What autoantibodies are commonly associated with autoimmune hepatitis?

Study for the USMLE Step 2 CK Exam. Prepare with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each question has hints and explanations. Get ready for your exam!

Autoimmune hepatitis is characterized by the presence of specific autoantibodies that assist in diagnosing the condition. The most commonly associated autoantibodies include antinuclear antibodies (ANA) and anti-smooth muscle antibodies (SMA).

ANA are indicative of a variety of autoimmune diseases and are frequently found in patients with autoimmune hepatitis. Anti-smooth muscle antibodies are more specific for autoimmune hepatitis and support the diagnosis. The presence of these autoantibodies can vary in individual patients, but their detection is a critical component in the overall assessment of suspected autoimmune hepatitis.

Other options listed involve different autoimmune conditions. For instance, anti-dsDNA and anti-Smith antibodies are primarily associated with systemic lupus erythematosus. Anti-Ro and anti-La antibodies are indicators of Sjögren’s syndrome and can also be present in systemic lupus erythematosus, but they are not linked to autoimmune hepatitis. Anti-glutamic acid decarboxylase antibodies are typically present in autoimmune diabetes rather than liver diseases. Therefore, option B is the most accurate choice in the context of autoimmune hepatitis.

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