[Viral genesis and autoimmunity of chronic hepatitis. Suggestion for a dynamically descriptive nomenclature without verification of etiology].

Today, viruses and autoimmunity phenomena are at the focus of interest in chronic hepatitis, not least with respect to the differing treatments, e.g. with interferon and immunosuppressants. Unfortunately, the last international nomenclature fails to take adequate account of the various forms of chronic hepatitis, of the fact that autoimmunity phenomena are predominantly physiological and also occur in the case of viral hepatitides, and also that the cause of autoimmune hepatitis is not clear. If we wish to avoid errors, we should employ a descriptive dynamic classification and not forget that the reclassification may be needed during the natural history of the disease. The indication for treatment should be critically and carefully weighed, and not established too hastily. During treatment--in particular with interferon--the autoimmunity phenomena should be monitored.