Liver Failure Study Guide

These flashcards cover key vocabulary related to liver failure, including causes, symptoms, medications, and complications.

Viral Hepatitis

Liver inflammation caused by viral infections, including Hepatitis A, B, C, D, and E.

Toxic Hepatitis

Liver inflammation due to exposure to drugs, alcohol, or industrial toxins.

Acute Liver Failure

Most commonly caused by Hepatitis A, B, and E.

Chronic Liver Failure

Leading to cirrhosis, primarily associated with Hepatitis B and C.

N-acetylcysteine (NAC)

The antidote for acetaminophen toxicity, a common cause of toxic hepatitis.

Hepatitis A transmission

Transmitted via the fecal-oral route, often through contaminated food or water.

Hepatitis B transmission

Spread through blood and bodily fluids, including unprotected sexual contact and sharing needles.

Hepatitis C transmission

Primarily bloodborne transmission, with a high likelihood of becoming a chronic condition.

HAV Vaccine

Vaccine given to prevent Hepatitis A infection.

Lactulose

Medication used to reduce ammonia levels in hepatic encephalopathy.

Asterixis

A flapping tremor observed in patients with hepatic encephalopathy.

Esophageal Varices

Enlarged veins in the esophagus that can rupture and cause bleeding.

Ascites

Fluid accumulation in the abdominal cavity, common in liver failure.

Jaundice

Yellowing of the skin due to increased bilirubin levels.

Hypoalbuminemia

Decreased albumin levels in the blood, often seen in liver failure.

Paracentesis

A procedure to remove fluid from the abdominal cavity, relieving pressure and discomfort.

Albumin

The most abundant plasma protein produced by the liver, essential for maintaining oncotic pressure.

Beta Blockers

Medications used to reduce portal hypertension and prevent variceal bleeding.

Rifaximin

An antibiotic used to decrease bacterial flora in patients with hepatic encephalopathy.

Vitamin K

A vitamin whose synthesis is disrupted in liver disease leading to coagulation disorders.

Spironolactone

A diuretic used in managing ascites and fluid retention in liver failure patients.

Hepatitis D transmission

Spread through blood and bodily fluids; it requires co-infection with Hepatitis B to replicate and cause disease.