Liver Case Studies Flashcards
What is treatment for Hep. C?
Inteferon, despite the fact that we as humans make it in our body (as a cytokine), more is added exogeneously.
Often is pegylated to pro long half life, and had sub optimal cure rates
What is the difference between liver fibrosis and cirrhosis?
Liver fibrosis is potentially reversible if allowed to regenerate following inflammation.
Cirrhosis is irreversible scarring
What is hepatic encephalopathy?
A result of chronic liver failure, as porto systemic shunts are made, meaning blood isn’t detoxified. Ammonia build up in blood affects brain.
Treated with lactulose
What are HE symptoms?
Early: mood and personality change; inverted sleep patterns
Late: confusion and bizarre behaviour; drowsiness and coma
How can ascites be a result of liver failure?
High hydrostatic pressure in portal vein and low oncotic pressure in portal vein due to low serum albumin
What is Budd-Chiari syndrome?
Acute thrombosis of hepatic veins, causing obstructed outflow of blood.
Liver becomes congested and damaged.
What does Budd-Chiari present with?
Jaundice, hepatomegaly, ascites
How is BC managed?
Diuretics, anticoagulation and shunts
