Lesson 1B (Part 3)

Question 1

Hepatic failure

Answer 1

Is the inability of the liver to perform its normal synthetic and metabolic function as part of normal physiology

Question 2

What are the 2 forms of recognized hepatic failure?

Answer 2

1. Acute

2. Chronic

Question 3

Acute liver failure

Answer 3

The rapid development of hepatocellular dysfunction, specifically coagulopathy and mental status changes in a patient without known prior liver disease

Question 4

What are the potential causes of chronic liver failure? (8)

Answer 4

1. Excessive alcohol intake
2. Hepatitis B or C
   3, Autoimmune, hereditary and metabolic causes
   - eg. iron or copper overload
3. Steatohepatitis or non-alcoholic fatty liver disease
4. Worsening jaundice
5. Coagulopathy
6. Hepatic encephalopathy
7. Drug toxicity

Question 5

When do ascites typically occur?

Answer 5

Secondary to liver cell failure

Question 6

What is coagulopathy also known as?

Answer 6

Clotting and bleeding disorder

Question 7

Coagulopathy

Answer 7

The bloods ability to clot is impaired

Question 8

Hepatic encephalopathy

Answer 8

Is a decline in brain function that occurs as a result of severe liver failure
- patient exhibits confusion, altered levels of consciousness and coma

Question 9

What is hepatic encephalopathy also called?

Answer 9

Hepatic coma

Question 10

What percentage are drugs accountable for hepatic failure?

Answer 10

20-40%

Question 11

Why are alcoholic persons susceptible to drug toxicity?

Answer 11

Because alcohol induces liver injury and cirrhotic changes that alters drug metabolism

Question 12

What are the 2 outcomes for liver failure?

Answer 12

1. Liver transplantation

2. Death