Overview
Acute Liver Failure (ALF) is a rapid decline in liver function, typically occurring within days or weeks. It is a life-threatening condition that requires immediate medical attention. Unlike chronic liver failure, which develops slowly over years, ALF progresses quickly and can lead to severe complications such as bleeding disorders, infections, and cerebral edema.
Signs and Symptoms
- Jaundice: Yellowing of the skin and eyes
- Abdominal Pain: Particularly in the upper right side
- Nausea and Vomiting
- Confusion or Disorientation: Due to hepatic encephalopathy
- Swelling: In the abdomen (ascites) or legs (edema)
- Bleeding: Easy bruising or bleeding due to impaired blood clotting
- Fatigue and Weakness
- Coma
Acute Liver Failure Causes
- Acetaminophen (Paracetamol) overdose
- Hepatitis B
- Hepatitis C
- Cirrhosis
- Prolonged alcohol consumption
- Hemochromatosis (an inherited disorder that causes the body to absorb and store too much iron)
- Ingestion of poisonous wild mushrooms
- Malnutrition
- Viruses including hepatitis A, B, and E (especially in children)
- Reactions to certain prescription and herbal medications, genetic disorders like Wilson Disease
Types
- Hyperacute Liver Failure: Symptoms develop within 7 days.
- Acute Liver Failure: Symptoms develop between 8 and 28 days.
- Subacute Liver Failure: Symptoms develop between 29 days and 12 weeks.
Diagnosis
- Blood Tests: To check liver enzyme levels, bilirubin, and clotting function.
- Imaging Studies: Ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI to assess liver damage.
- Liver Biopsy: To identify the cause and extent of liver damage.
- Electroencephalogram (EEG): To detect brain function abnormalities caused by hepatic encephalopathy.
Treatment
- Medication:
- Supportive Care: Intravenous fluids, electrolytes, and glucose to maintain stability.
- Medications to Manage Symptoms: Such as lactulose for hepatic encephalopathy and antibiotics for infections.
- Liver Transplant: The definitive treatment for patients with irreversible liver failure. This involves replacing the damaged liver with a healthy donor liver.
- Surgery:
- Emergency Procedures: Such as hepatic artery ligation in cases of liver cancer rupture.
- Pre-Transplant Management: Procedures to stabilize the patient before a transplant.
FAQ
What causes acute liver failure?
Common causes include viral hepatitis (A, B, E), drug-induced liver injury (e.g., acetaminophen overdose), toxins, autoimmune liver diseases, and metabolic conditions.
How is acute liver failure treated?
Treatment focuses on managing symptoms and complications. In severe cases, a liver transplant is often necessary.
Can acute liver failure be prevented?
Prevention includes avoiding excessive alcohol consumption, monitoring and limiting the use of medications that can damage the liver, getting vaccinated for hepatitis, and avoiding exposure to toxins.
What are the survival rates for acute liver failure?
Survival rates depend on the underlying cause and the timeliness of treatment. Liver transplants significantly improve survival chances for those with severe cases.
Is acute liver failure reversible?
In some cases, with prompt and appropriate treatment, liver function can be restored. However, if the liver damage is extensive, a transplant may be the only option.
Yatharth Hospital is committed to providing comprehensive care for patients with acute liver failure, using advanced diagnostics and treatment options. Our team of experienced hepatologists and transplant surgeons work together to offer the best possible outcomes for our patients. If you or a loved one is experiencing symptoms of acute liver failure, seek immediate medical attention to improve the chances of recovery.