Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome and Diffuse Alveolar Hemorrhage Secondary to Fulminant Hepatitis A in a Child: A Rare Case Report

Hepatitis A virus (HAV) is a highly infectious cause of liver inflammation worldwide, particularly in regions with poor hygiene. Transmission occurs primarily through physical contact and the fecal–oral route. Although HAV infection is usually self‐limiting, it can rarely progress to fulminant hepatitis or acute liver failure (ALF), which carries a high mortality rate. The incidence of ALF in HAV infection can reach up to 1% and is associated with increased risk in older individuals and those with chronic liver disease. We report the case of a 14‐year‐old boy who developed HAV infection complicated by ALF, followed by acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), and diffuse alveolar hemorrhage (DAH). Despite intensive supportive interventions, the patient showed only transient improvement in oxygenation before clinical deterioration and death. Although commonly benign in children, HAV infection can result in severe hepatic and extrahepatic complications, including ALF, ARDS, and DAH. This case highlights the potential for sequential multiorgan involvement following HAV infection and underscores the importance of early recognition for symptoms and remaining vigilant for atypical hepatic and extrahepatic complications to facilitate timely diagnosis, appropriate intervention, and improved outcomes.