Liver Cirrhosis and Its Complications Flashcard

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What is liver cirrhosis?

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A chronic liver disease characterized by the replacement of healthy liver tissue with scar tissue (fibrosis), leading to loss of liver function.

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What is portal hypertension?

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Increased blood pressure in the portal venous system, often caused by obstruction of blood flow through the liver due to cirrhosis.

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What are esophageal varices?

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Dilated veins in the esophagus that develop due to increased pressure in the portal vein, which can rupture and cause severe bleeding.

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What is hepatic encephalopathy?

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A decline in brain function that occurs as a result of severe liver disease, often due to the accumulation of toxins like ammonia in the blood.

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What is splenomegaly?

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Enlargement of the spleen, often seen in liver cirrhosis due to increased pressure in the portal vein.

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What is thrombocytopenia?

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A condition characterized by abnormally low levels of platelets in the blood, commonly seen in patients with cirrhosis.

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What is the role of ammonia in hepatic encephalopathy?

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Ammonia accumulates in the blood due to liver dysfunction, leading to neurotoxic effects and altered mental status.

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What is endothelin-1?

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A peptide that causes vasoconstriction and is involved in the pathophysiology of hepatic pulmonary syndrome.

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What is the significance of nitric oxide in liver function?

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Nitric oxide is a vasodilator that helps regulate blood flow in the liver; its reduction can contribute to complications in cirrhosis.

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What is the relationship between cirrhosis and liver cancer?

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Cirrhosis is a major risk factor for the development of hepatocellular carcinoma (liver cancer) due to ongoing liver damage and regeneration.