Severe liver disease in pregnancy.

Objective: To determine the clinical characteristics of patients with fulminant hepatitis of pregnancy (FHP) and acute fatty liver of pregnancy (AFLP) and analyze their correlation with pregnancy outcome.

Methods: Of 55 pregnant women with severe liver disease, 41 had FHP and 14 had AFLP.

Results: Jaundice was the primary manifestation for both FHP and AFLP and hepatic encephalopathy was the most significant complication for both. Disseminated intravascular coagulation, albuminuria, and prothrombin activity were found to be independent risk factors of maternal mortality for both. However, the rates of preterm labor, fetal demise, and neonatal asphyxia were lower in the FHP group.

Conclusion: Women with FHP or AFLP are at risk for severe complications and adverse pregnancy outcome. Since the 2 conditions are managed differently, early diagnosis is essential.