Liver disease in which the normal microcirculation, the gross vascular anatomy, and the hepatic architecture have been variably destroyed and altered with fibrous septa surrounding regenerated or regenerating parenchymal nodules.
FIBROSIS of the hepatic parenchyma due to chronic excess ALCOHOL DRINKING.
Experimentally induced chronic injuries to the parenchymal cells in the liver to achieve a model for LIVER CIRRHOSIS.
FIBROSIS of the hepatic parenchyma due to obstruction of BILE flow (CHOLESTASIS) in the intrahepatic or extrahepatic bile ducts (BILE DUCTS, INTRAHEPATIC; BILE DUCTS, EXTRAHEPATIC). Primary biliary cirrhosis involves the destruction of small intra-hepatic bile ducts and bile secretion. Secondary biliary cirrhosis is produced by prolonged obstruction of large intrahepatic or extrahepatic bile ducts from a variety of causes.
Tumors or cancer of the LIVER.
Pathological processes of the LIVER.
A large lobed glandular organ in the abdomen of vertebrates that is responsible for detoxification, metabolism, synthesis and storage of various substances.
The transference of a part of or an entire liver from one human or animal to another.
A primary malignant neoplasm of epithelial liver cells. It ranges from a well-differentiated tumor with EPITHELIAL CELLS indistinguishable from normal HEPATOCYTES to a poorly differentiated neoplasm. The cells may be uniform or markedly pleomorphic, or form GIANT CELLS. Several classification schemes have been suggested.
Blood tests that are used to evaluate how well a patient's liver is working and also to help diagnose liver conditions.
Abnormal increase of resistance to blood flow within the hepatic PORTAL SYSTEM, frequently seen in LIVER CIRRHOSIS and conditions with obstruction of the PORTAL VEIN.
Accumulation or retention of free fluid within the peritoneal cavity.
A syndrome characterized by central nervous system dysfunction in association with LIVER FAILURE, including portal-systemic shunts. Clinical features include lethargy and CONFUSION (frequently progressing to COMA); ASTERIXIS; NYSTAGMUS, PATHOLOGIC; brisk oculovestibular reflexes; decorticate and decerebrate posturing; MUSCLE SPASTICITY; and bilateral extensor plantar reflexes (see REFLEX, BABINSKI). ELECTROENCEPHALOGRAPHY may demonstrate triphasic waves. (From Adams et al., Principles of Neurology, 6th ed, pp1117-20; Plum & Posner, Diagnosis of Stupor and Coma, 3rd ed, p222-5)
Dilated blood vessels in the ESOPHAGUS or GASTRIC FUNDUS that shunt blood from the portal circulation (PORTAL SYSTEM) to the systemic venous circulation. Often they are observed in individuals with portal hypertension (HYPERTENSION, PORTAL).
Lipid infiltration of the hepatic parenchymal cells resulting in a yellow-colored liver. The abnormal lipid accumulation is usually in the form of TRIGLYCERIDES, either as a single large droplet or multiple small droplets. Fatty liver is caused by an imbalance in the metabolism of FATTY ACIDS.
INFLAMMATION of the LIVER with ongoing hepatocellular injury for 6 months or more, characterized by NECROSIS of HEPATOCYTES and inflammatory cell (LEUKOCYTES) infiltration. Chronic hepatitis can be caused by viruses, medications, autoimmune diseases, and other unknown factors.
Repair or renewal of hepatic tissue.
A solvent for oils, fats, lacquers, varnishes, rubber waxes, and resins, and a starting material in the manufacturing of organic compounds. Poisoning by inhalation, ingestion or skin absorption is possible and may be fatal. (Merck Index, 11th ed)
INFLAMMATION of the LIVER.
The circulation of BLOOD through the LIVER.
A crystalline compound used as a laboratory reagent in place of HYDROGEN SULFIDE. It is a potent hepatocarcinogen.
Closed vesicles of fragmented endoplasmic reticulum created when liver cells or tissue are disrupted by homogenization. They may be smooth or rough.
A short thick vein formed by union of the superior mesenteric vein and the splenic vein.
A system of vessels in which blood, after passing through one capillary bed, is conveyed through a second set of capillaries before it returns to the systemic circulation. It pertains especially to the hepatic portal system.
Liver diseases associated with ALCOHOLISM. It usually refers to the coexistence of two or more subentities, i.e., ALCOHOLIC FATTY LIVER; ALCOHOLIC HEPATITIS; and ALCOHOLIC CIRRHOSIS.
INFLAMMATION of the LIVER in humans that is caused by HEPATITIS C VIRUS lasting six months or more. Chronic hepatitis C can lead to LIVER CIRRHOSIS.
Bleeding in any segment of the GASTROINTESTINAL TRACT from ESOPHAGUS to RECTUM.
The first alpha-globulins to appear in mammalian sera during FETAL DEVELOPMENT and the dominant serum proteins in early embryonic life.
The venous pressure measured in the PORTAL VEIN.
A spectrum of clinical liver diseases ranging from mild biochemical abnormalities to ACUTE LIVER FAILURE, caused by drugs, drug metabolites, and chemicals from the environment.
INFLAMMATION of the LIVER in humans due to infection by VIRUSES. There are several significant types of human viral hepatitis with infection caused by enteric-transmission (HEPATITIS A; HEPATITIS E) or blood transfusion (HEPATITIS B; HEPATITIS C; and HEPATITIS D).
Mitochondria in hepatocytes. As in all mitochondria, there are an outer membrane and an inner membrane, together creating two separate mitochondrial compartments: the internal matrix space and a much narrower intermembrane space. In the liver mitochondrion, an estimated 67% of the total mitochondrial proteins is located in the matrix. (From Alberts et al., Molecular Biology of the Cell, 2d ed, p343-4)
INFLAMMATION of the LIVER in humans caused by a member of the ORTHOHEPADNAVIRUS genus, HEPATITIS B VIRUS. It is primarily transmitted by parenteral exposure, such as transfusion of contaminated blood or blood products, but can also be transmitted via sexual or intimate personal contact.
A collection of watery fluid in the pleural cavity. (Dorland, 27th ed)
Excision of all or part of the liver. (Dorland, 28th ed)
An enzyme that catalyzes the conversion of L-alanine and 2-oxoglutarate to pyruvate and L-glutamate. (From Enzyme Nomenclature, 1992) EC 2.6.1.2.
INFLAMMATION of the LIVER in humans caused by HEPATITIS B VIRUS lasting six months or more. It is primarily transmitted by parenteral exposure, such as transfusion of contaminated blood or blood products, but can also be transmitted via sexual or intimate personal contact.
INFLAMMATION of the LIVER in humans caused by HEPATITIS C VIRUS, a single-stranded RNA virus. Its incubation period is 30-90 days. Hepatitis C is transmitted primarily by contaminated blood parenterally, and is often associated with transfusion and intravenous drug abuse. However, in a significant number of cases, the source of hepatitis C infection is unknown.
A procedure in which fluid is withdrawn from a body cavity or organ via a trocar and cannula, needle, or other hollow instrument.
The main structural component of the LIVER. They are specialized EPITHELIAL CELLS that are organized into interconnected plates called lobules.
Functional KIDNEY FAILURE in patients with liver disease, usually LIVER CIRRHOSIS or portal hypertension (HYPERTENSION, PORTAL), and in the absence of intrinsic renal disease or kidney abnormality. It is characterized by intense renal vasculature constriction, reduced renal blood flow, OLIGURIA, and sodium retention.
Final stage of a liver disease when the liver failure is irreversible and LIVER TRANSPLANTATION is needed.
A form of rapid-onset LIVER FAILURE, also known as fulminant hepatic failure, caused by severe liver injury or massive loss of HEPATOCYTES. It is characterized by sudden development of liver dysfunction and JAUNDICE. Acute liver failure may progress to exhibit cerebral dysfunction even HEPATIC COMA depending on the etiology that includes hepatic ISCHEMIA, drug toxicity, malignant infiltration, and viral hepatitis such as post-transfusion HEPATITIS B and HEPATITIS C.
A genus of FLAVIVIRIDAE causing parenterally-transmitted HEPATITIS C which is associated with transfusions and drug abuse. Hepatitis C virus is the type species.
Vein formed by the union (at the hilus of the spleen) of several small veins from the stomach, pancreas, spleen and mesentery.
Veins which drain the liver.
Experimentally induced tumors of the LIVER.
Studies used to test etiologic hypotheses in which inferences about an exposure to putative causal factors are derived from data relating to characteristics of persons under study or to events or experiences in their past. The essential feature is that some of the persons under study have the disease or outcome of interest and their characteristics are compared with those of unaffected persons.
Solitary or multiple collections of PUS within the liver as a result of infection by bacteria, protozoa, or other agents.
INFLAMMATION of the LIVER due to ALCOHOL ABUSE. It is characterized by NECROSIS of HEPATOCYTES, infiltration by NEUTROPHILS, and deposit of MALLORY BODIES. Depending on its severity, the inflammatory lesion may be reversible or progress to LIVER CIRRHOSIS.
A bile pigment that is a degradation product of HEME.
The type species of the genus ORTHOHEPADNAVIRUS which causes human HEPATITIS B and is also apparently a causal agent in human HEPATOCELLULAR CARCINOMA. The Dane particle is an intact hepatitis virion, named after its discoverer. Non-infectious spherical and tubular particles are also seen in the serum.
A chronic self-perpetuating hepatocellular INFLAMMATION of unknown cause, usually with HYPERGAMMAGLOBULINEMIA and serum AUTOANTIBODIES.
Levels within a diagnostic group which are established by various measurement criteria applied to the seriousness of a patient's disorder.
Extracts of liver tissue containing uncharacterized specific factors with specific activities; a soluble thermostable fraction of mammalian liver is used in the treatment of pernicious anemia.
The channels that collect and transport the bile secretion from the BILE CANALICULI, the smallest branch of the BILIARY TRACT in the LIVER, through the bile ductules, the bile ducts out the liver, and to the GALLBLADDER for storage.
Severe inability of the LIVER to perform its normal metabolic functions, as evidenced by severe JAUNDICE and abnormal serum levels of AMMONIA; BILIRUBIN; ALKALINE PHOSPHATASE; ASPARTATE AMINOTRANSFERASE; LACTATE DEHYDROGENASES; and albumin/globulin ratio. (Blakiston's Gould Medical Dictionary, 4th ed)
Evaluation undertaken to assess the results or consequences of management and procedures used in combating disease in order to determine the efficacy, effectiveness, safety, and practicability of these interventions in individual cases or series.
Carbon tetrachloride poisoning is a condition characterized by the systemic toxicity induced by exposure to carbon tetrachloride, a volatile chlorinated hydrocarbon solvent, causing central nervous system depression, cardiovascular collapse, and potentially fatal liver and kidney damage.
Elements of limited time intervals, contributing to particular results or situations.
Studies which start with the identification of persons with a disease of interest and a control (comparison, referent) group without the disease. The relationship of an attribute to the disease is examined by comparing diseased and non-diseased persons with regard to the frequency or levels of the attribute in each group.
An epimer of chenodeoxycholic acid. It is a mammalian bile acid found first in the bear and is apparently either a precursor or a product of chenodeoxycholate. Its administration changes the composition of bile and may dissolve gallstones. It is used as a cholagogue and choleretic.
Acute or chronic INFLAMMATION of the PANCREAS due to excessive ALCOHOL DRINKING. Alcoholic pancreatitis usually presents as an acute episode but it is a chronic progressive disease in alcoholics.
Impairment of bile flow due to obstruction in small bile ducts (INTRAHEPATIC CHOLESTASIS) or obstruction in large bile ducts (EXTRAHEPATIC CHOLESTASIS).
A syndrome characterized by the clinical triad of advanced chronic liver disease, pulmonary vascular dilatations, and reduced arterial oxygenation (HYPOXEMIA) in the absence of intrinsic cardiopulmonary disease. This syndrome is common in the patients with LIVER CIRRHOSIS or portal hypertension (HYPERTENSION, PORTAL).
A type of surgical portasystemic shunt to reduce portal hypertension with associated complications of esophageal varices and ascites. It is performed percutaneously through the jugular vein and involves the creation of an intrahepatic shunt between the hepatic vein and portal vein. The channel is maintained by a metallic stent. The procedure can be performed in patients who have failed sclerotherapy and is an additional option to the surgical techniques of portocaval, mesocaval, and splenorenal shunts. It takes one to three hours to perform. (JAMA 1995;273(23):1824-30)
Non-invasive imaging methods based on the mechanical response of an object to a vibrational or impulsive force. It is used for determining the viscoelastic properties of tissue, and thereby differentiating soft from hard inclusions in tissue such as microcalcifications, and some cancer lesions. Most techniques use ultrasound to create the images - eliciting the response with an ultrasonic radiation force and/or recording displacements of the tissue by Doppler ultrasonography.
Measurable and quantifiable biological parameters (e.g., specific enzyme concentration, specific hormone concentration, specific gene phenotype distribution in a population, presence of biological substances) which serve as indices for health- and physiology-related assessments, such as disease risk, psychiatric disorders, environmental exposure and its effects, disease diagnosis, metabolic processes, substance abuse, pregnancy, cell line development, epidemiologic studies, etc.
The black, tarry, foul-smelling FECES that contain degraded blood.
The number of PLATELETS per unit volume in a sample of venous BLOOD.
Death resulting from the presence of a disease in an individual, as shown by a single case report or a limited number of patients. This should be differentiated from DEATH, the physiological cessation of life and from MORTALITY, an epidemiological or statistical concept.
An aspect of personal behavior or lifestyle, environmental exposure, or inborn or inherited characteristic, which, on the basis of epidemiologic evidence, is known to be associated with a health-related condition considered important to prevent.
A strain of albino rat developed at the Wistar Institute that has spread widely at other institutions. This has markedly diluted the original strain.
The porcine antidiuretic hormone (VASOPRESSINS). It is a cyclic nonapeptide that differs from ARG-VASOPRESSIN by one amino acid, containing a LYSINE at residue 8 instead of an ARGININE. Lys-vasopressin is used to treat DIABETES INSIPIDUS or to improve vasomotor tone and BLOOD PRESSURE.
The blood pressure in the VEINS. It is usually measured to assess the filling PRESSURE to the HEART VENTRICLE.
Removal and pathologic examination of specimens in the form of small pieces of tissue from the living body.
Surgical venous shunt between the portal and systemic circulation to effect decompression of the portal circulation. It is performed primarily in the treatment of bleeding esophageal varices resulting from portal hypertension. Types of shunt include portacaval, splenorenal, mesocaval, splenocaval, left gastric-caval (coronary-caval), portarenal, umbilicorenal, and umbilicocaval.
Agents used in the prophylaxis or therapy of VIRUS DISEASES. Some of the ways they may act include preventing viral replication by inhibiting viral DNA polymerase; binding to specific cell-surface receptors and inhibiting viral penetration or uncoating; inhibiting viral protein synthesis; or blocking late stages of virus assembly.
The worsening of a disease over time. This concept is most often used for chronic and incurable diseases where the stage of the disease is an important determinant of therapy and prognosis.
Diseases which have one or more of the following characteristics: they are permanent, leave residual disability, are caused by nonreversible pathological alteration, require special training of the patient for rehabilitation, or may be expected to require a long period of supervision, observation, or care. (Dictionary of Health Services Management, 2d ed)
Enzymes of the transferase class that catalyze the conversion of L-aspartate and 2-ketoglutarate to oxaloacetate and L-glutamate. EC 2.6.1.1.
A graphic means for assessing the ability of a screening test to discriminate between healthy and diseased persons; may also be used in other studies, e.g., distinguishing stimuli responses as to a faint stimuli or nonstimuli.
Gastrointestinal agents that stimulate the flow of bile into the duodenum (cholagogues) or stimulate the production of bile by the liver (choleretic).
Perisinusoidal cells of the liver, located in the space of Disse between HEPATOCYTES and sinusoidal endothelial cells.
A prediction of the probable outcome of a disease based on a individual's condition and the usual course of the disease as seen in similar situations.
Amino acids which have a branched carbon chain.
Studies in which individuals or populations are followed to assess the outcome of exposures, procedures, or effects of a characteristic, e.g., occurrence of disease.
A branch of the celiac artery that distributes to the stomach, pancreas, duodenum, liver, gallbladder, and greater omentum.
Clotting time of PLASMA recalcified in the presence of excess TISSUE THROMBOPLASTIN. Factors measured are FIBRINOGEN; PROTHROMBIN; FACTOR V; FACTOR VII; and FACTOR X. It is used for monitoring anticoagulant therapy with COUMARINS.
A strain of albino rat used widely for experimental purposes because of its calmness and ease of handling. It was developed by the Sprague-Dawley Animal Company.
Observation of a population for a sufficient number of persons over a sufficient number of years to generate incidence or mortality rates subsequent to the selection of the study group.
Those hepatitis B antigens found on the surface of the Dane particle and on the 20 nm spherical and tubular particles. Several subspecificities of the surface antigen are known. These were formerly called the Australia antigen.
RNA sequences that serve as templates for protein synthesis. Bacterial mRNAs are generally primary transcripts in that they do not require post-transcriptional processing. Eukaryotic mRNA is synthesized in the nucleus and must be exported to the cytoplasm for translation. Most eukaryotic mRNAs have a sequence of polyadenylic acid at the 3' end, referred to as the poly(A) tail. The function of this tail is not known for certain, but it may play a role in the export of mature mRNA from the nucleus as well as in helping stabilize some mRNA molecules by retarding their degradation in the cytoplasm.
In screening and diagnostic tests, the probability that a person with a positive test is a true positive (i.e., has the disease), is referred to as the predictive value of a positive test; whereas, the predictive value of a negative test is the probability that the person with a negative test does not have the disease. Predictive value is related to the sensitivity and specificity of the test.
Enlargement of the liver.
Application of a ligature to tie a vessel or strangulate a part.
Surgical procedure involving either partial or entire removal of the spleen.
A major protein in the BLOOD. It is important in maintaining the colloidal osmotic pressure and transporting large organic molecules.
Treatment of varicose veins, hemorrhoids, gastric and esophageal varices, and peptic ulcer hemorrhage by injection or infusion of chemical agents which cause localized thrombosis and eventual fibrosis and obliteration of the vessels.
Passages within the liver for the conveyance of bile. Includes right and left hepatic ducts even though these may join outside the liver to form the common hepatic duct.
Any pathological condition where fibrous connective tissue invades any organ, usually as a consequence of inflammation or other injury.
INFLAMMATION of the PERITONEUM lining the ABDOMINAL CAVITY as the result of infectious, autoimmune, or chemical processes. Primary peritonitis is due to infection of the PERITONEAL CAVITY via hematogenous or lymphatic spread and without intra-abdominal source. Secondary peritonitis arises from the ABDOMINAL CAVITY itself through RUPTURE or ABSCESS of intra-abdominal organs.
I'm sorry for any confusion, but "Taiwan" is not a medical term and does not have a medical definition. It is a country located in East Asia. If you have any questions related to healthcare or medical terms, I would be happy to help with those!
Binary classification measures to assess test results. Sensitivity or recall rate is the proportion of true positives. Specificity is the probability of correctly determining the absence of a condition. (From Last, Dictionary of Epidemiology, 2d ed)
The largest bile duct. It is formed by the junction of the CYSTIC DUCT and the COMMON HEPATIC DUCT.
Tomography using x-ray transmission and a computer algorithm to reconstruct the image.
The passage of viable bacteria from the GASTROINTESTINAL TRACT to extra-intestinal sites, such as the mesenteric lymph node complex, liver, spleen, kidney, and blood. Factors that promote bacterial translocation include overgrowth with gram-negative enteric bacilli, impaired host immune defenses, and injury to the INTESTINAL MUCOSA resulting in increased intestinal permeability. Bacterial translocation from the lung to the circulation is also possible and sometimes accompanies MECHANICAL VENTILATION.
Body organ that filters blood for the secretion of URINE and that regulates ion concentrations.
A primary, chronic disease with genetic, psychosocial, and environmental factors influencing its development and manifestations. The disease is often progressive and fatal. It is characterized by impaired control over drinking, preoccupation with the drug alcohol, use of alcohol despite adverse consequences, and distortions in thinking, most notably denial. Each of these symptoms may be continuous or periodic. (Morse & Flavin for the Joint Commission of the National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence and the American Society of Addiction Medicine to Study the Definition and Criteria for the Diagnosis of Alcoholism: in JAMA 1992;268:1012-4)
An enzyme, sometimes called GGT, with a key role in the synthesis and degradation of GLUTATHIONE; (GSH, a tripeptide that protects cells from many toxins). It catalyzes the transfer of the gamma-glutamyl moiety to an acceptor amino acid.
Naturally occurring or experimentally induced animal diseases with pathological processes sufficiently similar to those of human diseases. They are used as study models for human diseases.
Specialized phagocytic cells of the MONONUCLEAR PHAGOCYTE SYSTEM found on the luminal surface of the hepatic sinusoids. They filter bacteria and small foreign proteins out of the blood, and dispose of worn out red blood cells.
A country in northern Africa, bordering the Mediterranean Sea, between Libya and the Gaza Strip, and the Red Sea north of Sudan, and includes the Asian Sinai Peninsula Its capital is Cairo.
A tricarbocyanine dye that is used diagnostically in liver function tests and to determine blood volume and cardiac output.
Devices for simulating the activities of the liver. They often consist of a hybrid between both biological and artificial materials.
Histochemical localization of immunoreactive substances using labeled antibodies as reagents.
Glycogen stored in the liver. (Dorland, 28th ed)
A disorder of iron metabolism characterized by a triad of HEMOSIDEROSIS; LIVER CIRRHOSIS; and DIABETES MELLITUS. It is caused by massive iron deposits in parenchymal cells that may develop after a prolonged increase of iron absorption. (Jablonski's Dictionary of Syndromes & Eponymic Diseases, 2d ed)
Impairment of bile flow due to injury to the HEPATOCYTES; BILE CANALICULI; or the intrahepatic bile ducts (BILE DUCTS, INTRAHEPATIC).
Hemosiderin is an iron-containing pigment that originates from the breakdown of hemoglobin and accumulates in tissues, primarily in macrophages, as a result of various pathological conditions such as hemorrhage, inflammation, or certain storage diseases.
Former kingdom, located on Korea Peninsula between Sea of Japan and Yellow Sea on east coast of Asia. In 1948, the kingdom ceased and two independent countries were formed, divided by the 38th parallel.
Non-cadaveric providers of organs for transplant to related or non-related recipients.
Water-soluble proteins found in egg whites, blood, lymph, and other tissues and fluids. They coagulate upon heating.
A clinical manifestation of HYPERBILIRUBINEMIA, characterized by the yellowish staining of the SKIN; MUCOUS MEMBRANE; and SCLERA. Clinical jaundice usually is a sign of LIVER dysfunction.
A family of flukes of the class Trematoda occurring primarily in the liver of animals and man. There are six genera: Fasciola, Fasciolopsis, Fascioloides, Tenuifasciola, Parafasciolopsis, and Protofasciola. The adult form of Fasciolopsis occurs in the intestines of pigs and man.
Elevated level of AMMONIA in the blood. It is a sign of defective CATABOLISM of AMINO ACIDS or ammonia to UREA.
Pathologic processes that affect patients after a surgical procedure. They may or may not be related to the disease for which the surgery was done, and they may or may not be direct results of the surgery.
Examination of the portal circulation by the use of X-ray films after injection of radiopaque material.
A colorless alkaline gas. It is formed in the body during decomposition of organic materials during a large number of metabolically important reactions. Note that the aqueous form of ammonia is referred to as AMMONIUM HYDROXIDE.
The circulation of blood through the BLOOD VESSELS supplying the abdominal VISCERA.
A clear, colorless liquid rapidly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract and distributed throughout the body. It has bactericidal activity and is used often as a topical disinfectant. It is widely used as a solvent and preservative in pharmaceutical preparations as well as serving as the primary ingredient in ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES.
Studies in which subsets of a defined population are identified. These groups may or may not be exposed to factors hypothesized to influence the probability of the occurrence of a particular disease or other outcome. Cohorts are defined populations which, as a whole, are followed in an attempt to determine distinguishing subgroup characteristics.
Vomiting of blood that is either fresh bright red, or older "coffee-ground" in character. It generally indicates bleeding of the UPPER GASTROINTESTINAL TRACT.
Genetically identical individuals developed from brother and sister matings which have been carried out for twenty or more generations or by parent x offspring matings carried out with certain restrictions. This also includes animals with a long history of closed colony breeding.
I'm sorry for any confusion, but "Romania" is a country located in southeastern Europe, not a medical term. It is not possible to provide a medical definition for it.
Necrosis or disintegration of skeletal muscle often followed by myoglobinuria.
A malignant tumor arising from the epithelium of the BILE DUCTS.
The return of a sign, symptom, or disease after a remission.
The range or frequency distribution of a measurement in a population (of organisms, organs or things) that has not been selected for the presence of disease or abnormality.
A statistical means of summarizing information from a series of measurements on one individual. It is frequently used in clinical pharmacology where the AUC from serum levels can be interpreted as the total uptake of whatever has been administered. As a plot of the concentration of a drug against time, after a single dose of medicine, producing a standard shape curve, it is a means of comparing the bioavailability of the same drug made by different companies. (From Winslade, Dictionary of Clinical Research, 1992)
Surgical portasystemic shunt between the portal vein and inferior vena cava.
The total number of cases of a given disease in a specified population at a designated time. It is differentiated from INCIDENCE, which refers to the number of new cases in the population at a given time.
Behaviors associated with the ingesting of alcoholic beverages, including social drinking.
An encapsulated lymphatic organ through which venous blood filters.
Enlargement of the spleen.
A class of statistical methods applicable to a large set of probability distributions used to test for correlation, location, independence, etc. In most nonparametric statistical tests, the original scores or observations are replaced by another variable containing less information. An important class of nonparametric tests employs the ordinal properties of the data. Another class of tests uses information about whether an observation is above or below some fixed value such as the median, and a third class is based on the frequency of the occurrence of runs in the data. (From McGraw-Hill Dictionary of Scientific and Technical Terms, 4th ed, p1284; Corsini, Concise Encyclopedia of Psychology, 1987, p764-5)
A distribution in which a variable is distributed like the sum of the squares of any given independent random variable, each of which has a normal distribution with mean of zero and variance of one. The chi-square test is a statistical test based on comparison of a test statistic to a chi-square distribution. The oldest of these tests are used to detect whether two or more population distributions differ from one another.
An emulsifying agent produced in the LIVER and secreted into the DUODENUM. Its composition includes BILE ACIDS AND SALTS; CHOLESTEROL; and ELECTROLYTES. It aids DIGESTION of fats in the duodenum.
A variation of the PCR technique in which cDNA is made from RNA via reverse transcription. The resultant cDNA is then amplified using standard PCR protocols.
Solitary or multiple benign hepatic vascular tumors, usually occurring in women of 20-50 years of age. The nodule, poorly encapsulated, consists of a central stellate fibrous scar and normal liver elements such as HEPATOCYTES, small BILE DUCTS, and KUPFFER CELLS among the intervening fibrous septa. The pale colored central scar represents large blood vessels with hyperplastic fibromuscular layer and narrowing lumen.
The rate dynamics in chemical or physical systems.
The proportion of survivors in a group, e.g., of patients, studied and followed over a period, or the proportion of persons in a specified group alive at the beginning of a time interval who survive to the end of the interval. It is often studied using life table methods.
An excessive accumulation of iron in the body due to a greater than normal absorption of iron from the gastrointestinal tract or from parenteral injection. This may arise from idiopathic hemochromatosis, excessive iron intake, chronic alcoholism, certain types of refractory anemia, or transfusional hemosiderosis. (From Churchill's Illustrated Medical Dictionary, 1989)
A nitrosamine derivative with alkylating, carcinogenic, and mutagenic properties.
A set of techniques used when variation in several variables has to be studied simultaneously. In statistics, multivariate analysis is interpreted as any analytic method that allows simultaneous study of two or more dependent variables.
The movement and the forces involved in the movement of the blood through the CARDIOVASCULAR SYSTEM.
A nucleoside antimetabolite antiviral agent that blocks nucleic acid synthesis and is used against both RNA and DNA viruses.
One of the type I interferons produced by peripheral blood leukocytes or lymphoblastoid cells. In addition to antiviral activity, it activates NATURAL KILLER CELLS and B-LYMPHOCYTES, and down-regulates VASCULAR ENDOTHELIAL GROWTH FACTOR expression through PI-3 KINASE and MAPK KINASES signaling pathways.
The measurement of an organ in volume, mass, or heaviness.
INFLAMMATION of the LIVER in humans caused by HEPATITIS DELTA VIRUS in conjunction with HEPATITIS B VIRUS and lasting six months or more.
Plasma glycoprotein member of the serpin superfamily which inhibits TRYPSIN; NEUTROPHIL ELASTASE; and other PROTEOLYTIC ENZYMES.
Chronic inflammatory disease of the BILIARY TRACT. It is characterized by fibrosis and hardening of the intrahepatic and extrahepatic biliary ductal systems leading to bile duct strictures, CHOLESTASIS, and eventual BILIARY CIRRHOSIS.
Administration of antineoplastic agents together with an embolizing vehicle. This allows slow release of the agent as well as obstruction of the blood supply to the neoplasm.
Inflammation of the biliary ductal system (BILE DUCTS); intrahepatic, extrahepatic, or both.
The number of new cases of a given disease during a given period in a specified population. It also is used for the rate at which new events occur in a defined population. It is differentiated from PREVALENCE, which refers to all cases, new or old, in the population at a given time.
An ethanol-inducible cytochrome P450 enzyme that metabolizes several precarcinogens, drugs, and solvents to reactive metabolites. Substrates include ETHANOL; INHALATION ANESTHETICS; BENZENE; ACETAMINOPHEN and other low molecular weight compounds. CYP2E1 has been used as an enzyme marker in the study of alcohol abuse.
An imbalanced nutritional status resulted from insufficient intake of nutrients to meet normal physiological requirement.

Primary biliary cirrhosis associated with membranous glomerulonephritis. (1/900)

A 33-year-old woman was admitted to our department for evaluation of liver dysfunction and proteinuria. A liver biopsy specimen showed ductular proliferation and moderate portal fibrosis indicating stage II primary biliary cirrhosis. A renal biopsy specimen showed mild to moderate mesangial cell proliferation without crescent formation or interstitial nephritis. Immunofluorescent staining revealed deposition of immunoglobulin G (IgG), third component of complement (C3), and Clq on glomerular basement membranes. The findings indicated stage I membranous glomerulonephritis. Administration of ursodesoxycholic acid together with prednisolone, azathioprine, and dipyridamole decreased proteinuria and improved cholestatic liver dysfunction.  (+info)

Negative conversion of antimitochondrial antibody in primary biliary cirrhosis: a case of autoimmune cholangitis. (2/900)

Autoimmune cholangitis is a clinical constellation of chronic cholestasis, histological changes of chronic nonsuppurative cholangitis and the presence of autoantibodies other than antimitochondrial antibody (AMA). It is uncertain whether this entity is definitely different from AMA positive primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC), though it shows some differences. We report a case of autoimmune cholangitis in a 59-year-old woman, who had been previously diagnosed as AMA-positive PBC associated with rheumatoid arthritis, has been converted to an AMA-negative and anticentromere antibody-positive PBC during follow-up. The response to ursodeoxycholic acid treatment is poor except within the first few months, but prednisolone was dropping the biochemical laboratory data.  (+info)

Risk of primary biliary liver cirrhosis in patients with coeliac disease: Danish and Swedish cohort data. (3/900)

BACKGROUND: Several case reports, but only a few studies, have examined the coexistence of coeliac disease and primary biliary cirrhosis. AIM: To estimate the risk of primary biliary cirrhosis in two national cohorts of patients with coeliac disease in Denmark and Sweden. METHODS: Through record linkage all Danish patients hospitalised with coeliac disease were followed for possible occurrence of primary biliary cirrhosis from 1 January 1977 until 31 December 1992. All patients hospitalised with coeliac disease in Sweden from 1987 to 1996 were also followed in a separate analysis. RESULTS: A total of 896 patients with coeliac disease were identified in Denmark with a median follow up period of 9.1 years for a total of 8040 person-years at risk. Two cases of primary biliary cirrhosis were observed where 0.07 were expected, giving a standardised incidence ratio of 27.6 (95% confidence interval 2.9 to 133.5). A total of 7735 patients with coeliac disease were identified in Sweden with a median follow up period of 5.1 years for a total of 39 284 person-years at risk. Twenty two people with primary biliary cirrhosis were identified compared with 0.88 expected, giving a standardised incidence ratio of 25.1 (95% confidence interval 15.7 to 37.9). CONCLUSION: Patients with coeliac disease are at increased risk of having primary biliary cirrhosis.  (+info)

T cell responses to the putative dominant autoepitope in primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC). (4/900)

PBC is characterized by T cell-mediated destruction of the biliary epithelial cells lining the small intrahepatic bile ducts. The E2 and E3 binding protein (E3BP (protein X)) components of pyruvate dehydrogenase complex (PDC) are disease-specific autoantigens in PBC. Attempts to localize the T cell autoepitopes within PDC-E2 have, however, generated contradictory results. One study has suggested the presence of T cell epitopes throughout PDC-E2, whilst another has identified a single dominant 14 amino acid T cell epitope (p163) spanning the lipoic acid binding lysine residue in the inner lipoyl domain (ILD) of PDC-E2. The aim of the current study was to determine the prevalence of T cell responses to p163 and PDC-E2 ILD, and the role played by lipoylation of these antigens in their immunogenicity, in a UK PBC population. We found that the majority of the PBC patients showing a 6-day peripheral blood T cell proliferative response to native human PDC also responded, in a MHC class II-restricted fashion, to biochemically purified PDC-E2 and E3BP (which co-purify) (9/10 positive (SI > 2.76), mean SI 5.74 +/- 5.04 (PDC-E2/E3BP) versus 6.67 +/- 3.84 (PDC), P = NS), implying that the important PBC-specific T cell epitopes are contained within the PDC-E2 or E3BP components of PDC. Only a minority of patients responsive to PDC, however, responded to either lipoylated recombinant PDC-E2 ILD (4/10 positive, mean SI 1.98 +/- 1.24, P < 0.005 versus PDC response) or lipoylated p163 (4/12 positive, mean SI 1.90 +/- 1.58, P < 0.001). The lipoylation state did not affect the T cell response to either ILD or p163. Our findings suggest that in some UK patients with PBC there are immunodominant T cell autoepitopes within PDC-E2/E3BP which are outside the ILD of PDC-E2.  (+info)

High mobility group (HMG) non-histone chromosomal proteins HMG1 and HMG2 are significant target antigens of perinuclear anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies in autoimmune hepatitis. (5/900)

BACKGROUND: High mobility group (HMG) non-histone chromosomal proteins HMG1 and HMG2 have been identified as novel antigens of perinuclear anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies (p-ANCAs), and the existence of anti-HMG1 and anti-HMG2 antibodies in a population of patients with ulcerative colitis has been reported. AIMS: To investigate whether HMG1 and HMG2 are target antigens for p-ANCAs in autoimmune hepatitis (AIH). PATIENTS: Serum samples from 28 patients with AIH, 44 patients with primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC), 27 patients with chronic hepatitis C, and 23 patients with chronic hepatitis B were tested. METHODS: ANCAs were detected by routine indirect immunofluorescence (IIF). Anti-HMG1 and anti-HMG2 antibodies were assayed by enzyme linked immunosorbent assay. RESULTS: p-ANCAs were detected in 89% (25/28) of patients with AIH, 36% (16/44) of patients with PBC, 11% (3/27) of patients with chronic hepatitis C, and 13% (3/23) of patients with chronic hepatitis B. Anti-HMG1 and/or anti-HMG2 antibodies were detected in 89% (25/28) of patients with AIH, 70% (31/44) with PBC, 26% (7/27) with chronic hepatitis C, and 9% (2/23) with chronic hepatitis B. In AIH, anti-HMG1 and/or anti-HMG2 antibodies were detected in 96% (24/25) of p-ANCA positive patients. The p-ANCA staining pattern detected by IIF using sera from patients with AIH disappeared or decreased in titre after preincubation with a mixture of HMG1/HMG2. The presence and titres of those antibodies in AIH correlated significantly with those of p-ANCA, but not with those of anti-nuclear antibody or anti-smooth muscle antibody. CONCLUSIONS: HMG1 and HMG2 are significant target antigens of p-ANCA in AIH.  (+info)

Primary biliary cirrhosis associated with painless thyroiditis. (6/900)

A case of anti-mitochondrial antibody (AMA)-negative primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC) associated with painless thyroiditis is reported in a 47-year-old woman who diagnosed as PBC based on her elevated serum gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase and immunoglobulin M levels, as well as histological findings of destroyed bile ducts surrounded by mononuclear infiltrates in the biopsied liver. She was negative for AMA and had a depressed level of thyroid-stimulating hormone accompanied by increased free thyrosine, thyroxine and triiodothyronine levels and low titers of anti-microsomal and anti-thyroid peroxidase antibodies. Her thyroid disorder corresponded with painless thyroiditis. An association between PBC and hyperthyroidism is rare. Furthermore, an association between AMA-negative PBC and hyperthyroidism due to painless thyroiditis has not previously been reported.  (+info)

Biliary bile acids in primary biliary cirrhosis: effect of ursodeoxycholic acid. (7/900)

Bile acid composition in fasting duodenal bile was assessed at entry and at 2 years in patients with primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC) enrolled in a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA) (10-12 mg/kg/d) taken as a single bedtime dose. Specimens were analyzed by a high-pressure liquid chromatography method that had been validated against gas chromatography. Percent composition in bile (mean +/- SD) for 98 patients at entry for cholic (CA), chenodeoxycholic (CDCA), deoxycholic (DCA), lithocholic (LCA), and ursodeoxycholic (UDCA) acids, respectively, were 57.4 +/- 18.6, 31.5 +/- 15.5, 8.0 +/- 9.3, 0.3 +/- 1.0, and 0.6 +/- 0.9. Values for CA were increased, whereas those for CDCA, DCA, LCA, and UDCA were decreased when compared with values in normal persons. Bile acid composition of the major bile acids did not change after 2 years on placebo medication. By contrast, in patients receiving UDCA for 2 years, bile became enriched with UDCA on average to 40.1%, and significant decreases were noted for CA (to 32.2%) and CDCA (to 19.5%). No change in percent composition was observed for DCA and LCA. Percent composition at entry and changes in composition after 2 years on UDCA were similar in patients with varying severity of PBC. In patients whose bile was not enriched in UDCA (entry and placebo-treated specimens), CA, CDCA, DCA, and the small amount of UDCA found in some of these specimens were conjugated to a greater extent with glycine (52%-64%) than with taurine (36%-48%). Treatment with UDCA caused the proportion of all endogenous bile acids conjugated with glycine to increase to 69% to 78%, while the proportion conjugated with taurine (22%-31%) fell (P <.05). Administered UDCA was also conjugated predominantly with glycine (87%).  (+info)

Hepatic retransplantation in cholestatic liver disease: impact of the interval to retransplantation on survival and resource utilization. (8/900)

The aim of our study was to quantitatively assess the impact of hepatic retransplantation on patient and graft survival and resource utilization. We studied patients undergoing hepatic retransplantation among 447 transplant recipients with primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC) and primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) at 3 transplantation centers. Cox proportional hazards regression analysis was used for survival analysis. Measures of resource utilization included the duration of hospitalization, length of stay in the intensive care unit, and the duration of transplantation surgery. Forty-six (10.3%) patients received 2 or more grafts during the follow-up period (median, 2.8 years). Patients who underwent retransplantation had a 3.8-fold increase in the risk of death compared with those without retransplantation (P <.01). Retransplantation after an interval of greater than 30 days from the primary graft was associated with a 6.7-fold increase in the risk of death (P <.01). The survival following retransplantations performed 30 days or earlier was similar to primary transplantations. Resource utilization was higher in patients who underwent multiple consecutive transplantations, even after adjustment for the number of grafts during the hospitalization. Among cholestatic liver disease patients, poor survival following hepatic retransplantation is attributed to late retransplantations, namely those performed more than 30 days after the initial transplantation. While efforts must be made to improve the outcome following retransplantation, a more critical evaluation may be warranted for late retransplantation candidates.  (+info)

Liver cirrhosis is a chronic, progressive disease characterized by the replacement of normal liver tissue with scarred (fibrotic) tissue, leading to loss of function. The scarring is caused by long-term damage from various sources such as hepatitis, alcohol abuse, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, and other causes. As the disease advances, it can lead to complications like portal hypertension, fluid accumulation in the abdomen (ascites), impaired brain function (hepatic encephalopathy), and increased risk of liver cancer. It is generally irreversible, but early detection and treatment of underlying causes may help slow down its progression.

Alcoholic Liver Cirrhosis is a medical condition characterized by irreversible scarring (fibrosis) and damage to the liver caused by excessive consumption of alcohol over an extended period. The liver's normal structure and function are progressively impaired as healthy liver tissue is replaced by scarred tissue, leading to the formation of nodules (regenerative noduli).

The condition typically develops after years of heavy drinking, with a higher risk for those who consume more than 60 grams of pure alcohol daily. The damage caused by alcoholic liver cirrhosis can be life-threatening and may result in complications such as:

1. Ascites (accumulation of fluid in the abdomen)
2. Encephalopathy (neurological dysfunction due to liver failure)
3. Esophageal varices (dilated veins in the esophagus that can rupture and bleed)
4. Hepatorenal syndrome (kidney failure caused by liver disease)
5. Increased susceptibility to infections
6. Liver cancer (hepatocellular carcinoma)
7. Portal hypertension (increased blood pressure in the portal vein that supplies blood to the liver)

Abstaining from alcohol and managing underlying medical conditions are crucial for slowing down or halting disease progression. Treatment may involve medications, dietary changes, and supportive care to address complications. In severe cases, a liver transplant might be necessary.

Experimental liver cirrhosis refers to a controlled research setting where various factors and substances are intentionally introduced to induce liver cirrhosis in animals or cell cultures. The purpose is to study the mechanisms, progression, potential treatments, and prevention strategies for liver cirrhosis. This could involve administering chemicals, drugs, alcohol, viruses, or manipulating genes associated with liver damage and fibrosis. It's important to note that results from experimental models may not directly translate to human conditions, but they can provide valuable insights into disease pathophysiology and therapeutic development.

Biliary cirrhosis is a specific type of liver cirrhosis that results from chronic inflammation and scarring of the bile ducts, leading to impaired bile flow, liver damage, and fibrosis. It can be further classified into primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) and secondary biliary cirrhosis. PBC is an autoimmune disease, while secondary biliary cirrhosis is often associated with chronic gallstones, biliary tract obstruction, or recurrent pyogenic cholangitis. Symptoms may include fatigue, itching, jaundice, and abdominal discomfort. Diagnosis typically involves blood tests, imaging studies, and sometimes liver biopsy. Treatment focuses on managing symptoms, slowing disease progression, and preventing complications.

Liver neoplasms refer to abnormal growths in the liver that can be benign or malignant. Benign liver neoplasms are non-cancerous tumors that do not spread to other parts of the body, while malignant liver neoplasms are cancerous tumors that can invade and destroy surrounding tissue and spread to other organs.

Liver neoplasms can be primary, meaning they originate in the liver, or secondary, meaning they have metastasized (spread) to the liver from another part of the body. Primary liver neoplasms can be further classified into different types based on their cell of origin and behavior, including hepatocellular carcinoma, cholangiocarcinoma, and hepatic hemangioma.

The diagnosis of liver neoplasms typically involves a combination of imaging studies, such as ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI, and biopsy to confirm the type and stage of the tumor. Treatment options depend on the type and extent of the neoplasm and may include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or liver transplantation.

Liver diseases refer to a wide range of conditions that affect the normal functioning of the liver. The liver is a vital organ responsible for various critical functions such as detoxification, protein synthesis, and production of biochemicals necessary for digestion.

Liver diseases can be categorized into acute and chronic forms. Acute liver disease comes on rapidly and can be caused by factors like viral infections (hepatitis A, B, C, D, E), drug-induced liver injury, or exposure to toxic substances. Chronic liver disease develops slowly over time, often due to long-term exposure to harmful agents or inherent disorders of the liver.

Common examples of liver diseases include hepatitis, cirrhosis (scarring of the liver tissue), fatty liver disease, alcoholic liver disease, autoimmune liver diseases, genetic/hereditary liver disorders (like Wilson's disease and hemochromatosis), and liver cancers. Symptoms may vary widely depending on the type and stage of the disease but could include jaundice, abdominal pain, fatigue, loss of appetite, nausea, and weight loss.

Early diagnosis and treatment are essential to prevent progression and potential complications associated with liver diseases.

The liver is a large, solid organ located in the upper right portion of the abdomen, beneath the diaphragm and above the stomach. It plays a vital role in several bodily functions, including:

1. Metabolism: The liver helps to metabolize carbohydrates, fats, and proteins from the food we eat into energy and nutrients that our bodies can use.
2. Detoxification: The liver detoxifies harmful substances in the body by breaking them down into less toxic forms or excreting them through bile.
3. Synthesis: The liver synthesizes important proteins, such as albumin and clotting factors, that are necessary for proper bodily function.
4. Storage: The liver stores glucose, vitamins, and minerals that can be released when the body needs them.
5. Bile production: The liver produces bile, a digestive juice that helps to break down fats in the small intestine.
6. Immune function: The liver plays a role in the immune system by filtering out bacteria and other harmful substances from the blood.

Overall, the liver is an essential organ that plays a critical role in maintaining overall health and well-being.

Liver transplantation is a surgical procedure in which a diseased or failing liver is replaced with a healthy one from a deceased donor or, less commonly, a portion of a liver from a living donor. The goal of the procedure is to restore normal liver function and improve the patient's overall health and quality of life.

Liver transplantation may be recommended for individuals with end-stage liver disease, acute liver failure, certain genetic liver disorders, or liver cancers that cannot be treated effectively with other therapies. The procedure involves complex surgery to remove the diseased liver and implant the new one, followed by a period of recovery and close medical monitoring to ensure proper function and minimize the risk of complications.

The success of liver transplantation has improved significantly in recent years due to advances in surgical techniques, immunosuppressive medications, and post-transplant care. However, it remains a major operation with significant risks and challenges, including the need for lifelong immunosuppression to prevent rejection of the new liver, as well as potential complications such as infection, bleeding, and organ failure.

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common type of primary liver cancer in adults. It originates from the hepatocytes, which are the main functional cells of the liver. This type of cancer is often associated with chronic liver diseases such as cirrhosis caused by hepatitis B or C virus infection, alcohol abuse, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), and aflatoxin exposure.

The symptoms of HCC can vary but may include unexplained weight loss, lack of appetite, abdominal pain or swelling, jaundice, and fatigue. The diagnosis of HCC typically involves imaging tests such as ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI, as well as blood tests to measure alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) levels. Treatment options for Hepatocellular carcinoma depend on the stage and extent of the cancer, as well as the patient's overall health and liver function. Treatment options may include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, or liver transplantation.

Liver function tests (LFTs) are a group of blood tests that are used to assess the functioning and health of the liver. These tests measure the levels of various enzymes, proteins, and waste products that are produced or metabolized by the liver. Some common LFTs include:

1. Alanine aminotransferase (ALT): An enzyme found primarily in the liver, ALT is released into the bloodstream in response to liver cell damage. Elevated levels of ALT may indicate liver injury or disease.
2. Aspartate aminotransferase (AST): Another enzyme found in various tissues, including the liver, heart, and muscles. Like ALT, AST is released into the bloodstream following tissue damage. High AST levels can be a sign of liver damage or other medical conditions.
3. Alkaline phosphatase (ALP): An enzyme found in several organs, including the liver, bile ducts, and bones. Elevated ALP levels may indicate a blockage in the bile ducts, liver disease, or bone disorders.
4. Gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT): An enzyme found mainly in the liver, pancreas, and biliary system. Increased GGT levels can suggest liver disease, alcohol consumption, or the use of certain medications.
5. Bilirubin: A yellowish pigment produced when hemoglobin from red blood cells is broken down. Bilirubin is processed by the liver and excreted through bile. High bilirubin levels can indicate liver dysfunction, bile duct obstruction, or certain types of anemia.
6. Albumin: A protein produced by the liver that helps maintain fluid balance in the body and transports various substances in the blood. Low albumin levels may suggest liver damage, malnutrition, or kidney disease.
7. Total protein: A measure of all proteins present in the blood, including albumin and other types of proteins produced by the liver. Decreased total protein levels can indicate liver dysfunction or other medical conditions.

These tests are often ordered together as part of a routine health checkup or when evaluating symptoms related to liver function or disease. The results should be interpreted in conjunction with clinical findings, medical history, and other diagnostic tests.

Portal hypertension is a medical condition characterized by an increased pressure in the portal vein, which is the large blood vessel that carries blood from the intestines, spleen, and pancreas to the liver. Normal portal venous pressure is approximately 5-10 mmHg. Portal hypertension is defined as a portal venous pressure greater than 10 mmHg.

The most common cause of portal hypertension is cirrhosis of the liver, which leads to scarring and narrowing of the small blood vessels in the liver, resulting in increased resistance to blood flow. Other causes include blood clots in the portal vein, inflammation of the liver or bile ducts, and invasive tumors that block the flow of blood through the liver.

Portal hypertension can lead to a number of complications, including the development of abnormal blood vessels (varices) in the esophagus, stomach, and intestines, which are prone to bleeding. Ascites, or the accumulation of fluid in the abdominal cavity, is another common complication of portal hypertension. Other potential complications include encephalopathy, which is a condition characterized by confusion, disorientation, and other neurological symptoms, and an increased risk of bacterial infections.

Treatment of portal hypertension depends on the underlying cause and the severity of the condition. Medications to reduce pressure in the portal vein, such as beta blockers or nitrates, may be used. Endoscopic procedures to band or inject varices can help prevent bleeding. In severe cases, surgery or liver transplantation may be necessary.

Ascites is an abnormal accumulation of fluid in the peritoneal cavity, which is the space between the lining of the abdominal wall and the organs within it. This buildup of fluid can cause the belly to swell and become distended. Ascites can be caused by various medical conditions, including liver cirrhosis, cancer, heart failure, and kidney disease. The accumulation of fluid in the peritoneal cavity can lead to complications such as infection, reduced mobility, and difficulty breathing. Treatment for ascites depends on the underlying cause and may include diuretics, paracentesis (a procedure to remove excess fluid from the abdomen), or treatment of the underlying medical condition.

Hepatic encephalopathy (HE) is a neuropsychiatric syndrome associated with liver dysfunction and/or portosystemic shunting. It results from the accumulation of toxic substances, such as ammonia and inflammatory mediators, which are normally metabolized by the liver. HE can present with a wide range of symptoms, including changes in sleep-wake cycle, altered mental status, confusion, disorientation, asterixis (flapping tremor), and in severe cases, coma. The diagnosis is based on clinical evaluation, neuropsychological testing, and exclusion of other causes of cognitive impairment. Treatment typically involves addressing the underlying liver dysfunction, reducing ammonia production through dietary modifications and medications, and preventing further episodes with lactulose or rifaximin therapy.

Esophageal varices and gastric varices are abnormal, enlarged veins in the lower part of the esophagus (the tube that connects the throat to the stomach) and in the stomach lining, respectively. They occur as a result of increased pressure in the portal vein, which is the large blood vessel that carries blood from the digestive organs to the liver. This condition is known as portal hypertension.

Esophageal varices are more common than gastric varices and tend to be more symptomatic. They can cause bleeding, which can be life-threatening if not treated promptly. Gastric varices may also bleed, but they are often asymptomatic until they rupture.

The most common causes of esophageal and gastric varices are cirrhosis (scarring of the liver) and portal hypertension due to other liver diseases such as schistosomiasis or Budd-Chiari syndrome. Treatment options for esophageal and gastric varices include medications to reduce bleeding, endoscopic therapies to treat active bleeding or prevent recurrent bleeding, and surgical procedures to relieve portal hypertension.

Fatty liver, also known as hepatic steatosis, is a medical condition characterized by the abnormal accumulation of fat in the liver. The liver's primary function is to process nutrients, filter blood, and fight infections, among other tasks. When excess fat builds up in the liver cells, it can impair liver function and lead to inflammation, scarring, and even liver failure if left untreated.

Fatty liver can be caused by various factors, including alcohol consumption, obesity, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), viral hepatitis, and certain medications or medical conditions. NAFLD is the most common cause of fatty liver in the United States and other developed countries, affecting up to 25% of the population.

Symptoms of fatty liver may include fatigue, weakness, weight loss, loss of appetite, nausea, abdominal pain or discomfort, and jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes). However, many people with fatty liver do not experience any symptoms, making it essential to diagnose and manage the condition through regular check-ups and blood tests.

Treatment for fatty liver depends on the underlying cause. Lifestyle changes such as weight loss, exercise, and dietary modifications are often recommended for people with NAFLD or alcohol-related fatty liver disease. Medications may also be prescribed to manage related conditions such as diabetes, high cholesterol, or metabolic syndrome. In severe cases of liver damage, a liver transplant may be necessary.

Chronic hepatitis is a type of liver inflammation that lasts for more than six months and can lead to scarring of the liver (cirrhosis), liver failure, and even liver cancer in some cases. It can be caused by various factors, including viral infections such as Hepatitis B and C, autoimmune disorders, alcohol abuse, and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. The symptoms of chronic hepatitis may include fatigue, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, joint pain, dark urine, and jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes). Treatment for chronic hepatitis depends on the underlying cause and may include antiviral medications, immunosuppressive drugs, or lifestyle changes.

Liver regeneration is the ability of the liver to restore its original mass and function after injury or surgical resection. This complex process involves the proliferation and differentiation of mature hepatocytes, as well as the activation and transdifferentiation of various types of stem and progenitor cells located in the liver. The mechanisms that regulate liver regeneration include a variety of growth factors, hormones, and cytokines, which act in a coordinated manner to ensure the restoration of normal liver architecture and function. Liver regeneration is essential for the survival of individuals who have undergone partial hepatectomy or who have suffered liver damage due to various causes, such as viral hepatitis, alcohol abuse, or drug-induced liver injury.

Carbon tetrachloride is a colorless, heavy, and nonflammable liquid with a mild ether-like odor. Its chemical formula is CCl4. It was previously used as a solvent and refrigerant, but its use has been largely phased out due to its toxicity and ozone-depleting properties.

Inhalation, ingestion, or skin contact with carbon tetrachloride can cause harmful health effects. Short-term exposure can lead to symptoms such as dizziness, headache, nausea, and vomiting. Long-term exposure has been linked to liver and kidney damage, as well as an increased risk of cancer.

Carbon tetrachloride is also a potent greenhouse gas and contributes to climate change. Its production and use are regulated by international agreements aimed at protecting human health and the environment.

Hepatitis is a medical condition characterized by inflammation of the liver, often resulting in damage to liver cells. It can be caused by various factors, including viral infections (such as Hepatitis A, B, C, D, and E), alcohol abuse, toxins, medications, and autoimmune disorders. Symptoms may include jaundice, fatigue, abdominal pain, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, and dark urine. The severity of the disease can range from mild illness to severe, life-threatening conditions, such as liver failure or cirrhosis.

Liver circulation, also known as hepatic circulation, refers to the blood flow through the liver. The liver receives blood from two sources: the hepatic artery and the portal vein.

The hepatic artery delivers oxygenated blood from the heart to the liver, accounting for about 25% of the liver's blood supply. The remaining 75% comes from the portal vein, which carries nutrient-rich, deoxygenated blood from the gastrointestinal tract, spleen, pancreas, and gallbladder to the liver.

In the liver, these two sources of blood mix in the sinusoids, small vessels with large spaces between the endothelial cells that line them. This allows for efficient exchange of substances between the blood and the hepatocytes (liver cells). The blood then leaves the liver through the hepatic veins, which merge into the inferior vena cava and return the blood to the heart.

The unique dual blood supply and extensive sinusoidal network in the liver enable it to perform various critical functions, such as detoxification, metabolism, synthesis, storage, and secretion of numerous substances, maintaining body homeostasis.

Thioacetamide is not a medical term, but a chemical compound with the formula TAA or CH3CSNH2. It's used in research and industry, and can be harmful or fatal if swallowed, inhaled, or absorbed through the skin. It can cause damage to the eyes, skin, respiratory system, and digestive tract, and may be harmful to the liver and kidneys with long-term exposure.

However, in a medical context, thioacetamide is sometimes used as a laboratory animal model of hepatotoxicity (liver toxicity) because it can cause centrilobular necrosis (death of cells in the center of liver lobules) and other liver damage when given repeatedly in small doses.

Microsomes, liver refers to a subcellular fraction of liver cells (hepatocytes) that are obtained during tissue homogenization and subsequent centrifugation. These microsomal fractions are rich in membranous structures known as the endoplasmic reticulum (ER), particularly the rough ER. They are involved in various important cellular processes, most notably the metabolism of xenobiotics (foreign substances) including drugs, toxins, and carcinogens.

The liver microsomes contain a variety of enzymes, such as cytochrome P450 monooxygenases, that are crucial for phase I drug metabolism. These enzymes help in the oxidation, reduction, or hydrolysis of xenobiotics, making them more water-soluble and facilitating their excretion from the body. Additionally, liver microsomes also host other enzymes involved in phase II conjugation reactions, where the metabolites from phase I are further modified by adding polar molecules like glucuronic acid, sulfate, or acetyl groups.

In summary, liver microsomes are a subcellular fraction of liver cells that play a significant role in the metabolism and detoxification of xenobiotics, contributing to the overall protection and maintenance of cellular homeostasis within the body.

The portal vein is the large venous trunk that carries blood from the gastrointestinal tract, spleen, pancreas, and gallbladder to the liver. It is formed by the union of the superior mesenteric vein (draining the small intestine and a portion of the large intestine) and the splenic vein (draining the spleen and pancreas). The portal vein then divides into right and left branches within the liver, where the blood flows through the sinusoids and gets enriched with oxygen and nutrients before being drained by the hepatic veins into the inferior vena cava. This unique arrangement allows the liver to process and detoxify the absorbed nutrients, remove waste products, and regulate metabolic homeostasis.

A portal system in medicine refers to a venous system in which veins from various tissues or organs (known as tributaries) drain into a common large vessel (known as the portal vein), which then carries the blood to a specific organ for filtration and processing before it is returned to the systemic circulation. The most well-known example of a portal system is the hepatic portal system, where veins from the gastrointestinal tract, spleen, pancreas, and stomach merge into the portal vein and then transport blood to the liver for detoxification and nutrient processing. Other examples include the hypophyseal portal system, which connects the hypothalamus to the anterior pituitary gland, and the renal portal system found in some animals.

Alcoholic liver disease (ALD) is a term that encompasses a spectrum of liver disorders caused by excessive alcohol consumption. The three main stages of ALD are:

1. Fatty Liver: This is the earliest stage of ALD, characterized by the accumulation of fat droplets within liver cells (hepatocytes). It's often reversible with abstinence from alcohol.

2. Alcoholic Hepatitis: This is a more severe form of ALD, characterized by inflammation and damage to the liver cells. It can range from mild to severe, and severe cases can lead to liver failure. Symptoms may include jaundice, abdominal pain, and fever.

3. Cirrhosis: This is the most advanced stage of ALD, characterized by widespread scarring (fibrosis) and nodular transformation of the liver. It's irreversible and can lead to complications such as liver failure, portal hypertension, and increased risk of liver cancer.

The development and progression of ALD are influenced by various factors, including the amount and duration of alcohol consumption, genetic predisposition, nutritional status, and co-existing viral hepatitis or other liver diseases. Abstaining from alcohol is the most effective way to prevent and manage ALD.

Chronic Hepatitis C is a liver infection caused by the hepatitis C virus (HCV) that lasts for more than six months. This long-term infection can lead to scarring of the liver (cirrhosis), which can cause serious health problems, such as liver failure or liver cancer, in some individuals. The infection is usually asymptomatic until complications arise, but it can be detected through blood tests that identify antibodies to the virus or viral RNA. Chronic hepatitis C is typically managed with antiviral therapy, which can help clear the virus from the body and reduce the risk of liver damage.

Gastrointestinal (GI) hemorrhage is a term used to describe any bleeding that occurs in the gastrointestinal tract, which includes the esophagus, stomach, small intestine, large intestine, and rectum. The bleeding can range from mild to severe and can produce symptoms such as vomiting blood, passing black or tarry stools, or having low blood pressure.

GI hemorrhage can be classified as either upper or lower, depending on the location of the bleed. Upper GI hemorrhage refers to bleeding that occurs above the ligament of Treitz, which is a point in the small intestine where it becomes narrower and turns a corner. Common causes of upper GI hemorrhage include gastritis, ulcers, esophageal varices, and Mallory-Weiss tears.

Lower GI hemorrhage refers to bleeding that occurs below the ligament of Treitz. Common causes of lower GI hemorrhage include diverticulosis, colitis, inflammatory bowel disease, and vascular abnormalities such as angiodysplasia.

The diagnosis of GI hemorrhage is often made based on the patient's symptoms, medical history, physical examination, and diagnostic tests such as endoscopy, CT scan, or radionuclide scanning. Treatment depends on the severity and cause of the bleeding and may include medications, endoscopic procedures, surgery, or a combination of these approaches.

Alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) is a protein produced by the yolk sac and the liver during fetal development. In adults, AFP is normally present in very low levels in the blood. However, abnormal production of AFP can occur in certain medical conditions, such as:

* Liver cancer or hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC)
* Germ cell tumors, including non-seminomatous testicular cancer and ovarian cancer
* Hepatitis or liver inflammation
* Certain types of benign liver disease, such as cirrhosis or hepatic adenomas

Elevated levels of AFP in the blood can be detected through a simple blood test. This test is often used as a tumor marker to help diagnose and monitor certain types of cancer, particularly HCC. However, it's important to note that an elevated AFP level alone is not enough to diagnose cancer, and further testing is usually needed to confirm the diagnosis. Additionally, some non-cancerous conditions can also cause elevated AFP levels, so it's important to interpret the test results in the context of the individual's medical history and other diagnostic tests.

Portal pressure, also known as portal hypertension, refers to an increase in the pressure within the portal vein, which is the large blood vessel that carries blood from the gastrointestinal tract and spleen to the liver. Normal portal pressure is usually between 5-10 mmHg.

Portal hypertension can occur as a result of various conditions that cause obstruction or narrowing of the portal vein, or increased resistance to blood flow within the liver. This can lead to the development of collateral vessels, which are abnormal blood vessels that form to bypass the blocked or narrowed vessel, and can result in complications such as variceal bleeding, ascites, and encephalopathy.

The measurement of portal pressure is often used in the diagnosis and management of patients with liver disease and portal hypertension.

Drug-Induced Liver Injury (DILI) is a medical term that refers to liver damage or injury caused by the use of medications or drugs. This condition can vary in severity, from mild abnormalities in liver function tests to severe liver failure, which may require a liver transplant.

The exact mechanism of DILI can differ depending on the drug involved, but it generally occurs when the liver metabolizes the drug into toxic compounds that damage liver cells. This can happen through various pathways, including direct toxicity to liver cells, immune-mediated reactions, or metabolic idiosyncrasies.

Symptoms of DILI may include jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes), fatigue, abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, and dark urine. In severe cases, it can lead to complications such as ascites, encephalopathy, and bleeding disorders.

The diagnosis of DILI is often challenging because it requires the exclusion of other potential causes of liver injury. Liver function tests, imaging studies, and sometimes liver biopsies may be necessary to confirm the diagnosis. Treatment typically involves discontinuing the offending drug and providing supportive care until the liver recovers. In some cases, medications that protect the liver or promote its healing may be used.

Viral hepatitis in humans refers to inflammation of the liver caused by infection with viruses that primarily target the liver. There are five main types of human viral hepatitis, designated as Hepatitis A, B, C, D, and E virus (HAV, HBV, HCV, HDV, and HEV). These viruses can cause a range of illnesses, from acute self-limiting hepatitis to chronic hepatitis, which can lead to cirrhosis and liver cancer.

1. Hepatitis A virus (HAV) is typically spread through the fecal-oral route, often through contaminated food or water. It usually results in an acute self-limiting infection, but rarely can cause chronic hepatitis in individuals with weakened immune systems.
2. Hepatitis B virus (HBV) is primarily transmitted through contact with infected blood, semen, and other bodily fluids. It can lead to both acute and chronic hepatitis, which may result in cirrhosis and liver cancer if left untreated.
3. Hepatitis C virus (HCV) is predominantly spread through exposure to infected blood, such as through sharing needles or receiving contaminated blood transfusions. Chronic hepatitis C is common, and it can lead to serious liver complications like cirrhosis and liver cancer if not treated.
4. Hepatitis D virus (HDV) is an incomplete virus that requires the presence of HBV for its replication. HDV infection occurs only in individuals already infected with HBV, leading to more severe liver disease compared to HBV monoinfection.
5. Hepatitis E virus (HEV) is primarily transmitted through the fecal-oral route, often through contaminated food or water. It usually results in an acute self-limiting infection but can cause chronic hepatitis in pregnant women and individuals with weakened immune systems.

Prevention measures include vaccination for HAV and HBV, safe sex practices, avoiding sharing needles, and ensuring proper hygiene and sanitation to prevent fecal-oral transmission.

I'd be happy to help! However, I believe there might be a slight misunderstanding in your question. Mitochondria are organelles found in the cells of all complex living organisms, including humans, while the liver is a large, solid organ located in the upper right portion of the abdomen. They don't have a medical definition together. I can certainly provide you with separate definitions for each:

1. Mitochondria: These are double-membrane-bound cellular organelles that generate most of the chemical energy needed to power the cell's biochemical reactions. Commonly known as the "powerhouse of the cell," mitochondria convert organic substrates, such as glucose, fatty acids, and amino acids, into adenosine triphosphate (ATP) through a process called oxidative phosphorylation. Mitochondria are dynamic structures that can change their shape, size, and number through fission (division) and fusion (merging) processes. They play essential roles in various cellular functions, including calcium signaling, apoptosis (programmed cell death), and the regulation of cellular metabolism.

2. Liver: The liver is a large, lobulated organ that lies mainly in the upper right portion of the abdominal cavity, just below the diaphragm. It plays a crucial role in various physiological functions, such as detoxification, protein synthesis, metabolism, and nutrient storage. The liver is responsible for removing toxins from the bloodstream, producing bile to aid in digestion, regulating glucose levels, synthesizing plasma proteins, and storing glycogen, vitamins, and minerals. It also contributes to the metabolism of carbohydrates, lipids, and amino acids, helping maintain energy homeostasis in the body.

I hope this clarifies any confusion! If you have any further questions or need more information, please don't hesitate to ask.

Hepatitis B is a viral infection that attacks the liver and can cause both acute and chronic disease. The virus is transmitted through contact with infected blood, semen, and other bodily fluids. It can also be passed from an infected mother to her baby at birth.

Acute hepatitis B infection lasts for a few weeks to several months and often causes no symptoms. However, some people may experience mild to severe flu-like symptoms, yellowing of the skin and eyes (jaundice), dark urine, and fatigue. Most adults with acute hepatitis B recover completely and develop lifelong immunity to the virus.

Chronic hepatitis B infection can lead to serious liver damage, including cirrhosis and liver cancer. People with chronic hepatitis B may experience long-term symptoms such as fatigue, joint pain, and depression. They are also at risk for developing liver failure and liver cancer.

Prevention measures include vaccination, safe sex practices, avoiding sharing needles or other drug injection equipment, and covering wounds and skin rashes. There is no specific treatment for acute hepatitis B, but chronic hepatitis B can be treated with antiviral medications to slow the progression of liver damage.

Hydrothorax is a medical term that refers to the abnormal accumulation of serous fluid in the pleural space, which is the potential space between the lungs and the chest wall. This condition often results from various underlying pathological processes such as liver cirrhosis, heart failure, or kidney disease, where there is an imbalance in the body's fluid regulation leading to the accumulation of fluid in the pleural cavity. The presence of hydrothorax can cause respiratory distress and other symptoms related to lung function impairment.

Hepatectomy is a surgical procedure that involves the removal of part or all of the liver. This procedure can be performed for various reasons, such as removing cancerous or non-cancerous tumors, treating liver trauma, or donating a portion of the liver to another person in need of a transplant (live donor hepatectomy). The extent of the hepatectomy depends on the medical condition and overall health of the patient. It is a complex procedure that requires significant expertise and experience from the surgical team due to the liver's unique anatomy, blood supply, and regenerative capabilities.

Alanine transaminase (ALT) is a type of enzyme found primarily in the cells of the liver and, to a lesser extent, in the cells of other tissues such as the heart, muscles, and kidneys. Its primary function is to catalyze the reversible transfer of an amino group from alanine to another alpha-keto acid, usually pyruvate, to form pyruvate and another amino acid, usually glutamate. This process is known as the transamination reaction.

When liver cells are damaged or destroyed due to various reasons such as hepatitis, alcohol abuse, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, or drug-induced liver injury, ALT is released into the bloodstream. Therefore, measuring the level of ALT in the blood is a useful diagnostic tool for evaluating liver function and detecting liver damage. Normal ALT levels vary depending on the laboratory, but typically range from 7 to 56 units per liter (U/L) for men and 6 to 45 U/L for women. Elevated ALT levels may indicate liver injury or disease, although other factors such as muscle damage or heart disease can also cause elevations in ALT.

Chronic Hepatitis B is a persistent infection of the liver caused by the hepatitis B virus (HBV), which can lead to chronic inflammation and scarring of the liver over time. It is defined as the presence of hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) in the blood for more than six months.

The infection can be asymptomatic or may cause nonspecific symptoms such as fatigue, loss of appetite, nausea, and joint pain. A small percentage of people with chronic HBV infection may develop serious complications, including cirrhosis, liver failure, and liver cancer. Treatment options for chronic hepatitis B include antiviral medications that can help to suppress the virus and reduce the risk of liver damage. Vaccination is available to prevent hepatitis B infection.

Hepatitis C is a liver infection caused by the hepatitis C virus (HCV). It's primarily spread through contact with contaminated blood, often through sharing needles or other equipment to inject drugs. For some people, hepatitis C is a short-term illness but for most — about 75-85% — it becomes a long-term, chronic infection that can lead to serious health problems like liver damage, liver failure, and even liver cancer. The virus can infect and inflame the liver, causing symptoms like jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes), abdominal pain, fatigue, and dark urine. Many people with hepatitis C don't have any symptoms, so they might not know they have the infection until they experience complications. There are effective treatments available for hepatitis C, including antiviral medications that can cure the infection in most people. Regular testing is important to diagnose and treat hepatitis C early, before it causes serious health problems.

Paracentesis is a medical procedure in which a thin needle or catheter is inserted through the abdominal wall to remove excess fluid from the peritoneal cavity. This procedure is also known as abdominal tap or paracentesis aspiration. The fluid removed, called ascites, can be analyzed for infection, malignant cells, or other signs of disease. Paracentesis may be performed to relieve symptoms caused by the buildup of excess fluid in the abdomen, such as pain, difficulty breathing, or loss of appetite. It is commonly used to diagnose and manage conditions such as liver cirrhosis, cancer, heart failure, and kidney failure.

Hepatocytes are the predominant type of cells in the liver, accounting for about 80% of its cytoplasmic mass. They play a key role in protein synthesis, protein storage, transformation of carbohydrates, synthesis of cholesterol, bile salts and phospholipids, detoxification, modification, and excretion of exogenous and endogenous substances, initiation of formation and secretion of bile, and enzyme production. Hepatocytes are essential for the maintenance of homeostasis in the body.

Hepatorenal syndrome (HRS) is a serious complication that primarily affects people with advanced liver disease, particularly those with cirrhosis. It's characterized by functional renal failure in the absence of structural kidney damage. This means that the kidneys stop working properly, but if they were to be removed and examined, there would be no obvious physical reason for their failure.

The medical definition of hepatorenal syndrome includes specific diagnostic criteria:

1. Presence of liver cirrhosis or fulminant hepatic failure.
2. Evidence of impaired liver function, such as ascites (accumulation of fluid in the abdomen) and elevated levels of bilirubin in the blood.
3. Functional renal failure, defined as a serum creatinine level greater than 1.5 mg/dL or a doubling of the baseline creatinine to a level above 1.5 mg/dL in patients with previously normal renal function.
4. Absence of structural kidney damage, confirmed by a normal urinalysis (no protein or red blood cells in the urine), a high urine sodium concentration (greater than 10 mEq/L), and a low fractional excretion of sodium (less than 1%).
5. No alternative explanation for renal failure, such as sepsis, hypovolemia, or use of nephrotoxic medications.

Hepatorenal syndrome is further divided into two types:

- Type 1 HRS: This form is characterized by a rapid and severe decline in kidney function, with a doubling of the serum creatinine to a level greater than 2.5 mg/dL within two weeks. Type 1 HRS has a poor prognosis, with a median survival time of about two weeks if left untreated.
- Type 2 HRS: This form is characterized by a more gradual and modest decline in kidney function, with a serum creatinine level persistently above 1.5 mg/dL. Type 2 HRS has a better prognosis than type 1, but it still significantly worsens the overall survival of patients with liver cirrhosis.

Hepatorenal syndrome is a serious complication of liver cirrhosis and other forms of advanced liver disease. It requires prompt recognition and treatment to improve outcomes and prevent further deterioration of kidney function.

End-stage liver disease (ESLD) is a term used to describe advanced and irreversible liver damage, usually caused by chronic liver conditions such as cirrhosis, hepatitis, or alcoholic liver disease. At this stage, the liver can no longer function properly, leading to a range of serious complications.

The symptoms of ESLD may include:

* Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)
* Ascites (accumulation of fluid in the abdomen)
* Encephalopathy (confusion, drowsiness, or coma caused by the buildup of toxins in the brain)
* Bleeding from the gastrointestinal tract
* Infections
* Kidney failure

Treatment for ESLD typically focuses on managing symptoms and preventing complications. In some cases, a liver transplant may be necessary to improve survival. However, due to the shortage of available donor livers, many people with ESLD are not eligible for transplantation. The prognosis for individuals with ESLD is generally poor, with a median survival time of less than one year.

Acute liver failure is a sudden and severe loss of liver function that occurs within a few days or weeks. It can be caused by various factors such as drug-induced liver injury, viral hepatitis, or metabolic disorders. In acute liver failure, the liver cannot perform its vital functions, including protein synthesis, detoxification, and metabolism of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins.

The symptoms of acute liver failure include jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes), coagulopathy (bleeding disorders), hepatic encephalopathy (neurological symptoms such as confusion, disorientation, and coma), and elevated levels of liver enzymes in the blood. Acute liver failure is a medical emergency that requires immediate hospitalization and treatment, which may include medications, supportive care, and liver transplantation.

Hepacivirus is a genus of viruses in the family Flaviviridae. The most well-known member of this genus is Hepatitis C virus (HCV), which is a major cause of liver disease worldwide. HCV infection can lead to chronic hepatitis, cirrhosis, and liver cancer.

Hepaciviruses are enveloped viruses with a single-stranded, positive-sense RNA genome. They have a small icosahedral capsid and infect a variety of hosts, including humans, non-human primates, horses, and birds. The virus enters the host cell by binding to specific receptors on the cell surface and is then internalized through endocytosis.

HCV has a high degree of genetic diversity and is classified into seven major genotypes and numerous subtypes based on differences in its RNA sequence. This genetic variability can affect the virus's ability to evade the host immune response, making treatment more challenging.

In addition to HCV, other hepaciviruses have been identified in various animal species, including equine hepacivirus (EHCV), rodent hepacivirus (RHV), and bat hepacivirus (BtHepCV). These viruses are being studied to better understand the biology of hepaciviruses and their potential impact on human health.

The splenic vein is a large, thin-walled vein that carries oxygenated blood from the spleen and pancreas to the liver. It is formed by the union of several smaller veins that drain the upper part of the stomach, the pancreas, and the left side of the colon (splenic flexure). The splenic vein runs along the top border of the pancreas and merges with the superior mesenteric vein to form the portal vein. This venous system allows for the filtration and detoxification of blood by the liver before it is distributed to the rest of the body.

The hepatic veins are blood vessels that carry oxygen-depleted blood from the liver back to the heart. There are typically three major hepatic veins - right, middle, and left - that originate from the posterior aspect of the liver and drain into the inferior vena cava just below the diaphragm. These veins are responsible for returning the majority of the blood flow from the gastrointestinal tract and spleen to the heart. It's important to note that the hepatic veins do not have valves, which can make them susceptible to a condition called Budd-Chiari syndrome, where blood clots form in the veins and obstruct the flow of blood from the liver.

Experimental liver neoplasms refer to abnormal growths or tumors in the liver that are intentionally created or manipulated in a laboratory setting for the purpose of studying their development, progression, and potential treatment options. These experimental models can be established using various methods such as chemical induction, genetic modification, or transplantation of cancerous cells or tissues. The goal of this research is to advance our understanding of liver cancer biology and develop novel therapies for liver neoplasms in humans. It's important to note that these experiments are conducted under strict ethical guidelines and regulations to minimize harm and ensure the humane treatment of animals involved in such studies.

Retrospective studies, also known as retrospective research or looking back studies, are a type of observational study that examines data from the past to draw conclusions about possible causal relationships between risk factors and outcomes. In these studies, researchers analyze existing records, medical charts, or previously collected data to test a hypothesis or answer a specific research question.

Retrospective studies can be useful for generating hypotheses and identifying trends, but they have limitations compared to prospective studies, which follow participants forward in time from exposure to outcome. Retrospective studies are subject to biases such as recall bias, selection bias, and information bias, which can affect the validity of the results. Therefore, retrospective studies should be interpreted with caution and used primarily to generate hypotheses for further testing in prospective studies.

A liver abscess is a localized collection of pus within the liver tissue caused by an infection. It can result from various sources such as bacterial or amebic infections that spread through the bloodstream, bile ducts, or directly from nearby organs. The abscess may cause symptoms like fever, pain in the upper right abdomen, nausea, vomiting, and weight loss. If left untreated, a liver abscess can lead to serious complications, including sepsis and organ failure. Diagnosis typically involves imaging tests like ultrasound or CT scan, followed by drainage of the pus and antibiotic treatment.

Alcoholic hepatitis is a medical condition characterized by inflammation and damage to the liver caused by excessive alcohol consumption. It is a type of hepatitis that specifically results from alcohol abuse, rather than from viral infections or other causes. The condition can vary in severity, and long-term heavy drinking increases the risk of developing alcoholic hepatitis.

The inflammation in alcoholic hepatitis can lead to symptoms such as jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes), abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, and fever. In severe cases, it can cause liver failure, which may be life-threatening. Treatment typically involves alcohol abstinence, supportive care, and medications to manage symptoms and prevent further liver damage. In some cases, hospitalization and more intensive treatments may be necessary.

Bilirubin is a yellowish pigment that is produced by the liver when it breaks down old red blood cells. It is a normal byproduct of hemoglobin metabolism and is usually conjugated (made water-soluble) in the liver before being excreted through the bile into the digestive system. Elevated levels of bilirubin can cause jaundice, a yellowing of the skin and eyes. Increased bilirubin levels may indicate liver disease or other medical conditions such as gallstones or hemolysis. It is also measured to assess liver function and to help diagnose various liver disorders.

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) is a DNA virus that belongs to the Hepadnaviridae family and causes the infectious disease known as hepatitis B. This virus primarily targets the liver, where it can lead to inflammation and damage of the liver tissue. The infection can range from acute to chronic, with chronic hepatitis B increasing the risk of developing serious liver complications such as cirrhosis and liver cancer.

The Hepatitis B virus has a complex life cycle, involving both nuclear and cytoplasmic phases. It enters hepatocytes (liver cells) via binding to specific receptors and is taken up by endocytosis. The viral DNA is released into the nucleus, where it is converted into a covalently closed circular DNA (cccDNA) form, which serves as the template for viral transcription.

HBV transcribes several RNAs, including pregenomic RNA (pgRNA), which is used as a template for reverse transcription during virion assembly. The pgRNA is encapsidated into core particles along with the viral polymerase and undergoes reverse transcription to generate new viral DNA. This process occurs within the cytoplasm of the hepatocyte, resulting in the formation of immature virions containing partially double-stranded DNA.

These immature virions are then enveloped by host cell membranes containing HBV envelope proteins (known as surface antigens) to form mature virions that can be secreted from the hepatocyte and infect other cells. The virus can also integrate into the host genome, which may contribute to the development of hepatocellular carcinoma in chronic cases.

Hepatitis B is primarily transmitted through exposure to infected blood or bodily fluids containing the virus, such as through sexual contact, sharing needles, or from mother to child during childbirth. Prevention strategies include vaccination, safe sex practices, and avoiding needle-sharing behaviors. Treatment for hepatitis B typically involves antiviral medications that can help suppress viral replication and reduce the risk of liver damage.

Autoimmune hepatitis is a chronic (long-term) disease in which the body's immune system mistakenly attacks the liver, leading to inflammation and damage. This results in decreased liver function over time if not treated. The exact cause of autoimmune hepatitis is unknown, but it is believed to be associated with genetic factors and exposure to certain environmental triggers, such as viral infections or medications.

There are two main types of autoimmune hepatitis:

1. Type 1 (classic) autoimmune hepatitis: This form can affect both adults and children, and it is more common in women than men. People with this type may also have other autoimmune disorders, such as rheumatoid arthritis, thyroid disease, or ulcerative colitis.
2. Type 2 autoimmune hepatitis: This form primarily affects children and young women. It is less common than type 1 and tends to be more severe. People with this type may also have other autoimmune disorders, such as celiac disease or chronic candidiasis.

Symptoms of autoimmune hepatitis can vary widely, from mild to severe. They may include fatigue, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, joint pain, jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes), dark urine, and light-colored stools.

Diagnosis typically involves blood tests, imaging studies, and sometimes a liver biopsy to assess the extent of damage. Treatment usually includes medications that suppress the immune system, such as corticosteroids and immunosuppressants, which can help reduce inflammation and slow or stop liver damage. In some cases, lifestyle changes and supportive care may also be necessary.

A Severity of Illness Index is a measurement tool used in healthcare to assess the severity of a patient's condition and the risk of mortality or other adverse outcomes. These indices typically take into account various physiological and clinical variables, such as vital signs, laboratory values, and co-morbidities, to generate a score that reflects the patient's overall illness severity.

Examples of Severity of Illness Indices include the Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation (APACHE) system, the Simplified Acute Physiology Score (SAPS), and the Mortality Probability Model (MPM). These indices are often used in critical care settings to guide clinical decision-making, inform prognosis, and compare outcomes across different patient populations.

It is important to note that while these indices can provide valuable information about a patient's condition, they should not be used as the sole basis for clinical decision-making. Rather, they should be considered in conjunction with other factors, such as the patient's overall clinical presentation, treatment preferences, and goals of care.

Liver extracts are preparations made from animal livers, often from cows or pigs, that contain various nutrients, vitamins, and minerals found in liver tissue. They have been used historically in medicine as a source of nutrition and to treat certain medical conditions.

Liver extracts contain high levels of vitamin B12, iron, and other essential nutrients. They were once commonly prescribed to treat anemia, pernicious anemia (a type of anemia caused by vitamin B12 deficiency), and other conditions related to malnutrition. However, with the advent of more modern treatments and better methods for addressing nutritional deficiencies, liver extracts are less commonly used in modern medicine.

It's important to note that while liver extracts can be a good source of nutrition, they should not be used as a substitute for a balanced diet. Moreover, individuals with certain medical conditions, such as liver disease or hemochromatosis (a condition characterized by excessive iron absorption), should avoid liver extracts or use them only under the supervision of a healthcare provider.

Bile ducts are tubular structures that carry bile from the liver to the gallbladder for storage or directly to the small intestine to aid in digestion. There are two types of bile ducts: intrahepatic and extrahepatic. Intrahepatic bile ducts are located within the liver and drain bile from liver cells, while extrahepatic bile ducts are outside the liver and include the common hepatic duct, cystic duct, and common bile duct. These ducts can become obstructed or inflamed, leading to various medical conditions such as cholestasis, cholecystitis, and gallstones.

Liver failure is a serious condition in which the liver is no longer able to perform its normal functions, such as removing toxins and waste products from the blood, producing bile to help digest food, and regulating blood clotting. This can lead to a buildup of toxins in the body, jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes), fluid accumulation in the abdomen, and an increased risk of bleeding. Liver failure can be acute (sudden) or chronic (developing over time). Acute liver failure is often caused by medication toxicity, viral hepatitis, or other sudden illnesses. Chronic liver failure is most commonly caused by long-term damage from conditions such as cirrhosis, hepatitis, alcohol abuse, and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.

It's important to note that Liver Failure is a life threatening condition and need immediate medical attention.

Treatment outcome is a term used to describe the result or effect of medical treatment on a patient's health status. It can be measured in various ways, such as through symptoms improvement, disease remission, reduced disability, improved quality of life, or survival rates. The treatment outcome helps healthcare providers evaluate the effectiveness of a particular treatment plan and make informed decisions about future care. It is also used in clinical research to compare the efficacy of different treatments and improve patient care.

Carbon tetrachloride poisoning refers to the harmful effects on the body caused by exposure to carbon tetrachloride, a volatile and toxic chemical compound. This substance has been widely used in various industrial applications, such as a solvent for fats, oils, and rubber, a fire extinguishing agent, and a refrigerant. However, due to its high toxicity, the use of carbon tetrachloride has been significantly reduced or phased out in many countries.

Ingestion, inhalation, or skin absorption of carbon tetrachloride can lead to poisoning, which may cause various symptoms depending on the severity and duration of exposure. Acute exposure to high concentrations of carbon tetrachloride can result in:

1. Central nervous system depression: Dizziness, headache, confusion, drowsiness, and, in severe cases, loss of consciousness or even death.
2. Respiratory irritation: Coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, and pulmonary edema (fluid accumulation in the lungs).
3. Cardiovascular effects: Increased heart rate, low blood pressure, and irregular heart rhythms.
4. Gastrointestinal symptoms: Nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhea.
5. Liver damage: Hepatitis, jaundice, and liver failure in severe cases.
6. Kidney damage: Acute kidney injury or failure.

Chronic exposure to carbon tetrachloride can lead to long-term health effects, including:

1. Liver cirrhosis (scarring of the liver) and liver cancer.
2. Kidney damage and kidney disease.
3. Peripheral neuropathy (damage to the nerves in the limbs), causing numbness, tingling, or weakness.
4. Increased risk of miscarriage and birth defects in pregnant women exposed to carbon tetrachloride.

Treatment for carbon tetrachloride poisoning typically involves supportive care, such as oxygen therapy, fluid replacement, and monitoring of vital signs. In some cases, specific treatments like activated charcoal or gastric lavage may be used to remove the substance from the body. Prevention is crucial in minimizing exposure to this harmful chemical by following safety guidelines when handling it and using appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE).

In the field of medicine, "time factors" refer to the duration of symptoms or time elapsed since the onset of a medical condition, which can have significant implications for diagnosis and treatment. Understanding time factors is crucial in determining the progression of a disease, evaluating the effectiveness of treatments, and making critical decisions regarding patient care.

For example, in stroke management, "time is brain," meaning that rapid intervention within a specific time frame (usually within 4.5 hours) is essential to administering tissue plasminogen activator (tPA), a clot-busting drug that can minimize brain damage and improve patient outcomes. Similarly, in trauma care, the "golden hour" concept emphasizes the importance of providing definitive care within the first 60 minutes after injury to increase survival rates and reduce morbidity.

Time factors also play a role in monitoring the progression of chronic conditions like diabetes or heart disease, where regular follow-ups and assessments help determine appropriate treatment adjustments and prevent complications. In infectious diseases, time factors are crucial for initiating antibiotic therapy and identifying potential outbreaks to control their spread.

Overall, "time factors" encompass the significance of recognizing and acting promptly in various medical scenarios to optimize patient outcomes and provide effective care.

A case-control study is an observational research design used to identify risk factors or causes of a disease or health outcome. In this type of study, individuals with the disease or condition (cases) are compared with similar individuals who do not have the disease or condition (controls). The exposure history or other characteristics of interest are then compared between the two groups to determine if there is an association between the exposure and the disease.

Case-control studies are often used when it is not feasible or ethical to conduct a randomized controlled trial, as they can provide valuable insights into potential causes of diseases or health outcomes in a relatively short period of time and at a lower cost than other study designs. However, because case-control studies rely on retrospective data collection, they are subject to biases such as recall bias and selection bias, which can affect the validity of the results. Therefore, it is important to carefully design and conduct case-control studies to minimize these potential sources of bias.

Ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA) is a naturally occurring bile acid that is used medically as a therapeutic agent. It is commonly used to treat gallstones, particularly cholesterol gallstones, and other conditions associated with abnormal liver function, such as primary biliary cholangitis (PBC). UDCA works by decreasing the amount of cholesterol in bile and protecting liver cells from damage. It is also known as ursodiol or Ursotan.

Alcoholic pancreatitis is a specific type of pancreatitis, which is inflammation of the pancreas. This condition is caused by excessive and prolonged consumption of alcohol. The exact mechanism by which alcohol induces pancreatitis is not fully understood, but it is believed that alcohol causes damage to the cells of the pancreas, leading to inflammation. This can result in abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, fever, and increased heart rate. Chronic alcoholic pancreatitis can also lead to serious complications such as diabetes, malnutrition, and pancreatic cancer. Treatment typically involves supportive care, such as hydration, pain management, and nutritional support, along with abstinence from alcohol. In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to remove damaged tissue or to relieve blockages in the pancreas.

Cholestasis is a medical condition characterized by the interruption or reduction of bile flow from the liver to the small intestine. Bile is a digestive fluid produced by the liver that helps in the breakdown and absorption of fats. When the flow of bile is blocked or reduced, it can lead to an accumulation of bile components, such as bilirubin, in the blood, which can cause jaundice, itching, and other symptoms.

Cholestasis can be caused by various factors, including liver diseases (such as hepatitis, cirrhosis, or cancer), gallstones, alcohol abuse, certain medications, pregnancy, and genetic disorders. Depending on the underlying cause, cholestasis may be acute or chronic, and it can range from mild to severe in its symptoms and consequences. Treatment for cholestasis typically involves addressing the underlying cause and managing the symptoms with supportive care.

Hepatopulmonary syndrome (HPS) is a pulmonary vascular disorder characterized by the abnormal dilatation of the blood vessels in the lungs and intrapulmonary shunting, leading to hypoxemia (low levels of oxygen in the blood). This condition primarily affects individuals with liver diseases, particularly those with cirrhosis.

HPS is defined by the following triad of symptoms:

1. Liver dysfunction or portal hypertension
2. Intrapulmonary vascular dilatations
3. Hypoxemia (PaO2 ≤ 80 mmHg or alveolar-arterial oxygen gradient ≥ 15 mmHg in room air)

The pathophysiology of HPS involves the production and release of vasoactive substances from the liver, which cause dilation of the pulmonary vessels. This results in ventilation-perfusion mismatch and right-to-left shunting, leading to hypoxemia. Clinical manifestations include shortness of breath, platypnea (worsening dyspnea while in the upright position), orthodeoxia (decrease in oxygen saturation when changing from supine to upright position), digital clubbing, and cyanosis.

Diagnosis is confirmed through contrast-enhanced echocardiography or macroaggregated albumin lung scan, which demonstrates intrapulmonary shunting. Treatment of HPS primarily focuses on managing the underlying liver disease and improving hypoxemia with supplemental oxygen or other supportive measures. In some cases, liver transplantation may be considered as a definitive treatment option for both the liver disease and HPS.

A Transjugular Intrahepatic Portosystemic Shunt (TIPS) is a medical procedure that creates an alternative pathway for blood flow from the portal vein to the hepatic vein within the liver. This shunt is composed of a stent, which is a small metal tube that is inserted into the liver using a long needle that is passed through a vein in the neck (jugular vein).

TIPS is typically used to treat complications of portal hypertension, such as variceal bleeding, ascites, and hepatic hydrothorax. By creating a shunt that bypasses the liver, TIPS reduces the pressure in the portal vein, which can help to alleviate these symptoms. However, because the shunt allows blood to bypass the liver, it can also impair liver function and lead to other complications, such as hepatic encephalopathy.

It is important to note that TIPS is a complex procedure that should only be performed by experienced interventional radiologists in a hospital setting with appropriate medical backup and monitoring capabilities.

Elasticity imaging techniques are non-invasive medical diagnostic methods used to evaluate the stiffness or elasticity of various tissues in the body, such as organs, muscles, and breast tissue. These techniques can help detect and diagnose abnormalities, including tumors, lesions, and other conditions that may affect tissue stiffness.

There are several types of elasticity imaging techniques, including:

1. Ultrasound Elastography: This technique uses ultrasound waves to apply pressure to tissues and measure their deformation or strain. The degree of deformation is then used to calculate the stiffness of the tissue.
2. Magnetic Resonance Elastography (MRE): MRE uses magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to create images of tissue elasticity. A mechanical device is used to apply vibrations to the body, and the resulting motion is measured using MRI to determine tissue stiffness.
3. Shear Wave Elastography: This technique uses acoustic radiation force impulses to generate shear waves in tissues. The speed of these waves is then measured to calculate tissue stiffness.
4. Strain Imaging: This technique measures the amount of deformation or strain that occurs in tissues when they are compressed or stretched. It can be used to detect areas of increased stiffness, such as tumors or scar tissue.

Elasticity imaging techniques have several advantages over traditional diagnostic methods, including their non-invasive nature and ability to provide real-time images of tissue elasticity. They are also useful for monitoring changes in tissue stiffness over time, making them valuable tools for evaluating the effectiveness of treatments and monitoring disease progression.

A biological marker, often referred to as a biomarker, is a measurable indicator that reflects the presence or severity of a disease state, or a response to a therapeutic intervention. Biomarkers can be found in various materials such as blood, tissues, or bodily fluids, and they can take many forms, including molecular, histologic, radiographic, or physiological measurements.

In the context of medical research and clinical practice, biomarkers are used for a variety of purposes, such as:

1. Diagnosis: Biomarkers can help diagnose a disease by indicating the presence or absence of a particular condition. For example, prostate-specific antigen (PSA) is a biomarker used to detect prostate cancer.
2. Monitoring: Biomarkers can be used to monitor the progression or regression of a disease over time. For instance, hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) levels are monitored in diabetes patients to assess long-term blood glucose control.
3. Predicting: Biomarkers can help predict the likelihood of developing a particular disease or the risk of a negative outcome. For example, the presence of certain genetic mutations can indicate an increased risk for breast cancer.
4. Response to treatment: Biomarkers can be used to evaluate the effectiveness of a specific treatment by measuring changes in the biomarker levels before and after the intervention. This is particularly useful in personalized medicine, where treatments are tailored to individual patients based on their unique biomarker profiles.

It's important to note that for a biomarker to be considered clinically valid and useful, it must undergo rigorous validation through well-designed studies, including demonstrating sensitivity, specificity, reproducibility, and clinical relevance.

Melena is a medical term that refers to the passage of black, tarry stools. It's not a specific disease but rather a symptom caused by the presence of digested blood in the gastrointestinal tract. The dark color results from the breakdown of hemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells, by gut bacteria and stomach acids.

Melena stools are often associated with upper gastrointestinal bleeding, which can occur due to various reasons such as gastric ulcers, esophageal varices (dilated veins in the esophagus), Mallory-Weiss tears (tears in the lining of the esophagus or stomach), or tumors.

It is essential to differentiate melena from hematochezia, which refers to the passage of bright red blood in the stool, typically indicating lower gastrointestinal bleeding. A healthcare professional should evaluate any concerns related to changes in bowel movements, including the presence of melena or hematochezia.

A platelet count is a laboratory test that measures the number of platelets, also known as thrombocytes, in a sample of blood. Platelets are small, colorless cell fragments that circulate in the blood and play a crucial role in blood clotting. They help to stop bleeding by sticking together to form a plug at the site of an injured blood vessel.

A normal platelet count ranges from 150,000 to 450,000 platelets per microliter (µL) of blood. A lower than normal platelet count is called thrombocytopenia, while a higher than normal platelet count is known as thrombocytosis.

Abnormal platelet counts can be a sign of various medical conditions, including bleeding disorders, infections, certain medications, and some types of cancer. It is important to consult with a healthcare provider if you have any concerns about your platelet count or if you experience symptoms such as easy bruising, prolonged bleeding, or excessive menstrual flow.

A fatal outcome is a term used in medical context to describe a situation where a disease, injury, or illness results in the death of an individual. It is the most severe and unfortunate possible outcome of any medical condition, and is often used as a measure of the severity and prognosis of various diseases and injuries. In clinical trials and research, fatal outcome may be used as an endpoint to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of different treatments or interventions.

Medical Definition:

"Risk factors" are any attribute, characteristic or exposure of an individual that increases the likelihood of developing a disease or injury. They can be divided into modifiable and non-modifiable risk factors. Modifiable risk factors are those that can be changed through lifestyle choices or medical treatment, while non-modifiable risk factors are inherent traits such as age, gender, or genetic predisposition. Examples of modifiable risk factors include smoking, alcohol consumption, physical inactivity, and unhealthy diet, while non-modifiable risk factors include age, sex, and family history. It is important to note that having a risk factor does not guarantee that a person will develop the disease, but rather indicates an increased susceptibility.

"Wistar rats" are a strain of albino rats that are widely used in laboratory research. They were developed at the Wistar Institute in Philadelphia, USA, and were first introduced in 1906. Wistar rats are outbred, which means that they are genetically diverse and do not have a fixed set of genetic characteristics like inbred strains.

Wistar rats are commonly used as animal models in biomedical research because of their size, ease of handling, and relatively low cost. They are used in a wide range of research areas, including toxicology, pharmacology, nutrition, cancer, cardiovascular disease, and behavioral studies. Wistar rats are also used in safety testing of drugs, medical devices, and other products.

Wistar rats are typically larger than many other rat strains, with males weighing between 500-700 grams and females weighing between 250-350 grams. They have a lifespan of approximately 2-3 years. Wistar rats are also known for their docile and friendly nature, making them easy to handle and work with in the laboratory setting.

Lypressin is a synthetic analogue of a natural hormone called vasopressin, which is produced by the pituitary gland in the brain. The primary function of vasopressin, also known as antidiuretic hormone (ADH), is to regulate water balance in the body by controlling the amount of urine produced by the kidneys.

Lypressin has similar physiological effects to vasopressin and is used in medical treatments for conditions related to the regulation of water balance, such as diabetes insipidus. Diabetes insipidus is a condition characterized by excessive thirst and the production of large amounts of dilute urine due to a deficiency in vasopressin or an impaired response to it.

In summary, Lypressin is a synthetic form of vasopressin, a hormone that helps regulate water balance in the body by controlling urine production in the kidneys. It is used as a therapeutic agent for treating diabetes insipidus and related conditions.

Venous pressure is the pressure exerted on the walls of a vein, which varies depending on several factors such as the volume and flow of blood within the vein, the contractile state of the surrounding muscles, and the position of the body. In clinical settings, venous pressure is often measured in the extremities (e.g., arms or legs) to assess the functioning of the cardiovascular system.

Central venous pressure (CVP) is a specific type of venous pressure that refers to the pressure within the large veins that enter the right atrium of the heart. CVP is an important indicator of right heart function and fluid status, as it reflects the amount of blood returning to the heart and the ability of the heart to pump it forward. Normal CVP ranges from 0 to 8 mmHg (millimeters of mercury) in adults.

Elevated venous pressure can be caused by various conditions such as heart failure, obstruction of blood flow, or fluid overload, while low venous pressure may indicate dehydration or blood loss. Accurate measurement and interpretation of venous pressure require specialized equipment and knowledge, and are typically performed by healthcare professionals in a clinical setting.

A biopsy is a medical procedure in which a small sample of tissue is taken from the body to be examined under a microscope for the presence of disease. This can help doctors diagnose and monitor various medical conditions, such as cancer, infections, or autoimmune disorders. The type of biopsy performed will depend on the location and nature of the suspected condition. Some common types of biopsies include:

1. Incisional biopsy: In this procedure, a surgeon removes a piece of tissue from an abnormal area using a scalpel or other surgical instrument. This type of biopsy is often used when the lesion is too large to be removed entirely during the initial biopsy.

2. Excisional biopsy: An excisional biopsy involves removing the entire abnormal area, along with a margin of healthy tissue surrounding it. This technique is typically employed for smaller lesions or when cancer is suspected.

3. Needle biopsy: A needle biopsy uses a thin, hollow needle to extract cells or fluid from the body. There are two main types of needle biopsies: fine-needle aspiration (FNA) and core needle biopsy. FNA extracts loose cells, while a core needle biopsy removes a small piece of tissue.

4. Punch biopsy: In a punch biopsy, a round, sharp tool is used to remove a small cylindrical sample of skin tissue. This type of biopsy is often used for evaluating rashes or other skin abnormalities.

5. Shave biopsy: During a shave biopsy, a thin slice of tissue is removed from the surface of the skin using a sharp razor-like instrument. This technique is typically used for superficial lesions or growths on the skin.

After the biopsy sample has been collected, it is sent to a laboratory where a pathologist will examine the tissue under a microscope and provide a diagnosis based on their findings. The results of the biopsy can help guide further treatment decisions and determine the best course of action for managing the patient's condition.

A portosystemic shunt is a surgical procedure that creates a connection between the portal vein (the blood vessel that carries blood from the digestive organs to the liver) and another systemic vein (a vein that carries blood away from the liver). This procedure is typically performed in animals, particularly dogs, to treat conditions such as portal hypertension or liver disease.

In a surgical portosystemic shunt, the surgeon creates a connection between the portal vein and a systemic vein, allowing blood from the digestive organs to bypass the liver. This can help to reduce the pressure in the portal vein and improve blood flow to the liver. The specific type of shunt created and the surgical approach used may vary depending on the individual patient's needs and the surgeon's preference.

It is important to note that while a surgical portosystemic shunt can be an effective treatment for certain conditions, it is not without risks and potential complications. As with any surgical procedure, there is always a risk of infection, bleeding, or other complications. Additionally, the creation of a portosystemic shunt can have long-term effects on the liver and overall health of the patient. It is important for pet owners to carefully consider the risks and benefits of this procedure and to discuss any questions or concerns they may have with their veterinarian.

Antiviral agents are a class of medications that are designed to treat infections caused by viruses. Unlike antibiotics, which target bacteria, antiviral agents interfere with the replication and infection mechanisms of viruses, either by inhibiting their ability to replicate or by modulating the host's immune response to the virus.

Antiviral agents are used to treat a variety of viral infections, including influenza, herpes simplex virus (HSV) infections, human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection, hepatitis B and C, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infections.

These medications can be administered orally, intravenously, or topically, depending on the type of viral infection being treated. Some antiviral agents are also used for prophylaxis, or prevention, of certain viral infections.

It is important to note that antiviral agents are not effective against all types of viruses and may have significant side effects. Therefore, it is essential to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any antiviral therapy.

Disease progression is the worsening or advancement of a medical condition over time. It refers to the natural course of a disease, including its development, the severity of symptoms and complications, and the impact on the patient's overall health and quality of life. Understanding disease progression is important for developing appropriate treatment plans, monitoring response to therapy, and predicting outcomes.

The rate of disease progression can vary widely depending on the type of medical condition, individual patient factors, and the effectiveness of treatment. Some diseases may progress rapidly over a short period of time, while others may progress more slowly over many years. In some cases, disease progression may be slowed or even halted with appropriate medical interventions, while in other cases, the progression may be inevitable and irreversible.

In clinical practice, healthcare providers closely monitor disease progression through regular assessments, imaging studies, and laboratory tests. This information is used to guide treatment decisions and adjust care plans as needed to optimize patient outcomes and improve quality of life.

A chronic disease is a long-term medical condition that often progresses slowly over a period of years and requires ongoing management and care. These diseases are typically not fully curable, but symptoms can be managed to improve quality of life. Common chronic diseases include heart disease, stroke, cancer, diabetes, arthritis, and COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease). They are often associated with advanced age, although they can also affect children and younger adults. Chronic diseases can have significant impacts on individuals' physical, emotional, and social well-being, as well as on healthcare systems and society at large.

Aspartate aminotransferases (ASTs) are a group of enzymes found in various tissues throughout the body, including the heart, liver, and muscles. They play a crucial role in the metabolic process of transferring amino groups between different molecules.

In medical terms, AST is often used as a blood test to measure the level of this enzyme in the serum. Elevated levels of AST can indicate damage or injury to tissues that contain this enzyme, such as the liver or heart. For example, liver disease, including hepatitis and cirrhosis, can cause elevated AST levels due to damage to liver cells. Similarly, heart attacks can also result in increased AST levels due to damage to heart muscle tissue.

It is important to note that an AST test alone cannot diagnose a specific medical condition, but it can provide valuable information when used in conjunction with other diagnostic tests and clinical evaluation.

A Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) curve is a graphical representation used in medical decision-making and statistical analysis to illustrate the performance of a binary classifier system, such as a diagnostic test or a machine learning algorithm. It's a plot that shows the tradeoff between the true positive rate (sensitivity) and the false positive rate (1 - specificity) for different threshold settings.

The x-axis of an ROC curve represents the false positive rate (the proportion of negative cases incorrectly classified as positive), while the y-axis represents the true positive rate (the proportion of positive cases correctly classified as positive). Each point on the curve corresponds to a specific decision threshold, with higher points indicating better performance.

The area under the ROC curve (AUC) is a commonly used summary measure that reflects the overall performance of the classifier. An AUC value of 1 indicates perfect discrimination between positive and negative cases, while an AUC value of 0.5 suggests that the classifier performs no better than chance.

ROC curves are widely used in healthcare to evaluate diagnostic tests, predictive models, and screening tools for various medical conditions, helping clinicians make informed decisions about patient care based on the balance between sensitivity and specificity.

Cholagogues and choleretics are terms used to describe medications or substances that affect bile secretion and flow in the body. Here is a medical definition for each:

1. Cholagogue: A substance that promotes the discharge of bile from the gallbladder into the duodenum, often by stimulating the contraction of the gallbladder muscle. This helps in the digestion and absorption of fats. Examples include chenodeoxycholic acid, ursodeoxycholic acid, and some herbal remedies like dandelion root and milk thistle.
2. Choleretic: A substance that increases the production of bile by the liver or its flow through the biliary system. This can help with the digestion of fats and the elimination of waste products from the body. Examples include certain medications like ursodeoxycholic acid, as well as natural substances such as lemon juice, artichoke extract, and turmeric.

It is important to note that while cholagogues and choleretics can aid in digestion, they should be used under the guidance of a healthcare professional, as improper use or overuse may lead to complications like diarrhea or gallstone formation.

Hepatic stellate cells, also known as Ito cells or lipocytes, are specialized perisinusoidal cells located in the space of Disse in the liver. They play a crucial role in maintaining the normal architecture and function of the liver. In response to liver injury or disease, these cells can become activated and transform into myofibroblasts, which produce extracellular matrix components and contribute to fibrosis and scarring in the liver. This activation process is regulated by various signaling pathways and mediators, including cytokines, growth factors, and oxidative stress. Hepatic stellate cells also have the ability to store vitamin A and lipids, which they can release during activation to support hepatocyte function and regeneration.

Prognosis is a medical term that refers to the prediction of the likely outcome or course of a disease, including the chances of recovery or recurrence, based on the patient's symptoms, medical history, physical examination, and diagnostic tests. It is an important aspect of clinical decision-making and patient communication, as it helps doctors and patients make informed decisions about treatment options, set realistic expectations, and plan for future care.

Prognosis can be expressed in various ways, such as percentages, categories (e.g., good, fair, poor), or survival rates, depending on the nature of the disease and the available evidence. However, it is important to note that prognosis is not an exact science and may vary depending on individual factors, such as age, overall health status, and response to treatment. Therefore, it should be used as a guide rather than a definitive forecast.

Branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) are a group of three essential amino acids: leucine, isoleucine, and valine. They are called "branched-chain" because of their chemical structure, which has a side chain that branches off from the main part of the molecule.

BCAAs are essential because they cannot be produced by the human body and must be obtained through diet or supplementation. They are crucial for muscle growth and repair, and play a role in energy production during exercise. BCAAs are also important for maintaining proper immune function and can help to reduce muscle soreness and fatigue after exercise.

Foods that are good sources of BCAAs include meat, poultry, fish, eggs, dairy products, and legumes. BCAAs are also available as dietary supplements, which are often used by athletes and bodybuilders to enhance muscle growth and recovery. However, it is important to note that excessive intake of BCAAs may have adverse effects on liver function and insulin sensitivity, so it is recommended to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen.

Follow-up studies are a type of longitudinal research that involve repeated observations or measurements of the same variables over a period of time, in order to understand their long-term effects or outcomes. In medical context, follow-up studies are often used to evaluate the safety and efficacy of medical treatments, interventions, or procedures.

In a typical follow-up study, a group of individuals (called a cohort) who have received a particular treatment or intervention are identified and then followed over time through periodic assessments or data collection. The data collected may include information on clinical outcomes, adverse events, changes in symptoms or functional status, and other relevant measures.

The results of follow-up studies can provide important insights into the long-term benefits and risks of medical interventions, as well as help to identify factors that may influence treatment effectiveness or patient outcomes. However, it is important to note that follow-up studies can be subject to various biases and limitations, such as loss to follow-up, recall bias, and changes in clinical practice over time, which must be carefully considered when interpreting the results.

The hepatic artery is a branch of the celiac trunk or abdominal aorta that supplies oxygenated blood to the liver. It typically divides into two main branches, the right and left hepatic arteries, which further divide into smaller vessels to supply different regions of the liver. The hepatic artery also gives off branches to supply other organs such as the gallbladder, pancreas, and duodenum.

It's worth noting that there is significant variability in the anatomy of the hepatic artery, with some individuals having additional branches or variations in the origin of the vessel. This variability can have implications for surgical procedures involving the liver and surrounding organs.

Prothrombin time (PT) is a medical laboratory test that measures the time it takes for blood to clot. It's often used to evaluate the functioning of the extrinsic and common pathways of the coagulation system, which is responsible for blood clotting. Specifically, PT measures how long it takes for prothrombin (a protein produced by the liver) to be converted into thrombin, an enzyme that converts fibrinogen into fibrin and helps form a clot.

Prolonged PT may indicate a bleeding disorder or a deficiency in coagulation factors, such as vitamin K deficiency or the use of anticoagulant medications like warfarin. It's important to note that PT is often reported with an international normalized ratio (INR), which allows for standardization and comparison of results across different laboratories and reagent types.

Sprague-Dawley rats are a strain of albino laboratory rats that are widely used in scientific research. They were first developed by researchers H.H. Sprague and R.C. Dawley in the early 20th century, and have since become one of the most commonly used rat strains in biomedical research due to their relatively large size, ease of handling, and consistent genetic background.

Sprague-Dawley rats are outbred, which means that they are genetically diverse and do not suffer from the same limitations as inbred strains, which can have reduced fertility and increased susceptibility to certain diseases. They are also characterized by their docile nature and low levels of aggression, making them easier to handle and study than some other rat strains.

These rats are used in a wide variety of research areas, including toxicology, pharmacology, nutrition, cancer, and behavioral studies. Because they are genetically diverse, Sprague-Dawley rats can be used to model a range of human diseases and conditions, making them an important tool in the development of new drugs and therapies.

Prospective studies, also known as longitudinal studies, are a type of cohort study in which data is collected forward in time, following a group of individuals who share a common characteristic or exposure over a period of time. The researchers clearly define the study population and exposure of interest at the beginning of the study and follow up with the participants to determine the outcomes that develop over time. This type of study design allows for the investigation of causal relationships between exposures and outcomes, as well as the identification of risk factors and the estimation of disease incidence rates. Prospective studies are particularly useful in epidemiology and medical research when studying diseases with long latency periods or rare outcomes.

Hepatitis B Surface Antigens (HBsAg) are proteins found on the surface of the Hepatitis B virus. They are present in the blood of individuals infected with the Hepatitis B virus and are used as a marker for the presence of a current Hepatitis B infection. The detection of HBsAg in the blood indicates that an individual is infectious and can transmit the virus to others. It is typically used in diagnostic tests to detect and diagnose Hepatitis B infections, monitor treatment response, and assess the risk of transmission.

Messenger RNA (mRNA) is a type of RNA (ribonucleic acid) that carries genetic information copied from DNA in the form of a series of three-base code "words," each of which specifies a particular amino acid. This information is used by the cell's machinery to construct proteins, a process known as translation. After being transcribed from DNA, mRNA travels out of the nucleus to the ribosomes in the cytoplasm where protein synthesis occurs. Once the protein has been synthesized, the mRNA may be degraded and recycled. Post-transcriptional modifications can also occur to mRNA, such as alternative splicing and addition of a 5' cap and a poly(A) tail, which can affect its stability, localization, and translation efficiency.

The Predictive Value of Tests, specifically the Positive Predictive Value (PPV) and Negative Predictive Value (NPV), are measures used in diagnostic tests to determine the probability that a positive or negative test result is correct.

Positive Predictive Value (PPV) is the proportion of patients with a positive test result who actually have the disease. It is calculated as the number of true positives divided by the total number of positive results (true positives + false positives). A higher PPV indicates that a positive test result is more likely to be a true positive, and therefore the disease is more likely to be present.

Negative Predictive Value (NPV) is the proportion of patients with a negative test result who do not have the disease. It is calculated as the number of true negatives divided by the total number of negative results (true negatives + false negatives). A higher NPV indicates that a negative test result is more likely to be a true negative, and therefore the disease is less likely to be present.

The predictive value of tests depends on the prevalence of the disease in the population being tested, as well as the sensitivity and specificity of the test. A test with high sensitivity and specificity will generally have higher predictive values than a test with low sensitivity and specificity. However, even a highly sensitive and specific test can have low predictive values if the prevalence of the disease is low in the population being tested.

Hepatomegaly is a medical term that refers to an enlargement of the liver beyond its normal size. The liver is usually located in the upper right quadrant of the abdomen and can be felt during a physical examination. A healthcare provider may detect hepatomegaly by palpating (examining through touch) the abdomen, noticing that the edge of the liver extends past the lower ribcage.

There are several possible causes for hepatomegaly, including:
- Fatty liver disease (both alcoholic and nonalcoholic)
- Hepatitis (viral or autoimmune)
- Liver cirrhosis
- Cancer (such as primary liver cancer, metastatic cancer, or lymphoma)
- Infections (e.g., bacterial, fungal, or parasitic)
- Heart failure and other cardiovascular conditions
- Genetic disorders (e.g., Gaucher's disease, Niemann-Pick disease, or Hunter syndrome)
- Metabolic disorders (e.g., glycogen storage diseases, hemochromatosis, or Wilson's disease)

Diagnosing the underlying cause of hepatomegaly typically involves a combination of medical history, physical examination, laboratory tests, and imaging studies like ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI. Treatment depends on the specific cause identified and may include medications, lifestyle changes, or, in some cases, surgical intervention.

Ligation, in the context of medical terminology, refers to the process of tying off a part of the body, usually blood vessels or tissue, with a surgical suture or another device. The goal is to stop the flow of fluids such as blood or other substances within the body. It is commonly used during surgeries to control bleeding or to block the passage of fluids, gases, or solids in various parts of the body.

A splenectomy is a surgical procedure in which the spleen is removed from the body. The spleen is an organ located in the upper left quadrant of the abdomen, near the stomach and behind the ribs. It plays several important roles in the body, including fighting certain types of infections, removing old or damaged red blood cells from the circulation, and storing platelets and white blood cells.

There are several reasons why a splenectomy may be necessary, including:

* Trauma to the spleen that cannot be repaired
* Certain types of cancer, such as Hodgkin's lymphoma or non-Hodgkin's lymphoma
* Sickle cell disease, which can cause the spleen to enlarge and become damaged
* A ruptured spleen, which can be life-threatening if not treated promptly
* Certain blood disorders, such as idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP) or hemolytic anemia

A splenectomy is typically performed under general anesthesia and may be done using open surgery or laparoscopically. After the spleen is removed, the incision(s) are closed with sutures or staples. Recovery time varies depending on the individual and the type of surgery performed, but most people are able to return to their normal activities within a few weeks.

It's important to note that following a splenectomy, individuals may be at increased risk for certain types of infections, so it's recommended that they receive vaccinations to help protect against these infections. They should also seek medical attention promptly if they develop fever, chills, or other signs of infection.

Serum albumin is the most abundant protein in human blood plasma, synthesized by the liver. It plays a crucial role in maintaining the oncotic pressure or colloid osmotic pressure of blood, which helps to regulate the fluid balance between the intravascular and extravascular spaces.

Serum albumin has a molecular weight of around 66 kDa and is composed of a single polypeptide chain. It contains several binding sites for various endogenous and exogenous substances, such as bilirubin, fatty acids, hormones, and drugs, facilitating their transport throughout the body. Additionally, albumin possesses antioxidant properties, protecting against oxidative damage.

Albumin levels in the blood are often used as a clinical indicator of liver function, nutritional status, and overall health. Low serum albumin levels may suggest liver disease, malnutrition, inflammation, or kidney dysfunction.

Sclerotherapy is a medical procedure used to treat varicose veins and spider veins. It involves the injection of a solution (called a sclerosant) directly into the affected vein, which causes the vein to collapse and eventually fade away. The sclerosant works by irritating the lining of the vein, causing it to swell and stick together, which then leads to clotting and the eventual reabsorption of the vein by the body.

The procedure is typically performed in a doctor's office or outpatient setting and may require multiple sessions depending on the severity and number of veins being treated. Common side effects include bruising, swelling, and discomfort at the injection site, as well as the possibility of developing brownish pigmentation or small ulcers near the treatment area. However, these side effects are usually temporary and resolve on their own within a few weeks.

Sclerotherapy is considered a safe and effective treatment for varicose veins and spider veins, with high success rates and low complication rates. It is important to note that while sclerotherapy can improve the appearance of affected veins, it does not prevent new veins from developing in the future.

Intrahepatic bile ducts are the small tubular structures inside the liver that collect bile from the liver cells (hepatocytes). Bile is a digestive fluid produced by the liver that helps in the absorption of fats and fat-soluble vitamins from food. The intrahepatic bile ducts merge to form larger ducts, which eventually exit the liver and join with the cystic duct from the gallbladder to form the common bile duct. The common bile duct then empties into the duodenum, the first part of the small intestine, where bile aids in digestion. Intrahepatic bile ducts can become obstructed or damaged due to various conditions such as gallstones, tumors, or inflammation, leading to complications like jaundice, liver damage, and infection.

Fibrosis is a pathological process characterized by the excessive accumulation and/or altered deposition of extracellular matrix components, particularly collagen, in various tissues and organs. This results in the formation of fibrous scar tissue that can impair organ function and structure. Fibrosis can occur as a result of chronic inflammation, tissue injury, or abnormal repair mechanisms, and it is a common feature of many diseases, including liver cirrhosis, lung fibrosis, heart failure, and kidney disease.

In medical terms, fibrosis is defined as:

"The process of producing scar tissue (consisting of collagen) in response to injury or chronic inflammation in normal connective tissue. This can lead to the thickening and stiffening of affected tissues and organs, impairing their function."

Peritonitis is a medical condition characterized by inflammation of the peritoneum, which is the serous membrane that lines the inner wall of the abdominal cavity and covers the abdominal organs. The peritoneum has an important role in protecting the abdominal organs and providing a smooth surface for them to move against each other.

Peritonitis can occur as a result of bacterial or fungal infection, chemical irritation, or trauma to the abdomen. The most common cause of peritonitis is a rupture or perforation of an organ in the abdominal cavity, such as the appendix, stomach, or intestines, which allows bacteria from the gut to enter the peritoneal cavity.

Symptoms of peritonitis may include abdominal pain and tenderness, fever, nausea and vomiting, loss of appetite, and decreased bowel movements. In severe cases, peritonitis can lead to sepsis, a life-threatening condition characterized by widespread inflammation throughout the body.

Treatment for peritonitis typically involves antibiotics to treat the infection, as well as surgical intervention to repair any damage to the abdominal organs and remove any infected fluid or tissue from the peritoneal cavity. In some cases, a temporary or permanent drain may be placed in the abdomen to help remove excess fluid and promote healing.

I'm sorry for any confusion, but "Taiwan" is not a medical term or concept. It is the name of an island nation located in East Asia. The official name of the country is the Republic of China (ROC). If you have any medical questions or inquiries, I would be happy to help answer those for you!

Sensitivity and specificity are statistical measures used to describe the performance of a diagnostic test or screening tool in identifying true positive and true negative results.

* Sensitivity refers to the proportion of people who have a particular condition (true positives) who are correctly identified by the test. It is also known as the "true positive rate" or "recall." A highly sensitive test will identify most or all of the people with the condition, but may also produce more false positives.
* Specificity refers to the proportion of people who do not have a particular condition (true negatives) who are correctly identified by the test. It is also known as the "true negative rate." A highly specific test will identify most or all of the people without the condition, but may also produce more false negatives.

In medical testing, both sensitivity and specificity are important considerations when evaluating a diagnostic test. High sensitivity is desirable for screening tests that aim to identify as many cases of a condition as possible, while high specificity is desirable for confirmatory tests that aim to rule out the condition in people who do not have it.

It's worth noting that sensitivity and specificity are often influenced by factors such as the prevalence of the condition in the population being tested, the threshold used to define a positive result, and the reliability and validity of the test itself. Therefore, it's important to consider these factors when interpreting the results of a diagnostic test.

The common bile duct is a duct that results from the union of the cystic duct (which drains bile from the gallbladder) and the common hepatic duct (which drains bile from the liver). The common bile duct transports bile, a digestive enzyme, from the liver and gallbladder to the duodenum, which is the first part of the small intestine.

The common bile duct runs through the head of the pancreas before emptying into the second part of the duodenum, either alone or in conjunction with the pancreatic duct, via a small opening called the ampulla of Vater. The common bile duct plays a crucial role in the digestion of fats by helping to break them down into smaller molecules that can be absorbed by the body.

X-ray computed tomography (CT or CAT scan) is a medical imaging method that uses computer-processed combinations of many X-ray images taken from different angles to produce cross-sectional (tomographic) images (virtual "slices") of the body. These cross-sectional images can then be used to display detailed internal views of organs, bones, and soft tissues in the body.

The term "computed tomography" is used instead of "CT scan" or "CAT scan" because the machines take a series of X-ray measurements from different angles around the body and then use a computer to process these data to create detailed images of internal structures within the body.

CT scanning is a noninvasive, painless medical test that helps physicians diagnose and treat medical conditions. CT imaging provides detailed information about many types of tissue including lung, bone, soft tissue and blood vessels. CT examinations can be performed on every part of the body for a variety of reasons including diagnosis, surgical planning, and monitoring of therapeutic responses.

In computed tomography (CT), an X-ray source and detector rotate around the patient, measuring the X-ray attenuation at many different angles. A computer uses this data to construct a cross-sectional image by the process of reconstruction. This technique is called "tomography". The term "computed" refers to the use of a computer to reconstruct the images.

CT has become an important tool in medical imaging and diagnosis, allowing radiologists and other physicians to view detailed internal images of the body. It can help identify many different medical conditions including cancer, heart disease, lung nodules, liver tumors, and internal injuries from trauma. CT is also commonly used for guiding biopsies and other minimally invasive procedures.

In summary, X-ray computed tomography (CT or CAT scan) is a medical imaging technique that uses computer-processed combinations of many X-ray images taken from different angles to produce cross-sectional images of the body. It provides detailed internal views of organs, bones, and soft tissues in the body, allowing physicians to diagnose and treat medical conditions.

Bacterial translocation is a medical condition that refers to the migration and establishment of bacteria from the gastrointestinal tract to normally sterile sites inside the body, such as the mesenteric lymph nodes, bloodstream, or other organs. This phenomenon is most commonly associated with impaired intestinal barrier function, which can occur in various clinical settings, including severe trauma, burns, sepsis, major surgery, and certain gastrointestinal diseases like inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and liver cirrhosis.

The translocation of bacteria from the gut to other sites can lead to systemic inflammation, sepsis, and multiple organ dysfunction syndrome (MODS), which can be life-threatening in severe cases. The underlying mechanisms of bacterial translocation are complex and involve several factors, such as changes in gut microbiota, increased intestinal permeability, impaired immune function, and altered intestinal motility.

Preventing bacterial translocation is an important goal in the management of patients at risk for this condition, and strategies may include optimizing nutritional support, maintaining adequate fluid and electrolyte balance, using probiotics or antibiotics to modulate gut microbiota, and promoting intestinal barrier function through various pharmacological interventions.

A kidney, in medical terms, is one of two bean-shaped organs located in the lower back region of the body. They are essential for maintaining homeostasis within the body by performing several crucial functions such as:

1. Regulation of water and electrolyte balance: Kidneys help regulate the amount of water and various electrolytes like sodium, potassium, and calcium in the bloodstream to maintain a stable internal environment.

2. Excretion of waste products: They filter waste products from the blood, including urea (a byproduct of protein metabolism), creatinine (a breakdown product of muscle tissue), and other harmful substances that result from normal cellular functions or external sources like medications and toxins.

3. Endocrine function: Kidneys produce several hormones with important roles in the body, such as erythropoietin (stimulates red blood cell production), renin (regulates blood pressure), and calcitriol (activated form of vitamin D that helps regulate calcium homeostasis).

4. pH balance regulation: Kidneys maintain the proper acid-base balance in the body by excreting either hydrogen ions or bicarbonate ions, depending on whether the blood is too acidic or too alkaline.

5. Blood pressure control: The kidneys play a significant role in regulating blood pressure through the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS), which constricts blood vessels and promotes sodium and water retention to increase blood volume and, consequently, blood pressure.

Anatomically, each kidney is approximately 10-12 cm long, 5-7 cm wide, and 3 cm thick, with a weight of about 120-170 grams. They are surrounded by a protective layer of fat and connected to the urinary system through the renal pelvis, ureters, bladder, and urethra.

Alcoholism is a chronic and often relapsing brain disorder characterized by the excessive and compulsive consumption of alcohol despite negative consequences to one's health, relationships, and daily life. It is also commonly referred to as alcohol use disorder (AUD) or alcohol dependence.

The diagnostic criteria for AUD include a pattern of alcohol use that includes problems controlling intake, continued use despite problems resulting from drinking, development of a tolerance, drinking that leads to risky behaviors or situations, and withdrawal symptoms when not drinking.

Alcoholism can cause a wide range of physical and psychological health problems, including liver disease, heart disease, neurological damage, mental health disorders, and increased risk of accidents and injuries. Treatment for alcoholism typically involves a combination of behavioral therapies, medications, and support groups to help individuals achieve and maintain sobriety.

Gamma-glutamyltransferase (GGT), also known as gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase, is an enzyme found in many tissues, including the liver, bile ducts, and pancreas. GGT is involved in the metabolism of certain amino acids and plays a role in the detoxification of various substances in the body.

GGT is often measured as a part of a panel of tests used to evaluate liver function. Elevated levels of GGT in the blood may indicate liver disease or injury, bile duct obstruction, or alcohol consumption. However, it's important to note that several other factors can also affect GGT levels, so abnormal results should be interpreted in conjunction with other clinical findings and diagnostic tests.

Animal disease models are specialized animals, typically rodents such as mice or rats, that have been genetically engineered or exposed to certain conditions to develop symptoms and physiological changes similar to those seen in human diseases. These models are used in medical research to study the pathophysiology of diseases, identify potential therapeutic targets, test drug efficacy and safety, and understand disease mechanisms.

The genetic modifications can include knockout or knock-in mutations, transgenic expression of specific genes, or RNA interference techniques. The animals may also be exposed to environmental factors such as chemicals, radiation, or infectious agents to induce the disease state.

Examples of animal disease models include:

1. Mouse models of cancer: Genetically engineered mice that develop various types of tumors, allowing researchers to study cancer initiation, progression, and metastasis.
2. Alzheimer's disease models: Transgenic mice expressing mutant human genes associated with Alzheimer's disease, which exhibit amyloid plaque formation and cognitive decline.
3. Diabetes models: Obese and diabetic mouse strains like the NOD (non-obese diabetic) or db/db mice, used to study the development of type 1 and type 2 diabetes, respectively.
4. Cardiovascular disease models: Atherosclerosis-prone mice, such as ApoE-deficient or LDLR-deficient mice, that develop plaque buildup in their arteries when fed a high-fat diet.
5. Inflammatory bowel disease models: Mice with genetic mutations affecting intestinal barrier function and immune response, such as IL-10 knockout or SAMP1/YitFc mice, which develop colitis.

Animal disease models are essential tools in preclinical research, but it is important to recognize their limitations. Differences between species can affect the translatability of results from animal studies to human patients. Therefore, researchers must carefully consider the choice of model and interpret findings cautiously when applying them to human diseases.

Kupffer cells are specialized macrophages that reside in the liver, particularly in the sinusoids of the liver's blood circulation system. They play a crucial role in the immune system by engulfing and destroying bacteria, microorganisms, and other particles that enter the liver via the portal vein. Kupffer cells also contribute to the clearance of damaged red blood cells, iron metabolism, and the regulation of inflammation in the liver. They are named after the German pathologist Karl Wilhelm von Kupffer who first described them in 1876.

I am not aware of any medical definition for the term "Egypt." Egypt is a country located in the northeastern corner of Africa, known for its rich history and cultural heritage. It is home to various ancient artifacts and monuments, including the Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx.

If you have any specific medical or health-related questions related to Egypt, such as information about diseases prevalent in the country or healthcare practices there, I would be happy to try to help answer those for you.

Indocyanine green (ICG) is a sterile, water-soluble, tricarbocyanine dye that is used as a diagnostic agent in medical imaging. It is primarily used in ophthalmology for fluorescein angiography to examine blood flow in the retina and choroid, and in cardiac surgery to assess cardiac output and perfusion. When injected into the body, ICG binds to plasma proteins and fluoresces when exposed to near-infrared light, allowing for visualization of various tissues and structures. It is excreted primarily by the liver and has a half-life of approximately 3-4 minutes in the bloodstream.

An artificial liver is not a actual organ replacement but a device designed to perform some of the functions of a liver in patients with liver failure. These devices can be divided into two types: bioartificial and non-bioartificial. Non-bioartificial devices, such as hemodialysis machines and molecular adsorbent recirculating system (MARS), use physical and chemical processes to remove toxins from the blood. Bioartificial livers, on the other hand, contain living cells, usually hepatocytes, which can perform more advanced liver functions such as synthesizing proteins and drugs metabolism.

It's important to note that currently there is no FDA approved artificial liver device available for use in clinical practice. However, research and development of these devices are ongoing with the hope that they may provide a bridge to transplantation or recovery for patients with acute liver failure.

Immunohistochemistry (IHC) is a technique used in pathology and laboratory medicine to identify specific proteins or antigens in tissue sections. It combines the principles of immunology and histology to detect the presence and location of these target molecules within cells and tissues. This technique utilizes antibodies that are specific to the protein or antigen of interest, which are then tagged with a detection system such as a chromogen or fluorophore. The stained tissue sections can be examined under a microscope, allowing for the visualization and analysis of the distribution and expression patterns of the target molecule in the context of the tissue architecture. Immunohistochemistry is widely used in diagnostic pathology to help identify various diseases, including cancer, infectious diseases, and immune-mediated disorders.

Liver glycogen is the reserve form of glucose stored in hepatocytes (liver cells) for the maintenance of normal blood sugar levels. It is a polysaccharide, a complex carbohydrate, that is broken down into glucose molecules when blood glucose levels are low. This process helps to maintain the body's energy needs between meals and during periods of fasting or exercise. The amount of glycogen stored in the liver can vary depending on factors such as meal consumption, activity level, and insulin regulation.

Hemochromatosis is a medical condition characterized by excessive absorption and accumulation of iron in the body, resulting in damage to various organs. It's often referred to as "iron overload" disorder. There are two main types: primary (hereditary) and secondary (acquired). Primary hemochromatosis is caused by genetic mutations that lead to increased intestinal iron absorption, while secondary hemochromatosis can be the result of various conditions such as multiple blood transfusions, chronic liver disease, or certain types of anemia.

In both cases, the excess iron gets stored in body tissues, particularly in the liver, heart, and pancreas, which can cause organ damage and lead to complications like cirrhosis, liver failure, diabetes, heart problems, and skin discoloration. Early diagnosis and treatment through regular phlebotomy (blood removal) or chelation therapy can help manage the condition and prevent severe complications.

Intrahepatic cholestasis is a medical condition characterized by the interruption or reduction of bile flow within the liver. Bile is a digestive fluid produced by the liver that helps in the absorption of fats and fat-soluble vitamins. Intrahepatic cholestasis occurs when there is a problem with the transport of bile components inside the liver cells (hepatocytes). This can lead to an accumulation of bile acids, bilirubin, and other substances in the liver, which can cause damage to liver cells and result in symptoms such as jaundice, itching, and dark urine.

Intrahepatic cholestasis can be caused by various factors, including medications, alcohol abuse, hepatitis viruses, autoimmune disorders, genetic defects, and cancer. Depending on the underlying cause, intrahepatic cholestasis can be acute or chronic, and it can range from mild to severe. Treatment typically involves addressing the underlying cause of the condition, as well as providing supportive care to manage symptoms and prevent complications.

Hemosiderin is a golden-brown pigment that consists of iron-containing protein complexes called ferritin and ferrikinase. It is insoluble in water and forms as a result of the breakdown of hemoglobin in the reticuloendothelial system, primarily in macrophages. Hemosiderin deposits can be found in various tissues and organs, such as the spleen, liver, and brain, under conditions of increased red blood cell destruction or impaired iron metabolism. These deposits are often associated with diseases such as hemochromatosis, thalassemia, and chronic inflammation.

I'm sorry for any confusion, but "Korea" is not a medical term. It refers to a region in East Asia that is divided into two distinct sovereign states: North Korea (officially the Democratic People's Republic of Korea) and South Korea (officially the Republic of Korea).

If you're looking for medical terms, I'd be happy to help. Could you please provide more context?

A living donor is a person who voluntarily donates an organ or part of an organ to another person while they are still alive. This can include donations such as a kidney, liver lobe, lung, or portion of the pancreas or intestines. The donor and recipient typically undergo medical evaluation and compatibility testing to ensure the best possible outcome for the transplantation procedure. Living donation is regulated by laws and ethical guidelines to ensure that donors are fully informed and making a voluntary decision.

Albumins are a type of protein found in various biological fluids, including blood plasma. The most well-known albumin is serum albumin, which is produced by the liver and is the most abundant protein in blood plasma. Serum albumin plays several important roles in the body, such as maintaining oncotic pressure (which helps to regulate fluid balance in the body), transporting various substances (such as hormones, fatty acids, and drugs), and acting as an antioxidant.

Albumins are soluble in water and have a molecular weight ranging from 65,000 to 69,000 daltons. They are composed of a single polypeptide chain that contains approximately 585 amino acid residues. The structure of albumin is characterized by a high proportion of alpha-helices and beta-sheets, which give it a stable, folded conformation.

In addition to their role in human physiology, albumins are also used as diagnostic markers in medicine. For example, low serum albumin levels may indicate liver disease, malnutrition, or inflammation, while high levels may be seen in dehydration or certain types of kidney disease. Albumins may also be used as a replacement therapy in patients with severe protein loss, such as those with nephrotic syndrome or burn injuries.

Jaundice is a medical condition characterized by the yellowing of the skin, sclera (whites of the eyes), and mucous membranes due to an excess of bilirubin in the bloodstream. Bilirubin is a yellow-orange pigment produced when hemoglobin from red blood cells is broken down. Normally, bilirubin is processed by the liver and excreted through bile into the digestive system. However, if there's an issue with bilirubin metabolism or elimination, it can accumulate in the body, leading to jaundice.

Jaundice can be a symptom of various underlying conditions, such as liver diseases (hepatitis, cirrhosis), gallbladder issues (gallstones, tumors), or blood disorders (hemolysis). It is essential to consult a healthcare professional if jaundice is observed, as it may indicate a severe health problem requiring prompt medical attention.

Fasciolidae is a family of parasitic flatworms, also known as trematodes or flukes. The two most well-known species in this family are Fasciola hepatica and Fasciola gigantica, which cause the disease fascioliasis in humans and animals. These flukes primarily infect the livers of their hosts, leading to symptoms such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, and liver damage. They have a complex life cycle involving multiple intermediate hosts, usually snails, before reaching their definitive host.

Hyperammonemia is a medical condition characterized by an excessively high level of ammonia (a toxic byproduct of protein metabolism) in the blood. This can lead to serious neurological symptoms and complications, as ammonia is highly toxic to the brain. Hyperammonemia can be caused by various underlying conditions, including liver disease, genetic disorders that affect ammonia metabolism, certain medications, and infections. It is important to diagnose and treat hyperammonemia promptly to prevent long-term neurological damage or even death. Treatment typically involves addressing the underlying cause of the condition, as well as providing supportive care such as administering medications that help remove ammonia from the blood.

Postoperative complications refer to any unfavorable condition or event that occurs during the recovery period after a surgical procedure. These complications can vary in severity and may include, but are not limited to:

1. Infection: This can occur at the site of the incision or inside the body, such as pneumonia or urinary tract infection.
2. Bleeding: Excessive bleeding (hemorrhage) can lead to a drop in blood pressure and may require further surgical intervention.
3. Blood clots: These can form in the deep veins of the legs (deep vein thrombosis) and can potentially travel to the lungs (pulmonary embolism).
4. Wound dehiscence: This is when the surgical wound opens up, which can lead to infection and further complications.
5. Pulmonary issues: These include atelectasis (collapsed lung), pneumonia, or respiratory failure.
6. Cardiovascular problems: These include abnormal heart rhythms (arrhythmias), heart attack, or stroke.
7. Renal failure: This can occur due to various reasons such as dehydration, blood loss, or the use of certain medications.
8. Pain management issues: Inadequate pain control can lead to increased stress, anxiety, and decreased mobility.
9. Nausea and vomiting: These can be caused by anesthesia, opioid pain medication, or other factors.
10. Delirium: This is a state of confusion and disorientation that can occur in the elderly or those with certain medical conditions.

Prompt identification and management of these complications are crucial to ensure the best possible outcome for the patient.

Portography is a medical term that refers to an X-ray examination of the portal vein, which is the large blood vessel that carries blood from the digestive organs to the liver. In this procedure, a contrast dye is injected into the patient's veins, and then X-rays are taken to visualize the flow of the dye through the portal vein and its branches. This test can help diagnose various conditions that affect the liver and surrounding organs, such as cirrhosis, tumors, or blood clots in the portal vein. It is also known as a portovenogram or hepatic venography.

Ammonia is a colorless, pungent-smelling gas with the chemical formula NH3. It is a compound of nitrogen and hydrogen and is a basic compound, meaning it has a pH greater than 7. Ammonia is naturally found in the environment and is produced by the breakdown of organic matter, such as animal waste and decomposing plants. In the medical field, ammonia is most commonly discussed in relation to its role in human metabolism and its potential toxicity.

In the body, ammonia is produced as a byproduct of protein metabolism and is typically converted to urea in the liver and excreted in the urine. However, if the liver is not functioning properly or if there is an excess of protein in the diet, ammonia can accumulate in the blood and cause a condition called hyperammonemia. Hyperammonemia can lead to serious neurological symptoms, such as confusion, seizures, and coma, and is treated by lowering the level of ammonia in the blood through medications, dietary changes, and dialysis.

Splanchnic circulation refers to the blood flow to the visceral organs, including the gastrointestinal tract, pancreas, spleen, and liver. These organs receive a significant portion of the cardiac output, with approximately 25-30% of the total restingly going to the splanchnic circulation. The splanchnic circulation is regulated by a complex interplay of neural and hormonal mechanisms that help maintain adequate blood flow to these vital organs while also allowing for the distribution of blood to other parts of the body as needed.

The splanchnic circulation is unique in its ability to vasodilate and increase blood flow significantly in response to meals or other stimuli, such as stress or hormonal changes. This increased blood flow helps support the digestive process and absorption of nutrients. At the same time, the body must carefully regulate this blood flow to prevent a significant drop in blood pressure or overloading the heart with too much work.

Overall, the splanchnic circulation plays a critical role in maintaining the health and function of the body's vital organs, and dysregulation of this system can contribute to various diseases, including digestive disorders, liver disease, and cardiovascular disease.

Ethanol is the medical term for pure alcohol, which is a colorless, clear, volatile, flammable liquid with a characteristic odor and burning taste. It is the type of alcohol that is found in alcoholic beverages and is produced by the fermentation of sugars by yeasts.

In the medical field, ethanol is used as an antiseptic and disinfectant, and it is also used as a solvent for various medicinal preparations. It has central nervous system depressant properties and is sometimes used as a sedative or to induce sleep. However, excessive consumption of ethanol can lead to alcohol intoxication, which can cause a range of negative health effects, including impaired judgment, coordination, and memory, as well as an increased risk of accidents, injuries, and chronic diseases such as liver disease and addiction.

A cohort study is a type of observational study in which a group of individuals who share a common characteristic or exposure are followed up over time to determine the incidence of a specific outcome or outcomes. The cohort, or group, is defined based on the exposure status (e.g., exposed vs. unexposed) and then monitored prospectively to assess for the development of new health events or conditions.

Cohort studies can be either prospective or retrospective in design. In a prospective cohort study, participants are enrolled and followed forward in time from the beginning of the study. In contrast, in a retrospective cohort study, researchers identify a cohort that has already been assembled through medical records, insurance claims, or other sources and then look back in time to assess exposure status and health outcomes.

Cohort studies are useful for establishing causality between an exposure and an outcome because they allow researchers to observe the temporal relationship between the two. They can also provide information on the incidence of a disease or condition in different populations, which can be used to inform public health policy and interventions. However, cohort studies can be expensive and time-consuming to conduct, and they may be subject to bias if participants are not representative of the population or if there is loss to follow-up.

Hematemesis is the medical term for vomiting blood. It can range in appearance from bright red blood to dark, coffee-ground material that results from the stomach acid digesting the blood. Hematemesis is often a sign of a serious condition, such as bleeding in the esophagus, stomach, or duodenum, and requires immediate medical attention. The underlying cause can be various, including gastritis, ulcers, esophageal varices, or tumors.

"Inbred strains of rats" are genetically identical rodents that have been produced through many generations of brother-sister mating. This results in a high degree of homozygosity, where the genes at any particular locus in the genome are identical in all members of the strain.

Inbred strains of rats are widely used in biomedical research because they provide a consistent and reproducible genetic background for studying various biological phenomena, including the effects of drugs, environmental factors, and genetic mutations on health and disease. Additionally, inbred strains can be used to create genetically modified models of human diseases by introducing specific mutations into their genomes.

Some commonly used inbred strains of rats include the Wistar Kyoto (WKY), Sprague-Dawley (SD), and Fischer 344 (F344) rat strains. Each strain has its own unique genetic characteristics, making them suitable for different types of research.

I'm sorry for any confusion, but "Romania" is not a medical term. It is a country located in southeastern Europe. If you have any questions about medical terminology or health-related topics, I would be happy to help. Could you please clarify your question?

Rhabdomyolysis is a medical condition characterized by the breakdown and degeneration of skeletal muscle fibers, leading to the release of their intracellular contents into the bloodstream. This can result in various complications, including electrolyte imbalances, kidney injury or failure, and potentially life-threatening conditions if not promptly diagnosed and treated.

The process of rhabdomyolysis typically involves three key components:

1. Muscle injury: Direct trauma, excessive exertion, prolonged immobilization, infections, metabolic disorders, toxins, or medications can cause muscle damage, leading to the release of intracellular components into the bloodstream.
2. Release of muscle contents: When muscle fibers break down, they release various substances, such as myoglobin, creatine kinase (CK), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), aldolase, and potassium ions. Myoglobin is a protein that can cause kidney damage when present in high concentrations in the bloodstream, particularly when it is filtered through the kidneys and deposits in the renal tubules.
3. Systemic effects: The release of muscle contents into the bloodstream can lead to various systemic complications, such as electrolyte imbalances (particularly hyperkalemia), acidosis, hypocalcemia, and kidney injury or failure due to myoglobin-induced tubular damage.

Symptoms of rhabdomyolysis can vary widely depending on the severity and extent of muscle damage but may include muscle pain, weakness, swelling, stiffness, dark urine, and tea-colored or cola-colored urine due to myoglobinuria. In severe cases, patients may experience symptoms related to kidney failure, such as nausea, vomiting, fatigue, and decreased urine output.

Diagnosis of rhabdomyolysis typically involves measuring blood levels of muscle enzymes (such as CK and LDH) and evaluating renal function through blood tests and urinalysis. Treatment generally focuses on addressing the underlying cause of muscle damage, maintaining fluid balance, correcting electrolyte imbalances, and preventing or managing kidney injury.

Cholangiocarcinoma is a type of cancer that arises from the cells that line the bile ducts, which are small tubes that carry digestive enzymes from the liver to the small intestine. It can occur in different parts of the bile duct system, including the bile ducts inside the liver (intrahepatic), the bile ducts outside the liver (extrahepatic), and the area where the bile ducts join the pancreas and small intestine (ampulla of Vater).

Cholangiocarcinoma is a relatively rare cancer, but its incidence has been increasing in recent years. It can be difficult to diagnose because its symptoms are often nonspecific and similar to those of other conditions, such as gallstones or pancreatitis. Treatment options depend on the location and stage of the cancer, and may include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or a combination of these approaches.

Recurrence, in a medical context, refers to the return of symptoms or signs of a disease after a period of improvement or remission. It indicates that the condition has not been fully eradicated and may require further treatment. Recurrence is often used to describe situations where a disease such as cancer comes back after initial treatment, but it can also apply to other medical conditions. The likelihood of recurrence varies depending on the type of disease and individual patient factors.

Reference values, also known as reference ranges or reference intervals, are the set of values that are considered normal or typical for a particular population or group of people. These values are often used in laboratory tests to help interpret test results and determine whether a patient's value falls within the expected range.

The process of establishing reference values typically involves measuring a particular biomarker or parameter in a large, healthy population and then calculating the mean and standard deviation of the measurements. Based on these statistics, a range is established that includes a certain percentage of the population (often 95%) and excludes extreme outliers.

It's important to note that reference values can vary depending on factors such as age, sex, race, and other demographic characteristics. Therefore, it's essential to use reference values that are specific to the relevant population when interpreting laboratory test results. Additionally, reference values may change over time due to advances in measurement technology or changes in the population being studied.

The term "Area Under Curve" (AUC) is commonly used in the medical field, particularly in the analysis of diagnostic tests or pharmacokinetic studies. The AUC refers to the mathematical calculation of the area between a curve and the x-axis in a graph, typically representing a concentration-time profile.

In the context of diagnostic tests, the AUC is used to evaluate the performance of a test by measuring the entire two-dimensional area underneath the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve, which plots the true positive rate (sensitivity) against the false positive rate (1-specificity) at various threshold settings. The AUC ranges from 0 to 1, where a higher AUC indicates better test performance:

* An AUC of 0.5 suggests that the test is no better than chance.
* An AUC between 0.7 and 0.8 implies moderate accuracy.
* An AUC between 0.8 and 0.9 indicates high accuracy.
* An AUC greater than 0.9 signifies very high accuracy.

In pharmacokinetic studies, the AUC is used to assess drug exposure over time by calculating the area under a plasma concentration-time curve (AUC(0-t) or AUC(0-\∞)) following drug administration. This value can help determine dosing regimens and evaluate potential drug interactions:

* AUC(0-t): Represents the area under the plasma concentration-time curve from time zero to the last measurable concentration (t).
* AUC(0-\∞): Refers to the area under the plasma concentration-time curve from time zero to infinity, which estimates total drug exposure.

A portacaval shunt is a surgical procedure that creates an alternate pathway for blood flow between the portal vein and the inferior vena cava. The portal vein carries blood from the gastrointestinal tract, liver, spleen, and pancreas to the liver. In certain medical conditions, such as severe liver disease or portal hypertension, the blood pressure in the portal vein becomes abnormally high, which can lead to serious complications like variceal bleeding.

In a surgical portacaval shunt procedure, a surgeon creates a connection between the portal vein and the inferior vena cava, allowing a portion of the blood from the portal vein to bypass the liver and flow directly into the systemic circulation. This helps reduce the pressure in the portal vein and prevent complications associated with portal hypertension.

There are different types of portacaval shunts, including:

1. Direct portacaval shunt: In this procedure, the surgeon directly connects the portal vein to the inferior vena cava.
2. Side-to-side portacaval shunt: Here, the surgeon creates an anastomosis (connection) between a side branch of the portal vein and the inferior vena cava.
3. H-type shunt: This involves creating two separate connections between the portal vein and the inferior vena cava, forming an "H" shape.

It is important to note that while portacaval shunts can be effective in managing complications of portal hypertension, they may also have potential risks and side effects, such as worsening liver function, encephalopathy, or heart failure. Therefore, the decision to perform a portacaval shunt should be made carefully, considering the individual patient's medical condition and overall health.

Prevalence, in medical terms, refers to the total number of people in a given population who have a particular disease or condition at a specific point in time, or over a specified period. It is typically expressed as a percentage or a ratio of the number of cases to the size of the population. Prevalence differs from incidence, which measures the number of new cases that develop during a certain period.

'Alcohol drinking' refers to the consumption of alcoholic beverages, which contain ethanol (ethyl alcohol) as the active ingredient. Ethanol is a central nervous system depressant that can cause euphoria, disinhibition, and sedation when consumed in small to moderate amounts. However, excessive drinking can lead to alcohol intoxication, with symptoms ranging from slurred speech and impaired coordination to coma and death.

Alcohol is metabolized in the liver by enzymes such as alcohol dehydrogenase (ADH) and aldehyde dehydrogenase (ALDH). The breakdown of ethanol produces acetaldehyde, a toxic compound that can cause damage to various organs in the body. Chronic alcohol drinking can lead to a range of health problems, including liver disease, pancreatitis, cardiovascular disease, neurological disorders, and increased risk of cancer.

Moderate drinking is generally defined as up to one drink per day for women and up to two drinks per day for men, where a standard drink contains about 14 grams (0.6 ounces) of pure alcohol. However, it's important to note that there are no safe levels of alcohol consumption, and any level of drinking carries some risk to health.

The spleen is an organ in the upper left side of the abdomen, next to the stomach and behind the ribs. It plays multiple supporting roles in the body:

1. It fights infection by acting as a filter for the blood. Old red blood cells are recycled in the spleen, and platelets and white blood cells are stored there.
2. The spleen also helps to control the amount of blood in the body by removing excess red blood cells and storing platelets.
3. It has an important role in immune function, producing antibodies and removing microorganisms and damaged red blood cells from the bloodstream.

The spleen can be removed without causing any significant problems, as other organs take over its functions. This is known as a splenectomy and may be necessary if the spleen is damaged or diseased.

Splenomegaly is a medical term that refers to an enlargement or expansion of the spleen beyond its normal size. The spleen is a vital organ located in the upper left quadrant of the abdomen, behind the stomach and below the diaphragm. It plays a crucial role in filtering the blood, fighting infections, and storing red and white blood cells and platelets.

Splenomegaly can occur due to various underlying medical conditions, including infections, liver diseases, blood disorders, cancer, and inflammatory diseases. The enlarged spleen may put pressure on surrounding organs, causing discomfort or pain in the abdomen, and it may also lead to a decrease in red and white blood cells and platelets, increasing the risk of anemia, infections, and bleeding.

The diagnosis of splenomegaly typically involves a physical examination, medical history, and imaging tests such as ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI. Treatment depends on the underlying cause and may include medications, surgery, or other interventions to manage the underlying condition.

Nonparametric statistics is a branch of statistics that does not rely on assumptions about the distribution of variables in the population from which the sample is drawn. In contrast to parametric methods, nonparametric techniques make fewer assumptions about the data and are therefore more flexible in their application. Nonparametric tests are often used when the data do not meet the assumptions required for parametric tests, such as normality or equal variances.

Nonparametric statistical methods include tests such as the Wilcoxon rank-sum test (also known as the Mann-Whitney U test) for comparing two independent groups, the Wilcoxon signed-rank test for comparing two related groups, and the Kruskal-Wallis test for comparing more than two independent groups. These tests use the ranks of the data rather than the actual values to make comparisons, which allows them to be used with ordinal or continuous data that do not meet the assumptions of parametric tests.

Overall, nonparametric statistics provide a useful set of tools for analyzing data in situations where the assumptions of parametric methods are not met, and can help researchers draw valid conclusions from their data even when the data are not normally distributed or have other characteristics that violate the assumptions of parametric tests.

The Chi-square distribution is a continuous probability distribution that is often used in statistical hypothesis testing. It is the distribution of a sum of squares of k independent standard normal random variables. The resulting quantity follows a chi-square distribution with k degrees of freedom, denoted as χ²(k).

The probability density function (pdf) of the Chi-square distribution with k degrees of freedom is given by:

f(x; k) = (1/ (2^(k/2) * Γ(k/2))) \* x^((k/2)-1) \* e^(-x/2), for x > 0 and 0, otherwise.

Where Γ(k/2) is the gamma function evaluated at k/2. The mean and variance of a Chi-square distribution with k degrees of freedom are k and 2k, respectively.

The Chi-square distribution has various applications in statistical inference, including testing goodness-of-fit, homogeneity of variances, and independence in contingency tables.

Bile is a digestive fluid that is produced by the liver and stored in the gallbladder. It plays an essential role in the digestion and absorption of fats and fat-soluble vitamins in the small intestine. Bile consists of bile salts, bilirubin, cholesterol, phospholipids, electrolytes, and water.

Bile salts are amphipathic molecules that help to emulsify fats into smaller droplets, increasing their surface area and allowing for more efficient digestion by enzymes such as lipase. Bilirubin is a breakdown product of hemoglobin from red blood cells and gives bile its characteristic greenish-brown color.

Bile is released into the small intestine in response to food, particularly fats, entering the digestive tract. It helps to break down large fat molecules into smaller ones that can be absorbed through the walls of the intestines and transported to other parts of the body for energy or storage.

Reverse Transcriptase Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR) is a laboratory technique used in molecular biology to amplify and detect specific DNA sequences. This technique is particularly useful for the detection and quantification of RNA viruses, as well as for the analysis of gene expression.

The process involves two main steps: reverse transcription and polymerase chain reaction (PCR). In the first step, reverse transcriptase enzyme is used to convert RNA into complementary DNA (cDNA) by reading the template provided by the RNA molecule. This cDNA then serves as a template for the PCR amplification step.

In the second step, the PCR reaction uses two primers that flank the target DNA sequence and a thermostable polymerase enzyme to repeatedly copy the targeted cDNA sequence. The reaction mixture is heated and cooled in cycles, allowing the primers to anneal to the template, and the polymerase to extend the new strand. This results in exponential amplification of the target DNA sequence, making it possible to detect even small amounts of RNA or cDNA.

RT-PCR is a sensitive and specific technique that has many applications in medical research and diagnostics, including the detection of viruses such as HIV, hepatitis C virus, and SARS-CoV-2 (the virus that causes COVID-19). It can also be used to study gene expression, identify genetic mutations, and diagnose genetic disorders.

Focal nodular hyperplasia (FNH) is a benign liver mass, which means it's a non-cancerous growth. It is characterized by the presence of multiple nodules or "lesions" in the liver that are well-circumscribed and have a distinctive "stars in the sky" appearance on histopathology. These lesions are composed of abnormal arrangements of liver cells, bile ducts, and blood vessels. FNH is usually discovered incidentally during imaging studies performed for unrelated reasons. It's more common in women than men, and while its cause remains unclear, it has been linked to hormonal factors. Most cases do not require treatment unless they become symptomatic or complications arise.

In the context of medicine and pharmacology, "kinetics" refers to the study of how a drug moves throughout the body, including its absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion (often abbreviated as ADME). This field is called "pharmacokinetics."

1. Absorption: This is the process of a drug moving from its site of administration into the bloodstream. Factors such as the route of administration (e.g., oral, intravenous, etc.), formulation, and individual physiological differences can affect absorption.

2. Distribution: Once a drug is in the bloodstream, it gets distributed throughout the body to various tissues and organs. This process is influenced by factors like blood flow, protein binding, and lipid solubility of the drug.

3. Metabolism: Drugs are often chemically modified in the body, typically in the liver, through processes known as metabolism. These changes can lead to the formation of active or inactive metabolites, which may then be further distributed, excreted, or undergo additional metabolic transformations.

4. Excretion: This is the process by which drugs and their metabolites are eliminated from the body, primarily through the kidneys (urine) and the liver (bile).

Understanding the kinetics of a drug is crucial for determining its optimal dosing regimen, potential interactions with other medications or foods, and any necessary adjustments for special populations like pediatric or geriatric patients, or those with impaired renal or hepatic function.

Medical survival rate is a statistical measure used to determine the percentage of patients who are still alive for a specific period of time after their diagnosis or treatment for a certain condition or disease. It is often expressed as a five-year survival rate, which refers to the proportion of people who are alive five years after their diagnosis. Survival rates can be affected by many factors, including the stage of the disease at diagnosis, the patient's age and overall health, the effectiveness of treatment, and other health conditions that the patient may have. It is important to note that survival rates are statistical estimates and do not necessarily predict an individual patient's prognosis.

Iron overload is a condition characterized by an excessive accumulation of iron in the body's tissues and organs, particularly in the liver, heart, and pancreas. This occurs when the body absorbs more iron than it can use or eliminate, leading to iron levels that are higher than normal.

Iron overload can result from various factors, including hereditary hemochromatosis, a genetic disorder that affects how the body absorbs iron from food; frequent blood transfusions, which can cause iron buildup in people with certain chronic diseases such as sickle cell anemia or thalassemia; and excessive consumption of iron supplements or iron-rich foods.

Symptoms of iron overload may include fatigue, joint pain, abdominal discomfort, irregular heartbeat, and liver dysfunction. If left untreated, it can lead to serious complications such as cirrhosis, liver failure, diabetes, heart problems, and even certain types of cancer. Treatment typically involves regular phlebotomy (removal of blood) to reduce iron levels in the body, along with dietary modifications and monitoring by a healthcare professional.

Diethylnitrosamine (DEN) is a potent chemical carcinogen that belongs to the class of nitrosamines. It is known to induce tumors in various organs, including the liver, kidney, and lungs, in different animal species. Diethylnitrosamine requires metabolic activation by enzymes such as cytochrome P450 to exert its carcinogenic effects.

Diethylnitrosamine is not typically used for medical purposes but may be employed in laboratory research to study the mechanisms of chemical carcinogenesis and cancer development. It is essential to handle this compound with care, following appropriate safety protocols, due to its potential hazards.

Multivariate analysis is a statistical method used to examine the relationship between multiple independent variables and a dependent variable. It allows for the simultaneous examination of the effects of two or more independent variables on an outcome, while controlling for the effects of other variables in the model. This technique can be used to identify patterns, associations, and interactions among multiple variables, and is commonly used in medical research to understand complex health outcomes and disease processes. Examples of multivariate analysis methods include multiple regression, factor analysis, cluster analysis, and discriminant analysis.

Hemodynamics is the study of how blood flows through the cardiovascular system, including the heart and the vascular network. It examines various factors that affect blood flow, such as blood volume, viscosity, vessel length and diameter, and pressure differences between different parts of the circulatory system. Hemodynamics also considers the impact of various physiological and pathological conditions on these variables, and how they in turn influence the function of vital organs and systems in the body. It is a critical area of study in fields such as cardiology, anesthesiology, and critical care medicine.

Ribavirin is an antiviral medication used in the treatment of certain viral infections, including hepatitis C and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infection. It works by interfering with viral replication, preventing the virus from multiplying within infected cells. Ribavirin is often used in combination with other antiviral drugs for more effective treatment.

It's important to note that ribavirin can have serious side effects and should only be used under the supervision of a healthcare professional. Additionally, it is not effective against all types of viral infections and its use should be based on a confirmed diagnosis and appropriate medical evaluation.

Interferon-alpha (IFN-α) is a type I interferon, which is a group of signaling proteins made and released by host cells in response to the presence of viruses, parasites, and tumor cells. It plays a crucial role in the immune response against viral infections. IFN-α has antiviral, immunomodulatory, and anti-proliferative effects.

IFN-α is produced naturally by various cell types, including leukocytes (white blood cells), fibroblasts, and epithelial cells, in response to viral or bacterial stimulation. It binds to specific receptors on the surface of nearby cells, triggering a signaling cascade that leads to the activation of genes involved in the antiviral response. This results in the production of proteins that inhibit viral replication and promote the presentation of viral antigens to the immune system, enhancing its ability to recognize and eliminate infected cells.

In addition to its role in the immune response, IFN-α has been used as a therapeutic agent for various medical conditions, including certain types of cancer, chronic hepatitis B and C, and multiple sclerosis. However, its use is often limited by side effects such as flu-like symptoms, depression, and neuropsychiatric disorders.

Organ size refers to the volume or physical measurement of an organ in the body of an individual. It can be described in terms of length, width, and height or by using specialized techniques such as imaging studies (like CT scans or MRIs) to determine the volume. The size of an organ can vary depending on factors such as age, sex, body size, and overall health status. Changes in organ size may indicate various medical conditions, including growths, inflammation, or atrophy.

Chronic Hepatitis D is a liver infection caused by the hepatitis delta virus (HDV). It is often considered a serious form of hepatitis because it can lead to more severe liver disease than hepatitis B alone. HDV is a defective virus that requires the presence of hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) to replicate and cause infection. Therefore, chronic hepatitis D only occurs in individuals who have an underlying chronic hepatitis B infection.

Chronic hepatitis D is characterized by persistent inflammation and damage to the liver, which can lead to scarring (fibrosis), cirrhosis, liver failure, and increased risk of liver cancer over time. Symptoms may include fatigue, joint pain, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, dark urine, and jaundice. However, some people with chronic hepatitis D may not have any symptoms until the disease has progressed to a more advanced stage.

Chronic hepatitis D is diagnosed through blood tests that detect HDV antibodies and antigens, as well as liver function tests and imaging studies to assess liver damage. Treatment typically involves antiviral therapy to suppress the replication of both HBV and HDV, as well as supportive care to manage symptoms and prevent complications. In some cases, a liver transplant may be necessary for individuals with advanced liver disease due to chronic hepatitis D.

Alpha 1-antitrypsin (AAT, or α1-antiproteinase, A1AP) is a protein that is primarily produced by the liver and released into the bloodstream. It belongs to a group of proteins called serine protease inhibitors, which help regulate inflammation and protect tissues from damage caused by enzymes involved in the immune response.

Alpha 1-antitrypsin is particularly important for protecting the lungs from damage caused by neutrophil elastase, an enzyme released by white blood cells called neutrophils during inflammation. In the lungs, AAT binds to and inhibits neutrophil elastase, preventing it from degrading the extracellular matrix and damaging lung tissue.

Deficiency in alpha 1-antitrypsin can lead to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and liver disease. The most common cause of AAT deficiency is a genetic mutation that results in abnormal folding and accumulation of the protein within liver cells, leading to reduced levels of functional AAT in the bloodstream. This condition is called alpha 1-antitrypsin deficiency (AATD) and can be inherited in an autosomal codominant manner. Individuals with severe AATD may require augmentation therapy with intravenous infusions of purified human AAT to help prevent lung damage.

Sclerosing cholangitis is a chronic progressive disease characterized by inflammation and scarring (fibrosis) of the bile ducts, leading to their narrowing or obstruction. This results in impaired bile flow from the liver to the small intestine, which can cause damage to the liver cells and eventually result in cirrhosis and liver failure.

The condition often affects both the intrahepatic (within the liver) and extrahepatic (outside the liver) bile ducts. The exact cause of sclerosing cholangitis is not known, but it is believed to involve an autoimmune response, genetic predisposition, and environmental factors.

Symptoms of sclerosing cholangitis may include jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes), itching, abdominal pain, fatigue, weight loss, dark urine, and light-colored stools. The diagnosis is typically made through imaging tests such as magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography (MRCP) or endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP), which can visualize the bile ducts and detect any abnormalities.

Treatment for sclerosing cholangitis is aimed at managing symptoms, preventing complications, and slowing down the progression of the disease. This may include medications to relieve itching, antibiotics to treat infections, and drugs to reduce inflammation and improve bile flow. In severe cases, a liver transplant may be necessary.

Chemoembolization, therapeutic is a medical procedure that involves the delivery of chemotherapy drugs directly to a tumor through its blood supply, followed by the blocking of the blood vessel leading to the tumor. This approach allows for a higher concentration of the chemotherapy drug to be delivered directly to the tumor while minimizing exposure to the rest of the body. The embolization component of the procedure involves blocking the blood vessel with various substances such as microspheres, gel foam, or coils, which can help to starve the tumor of oxygen and nutrients.

Therapeutic chemoembolization is typically used in the treatment of liver cancer, including primary liver cancer (hepatocellular carcinoma) and metastatic liver cancer. It may also be used in other types of cancer that have spread to the liver. The procedure can help to reduce the size of the tumor, relieve symptoms, and improve survival rates in some patients. However, like all medical procedures, it carries a risk of complications such as infection, bleeding, and damage to surrounding tissues.

Cholangitis is a medical condition characterized by inflammation of the bile ducts, which are the tubes that carry bile from the liver to the small intestine. Bile is a digestive juice produced by the liver that helps break down fats in food.

There are two types of cholangitis: acute and chronic. Acute cholangitis is a sudden and severe infection that can cause symptoms such as abdominal pain, fever, jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes), and dark urine. It is usually caused by a bacterial infection that enters the bile ducts through a blockage or obstruction.

Chronic cholangitis, on the other hand, is a long-term inflammation of the bile ducts that can lead to scarring and narrowing of the ducts. This can cause symptoms such as abdominal pain, itching, and jaundice. Chronic cholangitis can be caused by various factors, including primary sclerosing cholangitis (an autoimmune disease), bile duct stones, or tumors in the bile ducts.

Treatment for cholangitis depends on the underlying cause of the condition. Antibiotics may be used to treat bacterial infections, and surgery may be necessary to remove blockages or obstructions in the bile ducts. In some cases, medications may be prescribed to manage symptoms and prevent further complications.

In epidemiology, the incidence of a disease is defined as the number of new cases of that disease within a specific population over a certain period of time. It is typically expressed as a rate, with the number of new cases in the numerator and the size of the population at risk in the denominator. Incidence provides information about the risk of developing a disease during a given time period and can be used to compare disease rates between different populations or to monitor trends in disease occurrence over time.

Cytochrome P-450 CYP2E1 is a specific isoform of the cytochrome P-450 enzyme system, which is involved in the metabolism of various xenobiotics and endogenous compounds. This enzyme is primarily located in the liver and to some extent in other organs such as the lungs, brain, and kidneys.

CYP2E1 plays a significant role in the metabolic activation of several procarcinogens, including nitrosamines, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, and certain solvents. It also contributes to the oxidation of various therapeutic drugs, such as acetaminophen, anesthetics, and anticonvulsants. Overexpression or induction of CYP2E1 has been linked to increased susceptibility to chemical-induced toxicity, carcinogenesis, and alcohol-related liver damage.

The activity of CYP2E1 can be influenced by various factors, including genetic polymorphisms, age, sex, smoking status, and exposure to certain chemicals or drugs. Understanding the regulation and function of this enzyme is crucial for predicting individual susceptibility to chemical-induced toxicities and diseases, as well as for optimizing drug therapy and minimizing adverse effects.

Malnutrition is a condition that results from eating a diet in which one or more nutrients are either not enough or are too much such that the body's function is not maintained. It can also refer to a deficiency or excess of vitamins, minerals, protein, energy, and/or water. This condition can have negative effects on physical and mental health. Malnutrition includes undernutrition (wasting, stunting, underweight), overnutrition (overweight, obesity) and micronutrient deficiencies or excesses.

It's important to note that malnutrition is different from malabsorption, which is the inability to absorb nutrients from food. Malabsorption can also lead to malnutrition if it results in a lack of necessary nutrients for the body's function.

Primary biliary cirrhosis is an autoimmune disease of the liver. Primary pulmonary hypertension Complex regional pain syndrome ... People with scleroderma are also at a heightened risk for contracting cancers (especially liver, lung, haematologic, and ...
2-Oxo-glutarate dehydrogenase is an autoantigen recognized in primary biliary cirrhosis, a form of acute liver failure. These ... November 2007). "Antimitochondrial antibodies in acute liver failure: implications for primary biliary cirrhosis". Hepatology. ...
"Antimitochondrial antibodies in acute liver failure: implications for primary biliary cirrhosis". Hepatology. 46 (5): 1436-42. ... although some may live into adolescence or adulthood. Click on genes, proteins and metabolites below to link to respective ...
This enzyme is an autoantigen recognized in primary biliary cirrhosis, a form of acute liver failure. These antibodies appear ... 2007). "Antimitochondrial antibodies in acute liver failure: Implications for primary biliary cirrhosis". Hepatology. 46 (5): ... Heffelfinger SC, Sewell ET, Danner DJ (1983). "Identification of specific subunits of highly purified bovine liver branched- ... structure of the dihydrolipoyl transacylase component of branched-chain alpha-keto acid dehydrogenase complex from bovine liver ...
Neonatal jaundice advances over time to biliary cirrhosis with severe liver fibrosis. Bowen-Conradi syndrome (BCS or BWCNS) is ... Ribosomes are essential for protein synthesis in all living organisms. Prokaryotic and eukaryotic ribosomes both contain a ... implicated in the pathogenesis of North American Indian childhood cirrhosis, is required for pre-rRNA transcription and ... North American Indian childhood cirrhosis (NAIC), isolated congenital asplenia (ICAS), and Bowen-Conradi syndrome (BWCNS), ...
... the autoimmune disease primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC; also known as primary biliary cholangitis). PBC causes scarring of liver ... 2007). "Antimitochondrial antibodies in acute liver failure: Implications for primary biliary cirrhosis". Hepatology. 46 (5): ... Berg PA, Klein R (1992) Antimitochondrial antibodies in primary biliary cirrhosis and other disorders: definition and clinical ... In acute liver failure AMA are found against all major liver antigens. Pyruvate dehydrogenase, E2 subunits 2-Oxo-glutarate ...
2007). "Antimitochondrial antibodies in acute liver failure: Implications for primary biliary cirrhosis". Hepatology. 46 (5): ... which results in progressive destruction of the small bile ducts of the liver, leading to primary biliary cirrhosis. These ... Some of these inflammatory responses could be related to gluten sensitivity as over 50% of the acute liver failure patients in ...
"Primary Biliary Cirrhosis: Fatty Liver, Cirrhosis, and Related Disorders: Merck Manual Home Health Handbook". Retrieved 2008-04 ... Bogdanos DP, Invernizzi P, Mackay IR, Vergani D (June 2008). "Autoimmune liver serology: Current diagnostic and clinical ...
Initial transient neonatal jaundice advances over time to biliary cirrhosis with severe liver fibrosis. Eventually, liver ... North American Indian childhood cirrhosis (NAIC) is a disease in humans that can affect Ojibway-Cree children in northwestern ... North American Indian childhood cirrhosis on Genetics Home Reference (CS1 French-language sources (fr), Articles with short ... implicated in the pathogenesis of North American Indian childhood cirrhosis, is required for pre-rRNA transcription and ...
Expression of Par14 correlates to primary biliary cirrhosis, an autoimmune chronic cholestatic liver disease. K-RAS exosomes of ... investigation of variably X chromosome inactivated genes in monozygotic female twins discordant for primary biliary cirrhosis ...
If this condition continues without proper treatment, cirrhosis and liver failure become a major concern. Biliary atresia is ... Non-cardiac symptoms include impairments of the liver and gastrointestinal tract. Biliary atresia, or inflammation and ... as well as a scan of the liver and spleen for biliary function. Echocardiography Electrocardiography Computed tomography ... The liver is typically symmetrical across the left-right axis in patients with situs ambiguus, which is abnormal. A majority of ...
A coexisting autoimmune liver disease, such as primary biliary cirrhosis or autoimmune hepatitis may also cause problems. ... Lastly, the live-attenuated zoster vaccine should be administered once after the age 60, but is not recommended in people on a ... Liver problems in people with rheumatoid arthritis may be due to the underlying disease process or as a result of the ... Selmi C, De Santis M, Gershwin ME (June 2011). "Liver involvement in subjects with rheumatic disease". Arthritis Research & ...
Ground glass hepatocytes Primary biliary cirrhosis Budd-chiari syndrome Micrograph of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease There ... cirrhosis, and liver cancer. In the earlier stages of alcoholic liver disease, fat builds up in the liver's cells due to ... and other forms of liver toxicity. Cirrhosis causes chronic liver failure. Primary liver cancer most commonly manifests as ... MedlinePlus Encyclopedia: Liver function tests "NHS Choices". Cirrhosis. Retrieved 6 October 2015. "Liver disease - NHS Choices ...
This usually leads to failure to thrive, cirrhosis, and the need for liver transplantation.[citation needed] Types of ... Progressive familial intrahepatic cholestasis (PFIC) is a group of familial cholestatic conditions caused by defects in biliary ... leading to fulminant liver failure and death in childhood, in the absence of liver transplantation. Hepatocellular carcinoma ... When liver synthetic dysfunction is significant, patients should be listed for transplantation. Family members should be tested ...
1993). "Limited T-cell receptor diversity in liver-infiltrating lymphocytes from patients with primary biliary cirrhosis". J. ...
Severe liver failure with cirrhosis (e.g. primary biliary cirrhosis) Crigler-Najjar syndrome Dubin-Johnson syndrome ... If the liver's function is impaired or when biliary drainage is blocked, some of the conjugated bilirubin leaks out of the ... Smith ME, Morton DG (2010). "LIVER AND BILIARY SYSTEM". The Digestive System. Elsevier. pp. 85-105. doi:10.1016/b978-0-7020- ... Hy's Law Lumirubin Primary biliary cirrhosis Primary sclerosing cholangitis For conversion, 1 mg/dl = 17.1 μmol/L. Bonnett, ...
This data is from the Mayo Clinic Primary Biliary Cirrhosis (PBC) trial of the liver conducted between 1974 and 1984. In the ...
... and even liver cirrhosis, cholangiocarcinoma, and hepatic carcinoma. As a major causative agent of bile duct cancer, the ... Typical imaging features center around imaging of the liver with CT, ultrasound, or MRI for detection of primary biliary ... Clonorchis sinensis, the Chinese liver fluke, is a liver fluke belonging to the class Trematoda, phylum Platyhelminthes. It ... Unusual cases of liver abscesses due to clonorchiasis have been reported. Liver abscesses may be seen even without dilatation ...
... making contributions in his research of cirrhosis and hemochromatosis. He provided a description of primary biliary cirrhosis, ... Hanot specialized in the study of liver diseases, ... Among his written works was a study on hypertrophic cirrhosis ... characterized as hypertrophic cirrhosis with skin pigmentation and diabetes mellitus. The syndrome has several other names, ... ", "pigmentary cirrhosis" and "iron overload disease". It is named with two other French physicians, Charles Emile Troisier ( ...
Similarly, MPA does not appear to affect liver metabolism, and may improve primary biliary cirrhosis and chronic active ... severe decompensated cirrhosis, benign or malignant liver tumours) Conditions of concern for estrogen deficiency and reduced ... More serious side effects include bone loss, blood clots, allergic reactions, and liver problems. Use is not recommended during ... Hormonal contraceptive methods for women at high risk of HIV and living with HIV" (PDF). Geneva: World Health Organization. ...
... causes progressive biliary fibrosis and ultimately biliary cirrhosis and liver failure. The primary physiological function of ... Eventually, it can lead to cirrhosis of the liver and liver failure. PSC increases the risk of various cancers, including liver ... The differential diagnosis can include primary biliary cholangitis (formerly referred to as primary biliary cirrhosis), drug- ... June 2009). "Endoscopic treatment with multiple stents for post-liver-transplantation nonanastomotic biliary strictures". ...
Primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC); Portal hypertension; Development of new drug treatments for chronic liver disease (incl. the ... He had a particular interest in liver disease. The major contributions in his M.D Thesis included 1) The development of new ... He was president of the North of England Gastroenterology Society; Deputy Director of The British Liver Trust and Visiting ... Occupational liver disease. He published in prestigious peer reviewed journals including: Journal of Hepatology; Hepatology ( ...
"PDC-E3BP is not a dominant T-cell autoantigen in primary biliary cirrhosis". Liver International. 26 (4): 406-13. doi:10.1111/j ... "PDC-E3BP is not a dominant T-cell autoantigen in primary biliary cirrhosis". Liver International. 26 (4): 406-13. doi:10.1111/j ... Primary biliary cholangitis eventually leads to liver failure. The mRNA encoded by the human PDHX gene is approximately 2.5 kb ... The autoantibodies for this protein are present in the vast majority of patients with primary biliary cirrhosis, a chronic, ...
If not treated in the early stages, opisthorchiasis may cause cirrhosis of the liver and increased risk of liver cancer, but ... may be asymptomatic in children.[citation needed] Two weeks after flukes enter the body, the parasites infect the biliary tract ... Opisthorchis felineus, the Siberian liver fluke or cat liver fluke, is a trematode parasite that infects the liver in mammals. ... Severe anemia and liver damage may also incapacitate the infected person for 1-2 months. Treatment of opisthorchiasis is ...
571.5 Cirrhosis, NOS 571.6 Primary biliary cirrhosis 571.9 Liver disease, chronic, unspec. 572 Liver abscess and sequelae of ... acute 571 Chronic liver disease and cirrhosis 571.0 Fatty liver, alcoholic 571.2 Cirrhosis, liver, alcoholic 571.4 Hepatitis, ... 576 Other disorders of biliary tract 576.0 Postcholecystectomy syndrome 576.1 Cholangitis 576.2 Obstruction of bile duct ... chronic liver disease 572.2 Coma, hepatic 572.4 Hepatorenal syndrome 573 Other disorders of liver 573.3 Hepatitis, toxic 574 ...
Newton, JL (May 2008). "Fatigue in primary biliary cirrhosis". Clin Liver Dis. 12 (2): 367-83. doi:10.1016/j.cld.2008.02.010. ... Living people, Place of birth missing (living people), Year of birth missing (living people), Alumni of Newcastle University, ... "Reduced heart rate variability and baroreflex sensitivity in primary biliary cirrhosis. Hollingsworth, K.G.; Newton, J.L.; ... "Osteoporosis in primary biliary cirrhosis revisited" (2001)". Gut. 49 (2): 282-287. doi:10.1136/gut.49.2.282. PMC 1728382. PMID ...
Chronic biliary obstruction may cause jaundice, itchiness, liver abscesses, and cirrhosis, particularly at the left lobe ... Positive symptoms include biliary colic, acute pancreatitis, obstructive jaundice and less commonly, liver enlargement and ... It is exclusive to people who live or have lived in southeast Asia. Presentation can be atypical and without pain or fever, ... They tend to be friable concretions of various shapes and sizes within the biliary tree, and their associated bile is often ...
... biliary fibrosis, cirrhosis, and eventually liver failure that requires transplantation. Prevalence of PBC ranges from 19 to ... pediatric liver diseases biliary trauma congenital anomalies of the biliary tract gallstones biliary dyskinesia acute hepatitis ... June 2009). "Primary biliary cirrhosis associated with HLA, IL12A, and IL12RB2 variants". The New England Journal of Medicine. ... This drug stimulates biliary bicarbonate secretion, improves survival without having to resort to a liver transplantation, and ...
Jeffrey G (7 October 2021). "Cirrhosis of the Liver". emedicinehealth. Retrieved 15 March 2022. "Jaundice - Hepatic and Biliary ... Cirrhosis, also known as liver cirrhosis or hepatic cirrhosis, and end-stage liver disease, is the impaired liver function ... If cirrhosis leads to liver failure, a liver transplant may be an option. Cirrhosis affected about 2.8 million people and ... Even in those with liver disease, coffee consumption can lower fibrosis and cirrhosis. Generally, liver damage from cirrhosis ...
In alcoholic liver disease, the mean ratio is 1.45, and mean ratio is 1.33 in post necrotic liver cirrhosis. Ratio is greater ... Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) is an enzyme in the cells lining the biliary ducts of the liver. It can also be found on the mucosal ... Bright liver syndrome (bright liver on ultrasound suggestive of fatty liver) with raised ALT is suggestive of metabolic ... Alcoholic liver disease, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), fat accumulation in liver during childhood obesity, ...
biliary cirrhosis of liver. 胆汁性肝硬変症 〔語彙分解〕biliary cirrhosis of liver : [biliary][cirrhosis][of][liver]. ・biliary : 胆汁, 胆管, 胆嚢. ... biliary. ・ biliary abscess. ・ biliary atresia. ・ biliary calculus. ・ biliary cirrhosis. ・ biliary cirrhosis of liver. ・ biliary ... biliary excretion. ・ biliary fistula. ・ biliary liver cirrhosis. ・ biliary obstruction. ・ biliary peritonitis. ・ biliary system ... biliary cirrhosis of liver : ミニ英和和英辞書. ... cirrhosis : (肝臓)硬変(症). ・of : Old French 古(期)
... in patients with decompensated liver cirrhosis or a history prior hepatic decompensation ... New contraindication for the treatment of primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) ... New contraindication for the treatment of primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) in patients with decompensated liver cirrhosis or a ... in patients with decompensated liver cirrhosis or a history of prior hepatic decompensation. ...
Study Name: SAMe to Treat Biliary Cirrhosis Symptoms. Condition: Liver Cirrhosis, Biliary. Date: 2005-07-29. Interventions: ... Study Name: Low-Dose Oral Methotrexate Versus Colchicine for Primary Biliary Cirrhosis. Condition: Liver Cirrhosis, Biliary. ... Study of INT 747 in Combination With URSO in Patients With Primay Biliary Cirrhosis (PBC). Condition: Liver Cirrhosis, Biliary ... Identification of the Genetic Variants Responsible for Primary Biliary Cirrhosis (PBC). Condition: *Liver Cirrhosis, Biliary ...
A diverse spectrum of diseases affects the biliary system, often presenting with similar clinical signs and symptoms. See the ... Primary Biliary Cirrhosis (PBC), Cirrhosis (Liver, Symptoms, Stages, and Diet), and Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis. ... Primary biliary cholangitis. Primary biliary cholangitis (PBC), formerly known as primary biliary cirrhosis, is a progressive ... Liver biopsy in primary biliary cirrhosis: clinicopathological data and stage. Pathol Int. 2009 Aug. 59(8):546-54. [QxMD ...
And then we will take a look at the latest primary biliary cirrhosis news. ... Primary biliary cirrhosis is one condition that many people have. And it could get as serious as cancer. Well, well be looking ... At the end of the day, it would lead to a serious condition known as cirrhosis. Cirrhosis is simply scarring of the liver. And ... One development is that its name changed from primary biliary cirrhosis to primary biliary cholangitis. This is a condition ...
The liver biopsy of one patient having AMA negative found to have features of Primary biliary Cirrhosis in our study. ... chronic liver disease having elevated alkaline phosphatase levels with special reference to primary biliary cirrhosis and anti ... Conclusion: We need to do liver biopsy in the early part of the disease to ascertain the pathogenetic mechanism of liver injury ... Like other group of chronic liver disease of known etiology may , on the course of time, lead to decompantion , liver failure ...
title = "Long-term survival and impact of ursodeoxycholic acid treatment for recurrent primary biliary cirrhosis after liver ... T1 - Long-term survival and impact of ursodeoxycholic acid treatment for recurrent primary biliary cirrhosis after liver ... Long-term survival and impact of ursodeoxycholic acid treatment for recurrent primary biliary cirrhosis after liver ... Long-term survival and impact of ursodeoxycholic acid treatment for recurrent primary biliary cirrhosis after liver ...
Living With Primary Biliary Cholangitis And Cirrhosis. by Linda F Correa. 6 ...
... after viral-related and alcoholic liver cirrhosis. Unfortunately, PBC recurs in 21-37% of patients at 10 years after LTx, and ... and progressive immune-mediated destruction of biliary ductules, which lead to cirrhosis. Theories of the PBC etiopathogenesis ... In the advanced stage of PBC, the treatment of choice is liver transplantation (LTx). Nowadays, PBC is the third indication for ... Ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA) is the only drug recommended to treat PBC; it delays the progression of liver disease, but remains ...
A significant proportion of patients develop liver failure, require transplantation, or die prematurely after this diagnosis. ... Although primary biliary cirrhosis is often now diagnosed at an early stage, the diagnosis still carries important prognostic ... Survival and symptom progression in a geographically based cohort of patients with primary biliary cirrhosis: follow-up for up ... Conclusions: Although primary biliary cirrhosis is often now diagnosed at an early stage, the diagnosis still carries important ...
Copyright © 2013 American Association for the Study of Liver Diseases. Publication types * Research Support, Non-U.S. Govt ... Impact of primary biliary cirrhosis on perceived quality of life: the UK-PBC national study Hepatology. 2013 Jul;58(1):273-83. ... Primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC) has a complex clinical phenotype, with debate about the extent and specificity of frequently ...
Management of primary biliary cirrhosis. The American Association for the Study of Liver Diseases practice guidelines. ... 37] This led to a mean 22% prevalence of HCV antibodies in persons living in Egypt. According to the CDC, an estimated 1.8% of ... Later consequences include cirrhosis and the development of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). The residual risk of transmission ... Moreover, since November 1999, the FDA has requested that the blood industry defer potential donors who have lived in European ...
... formerly known as a primary biliary cirrhosis; an autoimmune liver disease). Ursodiol is in a class of medications called ... If you are taking the tablets to treat primary biliary cholangitis, they are usually taken 2 or 4 times a day with food. Follow ... Your doctor will order blood tests to check your liver function every few months while you take ursodiol. You will also have to ... in bile to prevent stone formation and by decreasing toxic levels of bile acids that accumulate in primary biliary cirrhosis. ...
Examining liver tissue can be a vital step in diagnosing and treating many liver conditions. Find out what to expect from this ... Liver cirrhosis.. *Primary biliary cholangitis.. *Primary sclerosing cholangitis.. *Hemochromatosis.. *Wilsons disease.. More ... Liver biopsy Enlarge image Close Liver biopsy. Liver biopsy. A liver biopsy is a procedure to remove a small sample of liver ... A liver biopsy is a procedure to remove a small piece of liver tissue, so it can be examined under a microscope for signs of ...
Reactive lymphoid hyperplasia of the liver associated with primary biliary cirrhosis Yuka Fukuo, Tomoyoshi Shibuya, [...] Yuki ... Reactive lymphoid hyperplasia of the liver associated with primary biliary cirrhosis Yuka Fukuo, Tomoyoshi Shibuya, Yuki ... Comparison of efficacy of MR sequences used for detection of focal liver lesions Andrzej Cieszanowski, Agnieszka Grodzicka, [ ... Comparison of efficacy of MR sequences used for detection of focal liver lesions Andrzej Cieszanowski, Agnieszka Grodzicka, ...
Primary biliary cirrhosis is an autoimmune disease of the liver. Primary pulmonary hypertension Complex regional pain syndrome ... People with scleroderma are also at a heightened risk for contracting cancers (especially liver, lung, haematologic, and ...
primary biliary cirrhosis and some other liver disorders. *a family history of stroke or heart disease ... The doctor may also test for diabetes and liver function, and possibly recommend a formal cardiovascular risk assessment. ... However, it can sometimes indicate high cholesterol, hypothyroidism, or a liver condition. ...
Schistosomiasis cirrhosis. 14 (4.25). 8 (4.88). 0.75. Primary biliary cirrhosis. 3 (0.90). 5 (3.05). 0.08. ... Decompensated liver cirrhosis (DLC) is a stage in the progression of liver cirrhosis and has a high mortality. ... Figure 4 Decision curve analysis of the nomogram for the survival prediction of patients with decompensated liver cirrhosis. A ... Figure 2 The nomogram for predicting 28-d, 3-mo and 6-mo survival probabilities of patients with decompensated liver cirrhosis ...
... ranging from those that are treatable to those that require a liver transplant. Learn about symptoms, causes, and more. ... Without treatment, it can lead to cirrhosis and liver failure.. *Primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC). This results from damage to ... Cirrhosis. Cirrhosis refers to scarring that results from liver diseases and other causes of liver damage, such as alcohol use ... Without management, both types of fatty liver disease can cause liver damage, leading to cirrhosis and liver failure. Diet and ...
Diseases of the Liver and Biliary system. Cirrhosis. Liver pathology and pathogenesis. Pathology of systemic complications. ... Intrahepatic biliary diseases: biliary cirrhosis (primary and secondary), primary sclerosing cholangitis.. Tumors and tumorlike ... Liver diseases not related to viral infection: alcoholic liver disease, autoimmune hepatitis, drug and toxin related hepatitis ... Extrahepatic biliary diseases. Pathology and pathogenesis of extrahepatic biliary tract obstruction; classification, pathology ...
Primary biliary cholangitis, formerly known as primary biliary cirrhosis (liver). *Sclerosing cholangitis (liver) ...
Liver cirrhosis and biliary tract infections (pigmented stones). *Medical conditions that cause too many red blood cells to be ... The gallbladder is a muscular sac located under the liver. It stores and concentrates the bile produced in the liver that is ... Cholelithiasis; Gallbladder attack; Biliary colic; Gallstone attack; Biliary calculus: gallstones chenodeoxycholic acids (CDCA ... or cirrhosis of the liver. People whove had weight-loss surgery, or who went on a crash diet and lost weight very quickly can ...
This can lead to liver damage and cirrhosis of the liver.. More to Know. Air, blood, bodily fluids, and waste products travel ... Biliary atresia, a defect in the liver or bile system, means the ducts that carry bile from the liver to the gallbladder are ... A to Z: Atresia, Biliary. Atresia (ah-TREE-zhah) is a condition in which a baby is born with a missing or closed valve or tube ... together for emotional support and understanding across multiple locations to reach you in the community where you live. Learn ...
Liver Cirrhosis, Biliary. How long have you been taking it?. Choose one ... The recommended dosage of ursodiol for the treatment of biliary cirrhosis is 13-15 mg/kg/day divided in 2 or 4 doses. ... biliary obstruction, gallstone pancreatitis, or biliary-gastrointestinal fistula ... Ursodiol is a bile acid, a natural substance produced by the liver. It helps to decrease the formation of gallstones by ...
Cirrhosis of the liver is a chronic pathology of the liver with the gradual death of hepatocytes, widespread fibrosis and ... iron accumulates in the liver in the form of brown hemosiderin. A greenish-yellow color is observed in biliary cirrhosis. ... Cirrhosis of the liver. Cirrhosis of the liver is a chronic pathology of the liver with the gradual death of hepatocytes, ... Cirrhosis and primary liver cancer. *Diseases accompanied by asymptomatic enlargement of the liver (fatty liver, hepatitis, ...
Primary Biliary Cholangitis (PBC) - Learn about the causes, symptoms, diagnosis & treatment from the MSD Manuals - Medical ... See also Cirrhosis of the Liver Cirrhosis of the Liver Cirrhosis is the widespread distortion of the livers internal structure ... cirrhosis Cirrhosis of the Liver Cirrhosis is the widespread distortion of the livers internal structure that occurs when a ... It should not be used in people with advanced cirrhosis Cirrhosis of the Liver Cirrhosis is the widespread distortion of the ...
Autoimmune liver diseases (autoimmune hepatitis, primary biliary cirrhosis, primary sclerosing cholangitis) 14. Electrolyte ... Cirrhosis (causes, signs and symptoms, diagnosis, treatment principles) 24. Alcoholic liver disease (steatosis, hepatitis and ... Choledocholithiasis, cholangitis, biliary stricture and biliary dyskinesia 31. Thyrotoxicosis 32. Diabetes insipidus 33. ... Tumors of the liver, gallbladder, bile duct and pancreas (signs and symptoms, diagnosis) 20. Acute and chronic viral hepatitis ...
... is an autoimmune disease in which the bodys immune cells attack the bile ducts of the liver. ... Liver Transplantation. Liver transplant is recommended for people whose primary biliary cirrhosis causes severe liver damage or ... Our Approach to Primary Biliary Cirrhosis. Treatments for primary biliary cirrhosis include medication to slow the liver damage ... Primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC) is an autoimmune disease in which the bodys immune cells attack the bile ducts of the liver. ...
  • For patient education resources, see Digestive Disorders Center and Cholesterol Center , as well as Gallstones , Primary Biliary Cirrhosis (PBC) , Cirrhosis (Liver, Symptoms, Stages, and Diet) , and Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis . (medscape.com)
  • One development is that its name changed from primary biliary cirrhosis to primary biliary cholangitis . (fattyliverdisease.com)
  • If you are taking the tablets to treat primary biliary cholangitis, they are usually taken 2 or 4 times a day with food. (medlineplus.gov)
  • Primary biliary cholangitis. (mayoclinic.org)
  • Primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) is inflammation with progressive scarring of the bile ducts in the liver. (msdmanuals.com)
  • Primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) probably results from an autoimmune reaction. (msdmanuals.com)
  • Primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) is most common among women aged 35 to 70, although it can occur in men and women of any age. (msdmanuals.com)
  • Primary biliary cholangitis affects only the small bile ducts inside the liver and the liver cells near these bile ducts. (msdmanuals.com)
  • Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis Primary sclerosing cholangitis is inflammation with progressive scarring and narrowing of the bile ducts in and outside the liver. (msdmanuals.com)
  • Primary biliary cholangitis begins with inflammation of the bile ducts. (msdmanuals.com)
  • Two common bile duct diseases are primary sclerosing cholangitis and primary biliary cirrhosis. (liverfoundation.org)
  • Other recognized categories of chronic liver disease include conditions induced by toxins or drugs (e.g., alcohol) and autoimmune chronic liver diseases such as primary sclerosing cholangitis, primary biliary cirrhosis and autoimmune hepatitis. (aafp.org)
  • Overall survival in primary biliary cholangitis is diminished. (eur.nl)
  • Primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) is a progressive autoimmune disease that damages or destroys the bile ducts in the liver-called the intrahepatic bile ducts. (healthywomen.org)
  • Primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) may progress slowly, and many people do not have symptoms, particularly in the early stages of the disease. (healthywomen.org)
  • There is no cure for primary biliary cholangitis (PBC), however, there are treatment options that can help people manage their disease. (healthywomen.org)
  • Recurrent pyogenic cholangitis (RPC) is characterized by a recurrent syndrome of bacterial cholangitis that occurs in association with intrahepatic pigment stones and intrahepatic biliary obstruction. (medscape.com)
  • Recurrent episodes of cholangitis develop in the absence of extrahepatic biliary obstruction (EHBO) as a result of pyogenic bile duct infection. (medscape.com)
  • Predominantly coliform-type bacteria are seeded into the biliary system, and, as a consequence, a cascade of stone formation and recurrent cholangitis is initiated. (medscape.com)
  • Pigment stone formation then leads to recurrent biliary obstruction with the characteristic consequence of suppurative cholangitis. (medscape.com)
  • Repeated portal bacteremia, in turn, results in the cascade of events characterized by biliary stasis, obstruction, and stone formation, which consequently result as recurrent pyogenic cholangitis (RPC). (medscape.com)
  • The initial insult(s) to the bile ducts precipitates a cycle of biliary stone formation and infection that results in recurrent episodes of pyogenic cholangitis. (medscape.com)
  • Morbidity is related to recurrent biliary infection and may manifest as pancreatobiliary abnormalities, such as pancreatitis, biliary fistulae, hepatic abscesses, and suppurative cholangitis. (medscape.com)
  • Regular coffee consumption has been linked to a reduced risk of the autoimmune liver disease primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC), according to a study that will be presented by Mayo Clinic researchers at the Digestive Disease Week 2013 conference in Orlando, Florida on Monday. (redorbit.com)
  • The study is entitled "Coffee consumption is associated with reduced risk of primary sclerosing cholangitis but not primary biliary cirrhosis. (redorbit.com)
  • Cholangitis is inflammation and blockage of bile ducts in the liver. (emedicinehealth.com)
  • The insidious onset of fatigue, followed by pruritus and then jaundice, is observed to varying degrees in diseases of the intrahepatic bile ducts, such as primary biliary cholangitis, primary sclerosing cholangitis, and vanishing bile duct syndrome. (medscape.com)
  • Additionally, ASMA can be positive in primary biliary cirrhosis, primary sclerosing cholangitis, and overlap syndromes associated with AIH-1. (medscape.com)
  • For today we will be looking at primary biliary cirrhosis news. (fattyliverdisease.com)
  • Because primary biliary cirrhosis happens to be an interesting condition and it would nice to be informed about it. (fattyliverdisease.com)
  • The liver biopsy of one patient having AMA negative found to have features of Primary biliary Cirrhosis in our study. (journalcra.com)
  • The recurrence of primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC) in the hepatic allograft may impact patient and graft survival with long-term follow-up. (elsevierpure.com)
  • Primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC) is an autoimmune disease of the liver, characterized by the presence of antimitochondrial antibodies (AMA) and progressive immune-mediated destruction of biliary ductules, which lead to cirrhosis. (annalsoftransplantation.com)
  • Although several excellent studies have described the natural history of primary biliary cirrhosis, most were reported from tertiary referral centers. (nih.gov)
  • We examined the prognosis of primary biliary cirrhosis in a comprehensive geographically defined cohort. (nih.gov)
  • We followed up 770 primary biliary cirrhosis patients prevalent between January 1987 and December 1994 until death, transplantation, or censor on January 1, 2000, by interview and review of case notes and death certificates. (nih.gov)
  • Although primary biliary cirrhosis is often now diagnosed at an early stage, the diagnosis still carries important prognostic implications. (nih.gov)
  • Primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC) has a complex clinical phenotype, with debate about the extent and specificity of frequently described systemic symptoms such as fatigue. (nih.gov)
  • It works by decreasing the production of cholesterol and by dissolving the cholesterol in bile to prevent stone formation and by decreasing toxic levels of bile acids that accumulate in primary biliary cirrhosis. (medlineplus.gov)
  • Primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC). (healthline.com)
  • It is also used to treat primary biliary cirrhosis. (rxwiki.com)
  • Primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC) is an autoimmune disease in which the body's immune cells attack the bile ducts of the liver. (ucsfhealth.org)
  • Although primary biliary cirrhosis can affect all ages and sexes, middle-age women are most frequently diagnosed with the disease. (ucsfhealth.org)
  • Treatments for primary biliary cirrhosis include medication to slow the liver damage and, for severe cases, liver transplantation. (ucsfhealth.org)
  • Liver transplant is recommended for people whose primary biliary cirrhosis causes severe liver damage or progresses to liver failure. (ucsfhealth.org)
  • This condition is one of the primary causes of liver disease worldwide. (vejthani.com)
  • Raised IgM levels are seen in primary biliary cirrhosis, another autoimmune liver disease. (proprofs.com)
  • In some liver diseases, such as primary biliary cirrhosis, treatment can slow but not stop the progression of liver injury. (aafp.org)
  • A bacteria commonly found in soil and water triggered autoimmune symptoms in mice similar to those found in an incurable liver disease called Primary Biliary Cirrhosis. (sciencedaily.com)
  • For their study, they examined a group of American patients with PSC and primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC), as well as a control group of healthy patients suffering from neither condition. (redorbit.com)
  • What Should I Know About Primary Biliary Cirrhosis (PBC)? (emedicinehealth.com)
  • Primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC) is a chronic disease characterized by progressive inflammation and destruction of the small bile ducts within the liver. (emedicinehealth.com)
  • What Is the Medical Definition of Primary Biliary Cirrhosis (PBC)? (emedicinehealth.com)
  • Since cirrhosis occurs only in the later stage of PBC, the name primary biliary cirrhosis is actually a misnomer for patients in the earlier stages of the illness. (emedicinehealth.com)
  • How Common Is Primary Biliary Cirrhosis? (emedicinehealth.com)
  • Naturally-occurring autoantibodies to a family of mitochondrial enzymes, the 2-oxoacid dehydrogenase complexes (2-OADC), characterize the human liver disease primary biliary cirrhosis. (edu.au)
  • Our data indicate that 'multisystem' autoimmune diseases including primary biliary cirrhosis may not be elicitable experimentally because a critical disease-relevant autoepitope is not engaged by the immune system. (edu.au)
  • [ 6 ] These antibodies were later demonstrated to be present in other conditions, including viral hepatitis, malignancy, heroin use, and other autoimmune liver diseases such as primary biliary cirrhosis. (medscape.com)
  • Without treatment, it can lead to cirrhosis and liver failure. (healthline.com)
  • PBC can eventually lead to cirrhosis and liver failure. (healthline.com)
  • This can lead to cirrhosis or liver failure. (healthline.com)
  • It can take many years for liver damage to lead to cirrhosis. (liverfoundation.org)
  • Drinking too much alcohol can cause the liver to swell, which over time can lead to cirrhosis. (liverfoundation.org)
  • Hepatitis C causes the liver to swell, which over time can lead to cirrhosis. (liverfoundation.org)
  • NASH can cause the liver to swell and can lead to cirrhosis. (liverfoundation.org)
  • The bile backs up in the liver causing the liver to swell and can lead to cirrhosis. (liverfoundation.org)
  • Some genetic diseases can lead to cirrhosis. (liverfoundation.org)
  • Eventually this can lead to cirrhosis and its associated complications as scar tissue replaces healthy liver tissue and liver function becomes increasingly impaired. (healthywomen.org)
  • Biliary-type pain, the typical clinical presentation, is due to the obstruction of the bile duct lumen. (medscape.com)
  • According to the Minnesota-based medical center, PSC is a disease of the bile ducts, which can result in inflammation and subsequent duct obstruction potentially resulting in cirrhosis of the liver, liver failure and biliary cancer. (redorbit.com)
  • The many reasons for false-positive scintigraphic results are well known, and if biliary obstruction from a complicating factor is present, nuclear scans may be nondiagnostic. (medscape.com)
  • The pain is caused by an obstruction to the flow of bile, with distension of the biliary lumen, and is clinically similar to when the obstruction occurs at the cystic duct or at another level of the common bile duct. (medscape.com)
  • The combination of jaundice and abdominal pain suggests a subacute obstruction of the biliary ductal system. (medscape.com)
  • In elderly patients, however, biliary tract obstruction may be painless. (medscape.com)
  • The weight loss may be caused by inadequate nutrient intake (eg, anorexia) or malabsorption of fats (eg, a paucity of bile in cholestatic diseases or prolonged biliary obstruction). (medscape.com)
  • Hepatic signs - telangiectasias (asterisks, spiders) in the face and shoulder girdle, erythema of the palmar and digital elevations (liver palms), blanching of the nails (a sign of low serum albumin), deformity of the terminal phalanges of the fingers in the form of drumsticks, red (varnished) language. (medprep.info)
  • The middle hepatic vein can be used as an anatomical landmark to identify the left medial segment separate from the right anterior segment of the liver. (proprofs.com)
  • The left medial segment is located on the left lobe of the liver, and the middle hepatic vein serves as a boundary between this segment and the right anterior segment. (proprofs.com)
  • The liver receives oxygenated blood from both the portal vein and the hepatic artery. (proprofs.com)
  • The portal vein carries nutrient-rich blood from the intestines to the liver, while the hepatic artery supplies oxygenated blood from the heart to the liver. (proprofs.com)
  • Hepatic coma occurs when blood bypass the liver through collateral circulation .as the liver is the main detoxification organ of toxic substance, so toxic substances directly reach the brain. (welovelmc.com)
  • Bolognesi M, Verardo A, Di Pascoli M: Peculiar characteristics of portal-hepatic hemodynamics of alcoholic cirrhosis. (karger.com)
  • Battista S, Bar F, Mengozzi G, Zanon E, Grosso M, Molino G: Hyperdynamic circulation in patients with cirrhosis: direct measurement of nitric oxide levels in hepatic and portal veins. (karger.com)
  • Bile ducts are small tubes that transport bile from the liver to the larger hepatic ducts and into the gallbladder where bile is stored until a person eats. (emedicinehealth.com)
  • Itching does not distinguish the cause of cholestasis as hepatic or biliary. (medscape.com)
  • Fatty degeneration of the liver is characteristic of alcoholics, brown liver - for hemochromatosis. (medprep.info)
  • Chronic liver disease also includes hereditary diseases (e.g., hemochromatosis, alpha 1 -antitrypsin deficiency, Wilson's disease), nonalcoholic steatohepatitis and a group of liver diseases with no identifiable cause (i.e., cryptogenic liver disease). (aafp.org)
  • Bile is produced by the liver and is channeled by the biliary ductal system into the intestinal tract for the emulsification and absorption of fats. (medscape.com)
  • Gastrointestinal investigated K. pneumoniae isolates from healthy carriers that were genetically similar to liver abscess isolates to Tract and Pyogenic assess whether colonization of virulent K. pneumoniae occurs in these persons, which could subsequently lead to Liver Abscess development of liver abscess. (cdc.gov)
  • Bacterial isolates from liver and fecal samples from 10 patients with this condition and 7 healthy carriers originated from the gastrointestinal tract of patients, we showed identical serotypes and genotypes with the same concomitantly tested all liver aspirate, saliva, nasal swab, virulence. (cdc.gov)
  • Also, tell your doctor if you have or have ever had variceal bleeding (bleeding in the esophagus or stomach), Crohn's disease (a condition in which the body attacks the lining of the digestive tract, causing pain, diarrhea, weight loss, and fever), or liver disease. (medlineplus.gov)
  • A history of weight loss is associated with more serious diseases of the biliary tract. (medscape.com)
  • Biliary disease is caused by abnormalities in bile composition, biliary anatomy, or function. (medscape.com)
  • Like other group of chronic liver disease of known etiology may , on the course of time, lead to decompantion , liver failure and Hepatocellular carcinoma, Cryptogenic liver disease has similar course which need to be evaluated early. (journalcra.com)
  • Materials and Methods: This was a retrospective study where 120 patients with chronic liver disease for whom the anti mitochondrial test (AMA) was done because of a raised alkaline phosphatase (ALP) formed the population from which cases and controls were drawn. (journalcra.com)
  • Results: AMA was rarely positive (about 8.33%) in this group of cryptogenic chronic liver disease with high ALP values in Indian. (journalcra.com)
  • Conclusion: We need to do liver biopsy in the early part of the disease to ascertain the pathogenetic mechanism of liver injury in the crypto group, because in the advanced stage we hardly find the accurate sample for histopathologic evaluation. (journalcra.com)
  • it delays the progression of liver disease, but remains only a symptomatic treatment. (annalsoftransplantation.com)
  • Forty-two percent of deaths were caused by liver disease. (nih.gov)
  • an autoimmune liver disease). (medlineplus.gov)
  • A liver biopsy is a procedure to remove a small piece of liver tissue, so it can be examined under a microscope for signs of damage or disease. (mayoclinic.org)
  • A liver biopsy also is used to find out the state of someone's liver disease. (mayoclinic.org)
  • Determine the severity of liver disease, a process called staging. (mayoclinic.org)
  • Determine how well treatment for liver disease is working. (mayoclinic.org)
  • Liver disease is a general term that refers to any condition affecting your liver. (healthline.com)
  • Read on to learn about the types, causes, symptoms, and treatment of liver disease. (healthline.com)
  • Liver disease symptoms vary, depending on the underlying cause. (healthline.com)
  • It's also possible for someone to have liver disease and not have any symptoms at all. (healthline.com)
  • Fat buildup in the liver can lead to fatty liver disease . (healthline.com)
  • There are two types of fatty liver disease. (healthline.com)
  • Without management, both types of fatty liver disease can cause liver damage, leading to cirrhosis and liver failure. (healthline.com)
  • Wilson's disease causes your liver to absorb copper instead of releasing it into your bile ducts. (healthline.com)
  • Therefore, even patients who feel well should be referred for a transplant at the first sign of liver failure, or if they have advanced liver disease diagnosed by X-ray studies or liver biopsy. (ucsfhealth.org)
  • The most common causes of Cirrhosis are Hepatitis C, Alcohol-related Liver Disease, Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease, and Hepatitis B. (liverfoundation.org)
  • Many people with Cirrhosis have no symptoms in the early stages of the disease. (liverfoundation.org)
  • Fat build up in the liver that is not caused by alcohol use, is called Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD), which can lead to nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). (liverfoundation.org)
  • Depending on the disease causing cirrhosis, medications or lifestyle changes may be used for treatment. (liverfoundation.org)
  • When cirrhosis cannot be treated, the condition is known as End-Stage Liver Disease, or ESLD. (liverfoundation.org)
  • What is the best indication of NAFLD (Non alcoholic fatty liver disease) on abdominal ultrasound from the list? (proprofs.com)
  • Chronic liver disease is the 10th leading cause of death in the United States. (aafp.org)
  • Hepatitis C virus infection is the most frequent cause of chronic liver disease and the most common indication for liver transplantation. (aafp.org)
  • Preventive care can significantly reduce the progression of liver disease. (aafp.org)
  • Potentially hepatotoxic medications should be used with caution in patients with chronic liver disease. (aafp.org)
  • Many herbal remedies are potentially hepatotoxic, and only milk thistle can be used safely in patients who have chronic liver disease. (aafp.org)
  • The term "chronic liver disease" encompasses a large number of conditions having different etiologies and existing on a continuum between hepatitis infection and cirrhosis. (aafp.org)
  • Chronic liver disease is the 10th leading cause of mortality in the United States and is responsible for the deaths of more then 25,000 Americans each year. (aafp.org)
  • 2 Hepatitis C virus infection is the leading cause of chronic liver disease and the reason for 30 to 35 percent of liver transplantations. (aafp.org)
  • 8 Although each form of liver disease has a distinct natural history, most forms progress slowly from hepatitis to cirrhosis, often over 20 to 40 years. (aafp.org)
  • Chronic liver disease cannot be cured. (aafp.org)
  • Hence, it is imperative to prevent further exacerbation of the disease and to optimize the length of time between hepatitis and the development of cirrhosis. (aafp.org)
  • This article reviews preventive measures that have been shown to be effective or to have a scientific rationale in the management of chronic liver disease. (aafp.org)
  • Alcohol consumption has been associated with alcoholic hepatitis, fatty infiltration of the liver, accelerated progression of liver disease, a higher frequency of cirrhosis, a higher incidence of hepatocellular carcinoma, and death. (aafp.org)
  • Alcohol abuse and hepatitis C virus infection frequently coexist in patients with chronic liver disease. (aafp.org)
  • You suspect enlargement of the caudate lobe in a patient with liver disease. (proprofs.com)
  • By identifying this fissure, one can confirm the presence of the caudate lobe and potentially diagnose its enlargement in a patient with liver disease. (proprofs.com)
  • Injecting laboratory mice with the bacterium -- Novosphingobium aromaticivorans -- prompted activation of natural killer T cells, which were critical to initiating autoimmune processes that led to liver disease. (sciencedaily.com)
  • After the research team established chronic autoimmune liver disease in mice, they performed studies to see if they could transfer the disease with spleen T cells from infected livers into a second group of mice. (sciencedaily.com)
  • T cells from mice having CD1d (a glycoprotein important to activating NKT cells) caused autoimmune liver disease in recipient mice, although cells from CD1d deficient mice (which lack NKT cells) did not. (sciencedaily.com)
  • As patients are often asymptomatic, the disease may silently progress towards cirrhosis and liver failure. (eur.nl)
  • While PBC is rare, it is the most common cholestatic (bile build-up) liver disease. (healthywomen.org)
  • Because many people with PBC have no symptoms, the disease is often discovered from abnormal results on routine liver blood tests (elevated alkaline phosphatase). (healthywomen.org)
  • Liver transplantation is considered when medical treatment no longer sufficiently controls the disease and a person develops end-stage liver disease as a result. (healthywomen.org)
  • It is a neuropsychiatric syndrome secondary to liver disease characterized by unconsciousness. (welovelmc.com)
  • Cirrhosis is defined as the stage of disease when there is both widespread scarring of the liver and clusters (nodules) of hepatocytes reproducing (regenerating) themselves within the scars. (emedicinehealth.com)
  • They're the only ones in the world that I know of that don't accept SVR," said Paul Pockros, MD, director of the Liver Disease Center at Scripps Clinic in La Jolla, Calif. Pockros pointed to a 2012 JAMA paper demonstrating that SVR among patients treated with the older generation of interferon-based treatments correlated with lower all-cause mortality after an average follow-up of 8.4 years. (medpagetoday.com)
  • Biliary disease presents with some diversity, from no symptoms to a constellation of signs and symptoms of varying severity and combination. (medscape.com)
  • Biliary disease often presents with upper abdominal pain. (medscape.com)
  • Smooth-muscle antibodies were first discovered in 1965 by Johnson et al when they demonstrated that antibodies in the sera of patients with chronic liver disease were able to bind to the smooth muscle of rat stomachs. (medscape.com)
  • Because some patients develop asymptomatic disease until liver compensation, understanding the real numbers of chronic liver disease (CLD) cases may not be reliable 3 . (bvsalud.org)
  • We're not going to be able to transplant everybody, so we need to be able to manage end-stage liver disease better than we currently do," Sherman explained. (medscape.com)
  • Details of new clinical practice guidelines for liver disease - including one on the management of patients with hepatocellular carcinoma - will be released by the European Association for the Study of the Liver, which is sponsoring the congress. (medscape.com)
  • In the past, hepatitis C dominated liver meetings in the United States, as well as in Europe, but now we are seeing a lot more information and more drug studies about NASH and information about the natural history of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease," said Michael Fried, MD, from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, who is president-elect of the American Association for the Study of Liver Diseases. (medscape.com)
  • A symposium on the management of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease will address who and how to screen, noninvasive diagnostic and follow-up techniques, lifestyle interventions that can help decrease the incidence and severity of nonalcoholic steatohepatitis , and pharmacologic approaches on the near horizon. (medscape.com)
  • An oral session examining nonalcoholic fatty liver disease diagnostics and noninvasive assessment will include presentations on new scoring systems for disease-related fibrosis, serum biomarkers that might help discriminate between nonalcoholic steatohepatitis and simple steatosis, and the noninvasive prediction of esophageal varices in patients with related liver cirrhosis. (medscape.com)
  • will unite clinicians and patients to address the overarching question of whether there can be a common approach to treating the symptoms of many different types of liver disease, such as fatigue, pruritus, mental health issues, and quality-of-life concerns. (medscape.com)
  • A diverse spectrum of diseases affects the biliary system, often presenting with similar clinical signs and symptoms. (medscape.com)
  • It is always related to other liver diseases. (liverfoundation.org)
  • Cirrhosis is caused by chronic (long-term) liver diseases that damage liver tissue. (liverfoundation.org)
  • Jakobsen's results sparked backlash from hepatitis C experts and advocates, including the World Hepatitis Alliance, the Hepatitis C Trust, the American Association for the Study of Liver Diseases (AASLD), and the Infectious Diseases Society of America (IDSA). (medpagetoday.com)
  • Liver cholestatic diseases, which stem from diverse etiologies, result in liver toxicity and fibrosis and may progress to cirrhosis and liver failure. (jci.org)
  • Diseases of the liver and biliary system / Sheila Sherlock, James Dooley. (who.int)
  • As liver diseases (LDs) occur as liver damage takes place, their causes are variable and mostly caused by viruses and alcohol intake. (bvsalud.org)
  • There is a tendency towards stability in cases of mortality and hospitalization due to liver diseases in the Western Amazonia. (bvsalud.org)
  • This study was carried out to identify the mortality and hospitalization due to liver diseases, discover its possible causes, and identify health actions that influence the conditions and the improvement of quality of life of individuals in the region studied. (bvsalud.org)
  • Creating means and strategies aimed at health promotion and prevention can contribute to the awareness of professionals and the population and guarantee better results in the conditions of prognosis and treatment of patients affected by liver diseases, ensuring the quality of life and lower rates of morbidity and mortality. (bvsalud.org)
  • Méndez-Sánches (2005) 7 says that in 2050, approximately 2 million cases of chronic liver diseases (CLD) will be diagnosed, with alcohol still being the most frequent cause of these diseases, followed by non-alcoholic fatty liver diseases (NAFLD). (bvsalud.org)
  • Concerning Alcoholic Liver Diseases (ALD), for example, individuals' alcohol intake is the main factor of its cause, in addition to other environmental and genetic factors, such as age, weight, use of illicit drugs, and other concomitant infections 8 . (bvsalud.org)
  • One symposium - Symptom Management Across Liver Diseases: Is There a Big Picture? (medscape.com)
  • Two central questions will be addressed during the symposium, which is sponsored by the European Liver Patients' Association: Are some approaches helpful to the management of symptoms across different liver diseases, regardless of diagnosis? (medscape.com)
  • The efficacy of ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA) for treatment of recurrent PBC after liver transplantation (LT) remains less well known. (elsevierpure.com)
  • Liver Transplantation , 13 (9), 1236-1245. (elsevierpure.com)
  • In the advanced stage of PBC, the treatment of choice is liver transplantation (LTx). (annalsoftransplantation.com)
  • A significant proportion of patients develop liver failure, require transplantation, or die prematurely after this diagnosis. (nih.gov)
  • Ursodeoxycholic acid is the standard of care first-line therapy and is associated with a reduced risk of liver transplantation and death. (eur.nl)
  • Once infected, approximately 80% of leading indication for liver transplantation ( 8 ). (cdc.gov)
  • With the advent of highly effective, albeit expensive, drug regimens, there has been a decline in the use of hepatitis C infection as an indication for liver transplantation . (medscape.com)
  • Symptoms usually occur when the stones block one of the biliary ducts or gallstones may be discovered upon routine x-ray or abdominal CT study. (mountsinai.org)
  • It helps to decrease the formation of gallstones by dissolving the cholesterol necessary to make gallstones and suppressing production of cholesterol in the liver and absorption in the intestines. (rxwiki.com)
  • Used to treat gallstones and liver cirrhosis. (medicalisotopes.com)
  • Effects of Preservation of Donor Liver Gastroduodenal Artery on Post-Transplant Biliary Complications in 18. (annalsoftransplantation.com)
  • This condition relatedness of K. pneumoniae from liver abscess patients is frequently associated with severe complications, and healthy carriers, we obtained 1,000 K. pneumoniae including septic endophthalmitis and other extrahepatic isolates from fecal samples of asymptomatic adults during lesions, especially in patients with diabetes ( 1 ). (cdc.gov)
  • Treatment includes relieving symptoms, slowing liver damage, and treating complications. (msdmanuals.com)
  • What are the symptoms and complications of cirrhosis? (liverfoundation.org)
  • The goals of treatment are to prevent further liver damage and reduce complications. (liverfoundation.org)
  • In an extraordinary show of unity, hepatitis C researchers, clinicians, and advocates have denounced the Cochrane analysis and its implications, pointing to clear-cut evidence that current DAAs not only cure hepatitis C, but also reduce the risk of liver transplant, cancer, and other complications later in life. (medpagetoday.com)
  • Fibrosis of the Liver Fibrosis is the formation of an abnormally large amount of scar tissue in the liver. (msdmanuals.com)
  • When the ducts are destroyed, bile builds up in the liver, contributing to inflammation and scarring (fibrosis). (healthywomen.org)
  • We show that CCN1 (also known as CYR61), a matricellular protein that dampens and resolves liver fibrosis, also mediates cholangiocyte proliferation and ductular reaction, which are repair responses to cholestatic injury. (jci.org)
  • The liver determines the chemical composition of bile, and this may be modified later by the gallbladder and the biliary epithelium. (medscape.com)
  • In rare instances, the needle may stick another internal organ, such as the gallbladder or a lung, during a liver biopsy. (mayoclinic.org)
  • The esophagus, stomach, large and small intestine, aided by the liver, gallbladder and pancreas convert the nutritive components of food into energy and break down the non-nutritive components into waste to be excreted. (mountsinai.org)
  • The gallbladder is a muscular sac located under the liver. (mountsinai.org)
  • The gallbladder is located in the abdomen on the underside of the liver. (mountsinai.org)
  • The gallbladder stores bile (digestive fluid) from the liver. (mountsinai.org)
  • Biliary atresia, a defect in the liver or bile system, means the ducts that carry bile from the liver to the gallbladder are blocked. (akronchildrens.org)
  • Bile ducts are small tubes that carry bile from the liver to the gallbladder and then to the small intestine. (msdmanuals.com)
  • The gallbladder is a pear-shaped, expandable, sac-like organ in the biliary system. (emedicinehealth.com)
  • Clinical Outcomes of Administration of Rituximab for Desensitization in Liver Transplant Patients with Pref. (annalsoftransplantation.com)
  • Thirty-nine patients had liver transplantations by the censor date. (nih.gov)
  • Twenty-six percent of patients developed liver failure by 10 years after diagnosis. (nih.gov)
  • Klebsiella we systematically investigated the association between pneumoniae in isolates from liver aspirates and those from other body sites in patients with K. pneumoniae liver abscess. (cdc.gov)
  • To determine whether K. pneumoniae liver abscess patients. (cdc.gov)
  • Seroepidemiologic study abscess remains unclear, and the source of endogenous or of K. pneumoniae isolates from liver abscess patients exogenous infections has been debated. (cdc.gov)
  • of patients, we investigated isolates from liver aspirate, All K1 isolates had the allS gene, which is consistent nasal swab, saliva, and fecal samples by using genomic with results of a study that showed that the virulent K1 analysis. (cdc.gov)
  • For patients who need a transplant, UCSF offers a liver transplant program known for outstanding outcomes and survival statistics that are among the best in the country. (ucsfhealth.org)
  • In the U.S., there are over 17,000 patients on the liver waiting list, but only enough donated livers to perform about 5,000 transplants per year. (ucsfhealth.org)
  • ESLD includes a subgroup of patients with cirrhosis who have signs of decompensation that is generally irreversible with medical management other than transplant. (liverfoundation.org)
  • Weight reduction and exercise can improve liver function in patients with fatty liver. (aafp.org)
  • Investigators in one study 12 found that the effect of alcohol in patients with hepatitis C virus infection is not merely additive but synergistic, and that even moderate use of alcohol can hasten the development of cirrhosis. (aafp.org)
  • The preoperative assessment of the liver reserve function in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients with cirrhosis is crucial, and there is no universal consensus on how to assess it. (wjgnet.com)
  • But earlier this month, a pooled analysis by the prestigious Cochrane Collaboration questioned whether sofosbuvir and other direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) can actually save lives in the long run -- a finding that could deal a massive blow to hepatitis C patients and drug companies alike. (medpagetoday.com)
  • And there is currently a shortage of centers equipped to manage what is expected to be the burgeoning number of patients with end-stage liver cancer. (medscape.com)
  • The intrahepatic biliary tree functions to modify canalicular bile through secretory and reabsorptive processes in bile duct cholangiocytes. (jci.org)
  • If a patient with PBC is not treated it would progress to cirrhosis . (fattyliverdisease.com)
  • The process results in scarring, which over time may progress to cirrhosis and, in severe cases, liver failure. (ucsfhealth.org)
  • The daily consumption of more than four drinks of alcohol (48 g) increases the risk of cirrhosis, as well as death from other causes. (aafp.org)
  • Chronic hepatitis C is the another leading cause of cirrhosis in the United States. (liverfoundation.org)
  • Worldwide, hepatitis B is another major cause of cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. (aafp.org)
  • Diagnosis of recurrent PBC (rPBC) is based on the liver histopathology. (annalsoftransplantation.com)
  • A series of blood tests, liver X-rays and in some cases, liver biopsy will be performed to make a definite diagnosis. (ucsfhealth.org)
  • Imaging of the abdomen by ultrasound and a liver biopsy, where a sample of liver tissue is removed with a small needle, can help confirm the diagnosis and assess the degree of liver damage. (healthywomen.org)
  • PBC results in inflammatory lesions within the portal fields and subsequent destruction of small bile ducts of the liver. (sciencedaily.com)
  • This triggered chronic autoimmunity that damaged small bile ducts in the animal's livers. (sciencedaily.com)
  • In a patient with persistent elevation of liver-associated enzymes, the contrast medium entering the biliary ductal system preferentially enters the cystic duct. (medscape.com)
  • Hepatitis is defined as an inflammation of the liver. (healthline.com)
  • This condition causes your immune system to attack your liver, resulting in inflammation. (healthline.com)
  • The inflammation blocks the flow of bile out of the liver. (msdmanuals.com)
  • Thus, bile remains in the liver cells, causing inflammation. (msdmanuals.com)
  • If damage from the inflammation is mild, the liver commonly repairs itself by making new liver cells and attaching them to the web of connective tissue (internal structure) that is left when liver cells die. (msdmanuals.com)
  • Supports insulin sensitivity, increased liver function, & promotes the growth of healthy bacteria in the microbiome for decreased inflammation. (bodybio.com)
  • With PBC, your body attacks your own bile ducts in the liver, causing inflammation, scarring and cirrhosis over time. (healthywomen.org)
  • As the inflammation continues to destroy more of these bile ducts, it spreads to destroy nearby liver cells (hepatocytes). (emedicinehealth.com)
  • The combined effects of progressive inflammation, scarring, and toxicity of bile trapped within hepatocytes (liver cells) culminate in cirrhosis. (emedicinehealth.com)
  • About one in four people with chronic hepatitis C develop cirrhosis. (liverfoundation.org)
  • 2 From 75 to 80 percent of persons with hepatitis C virus infection develop chronic hepatitis (diagnosed by the presence of persistently elevated liver injury test results for more than six months), and more than 25 percent develop cirrhosis within 30 to 40 years. (aafp.org)
  • A session on guidelines for the management of decompensated cirrhosis and nutrition will include a panel discussion that will highlight the changes and updates that will most affect clinical practice. (medscape.com)
  • The prognosis is variable and is directly related to the presence or absence of comorbidities, the presence or absence of liver dysfunction, and the presence or absence of malignancy. (medscape.com)
  • Rarely, acute viral hepatitis can be confused with biliary-type pain. (medscape.com)
  • The patient with acute biliary-type pain often is restless, anxious, and frustrated by unsuccessful attempts to find a comfortable position. (medscape.com)
  • accompanied by insufficiency of hepatocyte functions and a change in the blood flow of the liver, which leads to jaundice, portal hypertension and ascites. (medprep.info)
  • In liver cirrhosis, portal hypertension is a consequence of enhanced intrahepatic vascular resistance and portal blood flow. (karger.com)
  • When there is damage to the bile ducts then you would expect that bile would start to pile up in the liver. (fattyliverdisease.com)
  • This results from damage to the bile ducts in your liver, causing a buildup of bile. (healthline.com)
  • Eventually, the ducts are blocked, the liver becomes scarred, and cirrhosis and liver failure develop. (msdmanuals.com)
  • affects bile ducts inside and outside the liver. (msdmanuals.com)
  • Bile produced in your liver travels via these ducts to your small intestine where it aids in the digestion of fat and fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E and K). (healthywomen.org)
  • The plumbing system begins in the liver with very small caliber ducts that connect to increasingly larger caliber ducts, like a tree in which twigs connect to small branches that connect to larger branches. (emedicinehealth.com)
  • The large right and left bile ducts, still within the liver, connect to an even larger common bile duct that runs outside the liver to the small intestine just beyond the stomach. (emedicinehealth.com)
  • The branching bile ducts course through special tissue in the liver called portal tracts, which act as conduits for the ducts. (emedicinehealth.com)
  • In fact, the branching portal tracts containing the bile ducts also contain the blood vessels that enter and leave the liver. (emedicinehealth.com)
  • The bile ducts carry bile, a fluid that is produced by the liver cells (hepatocytes) and modified by the biliary lining (epithelial) cells as it flows through the ducts to the small intestine. (emedicinehealth.com)
  • Biliary interventions can also be performed, but the intrahepatic ducts can be difficult to access. (medscape.com)
  • Contrast-enhanced percutaneous transhepatic cholangiographic image shows the dilated ducts in the left lobe of the liver. (medscape.com)
  • And at the end of the day, it could lead to cancer of the liver. (fattyliverdisease.com)
  • CI] = 2.7-3.9) million persons in the United States are living cirrhosis and liver cancer ( 4-7 ), and in the United States, is the with hepatitis C ( 1 ). (cdc.gov)
  • PARIS - Liver cancer, one of the greatest challenges to hepatologists today, will be in the spotlight at the upcoming International Liver Congress (ILC) 2018. (medscape.com)
  • Liver cancer is increasing in most Western countries, partly because of the hepatitis C epidemic that occurred in the 1950s and 1960s," he told Medscape Medical News . (medscape.com)
  • They now they are starting to come down with end-stage liver cancer. (medscape.com)
  • Ursodiol (brand names Actigall, URSO 250, URSO Forte) is a naturally occurring bile acid (ursodeoxycholic acid or UDCA) that helps move bile out of the liver and into the small intestine. (healthywomen.org)
  • Cirrhosis of the Liver Cirrhosis is the widespread distortion of the liver's internal structure that occurs when a large amount of normal liver tissue is permanently replaced with nonfunctioning scar tissue. (msdmanuals.com)
  • It occurs when the liver attempts to repair and replace damaged cells. (msdmanuals.com)
  • A liver biopsy is a procedure to remove a small sample of liver tissue for laboratory testing. (mayoclinic.org)
  • Liver biopsy is commonly performed by inserting a thin needle through your skin and into your liver. (mayoclinic.org)
  • Your health care provider may recommend a liver biopsy if blood tests or imaging studies suggest you might have a liver problem. (mayoclinic.org)
  • The most common type of liver biopsy is called percutaneous liver biopsy. (mayoclinic.org)
  • Another type of liver biopsy involves using a vein in the neck. (mayoclinic.org)
  • A liver biopsy is a safe procedure when performed by an experienced health care provider. (mayoclinic.org)
  • Pain at the biopsy site is the most common complication after a liver biopsy. (mayoclinic.org)
  • Pain after a liver biopsy is usually a mild discomfort. (mayoclinic.org)
  • Bleeding can occur after a liver biopsy but is not a common complication. (mayoclinic.org)
  • Before your liver biopsy, you'll meet with your provider to talk about what to expect during the biopsy. (mayoclinic.org)
  • During a liver biopsy, a small sample of tissue is removed from your liver using a thin needle. (ucsfhealth.org)
  • A liver biopsy may be needed to check how much of the liver has been damaged. (liverfoundation.org)
  • During a biopsy, a small piece of liver tissue is removed and studied in the lab, and additional imaging may be needed. (liverfoundation.org)
  • Cirrhosis refers to the replacement of normal liver tissue with non-living scar tissue . (liverfoundation.org)
  • Cirrhosis is the scarring of the liver - hard scar tissue replaces soft healthy tissue. (liverfoundation.org)
  • This is known as biliary colic. (mountsinai.org)
  • Although the term biliary colic is used commonly, it is a misnomer because the pattern of pain is constant. (medscape.com)
  • Infection in the biliary system from Ascaris lumbricoides or from trematodes, such as Clonorchis sinensis and Opisthorchis viverrini, often results in significant epithelial damage. (medscape.com)
  • New infections continue to occur, and morbidity and mortality are increasing among an estimated 2.7-3.9 million persons in the United States living with HCV infection. (cdc.gov)
  • Alcohol remains the second most common cause of liver Cirrhosis after hepatitis C virus. (liverfoundation.org)
  • It is widely believed that alcohol and the hepatitis C virus act together to promote the development and progression of liver damage. (aafp.org)
  • A greenish-yellow color is observed in biliary cirrhosis. (medprep.info)
  • Monitor the liver after a liver transplant. (mayoclinic.org)
  • For advanced stage PBC, in which the liver is severely damaged, a liver transplant is the only option. (ucsfhealth.org)
  • Find commonly asked questions regarding getting a liver transplant including, who gets priority, whether there's a way to expedite the process, and more. (ucsfhealth.org)
  • Use this Liver Transplant Glossary to help you understand some of the esoteric language and terms including, Angiogram, Echocardiogram, Sclerotherapy, and more. (ucsfhealth.org)
  • Since 1988, it has been the second leading overall reason for liver transplant among women in the United States. (healthywomen.org)
  • If used early enough, these treatments can improve liver function and delay the need for a liver transplant. (healthywomen.org)
  • However, Hepatitis NSW says that a few general symptoms can indicate some kind of severe liver damage. (healthline.com)