Clinical Topic 8: Chronic Liver Disease Flashcards
Give the name of a parasitic organism which can cause a rise in portal hypertension. Is commonly found in Asia, South America, Africa, or the Caribbean
Schistosomiasis
What is the most common cause of Liver Cirrhosis?
Alcohol
What is the most common electrolyte abnormality associated with Liver Cirrhosis?
Hyponatraemia
Why is bruising a common feature in Liver Cirrhosis?
Due to thrombocytopenia, which is caused by splenomegaly
Liver cirrhosis causes a raise in Oestrogen levels. What effect does this have?
Gynaecomastia (also due to spironolactone use)
Spider naevi
What is the best investigation to confirm Cirrhosis of the Liver?
Transient Elastrography (Fibroscan)
A value of what SAAG is diagnostic for portal hypertension?
> 11g/L
What is the reason for encephalopathy? What is used to treat Hepatic encephalopathy? What is second-line?
Encephalopathy is caused by a build up of ammonium, and is treated by Lactulose. If Lactulose is not tolerated, then give Phosphate Enema
What is the best medication used to treat Ascities?
Spironolactone (often given with Furosemide)
What antibiotics are used to treat spontaneous bacterial peritonitis?
Cephalosporins i.e. Cefotaxime, Cetriaxone
What beta-blockers are used to reduce portal pressure in patients with Liver Cirrhosis?
Carvediolol
Propanolol
Why is albumin administered to patients who are undergoing therapeutic paracentesis for ascites?
To cover the risk of circulatory dysfunction and thus avoid an AKI
NAFLD is a spectrum of conditions; what are they?
Steatosis -> Steatohepatitis -> Fibrosis -> Cirrhosis
What are risk factors for NAFLD?
Hypertension, diabetes, hypercholesterolaemia, hypertriglyceridaemia, obesity
How does the liver appear in Cirrhosis?
Shrunken, non-palpable liver with regenerative nodules
