Untitled Flashcards Set

Hepatic Encephalopathy

A complex neuropsychiatric syndrome seen in severe liver disease, potentially reversible, involving decreased level of consciousness.

Cirrhosis

A final common pathway of chronic liver inflammation, leading to fibrosis and nodular regeneration, with common causes including alcohol abuse and hepatitis C.

Jaundice

A common symptom of liver disease characterized by yellow discoloration of the skin, sclera, and mucous membranes due to increased bilirubin.

Ascites

Abnormal accumulation of fluid within the peritoneal cavity, most often caused by decompensated liver cirrhosis.

Cholelithiasis

Also known as gallstone disease, it involves the formation of gallstones in the gallbladder.

Portal Hypertension

Increased pressure within the hepatic portal venous system, often caused by cirrhosis.

Acute Pancreatitis

Serious inflammation of the pancreas, commonly caused by gallstones, characterized by pain, nausea, and vomiting.

Chronic Pancreatitis

Long-term inflammation of the pancreas, often due to chronic alcohol consumption, resulting in abdominal pain and weight loss.

Hepatorenal Syndrome

A severe complication of advanced cirrhosis resulting in renal failure, characterized by two types based on onset and progression.

Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis

A progressive bile duct destruction condition that can lead to cirrhosis and portal hypertension, often asymptomatic.

Charcot’s Triad

A combination of fever, jaundice, and right upper quadrant pain indicative of acute cholangitis.

Grades of Hepatic Encephalopathy

A classification system describing the severity of hepatic encephalopathy, from grade 0 (asymptomatic) to grade 4 (comatose).

Fulminant Hepatitis

Rapidly progressing liver inflammation without prior liver disease, developing in 1 to 2 weeks, often caused by acetaminophen toxicity.