Autoimmune Hepatitis in Two Patients With Behcet’S Disease Publisher Pubmed



Alikhani M ; Tavangar S M ; Nikvarz M ; Soroureddin S
Source: Modern Rheumatology Case Reports Published:2026

Abstract

Background: Behcet’s disease (BD) is a multisystem inflammatory disorder with variable manifestations. Although hepatic involvement is rare, abnormal liver enzymes may occasionally be observed. We describe two patients with BD who developed autoimmune hepatitis, confirmed by liver biopsy. Case presentation: We report two Iranian patients − one male and one female − diagnosed with BD, who later developed persistently elevated liver enzymes. Both had elevated IgG levels, negative viral hepatitis markers, and liver biopsy findings compatible with autoimmune hepatitis. Due to limited retrospective serologic data, the diagnosis was established based on a multidisciplinary clinicopathological assessment and response to immunosuppressive therapy. Sonography showed fatty liver in both cases. Treatment with azathioprine and prednisolone led to the normalization of liver enzymes over a long-term follow-up. Conclusions: Although it is uncommon, AIH can co-occur with BD and should be considered in patients with persistently elevated transaminases. A liver biopsy is crucial for a definitive diagnosis. Early immunosuppressive therapy can prevent disease progression. © Japan College of Rheumatology 2026. Published by Oxford University Press. All rights reserved. For commercial re-use, please contact reprints@oup.com for reprints and translation rights for reprints. All other permissions can be obtained through our RightsLink service via the Permissions link on the article page on our site—for further information please contact journals.permissions@oup.com. This article is published and distributed under the terms of the Oxford University Press, Standard Journals Publication Model (https://academic.oup.com/pages/standard-publication-reuse-rights)