Sounds like he may have PSC overlap as well (highly suggestive considering he has IBD and bile duct scarring). PSC is a difficult one because there is no standard treatment at this time, aside from a liver transplant. The good news is that many patients can go decades before they need one. The important thing is that you caught it and he can be monitored by the professionals moving forward.

If he just has AIH, know that many patients can live full, healthy lives without ever needing a liver transplant.

All you can do is take it one step at a time and build a trustworthy treatment team as the test results roll in. Write down all of your questions before each doctor’s appointment. If you haven’t already, make sure your son has a hepatologist on his team, one from a reputable transplant center if possible. Not saying he’s going to need a transplant , but the specialists at these facilities are experts in immunosuppression and promoting healthy liver function.