Liver+Cirrhosis

//Western Diagnosis// A. diffuse disorganization of hepatic tissue 1. regenerative nodules surrounded by fibrous tissue

Etiology
1. 3rd after CV & CA as cause of death in US in 45-65 age group ---usually secondary to chronic alcohol abuse 2. as in fibrosis

Pathology
1. progression of fibrosis to cirrhosis depends on extent of injury, continuing damage, liver’s reaction

Signs & Symptoms
1. asx 2. weakness, anorexia, malaise, weight loss 3. jaundice, pruritis, xanthelasma (yellowish raised areas of the skin) 4. malnutrition a. fat malabsorption 5. esophageal varices 6. palpable firm liver

Complications
1. portal hypertension - esophageal varices 2. hypoxemia 3. jaundice, ascites, renal failure, hepatic encephalopathy

Diagnosis
1. liver function tests 2. albumin, PT time 3. US

Treatment
1. withdrawal of toxic agents 2. nutrition

Milk Thistle - 500mg/day