Liver disease in the adolescent
Alisha M Mavis1, Estella M Alonso1
1Department of Pediatrics, Northwestern University, Feinberg School of Medicine, Siragusa Transplantation Center, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital, 225 East Chicago Avenue, Chicago, IL 60611, USA.
Clinics in Liver Disease
|December 3, 2014
Summary
This article reviews common adolescent liver diseases, including fatty liver and hepatitis, and outlines evaluation and management strategies for pediatric liver conditions. It addresses challenges in caring for adolescents with liver disease.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Gastroenterology
- Hepatology
- Adolescent Medicine
Background:
- Liver enzyme elevation in adolescents requires careful evaluation.
- Adolescents face unique challenges in managing chronic conditions.
- Early diagnosis and intervention are crucial for pediatric liver health.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review common liver diseases in the adolescent population.
- To outline the evaluation process for new-onset liver enzyme elevation in adolescents.
- To present a comprehensive management approach for adolescent liver disease.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of common pediatric liver conditions.
- Discussion of diagnostic approaches for elevated liver enzymes.
- Outline of management strategies tailored for adolescents.
Main Results:
- Common conditions include nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, hepatitis, metabolic disorders, biliary atresia, cystic fibrosis, and inherited cholestasis.
- Evaluation involves assessing new-onset liver enzyme abnormalities.
- Management requires a holistic approach addressing the adolescent patient's overall health.
Conclusions:
- Adolescent liver disease encompasses a range of conditions requiring specific diagnostic and management protocols.
- Effective care necessitates addressing both the liver condition and the patient's comprehensive needs.
- Integrated care models are essential for optimizing outcomes in adolescent hepatology.
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