Liver disease in Jamaican children (serous hepatosis)

ABSTRACT

A new type of liver disease occurring in West Indian children is described, which has been termed "serous hepatosis". Clinically, the disease occurs in children aged one to three years old who have firm enlarged livers with ascites and who present a chubby appearance and are of good nutrition. Histologically, the disease is a progressive one, leading from an initial serous exudation to the disposition of an eosinophilic coagulum and finally to fibrosis. The only aetiological factor at this moment determined is a low dietary intake of protein. It is, however, suggested that toxic factors may also play a part (AU)