Acute_Liver_Failure_Flashcards
What is the first step in managing a child with acute liver failure?
Early referral to a national paediatric liver centre.
How should blood glucose levels be maintained in a child with acute liver failure?
Maintain blood glucose (> 4 mmol/L) with IV dextrose.
What is the approach to preventing sepsis in a child with acute liver failure?
Use broad-spectrum antibiotics and antifungals.
How can haemorrhage be prevented in a child with acute liver failure?
Administer IV vitamin K and H2 antagonists/PPIs.
What measures can be taken to prevent cerebral oedema in a child with acute liver failure?
Fluid restriction and mannitol diuresis.
What is the role of neurological status monitoring in acute liver failure?
To assess for encephalopathy.
How is encephalopathy treated or prevented in acute liver failure?
Use lactulose to reduce ammonia.
What determines the management of acute liver failure?
Management is dependent on the suspected cause of acute liver failure.
What are some features of poor prognosis in acute liver failure?
Shrinking liver, rising bilirubin, falling transaminases, worsening coagulopathy, and coma.
What is the best marker for liver failure when assessing for liver transplantation?
Prothrombin time (PT).
How should the diagnosis of acute liver failure be explained to parents?
It is a condition with unknown cause that leads to inflammation of the bowel, causing symptoms.
How common is acute liver failure in children?
It isn’t common but is a well-known disease (1 in 420).
Is there a cure for acute liver failure?
There is no cure, and it tends to come and go in flare-ups.
How can flare-ups of acute liver failure be managed?
There are medications to reduce the likelihood of flare-ups and to treat them when they happen.
What are the potential complications of acute liver failure?
Growth issues and bowel cancer.
