Fulminant hepatitis and glomerulonephritis--a rare presentation of hepatitis A virus infection.

AIM: We report a case of fulminant hepatitis and glomerulonephritis by Hepatitis A virus infection.

METHODS

We observed the patient's clinical course and analyzed his data retrospectively.

RESULTS

The three-year-old boy presented with features of acute renal failure and stage 2 hepatic encephalopathy. Renal biopsy showed diffuse mesangioproliferative glomerulonephritis with immunoglobulin M and complement 3 deposition. After receiving supportive treatment for over 6 weeks, the hepatic and renal function became normal. Renal biopsy after 3 months was normal.

CONCLUSION

Acute renal failure is a rare complication of Hepatitis A virus infection. Physicians should be aware of the potential renal involvement of Hepatitis A virus infection as the prognosis is not always favourable.