Lesson 3: Liver Flashcards
(22 cards)
What is the functional unit of the liver?
Hepatic lobule
What structures form the portal triad?
Branch of hepatic artery, branch of portal vein, tributary of bile duct
What are hepatic lobules made of?
Hepatocytes in a honeycomb-like structure
What is the hepatopancreatic duct formed by?
Union of common bile duct and pancreatic duct
What is the function of the sphincter of Oddi?
Regulates bile flow into the duodenum
What are the two sources of liver blood supply?
Hepatic artery and portal vein
What is enterohepatic circulation?
Transport of substances from intestine to liver via portal vein
Where is bile stored?
Gallbladder
What changes occur to bile in the gallbladder?
Increased concentration, decreased pH, increased specific gravity, mucin addition
What are bile salts derived from?
Conjugated bile acids like glycocholic and taurocholic acids
Functions of bile salts?
Emulsification of fats, micelle formation for fat absorption
What is the major bile pigment in humans?
Bilirubin
How is bilirubin transported in blood?
As free (unconjugated) bilirubin bound to albumin
Major functions of bile?
Digestive, absorptive, excretory
How does bile aid in digestion?
Emulsifies fats and aids their absorption
What is a metabolic function of the liver?
Metabolism of carbs, proteins, fats, vitamins, hormones
What is the liver’s excretory function?
Excretes bile pigments, cholesterol, toxins, metals
Functions of the gallbladder?
Storage and concentration of bile
What hormone stimulates gallbladder contraction?
Cholecystokinin (CCK)
Cause of prehepatic jaundice?
Excessive RBC destruction → high unconjugated bilirubin
What is cirrhosis?
Chronic inflammation and damage to liver parenchyma
What forms gallstones?
Cholesterol, calcium ions, bile pigments
