Pediatric Hepatology
Clinical management of decompensated cirrhosis in children
Emanuele Nicastro, Matteo Calvi, Lorenzo D’Antiga
1Epatologia, Gastroenterologia e Trapianti Pediatrici, Ospedale Papa Giovanni XXIII, Bergamo
Decompensated cirrhosis is a common picture in end stage liver disease in children. Correct management of this condition improves morbidity and quality of life while awaiting liver transplantation. Control of ascites requires careful fluid administration and sodium restriction, natriuretic effect of spironolactone, albumin supplementation. Efforts should be made to prevent or promptly treat complications such as gastrointestinal bleeding, spontaneous bacterial peritonitis, hepatorenal syndrome and encephalopathy.