Acute liver failure with a massive upper GI bleed meeting the criteria of MIS-C

Anshika Mishra1, Jaya Gupta2, Areesha Alam2

  • 1Pediatrics, King George's Medical University, Lucknow, India anshikamishra63796@gmail.com.

BMJ Case Reports
|July 4, 2024
PubMed

Insights

Multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C) can cause severe liver issues and gastrointestinal bleeding. Early diagnosis and treatment with steroids and immunoglobulins are crucial for recovery.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Gastroenterology
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Critical Care Medicine

Background:

  • Multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C) is a rare but serious complication of COVID-19.
  • Limited data exists on the gastrointestinal manifestations of MIS-C, particularly liver involvement.

Observation:

  • A previously healthy toddler presented with acute liver failure, duodenal lesions, severe hematemesis, and hemorrhagic shock.
  • Initial investigations ruled out common infectious hepatitis and acute COVID-19 infection, but SARS-CoV-2 antibody testing was reactive.

Findings:

  • The patient exhibited persistent transaminitis, coagulopathy, and elevated inflammatory markers.
  • Endoscopic findings revealed a Forrest grade III duodenal ulcer, leading to a diagnosis of MIS-C-associated hepatitis.

Implications:

  • This case highlights MIS-C as a potential cause of acute liver failure and upper gastrointestinal bleeding in children.
  • Prompt recognition and treatment with corticosteroids and IVIG can lead to favorable outcomes in severe MIS-C cases.

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