Acute liver disease

Acute liver disease is a rapid deterioration of liver function in a person without pre-existing liver disease. It is characterized by the onset of jaundice, coagulopathy, and hepatic encephalopathy within 26 weeks.

Causes

The causes of acute liver disease are numerous and include viral hepatitis, drug-induced liver injury, autoimmune hepatitis, and alcoholic hepatitis. Other causes can include metabolic disorders, sepsis, and shock.

Symptoms

The symptoms of acute liver disease can vary greatly from person to person. They can include jaundice, fatigue, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and hepatic encephalopathy. In severe cases, acute liver disease can lead to liver failure and death.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of acute liver disease is based on clinical symptoms, laboratory tests, and imaging studies. Laboratory tests can include liver function tests, coagulation tests, and tests for viral hepatitis. Imaging studies can include ultrasound, CT scan, and MRI.

Treatment

Treatment of acute liver disease depends on the underlying cause. It can include antiviral therapy for viral hepatitis, corticosteroids for autoimmune hepatitis, and abstinence from alcohol for alcoholic hepatitis. In severe cases, liver transplantation may be necessary.

Prognosis

The prognosis of acute liver disease depends on the underlying cause and the severity of the disease. With prompt diagnosis and treatment, many people with acute liver disease can recover completely. However, in severe cases, the disease can be fatal.

See also

• Chronic liver disease
• Liver transplantation
• Hepatitis