Pediatric end-stage liver disease

Pediatric end-stage liver disease (also known as PELD) is a severe liver disease that occurs in children. It is the final stage of chronic liver disease where the liver has lost all its functions. The only definitive treatment for PELD is liver transplantation.

Causes[edit | edit source]

PELD can be caused by a variety of conditions, including biliary atresia, metabolic disorders, autoimmune diseases, and viral infections. In some cases, the cause of PELD is unknown.

Symptoms[edit | edit source]

The symptoms of PELD can vary widely and may include jaundice, ascites, variceal bleeding, and hepatic encephalopathy. Children with PELD may also experience growth failure and developmental delays.

Diagnosis[edit | edit source]

The diagnosis of PELD is based on a combination of clinical symptoms, laboratory tests, and imaging studies. The Model for End-Stage Liver Disease (MELD) score is often used to assess the severity of liver disease and prioritize patients for liver transplantation.

Treatment[edit | edit source]

The primary treatment for PELD is liver transplantation. Other treatments may include medications to manage symptoms and complications, nutritional support, and in some cases, surgical procedures to manage complications of liver disease.

Prognosis[edit | edit source]

The prognosis for children with PELD depends on a variety of factors, including the underlying cause of the disease, the child's overall health, and the availability of a suitable liver donor.

See also[edit | edit source]

Pediatric end-stage liver disease Resources
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