Liver diseases in pregnancy: Clinical spectrum and outcomes – A review

Liver diseases during pregnancy pose significant risks to both maternal and fetal health, with a prevalence of up to 3% of all pregnant women. These conditions can lead to high morbidity and mortality rates if not promptly diagnosed and managed. This review aims to discuss the clinical spectrum and outcome of pregnancy with liver diseases, including pregnancy-related liver diseases such as hyperemesis gravidarum (HG), intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy, acute fatty liver of pregnancy, and HELLP syndrome, as well as nonpregnancy-related liver diseases such as viral hepatitis and preexisting liver conditions such as cirrhosis and autoimmune hepatitis. The present review reported that the clinical spectrum of liver diseases in pregnancy varies widely, from mild conditions such as HG to life-threatening conditions such as acute fatty liver of pregnancy and HELLP syndrome. Pregnancy-related liver diseases are often characterized by specific symptoms and laboratory findings, and prompt diagnosis and management are crucial to prevent adverse outcomes. Liver diseases in pregnancy require careful attention to ensure the well-being of both the mother and the developing fetus. Prompt diagnosis and management of these conditions are crucial to prevent adverse outcomes. A multidisciplinary approach, including obstetric, hepatologic, and surgical expertise, is essential to ensure optimal outcomes for both mother and child.