Hepatic veno-occlusive disease with immunodeficiency

Hepatic veno-occlusive disease with immunodeficiency (VODI) is a disorder of the liver and immune system. Its signs and symptoms typically appear before six months of age.

Hepatic veno-occlusive disease is a condition that blocks (occludes) small veins in the liver, disrupting blood flow in this organ. This condition can lead to enlargement of the liver (hepatomegaly), a buildup of scar tissue (hepatic fibrosis), and liver failure.

Children with VODI have immune systems that do not function normally. They are vulnerable to recurrent infections that are caused by certain bacteria, viruses, and fungi. Affected individuals experience frequent colds or bouts of pneumonia. The infections are likely related to lower-than-normal levels of immune system cells, including special proteins called antibodies or immunoglobulins, particularly immunoglobulin M (IgM), immunoglobulin G (IgG), and immunoglobulin A (IgA). Antibodies attach to specific foreign particles, marking them for destruction. These infections are usually serious and may be life-threatening. In most people with VODI, infections occur before hepatic veno-occlusive disease becomes evident.

Some children with VODI have neurological problems due to blocked blood flow in the brain.

If untreated, children with VODI do not survive past infancy. With treatment, many people with VODI can live into childhood and sometimes into their teens.