Acute Fatty Liver of Pregnancy: Prompt Recognition of a Life-Threatening Diagnosis

This podcast provides a comprehensive overview of acute fatty liver of pregnancy (AFLP), a rare but life-threatening condition typically occurring in the third trimester. The authors trace the historical understanding of the disease and explain how fetal fatty acid oxidation defects contribute to maternal liver failure. A significant portion of the text focuses on diagnostic strategies, specifically using the Swansea criteria and laboratory markers to distinguish AFLP from similar disorders like HELLP syndrome. The sources emphasize that prompt delivery and intensive supportive care are the primary treatments for managing multi-organ complications. Finally, the material outlines the expected recovery timeline for hepatic and renal functions while noting that modern interventions have successfully reduced maternal mortality rates.