Acute liver failure

Question 1

What is the definition of acute liver failure?

Answer 1

Combination of jaundice, coagulopathy and hepatic encephalopathy

Question 2

What are the causes of acute liver failure?

Answer 2

Paracetamol overdose, drug induced liver injury, acute Hep B, autoimmune hepatitis, ischaemic hepatitis

Question 3

What are the risk factors for acute liver failure?

Answer 3

Chronic alcohol abuse, poor nutritional status, female, >40, pregnancy, chronic hep B, chronic pain and narcotic use

Question 4

What is the presentation of acute liver failure?

Answer 4

Jaundice, signs of hepatic encephalopathy, abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, malaise, RUQ pain, hepatomegaly, history of liver disease or overdose

Question 5

What are the signs of hepatic encephalopathy?

Answer 5

Confusion, mood changes, sleep disturbances, poor concentration, seizures, shaking, sleepiness, slurred speech

Question 6

What is the management of acute liver failure?

Answer 6

Possible liver transplant, admission to ICU, treatment of underlying cause

Question 7

What are the complications of acute liver failure?

Answer 7

Hepatic encephalopathy, coagulopathy, infection, renal failure, metabolic disorders, cerebral oedema