Liver diseases

Liver diseases encompass a wide range of conditions and disorders that affect the liver. The liver is a vital organ that processes nutrients, filters the blood, and fights infections. When the liver is damaged or diseased, its function can be impaired, leading to serious health consequences.

Types of Liver Diseases

There are several types of liver diseases, including:

• Hepatitis: This is an inflammation of the liver, usually caused by viruses like hepatitis A, B, and C. It can also be caused by drugs, alcohol, or autoimmune diseases.

• Cirrhosis: This is a late stage of scarring (fibrosis) of the liver caused by many forms of liver diseases and conditions, such as hepatitis and chronic alcoholism.

• Liver cancer: Primary liver cancer originates in the liver. Metastatic liver cancer starts elsewhere in the body and spreads to the liver.

• Liver failure: This occurs when large parts of the liver become damaged beyond repair and the liver is no longer able to function.

• Autoimmune Hepatitis: This is a disease in which the body's immune system attacks liver cells.

• Biliary Atresia: A rare disease of the liver and bile ducts that occurs in infants.

Symptoms of Liver Diseases

Symptoms of liver disease can vary, but they often include swelling of the abdomen and legs, dark urine, chronic fatigue, nausea, loss of appetite, and jaundice.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis of liver disease may be based on symptoms, physical examination, blood tests, imaging studies, or the biopsy of the liver. Treatment depends on the specific type of liver disease. Some diseases can be managed with lifestyle changes; others may require medication or surgery.

Prevention

Prevention strategies for liver disease include moderation of alcohol consumption, avoidance of risky behaviors leading to viral hepatitis (like unprotected sex or sharing needles), and maintaining a healthy weight to prevent non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.

See Also

• Hepatology
• Liver transplantation
• Liver function tests