What Are Acute Liver Infections?

Acute liver infections refer to short-term infections that cause inflammation or damage to the liver. These infections are often caused by viruses, bacteria, or other pathogens and can lead to symptoms ranging from mild discomfort to severe complications. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential to prevent long-term liver damage.

At Central Gastro, we specialize in the diagnosis, treatment, and management of acute liver infections, providing expert care to restore liver health.

Causes of Acute Liver Infections

Acute liver infections can result from a variety of pathogens:

1. Viral Hepatitis

• Hepatitis A (HAV): Transmitted through contaminated food or water.
• Hepatitis B (HBV): Spread through blood, bodily fluids, or vertical transmission during childbirth.
• Hepatitis E (HEV): Typically caused by contaminated water, common in developing regions.

2. Bacterial Infections

• Leptospirosis: A bacterial infection that can damage the liver and kidneys.
• Sepsis-Associated Liver Injury: Bacterial infections causing systemic inflammation and liver dysfunction.

3. Parasitic Infections

• Amoebic Liver Abscess: Caused by the parasite Entamoeba histolytica.
• Malaria: Can affect liver function due to parasitic invasion.

4. Toxic Causes

• Infections can exacerbate the effects of alcohol or drug toxicity on the liver.
• Food toxin induced hepatitis

Symptoms of Acute Liver Infections

Symptoms of acute liver infections may vary depending on the underlying cause but commonly include:

• Fatigue and weakness.
• Fever and chills.
• Nausea, vomiting, and loss of appetite.
• Abdominal pain or discomfort, particularly in the upper right quadrant.
• Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes).
• Dark-colored urine and pale stools.
• Itchy skin.

If you experience these symptoms, seek medical attention promptly for accurate diagnosis and timely treatment.

Complications of Acute Liver Infections

Untreated or severe liver infections can lead to:

• Acute Liver Failure: Sudden loss of liver function.
• Chronic Liver Disease: Persistent inflammation leading to fibrosis or cirrhosis.
• Coagulopathy: Impaired blood clotting due to liver dysfunction.
• Hepatic Encephalopathy: Confusion and altered mental status caused by liver-related toxins.

Diagnosis of Acute Liver Infections

At Central Gastro, we use advanced diagnostic tools to identify and assess acute liver infections:

1. Blood Tests:

• Liver Function Tests (LFTs)
• Viral Markers: Detect specific hepatitis viruses (HAV, HBV, HEV).
• Bacterial and Parasitic Tests: Identifies pathogens like Leptospira or Entamoeba histolytica.
• Blood Markers: Evaluates infection and inflammatory markers.

2. Imaging Studies:

• Ultrasound
• CT or MRI Scans

3. Serological and Molecular Tests:

• PCR Testing: For accurate detection of viral DNA/RNA in blood.
• Antibody Testing: Confirms recent or past infections.

Treatment Options for Acute Liver Infections

Our team at Central Gastro offers personalized treatment plans based on the underlying cause of the infection:

Preventing Acute Liver Infections

• Vaccination: Protect against hepatitis A and B.
• Hygiene Practices: Wash hands thoroughly and avoid contaminated food or water.
• Safe Practices: Use protective measures to prevent blood-borne infections.
• Travel Precautions: Take appropriate measures when traveling to areas with endemic liver infections.