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[Fulminant hepatic failure in children].
J Cordero1, J Baeza, J Zacarías
1Unidade de Tratamiento Intensivo, Hospital Luis Calvo Mackenna, Santiago de Chile.
Revista Medica De Chile
|July 1, 1990
Summary
Fulminant liver failure in children is often viral, with jaundice and encephalopathy common. Complications and mortality rates are similar to adults, particularly in severe coma cases.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Hepatology
- Critical Care Medicine
- Viral Hepatitis
Background:
- Fulminant liver failure (FLF) in children presents unique etiological considerations compared to adults.
- Understanding the clinical course and outcomes is crucial for effective management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe the clinical characteristics and outcomes of pediatric patients with fulminant liver failure.
- To identify factors associated with mortality in this cohort.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of 38 children diagnosed with fulminant liver failure.
- Serologic screening for viral etiologies (Hepatitis A and B).
- Clinical data collection including age, symptoms, disease progression, complications, and survival.
Main Results:
- A viral etiology was identified in 19 of 25 tested patients (17 Hepatitis A, 2 Hepatitis B).
- Common complications included hypoglycemia, seizures, gastrointestinal bleeding, respiratory failure, and severe infections.
- Overall mortality was 42%, significantly higher (83%) in patients presenting with stage 3 or 4 coma.
Conclusions:
- Viral infections are a primary cause of FLF in children.
- Pediatric FLF shares similar high mortality rates and complications with adult FLF, especially in severe cases.
- Prompt recognition and management are vital for improving outcomes in pediatric fulminant liver failure.