Variant forms of autoimmune liver diseases
The problem of existence of variant forms of autoimmune liver diseases is discussed. It is clear that cross syndromes are identified in some such patients, whereas the existence of sequential syndromes with the change of forms of autoimmune liver injury is placed in question; and a dispute over the existence of autoimmune cholangitis is continuing. Cross syndromes require a specific approach to diagnosis and treatment. Combined pathogenetic therapy with immunosuppressive and anticholestatic drugs can lead to the change of prognosis in this category of patients.

Keywords: antinuclear antibodies, antimitochondrial antibodies, cross syndromes, autoimmune cholangitis, primary biliary cirrhosis, autoimmune hepatitis