Hepatic Failure

Liver Weight and Functions

• The average weight of an adult liver is approximately 1.5 kilograms (3.3 pounds).
• Key functions of the liver include metabolism, detoxification, production of bile, and synthesis of proteins involved in blood clotting.

Syndromes and Damage

• Severe damage in liver cells can result in Hepatic Encephalopathy, a syndrome characterized by altered mental status and other neurological impairments.

Hepatic Insufficiency Types

• Acute hepatic insufficiency occurs suddenly, often due to factors like viral hepatitis or drug overdose, while chronic hepatic insufficiency develops gradually over time due to conditions like chronic liver diseases or alcoholism.

Terminal Stage

• The terminal stage of hepatic insufficiency is referred to as "hepatic failure," a critical condition where the liver loses its functional capacity.

Manifestations of Severe Damage

• Manifestations of severe liver damage include jaundice, coagulopathy, ascites, and hepatic encephalopathy, highlighting the liver's compromised functions.

Onset Classification

• Hepatic insufficiency is classified based on its onset into acute, subacute, or chronic categories, allowing for tailored medical evaluations and interventions.