Autoimmune hepatitis in children.

Autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) is usually diagnosed after other viral, metabolic or drug-induced etiologies have been ruled out. Although uncommon in children, the disease can manifest itself with severe hepatocellular damage and early fibrosis. Early diagnosis and aggressive treatment may improve morbidity and decrease mortality. In other cases, liver transplantation is the final rescue for these children. We describe our experience with five children who were diagnosed with autoimmune hepatitis. Their diagnosis, medical treatment and clinical outcome are presented with a review of the literature.