Acute Liver Failure in a COVID-19 Patient Without any Preexisting Liver Disease

Area of Science:

• Hepatology
• Infectious Diseases
• Virology

Background:

• The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) pandemic, declared in March 2020, has affected millions globally.
• While SARS-CoV-2 primarily presents with respiratory symptoms, gastrointestinal and hepatic manifestations, including elevated liver enzymes, have been reported in 20-50% of cases.

Observation:

• This report details a rare case of acute liver failure in an elderly patient diagnosed with COVID-19.
• The patient had no prior history of liver disease, highlighting a potentially severe, uncharacterized hepatic complication of SARS-CoV-2 infection.

Findings:

• The patient developed acute liver failure secondary to COVID-19 infection.
• Elevated liver enzymes, observed in a significant percentage of COVID-19 patients, may correlate with disease severity.

Implications:

• This case underscores the need for further investigation into the hepatotoxicity of SARS-CoV-2.
• Clinicians should consider monitoring liver function in COVID-19 patients, particularly the elderly or those with comorbidities.
• Understanding severe hepatic complications is crucial for comprehensive patient management during the COVID-19 pandemic.