Etymed
hyperammonemia
Definition
A medical condition characterized by elevated levels of ammonia in the bloodstream, which can result from liver dysfunction or certain metabolic disorders
Clinical context
A 3-year-old child presents with lethargy, vomiting, and altered mental status. The child has a history of poor feeding and developmental delay. Laboratory studies reveal elevated blood ammonia levels and elevated liver enzymes. Further investigation uncovers a deficiency in the urea cycle enzymes.
Mnemonic
LIVER dysfunction leads to HIGH ammonia levels