Liver cirrhosis Flashcards
Definition
Results from hepatocyte necrosis (necrosis of liver cells), followed by fibrosis and nodule formation
Scarring and impaired function of the liver follow, which leads to portal hypertension
Aetiology
Alcohol most common in the western world.
Hepatitis B and C are the most common causes world-wide
Common causes:
– alcohol
– hepatits B and C
– hepatitis D
Other causes:
– haemochromatosis
– primary billiary cholangitis
– Wilson’s disease
– Drugs (methotrexate)
Every time your liver is injured, whatever it may be from, it rises to repair itself. And in the process, scar tissue will form.
As the cirrhosis gets worse, so does the scar tissue.
Risk factors
Drinking too much alcohol
Being overweight
Having viral hepatitis
Clinical presentation
Usually no symptoms until the liver damage is severe
Portal hypertension
Impaired liver function
Ascites can be caused
Fatigue
Easily bleeding or bruising
Nausea
Swelling in the legs, feet or ankles
Weight loss
Itchy skin
Jaundice
Clubbing in fingers
Women- absence of or loss of periods not related to menopause
