Neurospine Hospital & Revive Critical Care
Acute Liver Failure In Nagpur
Acute Liver Failure
Acute liver failure (ALF), also known as fulminant hepatic failure, is a severe and rapid deterioration of liver function. It is characterized by the sudden loss of liver cell function and can occur over a period of days to weeks. ALF is a life-threatening condition that requires urgent medical attention.
The liver plays a vital role in various metabolic processes, including detoxification, protein synthesis, and the production of clotting factors. When the liver fails, these functions are compromised, leading to a range of serious complications.
causes of acute liver failure
Viral hepatitis: Certain viruses, such as hepatitis A, B, and E, can cause acute liver failure.
Drug-induced liver injury: Overdose or prolonged use of certain medications or exposure to toxins can result in liver damage.
Autoimmune hepatitis: An autoimmune response where the body’s immune system attacks liver cells, leading to their destruction.
Metabolic diseases: Inherited metabolic disorders, such as Wilson’s disease and acute fatty liver of pregnancy, can cause acute liver failure.
Ischemic liver injury: Reduced blood flow to the liver, often due to a clot or other vascular problem, can lead to liver failure.
Common Symptoms
Jaundice: Yellowing of the skin and eyes due to a buildup of bilirubin, a yellow pigment produced by the liver.
Fatigue and weakness: Feeling excessively tired or weak, even with minimal physical exertion.
Abdominal pain: Pain or discomfort in the upper right side of the abdomen, where the liver is located.
Nausea and vomiting: Feeling sick to the stomach and vomiting, which may be persistent or severe.
Loss of appetite: A significant decrease in appetite and unintentional weight loss.
Mental confusion: Difficulty concentrating, confusion, and changes in behavior or personality.
Bleeding tendencies: Easy bruising, prolonged bleeding from minor cuts, or nosebleeds.
Swelling: Swelling in the legs, ankles, or abdomen due to fluid retention (edema).
Changes in urine and stool: Dark-colored urine and pale-colored stools may indicate liver dysfunction.
Sleep disturbances: Insomnia, excessive sleepiness, or changes in sleep patterns.
Treatment
Hospitalization: Patients with acute liver failure usually require hospitalization in an intensive care unit (ICU) where they can receive close monitoring and specialized care.
Supportive care: Supportive measures are essential to maintain vital functions and prevent complications. This may include intravenous fluids to prevent dehydration, electrolyte balance maintenance, and nutritional support.
Identifying and treating the underlying cause: Determining the cause of acute liver failure is crucial for appropriate treatment. If the cause is a viral infection, antiviral medications may be prescribed. If it is caused by drug toxicity, discontinuing the offending medication or administering specific antidotes may be necessary.
Liver transplant: In severe cases of acute liver failure, a liver transplant may be the only life-saving option. A transplant involves replacing the damaged liver with a healthy liver from a deceased or living donor.
Monitoring and managing complications: Acute liver failure can lead to various complications, such as hepatic encephalopathy (brain dysfunction due to liver failure), infections, bleeding disorders, and kidney problems. These complications need to be closely monitored and managed accordingly.