Autoimmune hepatitis: diagnosis after preeclampsia-induced elevated liver enzymes failed to normalize postpartum.

BACKGROUND

Pregnancy can unmask underlying medical conditions, as evidenced by laboratory abnormalities that do not resolve postpartum.

CASE: A woman developed preeclampsia associated with elevated hepatic transaminases and serum creatinine. When her liver enzymes failed to normalize 8 weeks postpartum an evaluation led to the diagnosis of type III autoimmune hepatitis.

CONCLUSION

Obstetricians should consider confirming resolution of laboratory abnormalities attributed to preeclampsia by the 6-week postpartum visit. Abnormalities that persist warrant an evaluation to exclude chronic medical conditions.