Liver Failure
The liver usually fails slowly with chronic conditions, but when we say "liver failure" we usually mean acute failure, which can happen in days. There are a number of conditions that can cause the liver to fail rapidly. Overdoses of acetaminophen is the most common, with prescriptions and even some herbal supplements also linked to liver failure.
Besides toxins, the liver can fail from disease, including cancer and hepatitis. When your liver fails, it can leave you open to infections, cause bleeding problems, trigger kidney failure or cerebral edema - fluid in the brain. Treatment will likely be in the hospital. Medication and antitoxins can help in some cases, antibiotics if there are infections. Liver transplants are a standard treatment for many cases.
Recently Answered
- Q Does the pediatric intensivist treat children with liver failure?
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Yes, a pediatric intensivist can manage liver failure. However, whether or not an intensivist is needed will depend on the type of liver failure present. Acute (new onset) liver failure due to problems such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) overdose, hepatitis,... Full Answer
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- Q What degree of liver failure necessitates a liver transplant?
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A patient's "model for end-stage liver disease," or MELD, score, is key to whether surgery makes sense. Learn more about liver transplants and MELD scores by watching this video featuring liver transplant surgeon Dr. Robert Brown. Full Answer
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- Q What causes toxic liver failure?
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The most common cause of toxic liver failure is excessive ingestion (overdose) of acetaminophen (Tylenol). It is important to recognize the diagnosis promptly because there is a specific medical treatment (N-acetylcysteine) which, if given promptly,... Full Answer
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