Vitamin D supplementation for autoimmune hepatitis: A need for further investigation

Abstract

Autoimmune hepatitis is a chronic liver disease harboring an autoimmune basis and progressive character. Despite still obscurity in etiology and pathogenesis, some evidence supports the importance of sustaining the immune system. Vitamin D is a lipo-soluble vitamin, which has been identified as decreased in our body. It is often due to the daily habit change and decrease of individual sun exposure due to the increase of the ultraviolet-induced potential melanocytic transformation. Here, we emphasize the importance of vitamin D supplementation in patients affected with liver disease.

Keywords: Vitamin D; Autoimmune hepatitis; Supplementation; Immunostimulants; Liver

Core Tip: Autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) is a chronic liver disease with an autoimmune basis. It can progress quite dramatically. The immune system may play a role in determining how this disease progresses. Vitamin D is key in supporting the immune system with or without vitamin deficiency. Here the vitamin D supplementation in patients affected with AIH is emphasized.