Pathology of the Liver and Gallbladder

This set of flashcards covers key concepts and clinical features related to liver and gallbladder pathology, focusing on anatomy, disease mechanisms, testing, and pathophysiological processes.

What are the main blood supplies to the liver?

60-70% from the portal vein and 30-40% from the hepatic artery.

What structures are found within liver lobules?

Hexagonal lobules, which can be divided into triangular acini with hepatocyte plates and sinusoids.

What is the primary function of Kupffer cells?

Kupffer cells are hepatic macrophages that help in the removal of microbes and toxins.

What tests are used to evaluate hepatocyte integrity?

Tests include serum aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH).

What is steatosis in liver pathology?

Steatosis refers to the accumulation of fat within liver cells.

What is the difference between acute and chronic liver failure?

Acute liver failure occurs within 26 weeks of initial injury, while chronic liver failure is a long-term condition resulting from ongoing liver damage.

What are common clinical features of hepatitis?

Common features include jaundice, fatigue, nausea, and abdominal pain.

What type of bilirubin is water-soluble?

Conjugated bilirubin is water-soluble and can be excreted in urine.

What complications can arise due to portal hypertension?

Complications include hepatic encephalopathy, ascites, and varices.

What is cholestasis?

Cholestasis is the systemic retention of bile acids and bilirubin due to impaired bile flow.

What are the risks factors for developing cholelithiasis?

Risk factors include age, gender (female), obesity, and pregnancy.

What are the histological features of alcoholic hepatitis?

Features include hepatocyte swelling, Mallory bodies, and neutrophilic infiltrate.

How does primary biliary cirrhosis primarily manifest?

It manifests with destruction of intrahepatic bile ducts and autoantibodies against mitochondrial antigens.

What is the significance of the alpha-fetoprotein marker?

Elevated levels of alpha-fetoprotein can indicate hepatocellular carcinoma.

How does the liver typically respond to injury or fibrosis?

The liver responds through a regenerative process, often leading to cirrhotic changes.

What is the main pathology of cholangiocarcinoma?

Cholangiocarcinoma is a malignant tumor arising from bile duct epithelium.

What is the role of activated stellate cells in liver fibrosis?

Activated stellate cells deposits extracellular matrix (ECM) and contribute to fibrosis in the liver.

What is the term for the accumulation of iron in the liver?

Hemosiderosis refers to iron accumulation, which can lead to damage.

What is the prognosis for patients with alcoholic liver disease who stop drinking alcohol?

Prognosis improves significantly with cessation of alcohol use.