Update on the management of acute-on-chronic liver failure

Abstract

Acute-on-chronic liver failure (ACLF) is an acute decompensation of liver disease that is associated with high short-term mortality. Early diagnosis and identification of potential precipitating factors are essential for its correct management. ACLF is a dynamic entity, so assessment of the prognosis during its course is essential to assess the need, or conversely, the futility of different support measures and liver transplantation. Although many aspects of its pathophysiology are unknown, the exacerbated systemic inflammatory response and dysregulation of the immune system are the basis of it.

Keywords: acute-on-chronic liver failure, chronic liver disease, acute descompensation, liver trasplant.