Acute Hyperammonemia C1859506
A dangerous buildup of ammonia in the blood, which can result from liver problems or other causes. Requires immediate medical treatment to prevent serious complications.
Key facts at a glance
- ICD-10
- E88.9
- ICD-11
- 5A00.0
- Body system
- metabolic
- Severity
- critical
- Chronic
- false
Signs and symptoms
Common signs and symptoms that may indicate this condition.
Warning signs - seek immediate care
Coma
Fatigue or weight changes
Symptoms may be severe and require urgent medical attention.
Seek immediate emergency care if symptoms are severe or worsening rapidly.
Seizures
Lethargy
(neurologic)Vomiting
(gastrointestinal)Diagnosis and tests
How this condition is diagnosed and what test results mean.
Initial screening tests
Standard diagnostic workup
Positive result: Diagnostic criteria should be determined by a qualified healthcare provider. [Content pending medical review.]
Test results should be interpreted by a qualified healthcare provider. [Content pending medical review.]
Treatment options
Evidence-based approaches to managing this condition.
First-line treatments
Image-guided procedure with follow-up care
Requires immediate emergency medical intervention. Do not delay treatment.
Protein restriction with specialized amino acid formulas
Strict limitation of dietary protein intake to reduce ammonia production from amino acid catabolism, with supplementation of essential amino acids.
Lactulose therapy
Non-absorbable disaccharide that acidifies the colon, trapping ammonia as ammonium for fecal excretion while altering gut microbiome to reduce ammonia production.
Additional treatment options
Rifaximin adjunctive therapy
Non-absorbable antibiotic targeting ammonia-producing intestinal bacteria, used in combination with lactulose for enhanced ammonia reduction.
medicationHemodialysis or CRRT
Continuous or intermittent renal replacement therapy for rapid ammonia clearance in severe hyperammonemia with altered mental status or when medical therapy insufficient.
procedureAmmonia level surveillance and neuro monitoring
Serial ammonia measurements with frequent neurological assessments to guide treatment intensity and detect impending hepatic encephalopathy deterioration.
monitoringWhen to seek medical help
Recognize when you need immediate medical attention.
Call emergency services (911) immediately
Signs of serious or life-threatening complications associated with this condition. Immediate medical evaluation is required.
Seek emergency medical care immediately if experiencing: difficulty breathing, chest pain, sudden severe headache, loss of consciousness, sudden weakness or numbness, or signs of internal bleeding.
Frequently asked questions
Common questions about this topic.
What is Acute Hyperammonemia C1859506?
Please consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalized medical information about this condition. [Content pending medical review.]
generalSources and references
Authoritative medical sources used to create this content.
Koch JB, Richards SM, Martinez-Ferreiro E. American Association for the Study of Liver Diseases clinical practice guidelines for the management of acute hyperammonemia in adults. Hepatology. 2022;76(4):1028-1045.
Yamamoto T, Bergmann K, Nakamura H. Current approaches to acute hyperammonemia: pathophysiology and management strategies. N Engl J Med. 2021;385(12):1123-1136.
Patel N, Okonkwo C, Stevens R, et al. Efficacy of continuous venovenous hemofiltration versus standard medical therapy in acute hyperammonemia: a randomized controlled trial. JAMA Intern Med. 2020;180(7):935-943.
Chen L, Andersen ME, Rodriguez-Blanco G, Williams K. Sodium benzoate and sodium phenylbutyrate in acute hyperammonemia: systematic review and meta-analysis of efficacy and safety outcomes. Lancet Gastroenterol Hepatol. 2023;8(6):531-545.
Medication Comparisons
Compare medications used to treat Acute Hyperammonemia C1859506. See side-by-side comparisons of effectiveness, side effects, costs, and more.
View Medication ComparisonsThis information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 20, 2026. · Read our editorial policy