Fulminant Hepatic Failure (FHF)

Fulminant hepatic failure (FHF), also known as acute liver failure, is a condition in which necrosed (dead) liver cells are replaced by scar tissue instead of new liver cells. This leads to an impairment of the liver in performing its normal functions. Suddenly, the liver stops working and causes encephalopathy within 2-12 weeks.

With encephalopathy and a non-working liver, people suffering from fulminant hepatic failure eventually go into coma and die.

Causes Of Fulminant Hepatic Failure

The most extended cause of fulminant hepatic failure is viral hepatitis. Sometimes, FHF can also be caused by certain drugs. For instance, an acetaminophen overdose may result in FHF. External agents also include certain types of mushrooms, chemicals, some types of poisons and medical herbs.

Symptoms Of Fulminant Hepatic Failure

Fulminant hepatic failure has many symptoms, which include the presence of ascites (inflammation of the abdominal cavity due to excessive accumulation of fluids), loss of appetite, skin itch, fatigue, edema (swelling) of feet and legs, weakness, jaundice (yellow skin) and urine discoloration (cola or tea colored urine).

People suffering from FHF develop bruises very easily, and bleeding may be present even in minor injuries that don’t normally bleed. Symptoms derived from encephalopathy include irritability, confusion and inability to think clearly.

Diagnosis Of Fulminant Hepatic Failure

The early and adequate diagnosis and discovery of the cause of fulminant hepatic disease (FHF) is crucial in assessing the probabilities of recovery. Typically, diagnosis is based on blood tests, Doppler ultrasound, urine tests, EGD (esophagoduodenoscopy), biopsy of the liver, CT Scanning and, of course, visual observation of the patient’s overall health status.

Treatment Of Fulminant Hepatic Failure

Although the damage to the liver cannot be reversed, an adequate treatment can stop FHF from further development. Medications are prescribed to help the body perform those functions that the liver cannot perform anymore. Medicines that remove harmful toxins from the body and drugs that remove the excess of fluid from the patient’s abdomen, brain and extremities are all part of an effective treatment for fulminant hepatic failure.

A special diet may be helpful in supplying al nutrients the body needs while avoiding toxins. This can also help in controlling diarrhea. Paracentesis and dialysis are useful in remove fluid and toxins from the body. If liver damage is too advanced, liver transplantation may be the only way for treating FHF.

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