Hepatopulmonary syndrome, an unusual cause of hypoxemia.

Abstract

A six-year-old boy presented with cough, cyanosis and clubbing. Investigations revealed hypoxia (PaO2 53 mm Hg on room air) which was only partially correctable (PaO2 73 mm Hg) with 100% oxygen administered through a non re breathing face mask. Liver function tests showed elevated total bilirubin, and transaminases, liver biopsy confirmed chronic hepatitis and endoscopy showed grade three varices. A contrast enhanced echocardiography (bubble study) revealed pulmonary arterio-venous communication. A diagnosis of hepatopulmonary syndrome was made based on the triad of hypoxemia, liver disease and intra pulmonary vascular communications.

• Authors: S Sindhu, P Ramesh, R Juneja, S K Kabra
• Journal: Indian journal of pediatrics (Indian J Pediatr) Vol. 74 Issue 12 Pg. 1127-9 (Dec 2007) ISSN: 0973-7693 [Electronic] India
• PMID: 18174653 (Publication Type: Case Reports, Journal Article)

Topics

• Child
• Combined Modality Therapy
• Follow-Up Studies
• Hepatopulmonary Syndrome (complications, diagnosis, therapy)
• Humans
• Hypoxia (diagnosis, etiology, therapy)
• Male
• Risk Assessment
• Severity of Illness Index