Concepts of Care and Management of Patients with Hepatobiliary System Problems

Flashcards summarizing key concepts and vocabulary related to the hepatobiliary system and patient management.

Hepatobiliary System

Refers to the liver, gallbladder, and bile ducts, responsible for digestion and elimination.

Cirrosis

A chronic disease resulting in liver damage and scarring, often caused by alcohol or viral infections.

Jaundice

A condition characterized by yellowing of the skin and eyes due to excess bilirubin in the bloodstream.

Cholecystitis

Inflammation of the gallbladder, often due to obstruction from gallstones.

Amylase

An enzyme that helps in the digestion of carbohydrates, elevated levels indicate pancreatic inflammation.

Endoscopy

A procedure that uses a flexible tube with a camera to visualize the GI tract for diagnostic purposes.

Portal Hypertension

Increased blood pressure in the portal venous system, often due to liver cirrhosis.

Hepatitis

Inflammation of the liver, commonly caused by viral infections, toxins, or autoimmune diseases.

Steatorrhea

Presence of excess fat in stool, often indicative of malabsorption issues.

Electrolyte Imbalance

A disruption in the balance of electrolytes in the body, which can have significant health consequences.

Diabetes Mellitus

A chronic condition that affects how the body processes blood sugar (glucose), which can result from pancreatic issues.

Ascites

Accumulation of fluid in the peritoneal cavity, commonly seen in liver disease.

Asterixis

A tremor of the hand when the wrist is extended, often associated with liver failure.

Cachexia

A complex syndrome characterized by weight loss, muscle wasting, and appetite loss often associated with chronic illness.

Fetor Hepaticus

A musty or sweet odor of the breath associated with severe liver failure.

Hydrostatic Pressure

The pressure exerted by fluids, often elevated in conditions like portal hypertension leading to ascites.

Gallstones

Solid particles that form from cholesterol or bilirubin in the gallbladder, leading to cholecystitis.

Electrolyte Replacement

Restoration of essential electrolytes in the body, often necessary in conditions like pancreatitis.

Nutritional Interventions

Dietary management strategies to support health, particularly crucial in liver and pancreatic diseases.

Prothrombin Time (PT)

A blood test that measures how long it takes blood to clot, often prolonged in liver disease.