Two Liver Conditions That Affect Children

​Based in Detroit, Dr. Ramesh Sachdeva practices pediatric critical care medicine at the Children's Hospital of Michigan. Among the responsibilities of critical care practitioners such as Dr. Ramesh Sachdeva is diagnosing and stabilizing children who experience liver failure.

One cause of liver failure in children is an inherited alpha-1 antitrypsin (A1AT) deficiency. This involves inadequate release of the protein A1AT from the liver into the bloodstream. Since A1AT is tasked with blocking proteins associated with inflammation and tissue breakdown, a lack of A1AT may cause tissue inflammation and extensive tissue damage, with the lungs being particularly vulnerable.

Another liver issue children may experience centers on tumors and malformations. Care for these requires distinguishing between benign and malignant growths, both through imaging and an examination of medical records. In cases where a malignant tumor is identified, pediatric oncologists and surgeons may be called upon to pursue treatment regimens that include surgical removal, liver transplantation, radiation, and embolization.

Dr. Ramesh Sachdeva

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