Liver Failure
Liver failure is severe loss of liver function. Acute liver failure develops over days to weeks in someone without known liver disease; chronic liver failure follows long-term liver damage. Both are life-threatening.
Table of Contents
Quick Facts
- ICD-10: K72
- Severity: Life-threatening
- Cure: Sometimes liver transplant
Emergency Warning Signs
Seek emergency care for:
- Confusion, drowsiness, or personality changes
- Yellowing of skin or eyes (jaundice)
- Vomiting blood or passing black stools
- Severe abdominal pain or swelling
- Easy bruising or bleeding
- Suspected acetaminophen overdose
Common Causes
Acute liver failure
- Acetaminophen overdose (most common in US)
- Viral hepatitis
- Medication or supplement reactions
- Mushroom poisoning
- Autoimmune hepatitis
- Wilson's disease
Chronic liver failure
- Cirrhosis from alcohol, hepatitis B or C, fatty liver disease
- Biliary disorders
- Genetic conditions
Treatment
- Hospital intensive care
- N-acetylcysteine for acetaminophen overdose
- Lactulose for hepatic encephalopathy
- Management of complications (fluid overload, bleeding, infection)
- Liver transplantation for severe cases
Medical Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider with questions about a medical condition. If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
References
- American Association for the Study of Liver Diseases. Acute Liver Failure Guidelines.