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

Transplant Proc. 2025 Nov;57(9):1802-1803. doi: 10.1016/j.transproceed.2025.09.009. Epub 2025 Oct 16.

Abstract

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.

MeSH terms

  • Acute Disease
  • Adolescent
  • Child
  • Child, Preschool
  • Female
  • Hepatitis* / diagnosis
  • Hepatitis* / etiology
  • Hepatitis* / surgery
  • Humans
  • Infant
  • Liver Transplantation
  • Male
  • Retrospective Studies
  • Severity of Illness Index