Liver involvement in severe human influenza a H1N1
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Published on: January 20, 2017
Raúl Carrillo-Esper1, Estela Pérez-Bustos, Sofía Ornelas-Arroyo
1Intensive Care Unit, Fundación Clínica Médica Sur.
Abstract:
Influenza A is a disease caused by a RNA virus, member of the orthomyxoviridae family. The influenza infection is characterized primarily by pulmonary affection that may advance to an acute pulmonary respiratory failure course. Hepatic involvement is not frequent and accounts for < 3% of all cases. We describe two patients with acute Influenza A H1N1 infection who developed hepatic involvement. Needle core liver biopsy of one of the patient revealed only micro and macrovesicular steatosis.
Insights
Influenza A H1N1 infection can rarely affect the liver. This study details two cases of acute Influenza A H1N1 with liver involvement, showing steatosis on biopsy.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Hepatology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Influenza A virus, an RNA virus from the Orthomyxoviridae family, primarily causes pulmonary disease.
- Severe cases can lead to acute pulmonary respiratory failure.
- Hepatic involvement in influenza is uncommon, reported in less than 3% of cases.
Observation:
- This report describes two patients diagnosed with acute Influenza A H1N1 infection.
- Both patients presented with notable hepatic involvement.
- Liver biopsy in one patient revealed micro and macrovesicular steatosis.
Findings:
- Acute Influenza A H1N1 infection can manifest with hepatic complications.
- Histopathological examination of the liver showed steatosis as a key finding.
- This suggests a potential direct or indirect viral effect on liver metabolism.
Implications:
- Highlights the importance of considering liver involvement in severe Influenza A H1N1 cases.
- May prompt further research into the mechanisms of influenza-associated liver injury.
- Informs clinical practice regarding the diagnosis and management of influenza complications.
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