Acute fatty liver of pregnancy is a life-threatening condition occurring in the last trimester. Differentiation from HELLP syndrome (hemolysis, elevated liver function, low platelet count) and severe preeclampsia may require a liver biopsy.
Acute fatty liver is associated with hepatic dysfunction, including synthetic function.
Ammonia and transaminase levels are higher, hypoglycemia is more frequent, and disseminated intravascular coagulation is common. The treatment of choice is delivery of the fetus and supportive care. Ursodeoxycholic acid is appropriate treatment for intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy.