HEPATIC PATHOLOGY Flashcards
what are the functions of the liver?
stores glycogen protein synthesis catabolism of amino acids and production of urea detoxification of nitrogenous molecules from GIT drug and steroid metabolism conjugation and excretion of bilirubin production and excretion of bile salts immune processes
what is hepatitis?
inflamamtion of the liver
outline the pathophysiology of viral hepatitis?
virus enters the body and infects cells in the liver.
the infected cells present the virus on its surface via MHC1 where a CD8+ cell can then recognise it and initiaye cytotoxic killing and cell apoptosis
the liver can then not carry out its normal functions
what are symptoms of hepatitis?
fever malaise nausea pain jaundice - light stools and dark urine
what are signs of hepatitis?
ALT and AST levels increased elevated levels of atypical lymphocytes jaundice - dark urine, pale stools hepatomegaly increase urobilinogen levels in urine
what can cause hepatitis?
alcohol hepatitis viruses non-alcoholic fatty liver disease/ non alcohol steatohepatitis` drugs autoimmune hepatitis
how is hepatitis A contracted?
contaminated food (particularly seafood), contaminated water
what route does hep A spread?
faecal oral
What is the outcome of hep A usually?
most people get better within 2 months and recover with no long term effects
how is hep B contracted?
through the blood and some sexal transmissions
e.g. needle use is a risk factor
what is the outcome of hep b?
it can turn into chronic hepatitis (particularly in younger peopl) but most people recover well from acute
how is hep c contracted?
blood e.g. needle use, vertical transmission
where is hep b mostly found?
South africa, china, korea, vietnam
whats the most common type of viral hepatitis in the UK?
hep c
who can hepatitis D occur in?
people with hepatitis B
