Clinical and Biochemical Profile of Acute Liver Failure with Hepatic Encephalopathy in Children from Eastern Nepal.
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Date
2011-05
Authors
Shah, G S
Singh, M K
Shah, D
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Abstract
Introduction: Hepatic encephalopathy is a potentially reversible neurophyschiatric abnormality in
the setting of liver failure. Acute liver failure (ALF) is a potentially life-threatening disorder in children.
Objectives: The present study evaluated the clinical profile, outcome and factors influencing the outcome
of children presenting with acute liver failure and hepatic encephalopathy presenting to a referral hospital
of Eastern Nepal. Methodology: Thirty children (17 males and 13 females) were admitted with this
diagnosis during two year period.Prospective study. Results: The most common cause of acute liver
failure was mushroom poisoning seen in 30% of cases. Only 37% (11 out of 30) children survived, most of
them in early stages (Stage I and II) of encephalopathy. Bleeding manifestations were significantly more
common (P=0.002) in deaths as compared to survivors. Conclusion: As liver failure is associated with
high mortality rates especially in absence of facilities for liver transplantation, efforts should be directed
in favor of implementing preventive measures such as vaccination and community education to prevent
toxin ingestion.
Description
Keywords
Acute liver failure, Hepatic encephalopathy, Mushroom poisoning
Citation
Shah G S, Singh M K, Shah D. Clinical and Biochemical Profile of Acute Liver Failure with Hepatic Encephalopathy in Children from Eastern Nepal. Journal of Nepal Paediatric Society. 2011 May-Aug; 31(2): 89-92.