Liver involvement in rheumatic diseases

Abstract

Liver involvement in rheumatic diseases may occur as a primary liver disease, primary rheumatic disease with hepatic manifestations or antirheumatic drug-induced liver disease. The aim of our article is to underline the importance of monitoring and control of the level of aminotransferases and cholestatic enzymes in rheumatic disorders. Some of the rheumatic diseases with constantly elevated liver enzymes need to be investigated in consideration of concomitant primary autoimmune liver disease (such as autoimmune hepatitis, primary biliary cholangitis, primary sclerosing cholangitis) or drug hepatotoxicity. Also, we should be aware of hepatitis B reactivation or hepatitis C flare when immunosuppressants are used.

Keywords

• liver
• autoimmune
• rheumatic diseases.