Patient with a hepatic disorder

What is acute hepatic failure?

Sudden, severe onset of acute liver failure that occurs within 8 weeks after the first symptoms of jaundice.

What is ascites?

An albumin-rich fluid accumulation in the peritoneal cavity.

What does asterixis refer to?

Involuntary flapping movements of the hands.

What is cirrhosis?

A chronic liver disease characterized by fibrotic changes, formation of dense connective tissue, degenerative changes, and loss of functioning cells.

What is constructional apraxia?

Inability to draw figures in two or three dimensions.

What is endoscopic variceal ligation (EVL)?

A procedure that uses a modified endoscope with an elastic rubber band to ligate varices and stop bleeding.

What is fetor hepaticus?

A sweet, slightly fecal odor to the breath, presumed to be of intestinal origin.

What is hepatic encephalopathy?

Central nervous system dysfunction associated with elevated ammonia levels, resulting in changes in mental status and consciousness.

What is jaundice?

A condition where body tissues become yellow or greenish-yellow due to high bilirubin levels.

What is orthotopic liver transplantation (OLT)?

Grafting a donor liver into the normal anatomic location, removing the diseased native liver.

What is portal hypertension?

Elevated pressure in the portal circulation from obstruction of venous flow into and through the liver.

What is sclerotherapy?

Injection of substances to constrict, thicken, and harden esophagogastric varices to stop bleeding.