Risk factors for relapse of autoimmune hepatitis in Japan: A nationwide survey

Aim Some autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) patients experience relapse during their clinical course, and some risk factors for relapse have been identified previously using a relatively small sample size. The aim of the present study was to identify the risk factors for relapse in recently diagnosed AIH patients using a nationwide survey in Japan. Methods The nationwide survey performed in Japan in 2018 of AIH patients diagnosed between 2014 and 2017 was re‐evaluated. A total of 614 patients who received corticosteroids were enrolled in the present study. Associations between relapse and patients' characteristics at diagnosis were evaluated using logistic regression analysis. Results Relapse was identified in 143 (23.3%) patients after remission. At the time of diagnosis of the disease, there were significant differences in the γ‐glutamyl transpeptidase (γ‐GTP) level, prevalence of liver cirrhosis, and degree of liver fibrosis. Multivariable logistic regression analysis showed that γ‐GTP elevation and liver cirrhosis were significantly associated with relapse. Conclusion The γ‐GTP level at diagnosis could help identify AIH patients at higher risk of relapse.