of PBC are not specific.

Regulatory T-cell deficiency leads to features of autoimmune liver disease overlap syndrome in scurfy mice

Introduction

Scurfy mice have a complete deficiency of functional regulatory T cells (Treg) due to a frameshift mutation in the Foxp3 gene. The impaired immune homeostasis results in a lethal lymphoproliferative disorder affecting multiple organs, including the liver. The autoimmune pathology in scurfy mice is in part accompanied by autoantibodies such as antinuclear antibodies (ANA). ANA are serological hallmarks of several autoimmune disorders including autoimmune liver diseases (AILD). However, the underlying pathogenesis and the role of Treg in AILD remain to be elucidated. The present study therefore aimed to characterize the liver disease in scurfy mice.

Methods

Sera from scurfy mice were screened for ANA by indirect immunofluorescence assay (IFA) and tested for a wide range of AILD-associated autoantibodies by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, line immunoassay, and addressable laser bead immunoassay. CD4+ T cells of scurfy mice were transferred into T cell-deficient B6/nude mice. Monoclonal autoantibodies from scurfy mice and recipient B6/nude mice were tested for ANA by IFA. Liver tissue of scurfy mice was analyzed by conventional histology. Collagen deposition in scurfy liver was quantified via hepatic hydroxyproline content. Real-time quantitative PCR was used to determine fibrosis-related hepatic gene expression. Hepatic immune cells were differentiated by flow cytometry.

Results

All scurfy mice produced ANA. AILD-associated autoantibodies, predominantly antimitochondrial antibodies, were detected at significantly higher levels in scurfy sera. CD4+ T cells from scurfy mice were sufficient to induce anti-dsDNA autoantibodies and ANA with an AILD-related nuclear envelope staining pattern. Liver histology revealed portal inflammation with bile duct damage and proliferation, as in primary biliary cholangitis (PBC), and interface hepatitis with portal-parenchymal necroinflammation, as found in autoimmune hepatitis (AIH). In scurfy liver, TNFα and fibrosis-related transcripts including Col1a1, Timp1, Acta2, Mmp2, and Mmp9 were upregulated. The level of proinflammatory monocytic macrophages (Ly-6Chi) was increased, while M2-type macrophages (CD206+) were downregulated compared to wildtype controls. Despite severe hepatic inflammation, fibrosis did not develop within 25 days, which is close to the lifespan of scurfy mice.

Discussion

Our findings suggest that Treg-deficient scurfy mice spontaneously develop clinical, serological, and immunopathological characteristics of AILD with overlapping features of PBC and AIH.

The Many Faces of Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis: Controversy Abounds

Primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) is notoriously challenging to manage given its heterogeneity with regard to diagnosis, management, and progression. The lack of disease-modifying therapy and variable rate of onset of cirrhosis, portal hypertension-related decompensating events, jaundice, pruritus, biliary complications, and need for liver transplantation is deeply unsettling to clinicians and patients alike. Recent updated practice guidance by the American Association for the Study of Liver Diseases and the European Association for the Study of the Liver endeavored to highlight some of these challenges. However, these references only briefly address clinical dilemmas that providers face on a daily basis. This review aims to further discuss these controversial topics, including providing insight into the utility of ursodeoxycolic acid, the significance of alkaline phosphatase normalization, when to consider PSC variants and mimickers, and the implications of continuous hepatobiliary malignancy screening. In particular, there has been a growing body of literature raising concern about repeat exposure to gadolinium-containing contrast. Patients with PSC are potentially at risk for large lifetime exposure to gadolinium related to frequent magnetic resonance imaging scans and whether this carries any negative long-term adverse effects remains unknown.

[Response to Primary Biliary Cholangitis Treatment: Influencing Factors and the Role in Prognosis Prediction]

Objective

To examine the influencing factors and prognostic features of poor response to ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA) treatment in primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) patients with dyslipidemia.

Methods

A retrospective study was conducted, covering 512 patients who had a confirmed diagnosis of PBC, and who received treatment at West China Hospital, Sichuan University between January 2009 and March 2022. According to their actual response to UDCA treatment, patients were divided into two groups, UDCA full-response group ( n=305) and UDCA non-responding group ( n=207). The data from the two groups were compared to predict the adverse factors influencing patient response and the area under the curve ( AUC) of the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve, identify the cut-off value of total cholesterol (TC), and analyze the differences in baseline laboratory test findings and the rate of responses to treatment. According to the TC cut-off value, patients were divided into a group with TC≥5.415 mmol/L and another group with TC<5.415 mmol/L. In addition, differences in the prognosis of the two groups were assessed by comparing the UK-PBC and GLOBE scores.

Results

The baseline data, including alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), total bilirubin (TB), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase (GGT), triglycerides (TG), TC, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), were significantly increased in the UDCA non-responding group compared to those in the full-response group (all P<0.005), while the albumin level of the UDCA non-responding group was decreased compared to that of the full-response group ( P=0.012). Findings of multi-factor logistic regression analysis suggested that TC (odds ratio [ OR]=1.501, 95% confidence interval [ CI]: 1.275-1.767, P<0.01) and ALP ( OR=1.005, 95% CI: 1.003-1.006, P<0.01) were independent risk factors influencing patient response. The ROC curve analysis suggested worse prognosis for patients with TC≥5.415 mmol/L ( AUC: 0.727, 95% CI: 0.680-0.775, 63.8% sensitivity, 76.4% specificity). In addition, the UK-PBC risk score at 1 year of treatment was higher in the high-TC group (TC≥5.415 mmol/L) than that in the low-TC group (TC<5.415 mmol/L) ( P<0.05).

Conclusions

Hypercholesterolemia is an independent risk factor for poor response to UDCA in PBC patients. When the baseline TC is equal to or higher than 5.415 mmol/L, PBC patients have a relatively poor response to UDCA and poor prognosis.

Risk Stratification in Primary Biliary Cholangitis

Primary Biliary Cholangitis (PBC) is a chronic cholestatic liver disease with a heterogeneous presentation, symptomatology, disease progression, and response to therapy. The current risk stratification assessment, aimed at identifying patients with a higher risk of disease progression, encompasses an in-depth analysis of demographic data, clinical and laboratory findings, antibody profiles, and the evaluation of liver fibrosis using both invasive and noninvasive techniques. Treatment response scores after one year of therapy remain to date a major factor influencing the prognosis of PBC patients. While the initial therapeutic approach with ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA) is universally applied, new second-line treatment options have recently emerged, with many others under investigation. Consequently, the prevailing one-size-fits-all approach is poised to be supplanted by tailored strategies, ensuring high-risk patients receive the most appropriate treatment regimen from diagnosis. This will require the development of a risk prediction model to assess, at the time of diagnosis, the course, outcome, and response to first and additional treatments of PBC patients. This manuscript provides a comprehensive overview of the current and emerging tools used for risk stratification in PBC and speculates on how these developments might shape the disease landscape in the near future.

Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis, Small Duct Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis, IgG4-Related Sclerosing Cholangitis, and Ischemic Cholangiopathy: Diagnostic Challenges on Biopsy

Pathologists face many challenges when diagnosing sclerosing biliary lesions on liver biopsy. First, histologic findings tend to be nonspecific with similar to identical features seen in numerous conditions, from benign to outright malignant. In addition, the patchy nature of many of these entities amplifies the inherent limitations of biopsy sampling. The end result often forces pathologists to issue descriptive sign outs that require careful clinical correlation; however, certain clinical, radiologic, and histologic features may be of diagnostic assistance. In this article, we review key elements of four sclerosing biliary processes whose proper identification has significant prognostic and therapeutic implications.

Epidemiology, clinical features and management of autoimmune hepatitis in Switzerland: a retrospective and prospective cohort study

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

The Swiss Autoimmune Hepatitis Cohort Study is a nationwide registry, initiated in 2017, that collects retrospective and prospective clinical data and biological samples from patients of all ages with autoimmune hepatitis treated at Swiss hepatology centres. Here, we report the analysis of the first 5 years of registry data.

RESULTS

A total of 291 patients with autoimmune hepatitis have been enrolled, 30 of whom were diagnosed before 18 years of age and composed the paediatric cohort. Paediatric cohort: median age at diagnosis 12.5 years (range 1-17, interquartile range (IQR) 8-15), 16 (53%) girls, 6 (32%) with type 2 autoimmune hepatitis, 8 (27%) with autoimmune sclerosing cholangitis, 1 with primary biliary cholangitis variant syndrome, 4 (15%) with inflammatory bowel disease and 10 (41%) with advanced liver fibrosis at diagnosis. Adult cohort: median age at diagnosis 54 years (range 42-64, IQR 18-81), 185 (71%) women, 51 (20%) with primary biliary cholangitis variant syndrome, 22 (8%) with primary sclerosing cholangitis variant syndrome, 9 (4%) with inflammatory bowel disease and 66 (32%) with advanced liver fibrosis at diagnosis. The median follow-up time for the entire cohort was 5.2 years (IQR 3-9.3 years). Treatment in children: 29 (97%) children were initially treated with corticosteroids, 28 of whom received combination treatment with azathioprine. Budesonide was used in four children, all in combination with azathioprine. Mycophenolate mofetil was used in five children, all of whom had previously received corticosteroids and thiopurine. Treatment in adults (data available for 228 patients): 219 (96%) were treated with corticosteroids, mostly in combination with azathioprine. Predniso(lo)ne was the corticosteroid used in three-quarters of patients; the other patients received budesonide. A total of 78 (33%) patients received mycophenolate mofetil, 62 of whom had previously been treated with azathioprine. Complete biochemical response was achieved in 13 of 19 (68%) children and 137 of 182 (75%) adults with available follow-up data. All children were alive at the last follow-up, and none had undergone liver transplantation. Five (2%) adults underwent liver transplantation, two of whom had a fulminant presentation. Four (2%) adults with autoimmune hepatitis died (two from liver-associated causes).

CONCLUSION

Patients with autoimmune hepatitis in Switzerland had clinical features similar to those in other cohorts. The proportion of patients diagnosed with primary biliary cholangitis variant syndrome was higher than expected. Autoimmune hepatitis was managed according to guidelines, except for the use of budesonide in a small proportion of paediatric patients. The outcomes were excellent, but the findings must be confirmed over a longer follow-up period.

Liver transplant in primary sclerosing cholangitis: Current trends and future directions

Primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) is a chronic and progressive immune-mediated cholangiopathy causing biliary tree inflammation and scarring, leading to liver cirrhosis and end-stage liver disease. Diagnosis of PSC is challenging due to its nonspecific symptoms and overlap with other liver diseases. Despite the rising incidence of PSC, there is no proven medical therapy that can alter the natural history of the disease. While liver transplantation (LT) is the most effective approach for managing advanced liver disease caused by PSC, post-transplantation recurrence of PSC remains a challenge. Therefore, ongoing research aims to develop better therapies for PSC, and continued efforts are necessary to improve outcomes for patients with PSC. This article provides an overview of PSC's pathogenesis, clinical presentation, and management options, including LT trends and future aspects. It also highlights the need for improved therapeutic options and ethical considerations in providing equitable access to LT for patients with PSC. Additionally, the impact of liver transplant on the quality of life and psychological outcomes of patients with PSC is discussed. Ongoing research into PSC's pathogenesis and post-transplant recurrence is crucial for improved understanding of the disease and more effective treatment options.

Overlap syndrome of autoimmune hepatitis and primary biliary cholangitis complicated with atypical hepatocellular carcinoma: a case report

BACKGROUND

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a primary tumor of the liver. The majority of HCCs are associated most frequently with chronic B or C viral hepatitis, alcohol intake or aflatoxin exposure. Cirrhosis is a strong risk factor associated with HCC. The causes of liver cirrhosis are chronic viral hepatitis, alcohol intake, metabolic diseases (NAFLD), hemocromathosis, alfa 1 antitrypsisn deficiency. All aetiologic forms of cirrhosis are at risk to be complicated by HCC development, but the risk is higher for patients diagnosed with chronic viral hepatitis. Comparing to the above-mentioned causes, PBC and AIH are less associated with the risk of HCC development. A 71-year old Caucasian female previously diagnosed with overlap syndrome (AIH type 1 and PBC-ANA, SMA and AMA antibodies positive), liver cirrhosis, a nodule in the VI/VIIth hepatic segment, systemic sclerosis sine scleroderma, Hashimoto's thyroiditis, antiphospholipid syndrome, gastric antral vascular ectasia (GAVE) (with 2 previous sessions of argon plasma coagulation), cholecystectomy, arterial hypertension and nephro-angiosclerosis presented to the 2nd Department of Internal Medicine in Cluj-Napoca for a follow-up. The patient was following treatment with UDCA (Ursodeoxycholic acid), azathioprine, Plaquenil, calcium channel blockers, angiotensin-converting-enzyme inhibitor, calcium and vitamin D supplementation. The abdominal ultrasound showed a subcapsular hypoechoic nodule with a diameter of 29 mm (at the moment of the diagnosis the diameter was 9/10 mm) in the VI/VIIth hepatic segment. The contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) characterised the nodule as specific for hepatocellular carcinoma (LI-RADS 5). On MRI with gadoxetate disodium the nodule was hypovascular, non-specific, being classified as LI-RADS 3. An atypical resection of the VIIth hepatic segment was performed and the histohistological examination and imunohistochemistry (Hep Par-a positive, Glypican3 positive, CD34 positive) revealed a moderately differentiated hepatocellular carcinoma (G2), pT2 N0 M0 L0 V1 R0.

CONCLUSION

Autoimmune hepatitis, PBC and the overlap syndrome are less associated with the development of liver cirrhosis and HCC than other chronic liver diseases, especially if other risk factors are not associated. This case highlights the importance of a proper surveillance of cirrhotic patients every 6 months including abdominal ultrasound and AFP levels is crucial for an early diagnosis of a HCC.

Recent Advances in the Management of Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis

Primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) is a chronic cholestatic liver disease characterized by fibroinflammatory damage to the biliary tree, typically in the setting of inflammatory bowel disease, with an increased risk of liver failure and cholangiocarcinoma. A complex pathophysiology, heterogeneity in clinical features, and the rare nature of the disease have contributed to the lack of effective therapy to date. However, recent innovations in the characterization and prognostication of patients with PSC, in addition to new tools for medical management and emerging pharmacologic agents, give rise to the potential for meaningful progress in the next several years. This review summarizes current concepts in PSC and highlights particular areas in need of further study.

New Treatment Paradigms in Primary Biliary Cholangitis

Primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) is an archetypal autoimmune disease. Chronic lymphocytic cholangitis is associated with interface hepatitis, ductopenia, cholestasis, and progressive biliary fibrosis. People living with PBC are frequently symptomatic, experiencing a quality-of-life burden dominated by fatigue, itch, abdominal pain, and sicca complex. Although the female predominance, specific serum autoantibodies, immune-mediated cellular injury, as well as genetic (HLA and non-HLA) risk factors, identify PBC as autoimmune, to date treatment has focused on cholestatic consequences. Biliary epithelial homeostasis is abnormal and contributes to disease. The impact of cholangiocyte senescence, apoptosis, and impaired bicarbonate secretion enhances chronic inflammation and bile acid retention. First-line therapy is a non-specific anti-cholestatic agent, ursodeoxycholic acid. For those with residual cholestasis biochemically, obeticholic acid is introduced, and this semisynthetic farnesoid X receptor agonist adds choleretic, anti-fibrotic, and anti-inflammatory activity. Future PBC licensed therapy will likely include peroxisome proliferator activated receptor (PPAR) pathway agonists, including specific PPAR-delta agonism (seladelpar), as well as elafibrinor and saroglitazar (both with broader PPAR agonism). These agents dovetail the clinical and trial experience for off-label bezafibrate and fenofibrate use. Symptom management is essential, and encouragingly, PPAR agonists reduce itch; IBAT inhibition (eg, linerixibat) also appears promising for pruritus. For those where liver fibrosis is the target, NOX inhibition is being evaluated. Earlier stage therapies in development include therapy to impact immunoregulation in patients, as well other approaches to treating pruritus (eg, antagonists of MrgprX4). Collectively the PBC therapeutic landscape is exciting. Therapy goals are increasingly proactive and individualized and aspire to rapidly achieve normal serum tests and quality of life with prevention of end-stage liver disease.

Guidelines on the Diagnosis and Management of Primary Biliary Cholangitis (2021)

In 2015, the Chinese Society of Hepatology and the Chinese Society of Gastroenterology published a consensus on primary biliary cholangitis (PBC). In the past years, numerous clinical studies have been published in the field of PBC. To guide the clinical diagnosis and management of PBC patients, the Chinese Society of Hepatology invited a panel of experts to assess the new clinical evidence and formulate the current guidelines.

Tripterygium wilfordii protects against an animal model of autoimmune hepatitis

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Tripterygium wilfordii tablets (TWT) is widely used to treat autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis. Celastrol, one main active ingredient in TWT, has been shown to produce a variety of beneficial effects, including anti-inflammatory, anti-obesity, anti-cancer, and immunomodulatory. However, whether TWT could protect against Concanavalin A (Con A)-induced hepatitis remains unclear.

THE AIM OF THE STUDY

This study aims to investigate the protective effect of TWT against Con A-induced hepatitis and elucidate the underlying mechanism.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Metabolomic analysis, pathological analysis, biochemical analysis, qPCR and Western blot analysis and the Pxr-null mice were used in this study.

RESULTS

The results indicated that TWT and its active ingredient celastrol could protect against Con A-induced acute hepatitis. Plasma metabolomics analysis revealed that metabolic perturbations related to bile acid and fatty acid metabolism induced by Con A were reversed by celastrol. The level of itaconate in the liver was increased by celastrol and speculated as an active endogenous compound mediating the protective effect of celastrol. Administration of 4-octanyl itaconate (4-OI) as a cell-permeable itaconate mimicker was found to attenuate Con A-induced liver injury through activation of the pregnane X receptor (PXR) and enhancement of the transcription factor EB (TFEB)-mediated autophagy.

CONCLUSIONS

Celastrol increased itaconate and 4-OI promoted activation of TFEB-mediated lysosomal autophagy to protect against Con A-induced liver injury in a PXR-dependent manner. Our study reported a protective effect of celastrol against Con A-induced AIH via an increased production of itaconate and upregulation of TFEB. The results highlighted that PXR and TFEB-mediated lysosomal autophagic pathway may offer promising therapeutic target for the treatment of autoimmune hepatitis.

Overlap syndrome of primary biliary cholangitis and primary sclerosing cholangitis: two case reports

BACKGROUND

Overlap syndrome between primary biliary cholangitis and primary sclerosing cholangitis is an extremely rare condition that has been reported in only few published cases so far in the literature. We highlight here the rarity of this condition and indicate the importance of its recognition.

CASE PRESENTATION

We report two cases showing the manifestations of both primary biliary cholangitis and primary sclerosing cholangitis in two Tunisian female patients aged 74 and 42 years, respectively. The first case is a woman who was initially diagnosed with decompensated cirrhosis. Magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography showed multiple strictures of the common bile duct, and histological findings led to the diagnosis of primary biliary cholangitis/primary sclerosing cholangitis. She was successfully treated with ursodeoxycholic acid. The second case is a middle-aged woman, suffering from primary biliary cholangitis and who was treated with ursodeoxycholic acid. At her 12 month follow-up appointment, she presented with a partial clinical and biochemical response. Tests showed normal thyroid function, liver autoimmune tests for autoimmune hepatitis were negative, and celiac disease markers were also negative. The diagnosis of overlap syndrome of primary biliary cholangitis/primary sclerosing cholangitis was finally made on the results of magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography that showed multiple strictures of the common as well as intrahepatic bile ducts. The patient was put on ursodeoxycholic acid at a higher dose.

CONCLUSIONS

Our cases raise awareness for this rare condition and indicate the importance of recognizing a possible overlap syndrome, especially in patients with primary biliary cholangitis, to optimize treatment. We suggest considering the overlap syndrome of primary biliary cholangitis/primary sclerosing cholangitis when a patient presents with the diagnostic criteria of both diseases.

Seronegative Autoimmune Hepatitis

Autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) is a relatively rare liver disease with varying worldwide incidence of from 0.7 to 2 per 100,000 people. It is characterized by the presence of auto-antibodies. However, an average of 10% of AIH cases have AIH symptoms and pathology but lack autoimmune serology. For such seronegative AIH (snAIH) cases, there is currently no established diagnostic algorithm for diagnosis. and improper or delayed diagnosis of snAIH can lead to no or inappropriate treatment that results in progression to fulminant hepatitis or cirrhosis. This review aims to review the current literature and to present an update of seronegative autoimmune hepatitis, including its pathophysiology, clinical presentation, methods of diagnosis, and treatment in order to increase awareness and emphasize the necessity for timely management.

Morphological aspects of small-duct cholangiopathies: A minireview

The biliary system consists of intrahepatic and extrahepatic bile ducts lined by biliary epithelial cells (cholangiocytes). Bile ducts and cholangiocytes are affected by a variety of disorders called cholangiopathies, which differ in aetiology, pathogenesis, and morphology. Classification of cholangiopathies is complex and reflects pathogenic mechanisms (immune-mediated, genetic, drug- and toxin-induced, ischaemic, infectious, neoplastic), predominant morphological patterns of biliary injury (suppurative and non-suppurative cholangitis, cholangiopathy), and specific segments of the biliary tree affected by the disease process. While the involvement of large extrahepatic and intrahepatic bile ducts is typically visualised using radiology imaging, histopathological examination of liver tissue obtained by percutaneous liver biopsy still plays an important role in the diagnosis of cholangiopathies affecting the small intrahepatic bile ducts. To increase the diagnostic yield of a liver biopsy and determine the optimal therapeutic approach, the referring clinician is tasked with interpreting the results of histopathological examination. This requires knowledge and understanding of basic morphological patterns of hepatobiliary injury and an ability to correlate microscopic findings with results obtained by imaging and laboratory methods. This minireview describes the morphological aspects of small-duct cholangiopathies pertaining to the diagnostic process.

Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis-Autoimmune Hepatitis Overlap Syndrome: Significant Barriers in Liver Disease Diagnosis and Treatment Experienced by the Latino Community

Overlap syndrome (OS) is a term that comprises the presentation of multiple hepatic disease characteristics in the same patient, such as the presence of autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) features in addition to primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) or primary biliary cholangitis (PBC). Standard therapy for AIH is immunosuppression, while ursodeoxycholic acid is the preferred treatment for PBC. Additionally, liver transplantation (LT) may be considered in severe cases. Hispanics have been found to have a higher prevalence of chronic liver disease and develop more complications associated with portal hypertension at the time of listing for LT. Despite being the fastest-growing population in the USA, Hispanics have a higher probability of not receiving an LT due to issues with social determinants of health (SDOH). It has been reported that Hispanics are more likely to be removed from the transplant list. We report a case of a 25-year-old female immigrant from a Latin American developing country who presented with symptoms consistent with worsening liver disease after years of inappropriate workup and late diagnosis due to barriers within the healthcare system. The patient had a history of unresolved jaundice and pruritus and presented with worsening of her previous symptoms and new onset abdominal distention, bilateral leg edema, and telangiectasias. Laboratory and imaging studies confirmed the diagnosis of AIH and primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC-AIH syndrome). The patient was started on steroids, azathioprine, and ursodeoxycholic acid, showing improvement. Due to her migratory status, she could not receive an appropriate diagnosis and follow up with a single provider or healthcare institution, putting her at increased risk for life-threatening complications. Although medical management is the first step, the probability of future liver transplants exists. The patient is still undergoing liver transplant evaluation and completing a workup since she was found to have an elevated model for end-stage liver disease (MELD) score. Even with the introduction of new scores and policies that aim to reduce disparities in LT, Hispanic patients are still at higher risk of being removed from the waitlist because of death or clinical deterioration compared to non-Hispanics. To this day, Hispanics have the highest percentage of waitlist deaths (20.8%) of all ethnicities and the lowest overall rate for undergoing LT. Understanding and addressing the causes that could contribute to and explain this phenomenon is essential. Increasing awareness of this problem is vital to promote more research on LT disparities.

Primary sclerosing cholangitis and overlap features of autoimmune hepatitis: a coming of age or an age-ist problem?

Autoimmune liver diseases are siloed into three syndromes that define clinical practice. These classifiers can, and are, challenged by variant presentations across all ages, something inevitable to disease definitions that rely on interpreting inherently variable semi-quantitative/qualitative clinical, laboratory, pathological or radiological findings. Furthermore this remains premised by an ongoing absence of definable disease aetiologies. Clinicians thus encounter individuals with biochemical, serological, and histological manifestations that are common to both primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) and autoimmune hepatitis (AIH), often labelled as 'PSC/AIH-overlap'. In childhood the term 'autoimmune sclerosing cholangitis (ASC)' may be used, and some propose this to be a distinct disease process. In this article we champion the concept that ASC and PSC/AIH-overlap are not distinct entities. Rather, they represent inflammatory phases of PSC frequently manifesting earlier in disease course, most notably in younger patients. Ultimately, disease outcome remains that of a more classical PSC phenotype observed in later life. Thus, we argue that it is now time to align disease names and descriptions used by clinicians across all patient subpopulations, to help care become uniform and ageless. This will enhance collaborative studies and contribute ultimately to rational treatment advances.

Open challenges in the management of autoimmune hepatitis

Autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) is a rare autoimmune disease of the liver with many open questions as regards its etiopathogenesis, natural history and clinical management. The classical picture of AIH is chronic hepatitis with fluctuating elevation of serum transaminases and Immunoglobulin G levels, the presence of circulating autoantibodies and typical histological features. However, atypical presentations do occur and are not well captured by current diagnostic scores, with important consequences in terms of missed diagnoses and delayed treatments. AIH is treated with corticosteroids and immunosuppressive drugs but up to 40% of patients do not achieve full biochemical response and are at risk of progressing to cirrhosis and liver failure. Moreover, standard therapies are associated by significant side-effects which may impair the quality of life of patients living with AIH. However, advances in the understanding of the underlying immunology of AIH is raising the prospect of novel therapies and optimization of existing therapeutic approaches to reduce side-effect burdens and potentially restore immunological tolerance. In this review we outlined the clinical characteristics, etiopathogenesis and management of AIH and current challenges in the diagnosis and management of AIH and provided evidence underlying the evolution of diagnostic and clinical management protocols.