Based on the scientific information available, there is no evidence until present that patients with autoimmune hepatitis are a group with higher risk of infection by COVID-19 or of developing more serious forms of disease. However, these patients may have a higher risk of complications. Therefore, these are patients that should reduce social contacts to the strictly necessary, besides the general measures associated with any viral respiratory infection. Old age and associated diseases, such as diabetes, hypertension, cardiac, pulmonary or kidney disease, and obesity, may increase susceptibility to the infection by COVID-19 and the possibility of developing a more serious condition. I have autoimmune hepatitis and I am taking corticoids. Should I take special precautions during the COVID-19 pandemics? If you have autoimmune hepatitis and are taking corticoids, you are considered an immunosuppressed patient and, therefore, part of a risk group. However, low doses of corticoids have a lower probability of increasing the risk of severe infection by COVID-19. Presently, there is no evidence that the corticoids dosage normally used in the treatment of autoimmune hepatitis, increase the risk of developing a more serious disease. Prednisolone is a corticoid. Should I suspend or reduce the dosage of corticoids (like prednisolone) or other immunosuppressants (such as azathioprine, tacrolimus, biologicals) during the COVID-19 pandemics? You should not reduce or suspend corticoids or immunosuppressants, unless your attending gastroenterologist tells you to. The risk of a severe liver disorder due to uncontrolled autoimmune hepatitis (with the suspension of medication) is much higher than the risks associated with the infection by COVID-19. Physicians and the relevant authorities are following this situation closely and will alert patients, as soon as new recommendations arise. Can I take medication to prevent infection by COVID-19? Until present, there are no drugs with strong scientific evidence of preventing the infection by COVID-19. You should avoid taking medication, teas or natural supplements without previously contacting your attending doctor, for some may have consequences for the liver. Then, what should I do to prevent the infection by COVID-19? The main thing to do is to stay isolated at home and reduce contact with other people to the strictly necessary. You should ask a relative, neighbour or friend to bring you home foods and medication. You should wash your hands several times a day with water and soap or alcoholic solution, whenever touching a surface or being in contact with someone. If you develop symptoms, such as persistent cough, fever, respiratory difficulty, loss of smell or diarrhoea, you should call firstly line SNS 24. If there is alteration in your primary disease, call your Hospital da Luz for a phone consultation or schedule a videoconsultation with your attending specialist, in order to evaluate the situation and, eventually, if necessary, go to the hospital. Should I adjourn a routine consultation? How do I proceed to have a routine consultation with my attending doctor and obtain my regular medication? You should maintain the usual follow-up with your attending gastroenterologist. You can always opt for a video consultation or phone consultation. If necessary, the prescription for your medication can be sent directly to your mobile phone or by mail. Contacts to use Request a video consultation or phone consultation with your attending doctor in your personal area in MY LUZ . To request an urgent video consultation due to symptoms suggestive of COVID-19, call LUZ 24 – 217 104 424 . Author : Daniel Trabulo Meet the Gastroenterology team of Hospital da Luz network . If you need help, Luz Saúde professionals are available for you. You can count on us! Your safety is guaranteed. Click here for more information and advice of Hospital da Luz about the novel coronavírus COVID-19 epidemic . The content published in the Health Guide is intended for the general public and is provided for informational and educational purposes only. It does not replace individual medical assessment, diagnosis, or personalized clinical advice from a qualified healthcare professional. The content is produced or reviewed by physicians and other healthcare professionals at Hospital da Luz and is based on the knowledge available at the time of publication or the most recent update, as indicated at the beginning of each item.
