A Rare Case of Acute Liver Failure in an Infant: Unmasking the Hidden Threat of HHV-6 — A Case Report and Review of the Literature
نویسندگان
1 دانشگاه علوم پزشکی اصفهان
2 دانشگاه علوم پزشکی تهران
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doi
10.5812/apid-156636چکیده
Introduction: Pediatric acute liver failure (PALF) is a rare condition characterized by abrupt hepatocellular injury resulting in severe hepatic impairment. Recently, there have been increasing reports of children with liver failure of unknown etiology and HHV-6 detected in their blood or tissue samples, raising the idea that HHV-6 could be the primary cause of acute liver failure (ALF) and hepatitis. This case highlights the importance of considering viral etiologies, including HHV-6, in pediatric patients with ALF. Conclusions: In conclusion, given the undetermined etiology of over 40% of cases of PALF and the high mortality rates among them, it is imperative to conduct viral screening protocols in cases of liver failure of unknown etiology. We strongly advise pediatricians to implement viral screening protocols with particular consideration for HHV-6 when facing liver failure of unknown etiology. Moreover, we highly encourage further research to clarify associations between HHV-6 and hepatic complications, mechanisms by which HHV-6 can lead to liver failure, and establish treatment indications and protocols.