Alcoholic Hepatitis C0019187
Severe liver inflammation caused by long-term heavy alcohol drinking, damaging liver cells and causing scarring. Symptoms include jaundice, abdominal pain, and fluid buildup. Treatment requires complete alcohol cessation, nutritional support, and sometimes corticosteroids or other medications.
Key facts at a glance
- ICD-10
- K76.9
- ICD-11
- DA00.0
- Body system
- hepatobiliary
- Severity
- severe
- Chronic
- false
Signs and symptoms
Common signs and symptoms that may indicate this condition.
Generalized symptoms
(hepatobiliary)Significant symptoms that substantially affect daily functioning.
Frequency: Varies
Jaundice
(hepatobiliary)Fatigue
(hepatobiliary)Ascites
(hepatobiliary)Hepatic encephalopathy
(hepatobiliary)Diagnosis and tests
How this condition is diagnosed and what test results mean.
Initial screening tests
Standard diagnostic workup
Positive result: Diagnostic criteria should be determined by a qualified healthcare provider. [Content pending medical review.]
Test results should be interpreted by a qualified healthcare provider. [Content pending medical review.]
Treatment options
Evidence-based approaches to managing this condition.
First-line treatments
Complete alcohol abstinence
Permanent cessation of all alcohol consumption is the most critical intervention for alcoholic hepatitis. This allows liver regeneration and prevents progression to cirrhosis.
Drug therapy and clinical monitoring
Active treatment with regular monitoring by a healthcare provider is recommended.
Corticosteroid therapy
Short-term corticosteroids such as prednisolone may reduce inflammation in severe cases. Reserved for patients with high Maddrey discriminant function scores.
Additional treatment options
Nutritional support and protein supplementation
High-protein, high-calorie nutritional support addresses the malnutrition common in alcoholic hepatitis. Enteral feeding may be required if oral intake is inadequate.
dietaryAddiction counseling and behavioral therapy
Individual and group therapy addresses the psychological aspects of alcohol dependence. Cognitive-behavioral approaches help develop coping strategies for maintaining sobriety.
psychologicalLiver function and complications surveillance
Regular monitoring of liver enzymes, bilirubin, and coagulation parameters to assess disease progression and treatment response. Screening for ascites and varices.
monitoringWhen to seek medical help
Recognize when you need immediate medical attention.
See a doctor within 24 hours
Moderate to severe symptoms that may indicate worsening of this condition. Prompt medical evaluation is recommended.
Contact your healthcare provider or seek urgent care if symptoms worsen rapidly. Go to the emergency department for life-threatening symptoms.
Frequently asked questions
Common questions about this topic.
What is Alcoholic Hepatitis C0019187?
Please consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalized medical information about this condition. [Content pending medical review.]
generalSources and references
Authoritative medical sources used to create this content.
Crabb DW, Im GY, Szabo G, et al. Diagnosis and Treatment of Alcohol-Associated Liver Diseases: 2019 Practice Guidance From the American Association for the Study of Liver Diseases. Hepatology. 2020;71(1):306-333.
Rambaldi A, Saconato HH, Christensen E, et al. Systematic review of glucocorticoids for alcoholic hepatitis. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2008;(4):CD001511.
Singh S, Murad MH, Chandar AK, et al. Comparative Effectiveness of Pharmacological Interventions for Severe Alcoholic Hepatitis: A Network Meta-Analysis. Gastroenterology. 2015;148(5):958-966.e2.
Mathurin P, Duchatelle F, Ramond MJ, et al. Survival and prognostic factors in patients with severe alcoholic hepatitis treated with prednisolone: A randomized clinical trial. Gastroenterology. 1993;104(4):1125-1131.
Medication Comparisons
Compare medications used to treat Alcoholic Hepatitis C0019187. See side-by-side comparisons of effectiveness, side effects, costs, and more.
View Medication ComparisonsThis information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 20, 2026. · Read our editorial policy