What causes liver failure or dysfunction?
• Infections – Hepatitis A, hepatitis B, Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), cytomegalovirus (CMV), paramyxovirus, varicella-zoster virus, herpesvirus, parvovirus and adenovirus. Severe bacterial infections of many types can cause liver dysfunction, especially in newborn infants. • Metabolic diseases – These diseases often show symptoms or liver dysfunction shortly after birth. Examples include: galactosemia, tyrosinemia, fructosemia, and neonatal iron storage disease. Alpha-1-antitrypsin deficiency and Wilson disease may present in older children. • Medicines or toxins – The majority of medications available for children are processed, at least partially, by the liver. Medicines may cause mild, temporary damage, or in rare cases may lead to liver failure. One of the most recognized causes of medicine-related liver failure is acetaminophen (Tylenol) overdose. • Bile duct blockage – Congenital disorders of bile drainage include biliary atresia and Alagille syndrome. • Vascular problems – Heart di
