Arthritis and hepatitis.

Abstract

Arthritis has a fascinating relationship with hepatitis of diverse origins. Either condition can predominate and the correct diagnosis may be elusive, especially in the early stages. Humoral autoimmune mechanisms appear to serve as a bridge connecting the two target organs, whether the syndromes are caused by viral infections or unspecified etiologies. Maintaining a keen awareness of and being able to recognize the clinical arthritis-hepatitis syndromes are critical, enabling the physician to establish accurate diagnoses, to prescribe the correct therapies, and to predict outcomes.