Cirrhosis
last authored:
Introduction
Cirrhosis is the irreversible end result of a variety of inflammatory, toxic, metabolic, and congestive liver problems.
The Case of...
Causes and Risk Factors
Alcohol consumption, hepatitis C infection, and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease are the most common causes of cirrhosis in the West, while hepatitis B is the major cause in other countries.
Pathophysiology
Cirrhosis is characterized by deposition of interconnective bands of fibrous tissue which surround nodules of regenerating hepatocytes. Small nodules <3mm are typical of alcoholic cirrhosis, while larger nodules follow chronic active hepatitis.
Disruption of normal architecture distorts the vasculature and leads to portal hypertension.
Normal hepatocyte function is disturbed by resulting inaequacy of blood flow and ongoing inflammatory, toxic, and metabolic damage.
Signs and Symptoms
Cirrhosis can cause signs and symptoms of chronic hepatitis, but can also be asymptomatic.
Portal hypertension can result in thrombocytopenia and leucopenia due to splenic sequestration.
Imaging such as ultrasound, CT, and MRI can be used to support the clinical diagnosis of cirrhosis.
- history
- physical exam
History
Physical Exam
Investigations
- lab investigations
- diagnostic imaging
Lab Investigations
Diagnostic Imaging
Differential Diagnosis
Treatments
Consequences and Course
Complications of cirrhosis include portal hypertension, hepatocellular dysfunction, and hepatocellular carcinoma.
The Case of...
Additional Resources
Topic Development
created:
authors:
editors:
reviewers:
 |