Hepatic diverticulum

Hepatic disease or liver disease refers to any disturbance in liver function that leads to illness. The liver is responsible for many critical functions within the body including metabolism of drugs and toxins, removing degradation products of normal body metabolism (like bilirubin), and synthesis of many important proteins and enzymes (such as factors necessary for blood to clot).

Types of Hepatic Disease

Hepatic diseases can be classified into several types:

• Hepatitis: Inflammation of the liver, usually caused by viruses like hepatitis A, B, and C.
• Cirrhosis: Long-term damage to the liver from any cause can lead to permanent scarring, known as cirrhosis.
• Liver cancer: The most common type of liver cancer, hepatocellular carcinoma, frequently occurs in people with chronic liver diseases like cirrhosis.
• Alcoholic liver disease: This is a result of overconsumption of alcohol that damages the liver, leading to cirrhosis and other complications.
• Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD): A condition where fat builds up in the liver, it can lead to cirrhosis if not managed.

Symptoms

Symptoms of hepatic disease can vary and may include yellow discoloration of the skin and eyes (jaundice), nausea, vomiting, upper right quadrant abdominal pain, and fatigue.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of hepatic disease may involve a combination of blood tests, imaging studies, and occasionally liver biopsy.

Treatment

Treatment for hepatic disease depends on the specific type of disease. It may include lifestyle changes, medication, or potentially a liver transplant in severe cases.

Prevention

Prevention strategies for hepatic disease may include moderation of alcohol use, vaccination for hepatitis viruses, prompt treatment of infections, and regular medical screenings for people with chronic liver conditions.

See Also

• Hepatology
• Liver function tests
• Liver transplant

References

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  Gray's Anatomy illustration of the liver and surrounding structures