Hepatologist
Hepatologist
A Hepatologist (pronunciation: /hɪˌpætəˈlɒdʒɪst/) is a specialist in the branch of medicine called Hepatology, which includes the study of body parts such as the liver, the biliary tree, the gallbladder and the pancreas. A Hepatologist manages disorders in these areas.
Etymology
The term Hepatologist is derived from the Greek words 'Hepar' or 'Hepatos' meaning liver, and 'logia' meaning study. Thus, it literally translates to 'the study of the liver'.
Role and Responsibilities
A Hepatologist is responsible for the diagnosis and treatment of diseases affecting the liver, biliary tree, gallbladder and pancreas. These diseases may include hepatitis, cirrhosis, alcoholic liver disease, liver cancer, gallstones, pancreatitis and others. They also perform procedures such as liver biopsy and endoscopy to diagnose conditions.
Related Terms
- Hepatology: The branch of medicine that incorporates the study of liver, gallbladder, biliary tree, and pancreas as well as management of their disorders.
- Gastroenterology: The branch of medicine focused on the digestive system and its disorders. Hepatology is considered a sub-specialty of gastroenterology.
- Liver transplant: A surgical procedure performed to replace a diseased liver with a healthy liver from another person. Hepatologists often work closely with transplant surgeons.
- Hepatitis: An inflammation of the liver, commonly caused by a viral infection, but there are other possible causes of hepatitis.
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