Cirrhosis Flashcards
What is Cirrhosis?
Cirrhosis is end stage liver disease and a major cause of death. Cirrhosis is degenerativee and involves fibrosis of and changing functional cells with non-functioning. It results in a nodular liver.
What are the two primary problems of Cirrhosis?
Decreased Liver function and Portal Hypertension
What are the seven functions of the Liver?
- Cleanses blood 2. Regulated the supply of body fuel (glucose storage, producing/storing/exporting fat). 3. Manufactures essential proteins. 4. Regulates the balance of hormones (sex/thyroid/cortisone). 5. Regulates body cholesterol. 6. Regulates the supply of essential vitamins and minerals. 7. Produces bile and eliminates toxic substances from the body and aids digestion.
What are the causes of Cirrhosis?
Alcohol abuse (60-70%), Hepatitis, Drugs, Biliary Diseases, Metabolic Disorders, Crytogenic
What is an example of a drug which may cause Cirrhosis?
Metatrexate - a synthetic drug that interfers with cell growth and used to treat leukemia and other cancers.
What are biliary diseases?
Diseases of the gallbladder, ducts and pancreas.
What is an example of a metabolic disorder which may cause Cirrhosis?
Hemochromatosis - overload of Fe- (Iron).
What is cryptogenic?
Obscure or uncertain origin.
What is the pathophysiology of Cirrhosis?
Hepatocytes are destroyed. Due to the regenerative capabilities of the liver, the cells regenerate but fibrous scar tissue forms. Vessel constriction impedes perfusion leading to portal HTN, fluid shifts and ultimately ascities. Duct constriction causes impeded bile flow and bile statis. There is decreased metabolic waste clearance. Ultimately the result is liver failure and patient death.
What are the common manifestations of Cirrhosis?
Anorexia, Weakness, Weight Loss, hepatomegaly, jaundice.
What are two large manifestations which can occur during Cirrhosis?
Hepatomegaly (Enlarged Liver), Jaundice.
What are three complications of Cirrhosis?
Portal HTN and Ascities, Varices and GI bleeds, Splenomegaly
What is varices?
Varices is the dilation of an associated vein. The complication of a varix vein can lead to bleeds or vomitting of blood.
What is splenomegaly?
An enlarged spleen.
How is Cirrhosis treated?
Treatment is meant to maximize regeneration of hepatocytes through diet (small meals, high cal content, no fat), and no alcohol. Treatment of complications will also occur.