Pregnancies complicated by liver disease and liver dysfunction.

Although liver dysfunction is infrequently seen in pregnancy, it can result in severe maternal and fetal compromise. An unrecognized case of acute fatty liver may result in both maternal and fetal death. Failure to screen for hepatitis B can result in a newborn who will be a hepatitis carrier for life. Because of such consequences, the obstetrician must remain vigilant for signs of liver dysfunction and must understand the pathophysiology of these disorders.