interfacehepatitis

Interface hepatitis refers to a pattern of liver inflammation observed in liver biopsies. It is characterized by the infiltration of inflammatory cells at the limiting plate, which is the interface between the portal tracts and the hepatic parenchyma. This means that inflammation is seen spreading from the portal areas into the lobule of the liver. Histologically, this is often accompanied by the presence of hepatocytes undergoing necrosis or apoptosis at the limiting plate.

Interface hepatitis is not a specific disease but rather a histological finding that can be associated with various causes of liver injury. It is commonly seen in chronic viral hepatitis, particularly hepatitis B and C. Autoimmune hepatitis is another significant cause, where the immune system mistakenly attacks liver cells. Drug-induced liver injury can also manifest as interface hepatitis, although other patterns of injury may also be present. Nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), a form of fatty liver disease, can sometimes show this pattern, especially in more advanced stages.

The diagnosis of interface hepatitis relies on microscopic examination of a liver biopsy. While the histological pattern itself is descriptive, it prompts further investigation to determine the underlying cause. This typically involves blood tests to check for viral markers, autoantibodies, and liver function tests, as well as a thorough medical history and review of medications. Treatment for interface hepatitis depends entirely on the identified etiology. For example, antiviral therapy is used for viral hepatitis, immunosuppressive drugs for autoimmune hepatitis, and discontinuation of the offending agent for drug-induced liver injury.