Anatomy and Functions of the Liver

Study Notes

Anatomy

Location: Right upper quadrant of the abdominal cavity, beneath the diaphragm
Shape: Irregular, wedge-shaped organ
Divided into:
- Lobes: Right and left lobes, separated by the falciform ligament
- Segments: 8 functional segments, each with its own blood supply and bile drainage
Surface features:
- Anterior surface: Covered by the peritoneum, attached to the diaphragm by the coronary ligament
- Posterior surface: In contact with the right kidney, adrenal gland, and inferior vena cava
Blood supply:
- Hepatic artery: Branch of the celiac artery, supplies oxygenated blood
- Hepatic portal vein: Carries nutrient-rich blood from the digestive system
Bile drainage:
- Bile ducts: Merge to form the common hepatic duct, which joins the cystic duct to form the common bile duct

Functions

Detoxification: Removes toxins and waste products from the blood
- Breaks down ammonia into urea
- Converts bilirubin into bile
Metabolism: Regulates carbohydrate, protein, and fat metabolism
- Stores glycogen and releases glucose into the bloodstream
- Converts amino acids into urea and other nitrogen-containing compounds
Production: Produces various substances, including:
- Bile: Aids in fat digestion and absorption
- Cholesterol: Essential for cell membrane structure and function
- Proteins: Albumin, clotting factors, and lipoproteins
- Vitamins: Vitamin D, vitamin K, and other fat-soluble vitamins
Storage: Stores vitamins, minerals, and glycogen
Immune function: Participates in the immune response by removing pathogens and toxins from the blood
Regulation: Regulates blood clotting, hormone production, and blood sugar levels

Description

Test your knowledge of the liver's structure, functions, and importance in the body. From detoxification and metabolism to production and storage, assess your understanding of this vital organ. Quiz yourself on the liver's anatomy, blood supply, and various functions.