Q J Med 2002; 95: 343-357
© 2002 Association of Physicians
Review |
Severe hepatic dysfunction in pregnancy
From the Department of Intensive Care Medicine, St Thomas' Hospital, London, and 1 Institute of Liver Studies, King's College Hospital, London, UK
Acute liver disease in pregnancy may have fatal consequences. Pre-eclampsia, HELLP syndrome and acute fatty liver of pregnancy form a spectrum of disease that range from mild symptoms to severe life-threatening multi-organ dysfunction. Early recognition of signs and prognostic indicators may enable prompt referral to specialist centres providing the multidisciplinary support required to reduce maternal and perinatal morbidity and mortality. We review the common causes of acute hepatic failure associated with pregnancy, and current management practices.
Address correspondence to Dr T.M. Rahman, Department of Intensive Care Medicine, St Thomas' Hospital, Lambeth Palace Road, London SE1 7EH. e-mail: tonyrahman{at}hotmail.com