What is the leading cause of acute liver failure in adults?

The leading cause of acute liver failure in adults is acetaminophen toxicity. Acetaminophen (also known as paracetamol) can lead to severe liver damage when taken in doses that exceed the recommended therapeutic range. The liver metabolizes acetaminophen through different pathways; at normal doses, it is safely processed. However, in cases of overdose or chronic use exceeding recommended limits, the liver can become overwhelmed, leading to the formation of toxic metabolites that cause hepatic necrosis.

Acetaminophen toxicity is particularly concerning because it can occur relatively easily, especially in individuals who may not realize they are exceeding the recommended dosage, such as those taking combination medications that also contain acetaminophen. This makes it a prevalent cause of acute liver failure and requires prompt medical attention to prevent severe liver injury or death.

Understanding the implications of acetaminophen toxicity is critical for clinicians, as prompt treatment options like N-acetylcysteine can significantly improve outcomes if administered early in the course of toxicity. This bolsters the recognition of acetaminophen overdose as a leading cause of acute liver failure compared to other potential causes.