Acute Severe Seronegative Autoimmune Hepatitis With Undiagnosed Graves’ Disease

Abstract

Autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) is a progressive inflammatory condition hypothesized to be a T-lymphocyte (Tcell)-mediated immune response that commonly affects females more than males. Given its proposed mechanism associated with immune response, it is more likely to present with other autoimmune conditions, particularly autoimmune disorders associated with the thyroid. AIH can be difficult to diagnose as it is a diagnosis of exclusion. AIH lacks validated algorithms for proper diagnosis and can seldom present with negative antibodies. If not fully worked up, AIH may progress to cirrhosis and even increase the risk of malignancy. Therefore, a liver biopsy is a crucial step in the workup for AIH. We report a rare case of acute severe AIH associated with negative antibodies and undiagnosed Graves' disease.