Hepatitis A vaccine associated with autoimmune hepatitis

World J Gastroenterol. 2007 Apr 21;13(15):2238-9. doi: 10.3748/wjg.v13.i15.2238.

Abstract

To describe a case of probable relapsing autoimmune hepatitis associated with vaccination against hepatitis A virus (HAV). A case report and review of literature were written concerning autoimmune hepatitis in association with hepatitis A and other hepatotropic viruses. Soon after the administration of formalin-inactivated hepatitis A vaccine, a man who had recently recovered from an uncharacterized but self-limiting hepatitic illness, experienced a severe deterioration (AST 1687 U/L, INR 1.4). Anti-nuclear antibodies were detectable, and liver biopsy was compatible with autoimmune hepatitis. The observation supports the role of HAV as a trigger of autoimmune hepatitis. Studies in helper T-cell activity and antibody expression against hepatic proteins in the context of hepatitis A infection are summarized, and the concept of molecular mimicry with regard to other forms of viral hepatitis and autoimmunity is briefly explored.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Biopsy
  • Hepatitis A Vaccines / adverse effects*
  • Hepatitis A virus / physiology
  • Hepatitis, Autoimmune / diagnosis*
  • Hepatitis, Autoimmune / etiology*
  • Humans
  • Liver / immunology
  • Liver / pathology
  • Liver / virology
  • Male
  • Middle Aged

Substances

  • Hepatitis A Vaccines