Clinical Aspects and Etiologic Investigation of Pediatric Patients With Acute Liver Failure

Transplant Proc. 2023 Nov;55(9):2121-2125. doi: 10.1016/j.transproceed.2023.08.004. Epub 2023 Sep 26.

Abstract

A new outbreak of hepatitis of unknown origin raised awareness in the international community. A few reports have attempted to associate new cases with adenovirus infection and the immunologic effects of previous SARS-CoV-2 infections through a superantigen mechanism. Moreover, according to a case series, viral isolates were identified in 7 of 10 cases of pediatric patients with hepatitis of unknown origin and acute liver failure. Adenovirus was detected by respiratory secretion polymerase chain reaction in 2 patients, with neither presenting with SARS-CoV-2 acute infection. Clinical and laboratory descriptions and cross-referencing epidemiologic and pathophysiological data can help identify possible disease etiologies.

MeSH terms

  • COVID-19* / complications
  • Child
  • Hepatitis*
  • Humans
  • Liver Failure, Acute* / diagnosis
  • Liver Failure, Acute* / etiology
  • Polymerase Chain Reaction
  • SARS-CoV-2