Autoimmune hepatitis following Epstein-Barr virus infection: a diagnostic dilemma

BMJ Case Rep. 2019 Jul 10;12(7):e229615. doi: 10.1136/bcr-2019-229615.

Abstract

Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) infections frequently affect the liver and cause hepatitis. EBV is a well-known trigger of certain autoimmune diseases. There are few case reports showing the evidence of autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) following EBV infection. However, the diagnosis of AIH is very challenging in the setting of an acute infection. Here, we demonstrate a case of AIH following EBV infection in a patient ultimately recovered after receiving treatment for AIH.

Keywords: gastrointestinal system; liver disease.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Azathioprine / therapeutic use
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Epstein-Barr Virus Infections / complications*
  • Epstein-Barr Virus Infections / drug therapy
  • Glucocorticoids / therapeutic use
  • Hepatitis, Autoimmune / drug therapy
  • Hepatitis, Autoimmune / etiology*
  • Humans
  • Immunosuppressive Agents / therapeutic use
  • Male
  • Methylprednisolone / therapeutic use

Substances

  • Glucocorticoids
  • Immunosuppressive Agents
  • Azathioprine
  • Methylprednisolone