Fatigue is probably the most common symptom of autoimmune hepatitis. Other symptoms include:

• An enlarged liver.
• Jaundice.
• Itching.
• Skin rashes.
• Joint pain.
• Abdominal discomfort.
• Spider angiomas, or abnormal blood vessels, on the skin.
• Nausea.
• Vomiting.
• Loss of appetite.
• Dark urine.
• Pale or gray colored stools.

People in advanced stages of autoimmune hepatitis are more likely to have symptoms related to chronic liver disease, such as fluid in the abdomen – also called ascites – and mental confusion. Women may stop having menstrual periods.

Symptoms of autoimmune hepatitis range from mild to severe. Because severe viral hepatitis or hepatitis caused by a drug, for example, certain antibiotics, have the same symptoms as autoimmune hepatitis, tests may be needed for an exact diagnosis. Doctors should also review and rule out all medications a person is taking before diagnosing autoimmune hepatitis.

Source: digestive.niddk.nih.gov – April 2008