What are the diagnostic criteria for acute liver failure in adults?

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Multiple Choice

What are the diagnostic criteria for acute liver failure in adults?

Acute liver failure in adults is defined by the rapid loss of liver function with both coagulopathy and hepatic encephalopathy that develop within a short time frame in a person without prior chronic liver disease. The coagulopathy is evidenced by an INR of 1.5 or higher, reflecting impaired synthesis of clotting factors by the damaged liver. The presence of hepatic encephalopathy shows that toxins normally cleared by the liver are affecting brain function. The key point is that both abnormalities must occur within about 26 weeks of onset. Jaundice or elevated bilirubin alone does not define acute liver failure, and encephalopathy or coagulopathy alone are not sufficient. If there is preexisting chronic liver disease, the scenario is described as acute-on-chronic liver failure, which is a different clinical entity.

Acute liver failure in adults is defined by the rapid loss of liver function with both coagulopathy and hepatic encephalopathy that develop within a short time frame in a person without prior chronic liver disease. The coagulopathy is evidenced by an INR of 1.5 or higher, reflecting impaired synthesis of clotting factors by the damaged liver. The presence of hepatic encephalopathy shows that toxins normally cleared by the liver are affecting brain function. The key point is that both abnormalities must occur within about 26 weeks of onset. Jaundice or elevated bilirubin alone does not define acute liver failure, and encephalopathy or coagulopathy alone are not sufficient. If there is preexisting chronic liver disease, the scenario is described as acute-on-chronic liver failure, which is a different clinical entity.

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