liver failure Flashcards
what happens when albumin is low?
oncotic pressure is low –> fluid leaks out –> ascites
risk factors for liver failure
alcohol NASH (non-alcoholic steato-hepatitis) viruses autoimmune disorders metabolic disorders alpha-antitrypsin deficiency beta blockers
what is Budd-Chiari syndrome?
thrombosis of hepatic vein –> acute liver failure
signs of chronic liver failure
ascites oedema haematemesis malaise anorexia wasting bruising itching hepatomegaly abnormal LFT white nails spider naevi jaundice
signs of acute liver failure
jaundice asterixis (flapping tremor) malaise nausea anorexia
complications of liver failure
hepatic encephalopathy malnourishment sepsis respiratory failure renal failure metabolic problems haemorrhage
how does hepatic encephalopathy occur?
ammonia build up –> passes through BBB –> cerebral oedema –> impaired consciousness
diagnosis of liver failure
serum bilirubin
albumin
prothrombin time
serum liver enzymes
what test result indicates liver disease?
high AST/ALT
treatment of paracetamol induced liver failure
N acetyl cysteine ASAP
may need emergency transplant
how do you know if someone has eaten a lot of carrots rather than having jaundice?
look at the whites of their eyes
what is Gilbert’s syndrome?
patient has high levels of bilirubin as liver is not very effective at coagulating it - there is no risk to health
