Liver failure Flashcards
1
Q
What 3 types of liver failure are there?
A
Acute
Chronic
Fulminant
2
Q
What is fulminant liver failure?
A
A clinical syndrome resulting from massive necrosis of liver cells leading to impairment of function
Development of encephalopathy within 8 weeks
3
Q
List some causes of liver failure?
A
Infections
Drugs
Toxins
Vascular disorders
Alcohol
Metabolic liver disorders
Malignancy
4
Q
Clinical features of liver failure?
A
Jaundice
Hepatic encephalopathy
Fetor hepaticus: smell of pear drops
Signs of chronic liver disease:
- varices
- palmar erythema
- nails go white
5
Q
What should you be on the lookout for in patients with liver failure?
A
Sepsis
Hypoglycaemia
GI bleeds
Encephalopathy
