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Questions and Answers
What is the most common manifestation of chronic hepatitis?
What is the most common manifestation of chronic hepatitis?
What is the primary process that converts unconjugated bilirubin to conjugated bilirubin?
What is the primary process that converts unconjugated bilirubin to conjugated bilirubin?
Which condition results from a buildup of bilirubin in the liver?
Which condition results from a buildup of bilirubin in the liver?
What is the main reason for the development of clay-colored stools?
What is the main reason for the development of clay-colored stools?
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What role do bile salts play in the skin when bilirubin levels are elevated?
What role do bile salts play in the skin when bilirubin levels are elevated?
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If the liver fails to synthesize enough albumin, what can occur?
If the liver fails to synthesize enough albumin, what can occur?
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Where does bilirubin metabolism primarily occur?
Where does bilirubin metabolism primarily occur?
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What condition can lead to splenomegaly due to blood backup in the spleen?
What condition can lead to splenomegaly due to blood backup in the spleen?
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Which of the following is a common complication of advanced cirrhosis affecting blood clotting?
Which of the following is a common complication of advanced cirrhosis affecting blood clotting?
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What is the primary purpose of performing paracentesis in patients with ascites?
What is the primary purpose of performing paracentesis in patients with ascites?
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Which clinical sign is associated with hepatic encephalopathy and involves irregular muscle jerking?
Which clinical sign is associated with hepatic encephalopathy and involves irregular muscle jerking?
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In the management of hepatic encephalopathy, which medication is primarily used to decrease ammonia absorption?
In the management of hepatic encephalopathy, which medication is primarily used to decrease ammonia absorption?
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What is the most likely cause of renal failure in patients with cirrhosis?
What is the most likely cause of renal failure in patients with cirrhosis?
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Which diagnostic test is considered the gold standard for identifying liver cell changes in cirrhosis?
Which diagnostic test is considered the gold standard for identifying liver cell changes in cirrhosis?
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What is the primary mode of transmission for Hepatitis B?
What is the primary mode of transmission for Hepatitis B?
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What is the significance of HBsAg in Hepatitis B diagnosis?
What is the significance of HBsAg in Hepatitis B diagnosis?
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Which of the following symptoms can indicate increased bleeding due to liver dysfunction?
Which of the following symptoms can indicate increased bleeding due to liver dysfunction?
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What type of breath odor is associated with hepatic encephalopathy?
What type of breath odor is associated with hepatic encephalopathy?
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Which of the following antiviral agents is contraindicated in pregnancy for Hepatitis B treatment?
Which of the following antiviral agents is contraindicated in pregnancy for Hepatitis B treatment?
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Elevated levels of which laboratory test indicate liver dysfunction in cirrhosis?
Elevated levels of which laboratory test indicate liver dysfunction in cirrhosis?
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What is the major distinguishing feature of Hepatitis D virus infection?
What is the major distinguishing feature of Hepatitis D virus infection?
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What characterizes the treatment for Hepatitis C using DAAs?
What characterizes the treatment for Hepatitis C using DAAs?
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What is the common side effect of ribavirin when used in treatment?
What is the common side effect of ribavirin when used in treatment?
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What is the primary goal when treating patients with chronic Hepatitis C?
What is the primary goal when treating patients with chronic Hepatitis C?
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In which condition is the presence of Anti-HCV antibodies significant?
In which condition is the presence of Anti-HCV antibodies significant?
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Which Hepatitis virus is primarily associated with oral-fecal transmission?
Which Hepatitis virus is primarily associated with oral-fecal transmission?
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Which laboratory test is crucial for monitoring the effectiveness of Hepatitis C treatment?
Which laboratory test is crucial for monitoring the effectiveness of Hepatitis C treatment?
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What is a characteristic symptom of cirrhosis?
What is a characteristic symptom of cirrhosis?
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What is the recommended vaccination schedule for Hepatitis B?
What is the recommended vaccination schedule for Hepatitis B?
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Which type of hepatitis typically leads to chronic disease in immunocompromised individuals?
Which type of hepatitis typically leads to chronic disease in immunocompromised individuals?
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Which protein is primarily synthesized by the liver?
Which protein is primarily synthesized by the liver?
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What provides the majority of the liver’s blood supply?
What provides the majority of the liver’s blood supply?
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Which substance is primarily detoxified by the liver?
Which substance is primarily detoxified by the liver?
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What clinical manifestation is most characteristic of chronic hepatitis?
What clinical manifestation is most characteristic of chronic hepatitis?
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Which class of medications is commonly used in the treatment of chronic hepatitis B?
Which class of medications is commonly used in the treatment of chronic hepatitis B?
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Which hepatitis viruses are preventable through vaccination in Canada?
Which hepatitis viruses are preventable through vaccination in Canada?
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Hepatic fat accumulation is most commonly seen in which form of cirrhosis?
Hepatic fat accumulation is most commonly seen in which form of cirrhosis?
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The most common clinical manifestation of portal hypertension is ________ bleeding.
The most common clinical manifestation of portal hypertension is ________ bleeding.
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What condition can arise from the accumulation of estrogen due to impaired liver function?
What condition can arise from the accumulation of estrogen due to impaired liver function?
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Which clinical manifestation is a common result of portal hypertension?
Which clinical manifestation is a common result of portal hypertension?
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What is the primary factor that leads to the development of ascites?
What is the primary factor that leads to the development of ascites?
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Which hormone accumulates due to the damaged hepatocytes in cirrhosis that can lead to fluid retention?
Which hormone accumulates due to the damaged hepatocytes in cirrhosis that can lead to fluid retention?
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What treatment is commonly used to reduce bleeding from esophageal varices?
What treatment is commonly used to reduce bleeding from esophageal varices?
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What is hepatic encephalopathy characterized by?
What is hepatic encephalopathy characterized by?
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Which complication is NOT associated with portal hypertension?
Which complication is NOT associated with portal hypertension?
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How can sodium restriction help manage ascites?
How can sodium restriction help manage ascites?
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What is the goal of using sclerotherapy in the management of varices?
What is the goal of using sclerotherapy in the management of varices?
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Which sign may indicate the presence of ascites?
Which sign may indicate the presence of ascites?
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What assessment is crucial in monitoring a patient with ascites?
What assessment is crucial in monitoring a patient with ascites?
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What condition may occur as a late-stage complication involving acute kidney injury in liver patients?
What condition may occur as a late-stage complication involving acute kidney injury in liver patients?
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What is the primary cause of abdominal distension in patients with ascites?
What is the primary cause of abdominal distension in patients with ascites?
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What is a key function of the liver that, when impaired, can affect estrogen levels?
What is a key function of the liver that, when impaired, can affect estrogen levels?
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Which symptom is associated with the accumulation of bile salts beneath the skin due to elevated bilirubin levels?
Which symptom is associated with the accumulation of bile salts beneath the skin due to elevated bilirubin levels?
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What occurs if the liver fails to synthesize enough albumin in relation to bilirubin?
What occurs if the liver fails to synthesize enough albumin in relation to bilirubin?
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What color might urine appear if there is a significant level of bilirubin being excreted by the kidneys?
What color might urine appear if there is a significant level of bilirubin being excreted by the kidneys?
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Which condition is characterized by clay-colored stools due to a lack of bilirubin?
Which condition is characterized by clay-colored stools due to a lack of bilirubin?
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Which of the following best describes the metabolic pathway of bilirubin in the liver?
Which of the following best describes the metabolic pathway of bilirubin in the liver?
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What can prolonged elevation of unconjugated bilirubin levels in the blood lead to?
What can prolonged elevation of unconjugated bilirubin levels in the blood lead to?
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Which clinical manifestation is most commonly seen in chronic hepatitis related to bilirubin metabolism?
Which clinical manifestation is most commonly seen in chronic hepatitis related to bilirubin metabolism?
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Which of the following indicates a failure of the liver to properly process bilirubin?
Which of the following indicates a failure of the liver to properly process bilirubin?
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What percentage of the liver's blood supply is received from the hepatic artery?
What percentage of the liver's blood supply is received from the hepatic artery?
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Which of the following is NOT a function of the liver?
Which of the following is NOT a function of the liver?
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Which type of hepatitis virus is responsible for acute infections and is RNA-based?
Which type of hepatitis virus is responsible for acute infections and is RNA-based?
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What is indicated by the presence of icteric jaundice?
What is indicated by the presence of icteric jaundice?
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Which of the following manifestations is typically associated with chronic hepatitis?
Which of the following manifestations is typically associated with chronic hepatitis?
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What leads to the activation of the complement system during a hepatitis infection?
What leads to the activation of the complement system during a hepatitis infection?
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Which of the following symptoms is characteristic of acute hepatitis?
Which of the following symptoms is characteristic of acute hepatitis?
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During the acute phase of hepatitis, which symptom might a patient experience?
During the acute phase of hepatitis, which symptom might a patient experience?
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Which factor is primarily impaired in liver function during hepatitis?
Which factor is primarily impaired in liver function during hepatitis?
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Which type of blood does the hepatic portal vein primarily carry?
Which type of blood does the hepatic portal vein primarily carry?
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What dietary adjustment is recommended for patients with cirrhosis and associated ascites?
What dietary adjustment is recommended for patients with cirrhosis and associated ascites?
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Which procedure is commonly performed to relieve symptoms of ascites in cirrhosis patients?
Which procedure is commonly performed to relieve symptoms of ascites in cirrhosis patients?
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What is a crucial aspect of the regular monitoring process for patients with cirrhosis?
What is a crucial aspect of the regular monitoring process for patients with cirrhosis?
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What is the primary purpose of using diuretics in the management of cirrhosis?
What is the primary purpose of using diuretics in the management of cirrhosis?
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Which of the following vitamins and nutritional supplements may be necessary for patients with cirrhosis?
Which of the following vitamins and nutritional supplements may be necessary for patients with cirrhosis?
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Which statement accurately represents the management of chronic hepatitis B?
Which statement accurately represents the management of chronic hepatitis B?
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Which term describes the process of creating a portosystemic shunt to alleviate portal hypertension?
Which term describes the process of creating a portosystemic shunt to alleviate portal hypertension?
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Which of the following conditions is considered a complication of portal hypertension?
Which of the following conditions is considered a complication of portal hypertension?
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Which clinical manifestation is primarily associated with an accumulation of estrogen due to liver dysfunction?
Which clinical manifestation is primarily associated with an accumulation of estrogen due to liver dysfunction?
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Which process describes the formation of new blood vessels to bypass high-pressure areas in the portal venous system?
Which process describes the formation of new blood vessels to bypass high-pressure areas in the portal venous system?
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What is the primary complication of portal hypertension related to esophageal and gastric varices?
What is the primary complication of portal hypertension related to esophageal and gastric varices?
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What is the main action of octreotide in the management of bleeding varices?
What is the main action of octreotide in the management of bleeding varices?
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Which clinical feature is a consequence of both hypoalbuminemia and portal hypertension in cirrhosis?
Which clinical feature is a consequence of both hypoalbuminemia and portal hypertension in cirrhosis?
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What is the main reason for fluid retention in patients with cirrhosis related to hyperaldosteronism?
What is the main reason for fluid retention in patients with cirrhosis related to hyperaldosteronism?
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Which therapeutic strategy may serve as a last resort for managing severe portal hypertension?
Which therapeutic strategy may serve as a last resort for managing severe portal hypertension?
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What is a typical characteristic of palmar erythema associated with liver dysfunction?
What is a typical characteristic of palmar erythema associated with liver dysfunction?
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Which condition results from an impaired lymphatic drainage combined with portal hypertension?
Which condition results from an impaired lymphatic drainage combined with portal hypertension?
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What is the most appropriate initial management for a patient with bleeding varices?
What is the most appropriate initial management for a patient with bleeding varices?
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Which sign may suggest the presence of ascites during a physical examination?
Which sign may suggest the presence of ascites during a physical examination?
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Which treatment is commonly used for the management of ascites related to cirrhosis?
Which treatment is commonly used for the management of ascites related to cirrhosis?
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What complication may arise due to the use of diuretics in patients with cirrhosis?
What complication may arise due to the use of diuretics in patients with cirrhosis?
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Which physiological change contributes to the manifestation of hepatic encephalopathy?
Which physiological change contributes to the manifestation of hepatic encephalopathy?
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What is the main role of nucleoside analogues in the treatment of Hepatitis B?
What is the main role of nucleoside analogues in the treatment of Hepatitis B?
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Which hepatitis virus can only cause infection in the presence of Hepatitis B?
Which hepatitis virus can only cause infection in the presence of Hepatitis B?
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Which of the following statements about Hepatitis C is true?
Which of the following statements about Hepatitis C is true?
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What constitutes the primary treatment approach for acute Hepatitis D?
What constitutes the primary treatment approach for acute Hepatitis D?
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What common adverse effect is associated with the use of protease inhibitors in Hepatitis C treatment?
What common adverse effect is associated with the use of protease inhibitors in Hepatitis C treatment?
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Which hepatitis virus is primarily associated with oral-fecal transmission?
Which hepatitis virus is primarily associated with oral-fecal transmission?
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What is the importance of checking HCV RNA levels 12 weeks after treatment?
What is the importance of checking HCV RNA levels 12 weeks after treatment?
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Which laboratory test is specifically indicative of immunity to Hepatitis B?
Which laboratory test is specifically indicative of immunity to Hepatitis B?
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What is the recommended vaccination schedule for Hepatitis B?
What is the recommended vaccination schedule for Hepatitis B?
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What is a significant complication of long-term Hepatitis B infection?
What is a significant complication of long-term Hepatitis B infection?
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What kind of treatment is typically not recommended during pregnancy for Hepatitis C?
What kind of treatment is typically not recommended during pregnancy for Hepatitis C?
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Which test is crucial for determining chronic Hepatitis C infection?
Which test is crucial for determining chronic Hepatitis C infection?
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What type of therapy was rarely used since the advent of oral antiviral therapies for Hepatitis B?
What type of therapy was rarely used since the advent of oral antiviral therapies for Hepatitis B?
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Which condition is characterized by fibrosis and progressive inflammation of the liver?
Which condition is characterized by fibrosis and progressive inflammation of the liver?
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Study Notes
Hepatitis B
- Caused by the Hepatitis B Virus (HBV), transmitted through blood, sexual contact, and perinatal exposure.
- Infectious before symptoms, may be asymptomatic.
- Infants born to HBV-infected individuals should receive vaccination and immunoglobulins within 12 hours to prevent acute and chronic infection.
- Management includes symptom relief and education; antiviral therapy may be necessary.
- Key serologic tests include HBsAg (indicates infection), Anti-HBs (immunity), and HBV DNA (viral load).
- Pharmacotherapy aims to reduce viral load and prevent complications like cirrhosis.
- Two main classes of antiviral agents: nucleoside analogues (entecavir, tenofovir) and pegylated-interferon alfa.
Hepatitis C
- Caused by the Hepatitis C Virus (HCV), with similar transmission routes as Hepatitis B.
- Infectious 1-2 weeks before symptoms appear; most infections are asymptomatic initially.
- Anti-HCV test indicates past or present infection; HCV RNA confirms active disease.
- There are six genotypes, significant for treatment planning.
- Direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) target steps in HCV replication and have a typical 12-week treatment course.
- DAAs can cause fatigue and headaches; non-recommended in pregnancy.
Hepatitis D and E
- Hepatitis D requires co-infection with Hepatitis B.
- Treatment for Hepatitis D is primarily supportive; chronic cases may use pegylated interferon alfa.
- Hepatitis E, transmitted via the oral-fecal route, is generally mild and self-limiting, with chronic cases primarily in immunocompromised individuals.
Cirrhosis
- Chronic progressive disease resulting in fibrosis, impacting liver structure and function.
- Diagnosis often involves biopsy, but can also be assessed through ultrasound.
- Symptoms include fatigue, weight loss, pruritis, splenomegaly, and various endocrine disturbances.
- Portal hypertension leads to complications such as esophageal varices, ascites, and hepatic encephalopathy.
Bilirubin Metabolism
- Bilirubin results from the breakdown of old RBCs and is processed in the liver, converted from unconjugated to conjugated form for excretion.
- Increased bilirubin levels can cause jaundice, pruritus, dark urine, and clay-colored stools.
Portal Hypertension
- Caused by fibrosis and changes in liver blood vessels, leading to increased pressure in the portal venous system.
- Complications include varices, ascites, and hepatic encephalopathy.
- Management strategies focus on relieving pressure and managing symptoms.
Varices
- Enlarged veins that may rupture and cause hematemesis or melena; require careful management to prevent bleeding.
- Treatment options include beta-blockers, sclerotherapy, band ligation, and in severe cases, shunting procedures.
Ascites
- Accumulation of fluid in the peritoneal cavity caused primarily by portal hypertension and hypoalbuminemia.
- Symptoms include abdominal distension and discomfort; management involves sodium restriction and diuretics.
- Paracentesis may be performed for symptomatic relief.
Hepatic Encephalopathy
- Results from the accumulation of ammonia due to impaired liver function.
- Early signs include mood changes, memory loss, and drowsiness; late signs can involve confusion, tremors, and distinct breath odor.
- Lactulose and rifaximin are key treatments to reduce ammonia levels.
Hepatorenal Syndrome
- Characterized by renal failure related to portal hypertension and fluid shifts.
- Often seen after diuretic therapy or gastrointestinal bleeding; difficult to treat effectively.
- Liver transplantation may reverse kidney failure.
Diagnostic Tests for Cirrhosis
- Liver function tests reveal increased AST, ALT, and bilirubin levels.
- Prolonged PT and INR indicate impaired liver function.
- A CBC may show thrombocytopenia and anemia.### Cirrhosis: Management Overview
- No specific medication for cirrhosis; treatment targets underlying causes (e.g., antivirals for hepatitis).
- Manage symptoms with medications such as antacids for gastric discomfort and diuretics for ascites.
- Lifestyle changes: avoid alcohol, adopt a healthy diet, and engage in regular exercise.
- Vitamins and nutritional supplements may be necessary for nutritional support.
- Recommended diet: high in calories and carbohydrates, moderate to low fat content.
- Sodium restriction is advised in cases of ascites and peripheral edema.
- Procedures such as paracentesis and Transjugular Intrahepatic Portosystemic Shunt (TIPS) may be performed.
- Regular monitoring through blood tests, imaging studies, and endoscopies is crucial.
- Liver transplantation may be necessary for advanced cirrhosis.
Key Review Questions
- The liver primarily synthesizes Albumin.
- Most of the liver's blood supply is provided by the hepatic portal vein.
- The liver detoxifies Ammonia, converting it to urea.
- The most characteristic clinical manifestation of chronic hepatitis is Jaundice.
- Common medications for chronic hepatitis B include Nucleoside analogs and Nucleotide analogs.
- Hepatitis A and B viruses are preventable through vaccination in Canada.
- Hepatic fat accumulation is associated with Alcoholic cirrhosis.
- The most common clinical manifestation of portal hypertension is Esophageal bleeding.
- A key strategy in managing cirrhosis involves implementing lifestyle modifications and monitoring health conditions.
Hepatitis Overview
- Hepatitis B Virus (HBV) is transmitted through blood, sexual contact, and perinatal exposure.
- Infants born to HBV-infected mothers require vaccination and immunoglobulins within 12 hours post-birth to prevent chronic infection.
- Symptoms may be absent initially; management aims for symptom relief and education.
- Hepatitis B serologic tests include HBsAg (indicates infection), Anti-HBs (indicates immunity), and HBV DNA (monitors viral load).
Pharmacotherapy of Hepatitis B
- Antiviral therapy manages virus load and disease progression, particularly in severe or symptomatic cases.
- Older pegylated-interferon alfa is less common, with nucleoside analogues like entecavir and tenofovir being preferred.
- Potential side effects include severe hepatomegaly, nephrotoxicity with tenofovir, and pregnancy contraindication with entecavir.
Hepatitis B Vaccination
- Available as Hep B only (Energix-B, Recombivax) or combination (Twinrix).
- Vaccines administered in three doses: 0, 1, and 6 months.
Hepatitis C Overview
- Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) is similarly transmitted as hepatitis B and can be asymptomatic in early stages.
- Anti-HCV indicates infection; HCV RNA confirms active disease.
- Six genotypes of HCV affect treatment strategies and outcomes.
Pharmacotherapy of Hepatitis C
- Acute hepatitis C often resolves spontaneously; however, early treatment is recommended to prevent complications.
- Direct-acting antiviral agents (DAAs) target HCV RNA replication and came into use in 2011.
- DAAs include protease inhibitors, NS5A inhibitors, and NS5B inhibitors with common side effects of headache and fatigue.
- Treatment typically lasts 12 weeks, and response monitored by HCV RNA levels post-therapy.
Hepatitis D Overview
- Hepatitis D Virus (HDV) requires the presence of Hepatitis B for infection.
- Treatment for acute HDV focuses on supportive care; chronic cases may involve pegylated interferon alpha.
Hepatitis E Overview
- Hepatitis E Virus (HEV) is transmitted orally, often via contaminated water supply.
- Mild, self-limiting disease; chronic cases typically in immunocompromised individuals may require ribavirin.
Cirrhosis
- Cirrhosis features chronic liver fibrosis and inflammation with disorganized regeneration.
- Diagnosed through liver biopsy or ultrasound.
- Major causes include alcohol abuse, viral hepatitis, and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.
Liver Blood Supply
- Hepatic artery supplies 30% of blood, while the hepatic portal vein provides 70% with nutrients and toxins from the digestive system.
Main Functions of the Liver
- Key roles include blood filtration, metabolism, bile production, storage of vitamins, and immune function.
Clinical Manifestations of Hepatitis
- Acute symptoms include altered taste, jaundice, fatigue, and potential hepatomegaly.
- Chronic presentation may involve splenomegaly, easy bruising, and palmar erythema.
Bilirubin Metabolism
- Bilirubin is a byproduct of RBC breakdown, processed in the liver into water-soluble conjugated form for excretion.
- Increased bilirubin levels result in jaundice, pruritis, dark urine, and clay-colored stools.
Clinical Manifestations of Cirrhosis
- Symptoms from endocrine disturbances include gynecomastia, palmar erythema, and spider angiomas due to hormonal imbalance.
Portal Hypertension and Complications
- High pressure in the portal venous system from liver fibrosis leads to complications like varices, ascites, and hepatic encephalopathy.
Management of Varices
- Avoid NSAIDs to reduce irritation, use non-selective beta-blockers for prevention, and treat bleeding with medications and endoscopy.
Peripheral Edema and Ascites
- Peripheral edema arises from fluid accumulation due to decreased oncotic pressure from low albumin levels.
- Ascites manifests as abdominal distension and is caused by portal hypertension, hypoalbuminemia, and hyperaldosteronism.
Management of Ascites
- Regular assessment and monitoring of vitals, fluid balance, and abdominal girth.
- Sodium restriction and diuretic therapy to manage fluid retention.### Cirrhosis Management
- No specific medication for cirrhosis; treatment focuses on the underlying cause or managing symptoms.
- Antivirals may be used for hepatitis; antacids can alleviate gastric discomfort.
- Diuretics are prescribed for complications like ascites.
- Lifestyle changes are crucial: abstain from alcohol, maintain a nutritious diet, and increase physical activity.
- Nutritional needs may include vitamins and supplements.
- Recommended diet: high in calories and carbohydrates, moderate to low fat intake.
- Sodium intake should be limited in cases of ascites and peripheral edema.
- Invasive procedures like paracentesis and Transjugular Intrahepatic Portosystemic Shunt (TIPS) are used when necessary.
- Regular monitoring through blood tests, imaging studies, and endoscopies is essential for managing cirrhosis.
- Liver transplant may be considered in advanced cases.
Review Questions Overview
- The liver primarily synthesizes albumin, a key plasma protein.
- Most blood supply to the liver comes from the hepatic portal vein, not the hepatic artery.
- The liver is crucial for detoxifying ammonia, converting it into urea.
- Jaundice is a hallmark symptom of chronic hepatitis.
- Common medications for chronic hepatitis B include nucleotide analogs.
- Hepatitis A and B are preventable via vaccines in Canada.
- Alcoholic cirrhosis is primarily associated with hepatic fat accumulation.
- The most frequent manifestation of portal hypertension is esophageal bleeding.
- Key management strategies for cirrhosis include lifestyle modification and regular monitoring.
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Hepatitis Cirrhosis Ascites