Podcast
Questions and Answers
Liver Cirrhosis results in an increase in the number of healthy hepatocytes in the liver.
Liver Cirrhosis results in an increase in the number of healthy hepatocytes in the liver.
False
Fibroblasts are the primary cells responsible for the regeneration of healthy liver tissue in Liver Cirrhosis.
Fibroblasts are the primary cells responsible for the regeneration of healthy liver tissue in Liver Cirrhosis.
False
The replacement of hepatocytes with fibroblasts in Liver Cirrhosis can lead to a reduction in liver function.
The replacement of hepatocytes with fibroblasts in Liver Cirrhosis can lead to a reduction in liver function.
True
The presence of necrosis is a key characteristic of Liver Cirrhosis, indicating the death of liver cells.
The presence of necrosis is a key characteristic of Liver Cirrhosis, indicating the death of liver cells.
Signup and view all the answers
The severity of Liver Cirrhosis is directly proportional to the number of damaged liver cells.
The severity of Liver Cirrhosis is directly proportional to the number of damaged liver cells.
Signup and view all the answers
Ascites can be treated by increasing salt intake and using diuretics.
Ascites can be treated by increasing salt intake and using diuretics.
Signup and view all the answers
Paracentesis is performed using a special needle to remove water from the abdominal cavity.
Paracentesis is performed using a special needle to remove water from the abdominal cavity.
Signup and view all the answers
Diuretics are ineffective in treating ascites and should always be avoided.
Diuretics are ineffective in treating ascites and should always be avoided.
Signup and view all the answers
If diuretics do not respond, paracentesis may be necessary to manage ascites.
If diuretics do not respond, paracentesis may be necessary to manage ascites.
Signup and view all the answers
Ascites treatment includes dietary changes, specifically increasing water intake.
Ascites treatment includes dietary changes, specifically increasing water intake.
Signup and view all the answers
Study Notes
Liver Cirrhosis Definition
- Liver cirrhosis is a condition where hepatocytes are destroyed and replaced by fibroblasts.
- This results in a reduced number of healthy liver cells.
- The liver's ability to remove nitrogenous toxins, particularly ammonia, decreases.
- Early-stage cirrhosis is difficult to diagnose without a liver sample.
Liver Cirrhosis Causes
- The causes of cirrhosis are varied and can be attributed to numerous factors.
- It may take up to 20 years for cirrhosis to develop.
- Cirrhosis can result from viral hepatitis (varying severity), drug toxicity, environmental damage to the liver, and food preservatives and herbs harmful to the liver.
- Medications not fully researched on the liver can also contribute.
- Insufficient attention to antioxidants in food also plays a role.
Liver Cirrhosis Symptoms
- Fatigue is a notable symptom.
- Loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, and weight loss.
- Enlarged liver and gallstones.
- Yellowing of the whites of the eyes (due to bilirubin).
- Swollen feet and ascites (fluid buildup in the abdomen).
- Decreased albumin in the blood causes low osmotic pressure.
- Increased levels of ammonia in the blood.
- Esophageal varices (swollen veins in the esophagus) can cause bloody bleeding.
- Redness in the palm of the hand is due to blood pooling under the skin.
Liver Cirrhosis Stages
- First degree (20%): No noticeable pathological changes, sometimes normal liver enzymes.
- Second degree (40%): Increased bile in the blood, reduced albumin levels.
- Third degree (80%): Presence of ascites (fluid accumulation in the abdomen) and edema (swelling).
Ascites Treatment
- Reducing salt intake and diuretics: The primary approach in the absence of ascites.
- Paracentesis: A special needle is used to drain abdominal fluid when diuretics fail.
- Antibiotic injections: In cases of peritoneal infection.
- Dietary restrictions: Specific salt restrictions might be recommended.
Hepatic Coma Management
- Protein restriction: Essential to reduce ammonia levels.
- Protein sources: Milk and egg whites are preferred for their lower ammonia production.
- Other medications: Including antibiotics, to control ammonia levels.
- Tube feeding: Provision of glucose and fat while initiating protein gradually to control the condition.
Dietary Recommendations
- Energy: 35-40 calories per kilogram of body weight (depending on dietary carb and fat intake).
- Protein: 1-1.5 grams per kilogram of body weight (preference for easily digestible protein).
- Fat: 20% of daily calories from vegetables, limited to 30-40 grams daily in low bile secretion cases.
- Carbohydrates: 55-60% of daily calories (bee honey is beneficial).
- Meals: Frequent and small portions.
-
Fluids and Salt:
- Sodium limits: 1000-2000 mg in the absence of ascites, 200-500 in cases of ascites.
- Fluid intake: Adjusted based on urine output.
- Monitor potassium if renal/liver failure is present.
Home Work
- Design a full-day diet for a hypothetical patient with cirrhosis, based on their age, weight, height, activity level. (specific example provided)
Studying That Suits You
Use AI to generate personalized quizzes and flashcards to suit your learning preferences.
Related Documents
Description
This quiz covers the definition, causes, and symptoms of liver cirrhosis. Gain insights into how this condition affects the liver and understand the various factors contributing to its development. Test your knowledge on this serious health issue.