STREPTOCOCCUS PNEUMONIAE SEPSIS LEADING TO ACUTE LIVER FAILURE AND HEPATIC ENCEPHALOPATHY IN A PEDIATRIC PATIENT: A RARE AND LIFE-THREATENING COMPLICATION

Streptococcus pneumoniae is a common cause of respiratory and invasive infections in children but is rarely associated with acute liver failure (ALF). This case report describes a pediatric patient who developed ALF and hepatic encephalopathy secondary to S. pneumoniae sepsis, presenting significant diagnostic and management challenges. This case underscores the importance of early recognition and aggressive management of S. pneumoniae sepsis complicated by ARDS, acute liver failure and hepatic encephalopathy in a pediatric patient. S. pneumoniae can cause severe multi-organ dysfunction and a multidisciplinary approach, including ventilation support, liver protective strategies and ammonia reduction therapies was crucial for recovery. This report highlights the need for heightened awareness of the potential for sepsis to precipitate liver failure in children,even in the absence of prior liver disease