Liver failure is a problem categorized by the inability of the liver to carry out its functions efficiently. In some cases, there can be a complete loss of liver function, giving rise to the need for a transplant. Liver failure can affect people of any age group, even small children and infants. Paediatric liver transplant in Pune has many such children to lead a healthy and normal life.

What is liver failure?

The liver is the largest gland in the human body that is responsible for the detoxification of the blood and various metabolic functions which are important for our existence. The liver plays a vital role in digestion, as well as in the synthesis of proteins. Liver failure can prevent the liver from carrying out all the functions, leading to serious, and even life-threatening complications. Experts from the best hospital in Pune suggest that liver failure can be classified into two different types:

• Acute liver failure, which is marked by a sudden loss of liver function, usually in children with no history of any liver disease
• Chronic liver failure, which is marked by the gradual decline of liver function, in children with a known liver disease

What can be the possible cause of liver failure in children?

There are many different factors that can lead to liver failure, some of which are not even known. We have listed some of the known causes of liver failure in children with the help of an expert specializing in liver transplants in Thane.

Acute liver failure may be a result of

• Viral diseases like herpes, hepatitis and cytomegalovirus, that can lead to acute liver failure.
• Certain inherited metabolic conditions like fructose intolerance, Wilson disease and mitochondria disease.
• Consumption of exposure to certain toxic substances such as wild mushrooms, pesticides, weedicides and drain cleaning agents.
• Use of some medicines like valproic acid or acetaminophen.
• Ailments and disorders related to the immune system, including autoimmune hepatitis
• Reduced blood flow to the liver, resulting in the death of the liver cells.
• Chronic hepatic injury sustained in an accident

Chronic liver failure can be caused by

• Underlying diseases like chronic hepatitis, autoimmune hepatitis and non-alcoholic tattoo hepatitis
• Certain inherited conditions like hemochromatosis
• Cardiovascular problems that can interrupt the normal flow of blood to the liver
• Ailments involving the bile duct such as biliary atresia and sclerosing cholangitis.

Symptoms

Our body has its own ways of telling us that something is not right. While small children may not be able to understand the signs on their own, you, being parents, have to watch out for them. Here are a few symptoms associated with liver failure, that should not be taken for granted, as listed by the experts specializing in liver transplants in India.

• General body weakness and fatigue, because of which the child is likely to feel tired all the time
• Nausea or vomiting, especially after taking meals
• Unexplained loss of appetite
• Abdominal cramps and pain
• Change in the colour of urine
• Jaundice like symptoms such as yellowing of skin and eyes
• Feeling itchy due to the build-up of toxins and waste in the body
• Abdominal swelling or bloating due to buildup of fluids

Treatment for liver failure is possible, provided you recognize the symptoms and seek proper medical help. Your child may require a series of tests and screening for determining the extent of damage to the liver and determining a proper treatment plan, which includes surgery and medication. If you want to know more about liver failure in children or consult a specialist in the field, book an appointment with Jupiter experts today.