Cirrhosis of the Liver

These flashcards cover the definitions, manifestations, and pathophysiology of cirrhosis of the liver.

Alcoholic (Laennec’s) cirrhosis

Cirrhosis caused by chronic alcohol use leading to hepatocyte injury, inflammation, and fibrosis.

Postnecrotic cirrhosis

A complication of toxic or viral hepatitis, accounting for 20% of cirrhosis cases.

Biliary cirrhosis

Cirrhosis associated with chronic biliary obstruction and infection, making up 15% of cirrhosis cases.

Cardiac cirrhosis

Cirrhosis resulting from longstanding severe right-sided heart failure, leading to venous congestion.

Hepatic encephalopathy

A decline in brain function due to severe liver disease, which can cause delirium, seizures, and asterixis.

Ictericia

A condition characterized by yellowish sclera due to insufficient bilirubin conjugation.

Jaundice

The yellowing of skin resulting from elevated bilirubin levels in the blood.

Spider angiomas

Small dilated blood vessels with spider-like branches, a sign of liver disease.

Palmar erythema

Redness of the palms associated with liver dysfunction.

Portal hypertension

Increased blood pressure in the portal venous system due to resistance to blood flow through the liver.

Peripheral neuropathy

Nerve damage causing weakness or pain, commonly seen in liver disease due to vitamin deficiencies.

Hypoalbuminemia

Low levels of albumin in the blood due to impaired liver function.

Fetor hepaticus

A musty, sweetish odor on the patient’s breath from liver dysfunction.

Ascites

The accumulation of fluid in the abdominal cavity often due to cirrhosis.

Sodium deficiency

A condition characterized by low sodium levels in the blood, often resulting from dilution.

Prothrombin time

A measure of blood clotting capability, which may be prolonged in liver disease.