Station 4 1. diagnosis : The presentation of a 5-year-old child with prolonged fever, yellow discoloration (jaundice) for 7 months, abdominal distention for 6 months, and a positive fluid thrill suggests a chronic and serious underlying medical condition. Given the combination of symptoms, several possible diagnoses need to be considered : a. Chronic liver diseases can present with jaundice, abdominal distention, and ascites (fluid accumulation in the abdomen), leading to a positive fluid thrill. B. Portal Hypertension: Portal hypertension, often secondary to liver disease, can result in ascites and abdominal distention. It can also lead to splenomegaly and collateral circulation, contributing to a positive fluid thrill. 2. causes of this condition : Causes of chronic liver disease in children include viral hepatitis (especially hepatitis B and C), autoimmune hepatitis, metabolic liver diseases, biliary atresia , and others . 3. investigations: Blood Tests: Complete Blood Count (CBC): To assess for anemia, leukocytosis , or thrombocytopenia. Liver Function Tests (LFTs): Including serum bilirubin (total and direct), transaminases (AST, ALT), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), and albumin levels. Coagulation Profile: To evaluate for abnormalities in clotting factors, which may indicate liver dysfunction. Viral Hepatitis Serology: Testing for hepatitis A, B, and C viruses to determine if viral hepatitis is the cause of liver dysfunction. Autoimmune Markers: Testing for autoimmune hepatitis antibodies (ANA, ASMA, LKM) if autoimmune liver disease is suspected. Imaging Studies; Liver Biopsy; Ascitic Fluid Analysis