Severe Acute Hepatitis of Unknown Cause in Children: A 2-Year Single-Center Experience.

OBJECTIVE

The study aimed to retrospectively evaluate the demographic characteristics, presenting complaints, and etiologies of pediatric patients hospitalized with a diagnosis of severe acute hepatitis in the last 2 years in our institution.

METHODS

Between July 1, 2022, and July 1, 2024, 9 patients with a diagnosis of probable severe acute hepatitis who were considered candidates for liver transplantation were included. Informed consent was obtained from the families.

RESULTS

The mean Glasgow Coma Scale score at presentation was 11 (range: 4-15). Severe acute hepatitis is an urgent condition with rapid progression, potential for multiorgan failure, unpredictable course, and possible severe complications, often requiring liver transplantation. Patients are managed with a multidisciplinary approach including pediatric intensive care, pediatric gastroenterology, and the organ transplant unit.