Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 14, 2025

Induction of Drug-Induced, Autoimmune Hepatitis in BALB/c Mice for the Study of Its Pathogenic Mechanisms
Published on: May 29, 2020
Local and systemic autoimmune manifestations linked to hepatitis A infection
M Doulberis1,2,3, A Papaefthymiou4,5, S A Polyzos5
1Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Medical University Department, Kantonsspital Aarau, Switzerland.
Hepatitis A virus (HAV) infection, though typically self-limiting, can trigger autoimmune diseases. This review explores the pathways linking HAV to various extra-hepatic autoimmune conditions.
Area of Science:
- Hepatology
- Immunology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Hepatitis A virus (HAV) causes acute liver disease globally.
- HAV infection can exacerbate chronic liver conditions.
- Extra-hepatic manifestations and autoimmunity are reported post-HAV.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review and clarify the mechanisms linking Hepatitis A virus infection to autoimmune diseases.
- To consolidate understanding of HAV's role in triggering autoimmunity.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on Hepatitis A virus and autoimmune diseases.
- Analysis of proposed immunological pathways and molecular mimicry.
- Compilation of reported extra-hepatic manifestations associated with HAV.
Main Results:
- HAV infection is linked to a range of autoimmune conditions, including autoimmune hepatitis, Guillain-Barré syndrome, and systemic lupus erythematosus.
- Antigenic molecular mimicry and immune response modulation are implicated in HAV-induced autoimmunity.
- While HAV is not chronic, it adds burden to pre-existing liver disease.
Conclusions:
- Hepatitis A virus infection can act as a trigger for diverse autoimmune disorders.
- Further research is needed to fully elucidate the complex mechanisms involved.
- Understanding these links is crucial for managing patients with HAV and autoimmune conditions.
Related Concept Videos
Autoimmune Disorders
Concept and Mechanism of Autoimmune Diseases
The immune...
Gastritis-II: Pathophysiology
In acute gastritis, the gastric mucosa becomes swollen and red and undergoes superficial erosion. Superficial ulceration may lead to bleeding.
In chronic gastritis, persistent or repeated insults lead to chronic inflammatory changes and, eventually, thinning or atrophy of the gastric tissue.
Gastritis can stem from various causes, each...
Hypersensitivities
Types of Hypersensitivities
Hypersensitivity reactions are categorized into four types: Type 1, Type 2, Type 3, and Type 4. Each type has a distinct mechanism...
Diseases of the Liver and Gallbladder
Cirrhosis is characterized by the scarring of hepatic lobules in the liver, which are replaced by fibrous tissue, affecting the liver's normal functioning. NAFLD, on the other hand, is caused by an excessive build-up of fat in the liver, not...
Rheumatic Heart Disease I: Introduction
Allergic Drug Reactions

