Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Advancements in Hepatology

Although the future of hepatology promises to eradicate Hepatitis C  virus infection, a new challenge has taken its place. Obesity and metabolic syndrome and associated non-alcoholic fatty liver diseases are replacing hepatitis C virus as the most common cause of chronic liver diseases in Western countries.

Great progress in molecular biology, therapeutics, imaging and surgery has vastly improved the understanding and treatment of childhood liver disorders. In particular surgical advancements in liver transplantation currently allow for a lower age or weight limit for recipients. Furthermore the majority of children with liver diseases or with liver transplantation today survive well into adulthood.