AI Summary & Key Takeaways
AI InsightIn addition, we conclude that further studies in larger populations will contribute to understanding of the relationship between the autoimmune disease and HA.
📌 3 Key Takeaways
Abstract
Background: Hepatitis A is one of the most frequently reported vaccine-preventable diseases worldwide and remains endemic in many areas of the world. The study aims to investigate the prevalence of autoantibodies in patients with acute viral hepatitis A. Method: A total of 52 patients diagnosed with hepatitis A (HA) were enrolled in this study. The diagnosis of acute hepatitis A (AHA) was based on negative hepatitis B surface antigen and hepatitis C virus RNA, and positive immunoglobulin (Ig) M HA antibody. Biochemical parameters and the presence of autoantibodies were recorded. Results: Prolonged protrombin time, international normalized ratio corrected with vitamin K and prolonged activated partial thromboplastin time were seen in 11, 11 and in 12 patients respectively. Total bilirubin levels were higher than 2 mg/dL in 21 patients and only five of these patients had direct bilirubin higher than 50% of the total bilirubin and serum bilirubin levels were higher than 10 mg/dL during at least 4 weeks. These 5 patients were evaluated as cholestatic hepatitis. Antinuclear antibodies were detected in four and anti-liver cytosolic antigen type 1 in one patient. Conclusion: The early diagnose of any autoimmune disease in patients with HA was found important since it may help take necessary precautions. In addition, we conclude that further studies in larger populations will contribute to understanding of the relationship between the autoimmune disease and HA.