Acute liver failure

Acute Liver Failure

Acute liver failure (pronunciation: /əˈkjuːt ˈlɪvər ˈfeɪljər/) is a rapid loss of liver function, typically in a person without pre-existing liver disease. It is a medical emergency that requires immediate care.

Etymology

The term "acute" comes from the Latin acutus, meaning "sharp" or "severe". "Liver" is derived from the Old English lifer, and "failure" comes from the Old French falloir, meaning "to be lacking".

Causes

Acute liver failure can be caused by a variety of conditions, including hepatitis viruses, drug-induced liver injury, autoimmune hepatitis, and metabolic disease. Other causes can include toxins, alcohol abuse, and cancer that has spread to the liver.

Symptoms

Symptoms of acute liver failure may include jaundice, fatigue, nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. In severe cases, it can lead to encephalopathy, which can cause confusion and disorientation.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of acute liver failure involves a series of tests, including blood tests, imaging tests, and sometimes a liver biopsy.

Treatment

Treatment for acute liver failure typically involves treating the underlying cause, if known, and managing symptoms. In severe cases, a liver transplant may be necessary.

Related Terms

• Hepatitis
• Jaundice
• Liver transplant
• Encephalopathy
• Liver disease
• Liver biopsy
• Metabolic disease
• Autoimmune hepatitis
• Drug-induced liver injury
• Alcohol abuse
• Cancer

External links

• Medical encyclopedia article on Acute liver failure
• Wikipedia's article - Acute liver failure

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