HEPA 3 Flashcards
(23 cards)
What is jaundice?
A yellow discoloration caused by a buildup of bilirubin in the blood, leading to yellowing of the skin, sclera, and mucous membranes.
What causes jaundice?
Impaired processing of bilirubin by the liver due to liver dysfunction.
What are the types of jaundice?
- Pre-hepatic: Excessive breakdown of red blood cells (e.g., hemolytic anemia).
- Hepatic: Liver cell damage (e.g., hepatitis, cirrhosis).
- Post-hepatic: Obstruction of bile flow (e.g., gallstones, tumor).
What is the role of the liver in bilirubin processing?
The liver processes bilirubin through uptake, conjugation, and excretion.
How does the liver uptake bilirubin?
Unconjugated bilirubin is transported to the liver bound to albumin, and hepatocytes take up this bilirubin-albumin complex.
What happens during bilirubin conjugation?
Bilirubin is conjugated with glucuronic acid by the enzyme UGT1A1, transforming it into water-soluble conjugated bilirubin.
What is the excretion process of bilirubin?
Conjugated bilirubin is transported into bile canaliculi, flows into bile ducts, and eventually into the small intestine where it is converted into urobilinogen and stercobilinogen.
What is portal hypertension?
Increased pressure in the portal vein due to scarring and structural changes in the liver.
What are the consequences of portal hypertension?
- Ascites: Fluid leaks into the abdominal cavity.
- Varices: Enlarged veins that can rupture and bleed.
- Splenomegaly: Enlarged spleen leading to anemia and low platelet counts.
What are the symptoms of ascites?
Abdominal swelling, discomfort, and shortness of breath.
How is ascites diagnosed?
Through physical exam, ultrasound, and fluid analysis (paracentesis).
What is the treatment for ascites?
Sodium restriction, diuretics, and paracentesis.
What are the risks associated with varices?
High mortality rate if they rupture and bleed.
What are the symptoms of varices?
Vomiting blood (hematemesis) and black tarry stools (melena).
How are varices diagnosed?
Through upper GI endoscopy.
What is the treatment for varices?
Medications to lower portal pressure and endoscopic banding.
What is hepatic encephalopathy?
A serious complication where toxins, particularly ammonia, build up in the blood and affect brain function.
What are the early symptoms of hepatic encephalopathy?
Forgetfulness, difficulty concentrating, sleep disturbances, and personality changes.
What are the progressive symptoms of hepatic encephalopathy?
Confusion, disorientation, asterixis, slurred speech, drowsiness, and eventual coma.
How is hepatic encephalopathy treated?
With medications to reduce ammonia levels and manage underlying liver disease.
What are nutritional deficiencies related to liver dysfunction?
Impaired absorption and processing of essential nutrients, leading to deficiencies in vitamins and minerals.
What are common nutritional deficiencies in liver dysfunction?
Vitamins A, D, E, K, B vitamins, and minerals like iron and zinc.
What are the consequences of nutritional deficiencies due to liver dysfunction?
Fatigue, weakness, muscle wasting, anemia, bleeding problems, and impaired immune function.
