Liver spread

Liver

A depiction of liver spread

The liver is a vital organ in the human body, playing a crucial role in metabolism, detoxification, and the synthesis of proteins. It is located in the upper right quadrant of the abdomen, beneath the diaphragm.

Anatomy

The liver is a large, reddish-brown organ that weighs approximately 1.5 kilograms in an average adult. It is divided into two main lobes: the right lobe and the left lobe. The right lobe is significantly larger than the left.

Blood Supply

The liver receives blood from two distinct sources:

• The hepatic artery supplies oxygenated blood from the heart.
• The portal vein delivers nutrient-rich blood from the gastrointestinal tract.

Biliary System

The liver produces bile, a digestive fluid that is stored in the gallbladder and released into the small intestine to aid in the digestion of fats.

Functions

The liver performs several essential functions, including:

• Metabolism: The liver plays a key role in the metabolism of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats.
• Detoxification: It detoxifies various metabolites and drugs, making them easier for the body to excrete.
• Protein Synthesis: The liver synthesizes important proteins such as albumin and clotting factors.
• Storage: It stores glycogen, vitamins, and minerals.

Diseases

The liver can be affected by various diseases, including:

• Hepatitis: Inflammation of the liver, often caused by viral infections.
• Cirrhosis: Scarring of the liver tissue, often due to chronic alcohol abuse or hepatitis.
• Liver cancer: A malignant tumor that can arise in the liver.

Related pages

• Hepatic artery
• Portal vein
• Bile
• Gallbladder
• Hepatitis
• Cirrhosis
• Liver cancer