Transplant Proc 1991 Jun;23(3):1892-4

Acute fulminant hepatic failure

Wiesner RH
Liver Transplantation Unit, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905.

Abstract
Fulminant hepatic failure is the rapid onset of life-threatening hepatic
decompensation in patients who have no previous history of liver disease. This
condition has a multifactorial etiology, including viral hepatitis and drug
toxicity. At this time there is no specific therapy for FHF. However, early
diagnosis and treatment of the complications--in particular, cerebral edema--may
prolong survival and prevent irreversible neurologic complications. Once the
diagnosis has been made, patients with FHF should promptly be transferred to a
specialized liver care unit where liver transplantation is available. Liver
transplantation is now the treatment of choice for patients with clinical
characteristics suggesting a poor chance of survival