Diagnosing Autoimmune Hepatitis: Histological Correlations and Emerging Technologies

Abstract

The diagnosis of Autoimmune Hepatitis (AIH) is a multifaceted process that relies on the intricate interplay of histological, serological, and biochemical findings. Liver histology remains a sine qua non tool for AIH diagnosis, yet correlating pathological findings with other clinical variables is often challenging. Additionally, the heterogeneity in the clinical presentation of AIH, ranging from asymptomatic cases to fulminant liver failure, further complicates the diagnostic process by introducing variability in the interpretation of these diagnostic components. This review summarises empirical observations on the correlation between histological changes in AIH and other clinical manifestations, highlighting gaps in the current evidence. It also explores how emerging techniques, such as spatial omics and computational pathology, can enhance our understanding of the disease and help bridge these gaps.