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Questions and Answers
The liver is made up entirely of hepatocytes.
The liver is made up entirely of hepatocytes.
False
Liver cirrhosis is the complete replacement of healthy liver tissue with scar tissue.
Liver cirrhosis is the complete replacement of healthy liver tissue with scar tissue.
False
Fibroblasts are responsible for producing the scar tissue that replaces the lost hepatocytes in liver cirrhosis.
Fibroblasts are responsible for producing the scar tissue that replaces the lost hepatocytes in liver cirrhosis.
True
The term 'hepatocytes' refers to the connective tissue cells in the liver.
The term 'hepatocytes' refers to the connective tissue cells in the liver.
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A key feature of liver cirrhosis is the increasing number of healthy hepatocytes present.
A key feature of liver cirrhosis is the increasing number of healthy hepatocytes present.
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Ascites can be treated by increasing the intake of salt (Na) and avoiding diuretics.
Ascites can be treated by increasing the intake of salt (Na) and avoiding diuretics.
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Paracentesis involves using a special needle to extract water from the abdominal cavity.
Paracentesis involves using a special needle to extract water from the abdominal cavity.
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Diuretics are ineffective in treating all cases of ascites.
Diuretics are ineffective in treating all cases of ascites.
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In cases where diuretics do not work, a surgical procedure is required to treat ascites.
In cases where diuretics do not work, a surgical procedure is required to treat ascites.
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The treatment for ascites always includes the application of special diets without medication.
The treatment for ascites always includes the application of special diets without medication.
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Study Notes
Liver Cirrhosis - Definition
- Liver cirrhosis is a condition where hepatocytes (liver cells) are destroyed and replaced by fibroblasts.
- This results in a reduced number of healthy liver cells, impairing the liver's ability to process nitrogenous toxins, especially ammonia.
- Early-stage cirrhosis is difficult to diagnose without a liver sample.
Liver Cirrhosis - Pathophysiology
- Fibrous tissue grows around healthy liver cells, forming knots (nodules).
- These nodules obstruct blood flow from the intestines to the liver, increasing pressure in the portal vein and surrounding veins.
- Increased pressure in portal veins leads to water accumulation and potentially bloody bleeding from swollen veins in the gastrointestinal tract.
Liver Cirrhosis - Symptoms
- Severe fatigue
- Loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, and weight loss
- Enlarged liver and gallstones
- Yellowing of the whites of the eyes
- Swollen feet and ascites (fluid buildup in the abdomen)
- Low albumin levels in the blood
- Increased ammonia levels in the blood
- Esophageal varices (swollen veins in the esophagus)
- Redness in the palm of the hand due to capillary expansion
Liver Cirrhosis - Causes
- Unknown factors are a major cause
- Viral hepatitis (various types and severity levels)
- Harmful drugs and alcohol
- Environmental toxins
- Food additives
- Herbs harmful to the liver
Liver Cirrhosis - Stages
- First degree (20%): Minimal to no observable damage. Liver enzymes might be normal in around 50% of patients.
- Second degree (40%): Noticeable increase in bile in the blood, albumin levels below normal.
- Third degree (80%): Ascites (abdominal swelling) plus swelling of the feet.
Liver Cirrhosis - Treatment (Ascites)
- Dietary changes: Reduce salt intake, diuretics.
- Paracentesis: Special needle to drain excess fluid from the abdomen
- Antibiotics: Treat possible bacterial infections.
Liver Cirrhosis - Nutritional Considerations
- Energy: 35-40 calories per kg of body weight, depending on carbohydrate and fat intake.
- Protein: 1-1.5 grams per kg of body weight, prefer easily digestible proteins like egg white or boiled chicken breast.
- Fat: 20% of the diet from vegetable sources, limited to 30-40 grams per day in cases of poor bile secretion.
- Carbohydrates: 55-60%, favor foods like bee honey to stimulate liver activity.
- Small frequent meals: To manage protein sensitivity
Hepatic Coma - Nutritional Considerations
- Protein restrictions: Completely restrict protein intake initially for hepatic coma, often slowly increasing under medical supervision
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Description
This quiz covers the definition, pathophysiology, and symptoms of liver cirrhosis. Learn about the impact of this condition on liver function and the health implications it involves. Test your knowledge on the key aspects of this serious liver disease.
