Pediatric autoimmune hepatitis cases in Denmark have seen a significant surge, with incidence rising more than sixfold over a 15-year period. Despite this trend, long-term outcomes remain favorable, reporting high rates of native liver survival.
This chronic immune-mediated liver disease, where the body attacks liver cells, often requires prolonged immunosuppressive therapy. A nationwide study identified 222 new cases, with incidence climbing from 0.7 per 100,000 person-years in 1999-2001 to 4.5 in 2014-2016. Prevalence also increased from 2.2 to 8.8 per 100,000 individuals.
Treatment typically involves prednisolone, with thiopurines and tacrolimus used for sustained disease control. Importantly, native liver survival remains high, with 97% at five years and 93% at ten years post-diagnosis, indicating most patients avoid liver transplantation.
The findings underscore the need for heightened clinical awareness and early diagnosis of pediatric autoimmune hepatitis, while current treatment regimens demonstrate effectiveness in preserving liver function for the majority of patients.