Portal hypertension due to intrahepatic block

Portal Hypertension Due to Intrahepatic Block is a medical condition characterized by increased blood pressure within the portal vein system, which is a major vein leading to the liver. This condition specifically arises from an obstruction or blockage within the liver (intrahepatic), which impedes normal blood flow. The liver's intricate structure and function make it susceptible to a variety of conditions that can lead to portal hypertension.

Causes

The primary cause of portal hypertension due to an intrahepatic block is liver cirrhosis. Cirrhosis is the end result of long-term, continuous damage to the liver and may arise due to many factors, including alcohol abuse, chronic hepatitis B, chronic hepatitis C, and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Other causes may include liver fibrosis, schistosomiasis, and certain genetic diseases.

Symptoms

Symptoms of portal hypertension may include:

• Ascites - the accumulation of fluid in the abdomen
• Varices - enlarged veins, particularly in the stomach and esophagus, which can bleed massively
• Splenomegaly - enlargement of the spleen
• Hepatic encephalopathy - a condition that affects brain function due to the liver's inability to remove toxins from the blood

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of portal hypertension involves a combination of clinical evaluation, imaging studies such as ultrasound or CT scans, and sometimes endoscopy to check for varices. Liver function tests and blood tests to assess the severity of liver disease are also common.

Treatment

Treatment focuses on managing symptoms and preventing complications. Options include:

• Medications to lower portal pressure, such as beta-blockers
• Endoscopic procedures to treat varices
• Shunt surgeries like Transjugular Intrahepatic Portosystemic Shunt (TIPS) to reduce portal pressure
• Liver transplantation in severe cases

Prevention

Preventing the underlying liver disease is key to preventing portal hypertension. This includes moderation in alcohol consumption, vaccination against hepatitis B, treatment for hepatitis C, and managing risk factors for NAFLD.

See Also

• Liver cirrhosis
• Hepatic encephalopathy
• Ascites
• Varices

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