Liver diseases unique to pregnancy.
Liver injury and dysfunction in a pregnant woman may be caused by intrinsic features of the pregnancy itself, disorders that are coincidental with pregnancy or pre-existing liver disease that is exacerbated by pregnancy. The clinical setting, gestational age and standard liver biochemistry testing are useful tools in helping to establish a diagnosis. Prompt recognition of the signs of liver disease in pregnant patients leads to timely management and may save the life of both mother and baby. This review summarises the incidence, risk factors, pathogenesis, clinical presentation, diagnosis, treatment and outcome of those liver diseases unique to pregnancy.
Schutt
Vivian A
VA
Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina. vschutt@hsc.mb.ca
Minuk
Gerald Y
GY
D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D015994:Incidence; D008107:Liver Diseases / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000453:epidemiology* / Q000628:therapy; D008111:Liver Function Tests; D011247:Pregnancy; D011248:Pregnancy Complications / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000453:epidemiology* / Q000628:therapy; D011256:Pregnancy Outcome; D012307:Risk Factors