Cirrhosis Flashcards
development of fibrosis of liver with formation of regenerative nodules; results in impairment of synthetic, metabolic and hemodynamic functions of the liver
cirrhosis
Gold standard for diagnosis of cirrhosis
biopsy
T/F Early fibrotic changes are reversible, as progression occurs the changes become irreversible
true
Levels fall as cirrhosis worsens
albumin
Levels rise as cirrhosis worsens
bilirubin
Why does prothrombin time increase with cirrhosis?
ability of cirrhotic liver to synthesize clotting factors diminishes
What happens to sodium levels when there is ascites and high levels of ADH?
hyponatremia
usually the first hematologic abnormality of cirrhosis; secondary to portal hypertension and attendant congestive splenomegaly
thrombocytopenia
Increased blood pressure in the portal vein due to increased resistance to the blood passing through the vessels in the liver
portal hypertension
Treatment of portal hypertension
remove ascitic fluid, portal shunts, liver transplant
Spectrum of potentially reversible neuropsychiatric abnormalities
hepatic encephalopathy
neurotoxin that precipitates hepatic encephalopathy
ammonia
Treatment of hepatic encephalopathy
lactulose, enemas, correct hypokalemia