Acute liver failure (ALF), or fulminant hepatic failure, is a distinct clinical syndrome that crosses medical disciplines. A relatively rare condition, ALF remains a major focus of clinical and research attention. With the advent of transplantation, the importance of understanding management of ALF has taken on a new urgency. In this first volume dedicated to ALF, the editors bring together a distinguished team of contributors to describe the etiology, pathology and treatment of this important syndrome. Also covered are consensus techniques in liver transplantation for ALF patients, as well as descriptions of artificial and bioartificial liver assist devices. A section on future treatments includes hepatocyte transplantation, auxiliary grafts and other temporary liver support. Notable for the high level of the authors' expertise, this comprehensive volume should prove invaluable.