Discuss cirrhosis of the liver including common causes, pathophysiology, clinical manifestations, treatment options, and patient education. Differentiate between alcoholic fatty liver disease and non-alcoholic liver disease.
Added by Ashley D.
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Step 1: Define cirrhosis of the liver Cirrhosis is a late-stage liver disease characterized by the replacement of healthy liver tissue with scar tissue, which impairs liver function. Show more…
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1. By what mechanisms can liver cirrhosis occur? Identify the type of cell death that occurs to cause cirrhosis. 2. How does cirrhosis impact healthy liver function and what are the associated symptoms of this condition? 3. Compare and contrast how alcohol and non-alcohol sources lead to cirrhosis. 4. What are medical treatments to control symptoms of cirrhosis and impact its progression? 5. What are the implications for the individual, family, and community as a result of this disease?
Adi S.
Source: Copstead, L. & Banasik, J. (2006). Pathophysiology (3rd ed.). Mosby. F.C. is a 54-year-old man with a history of chronic heavy alcohol use. He has frequent bouts of gastrointestinal bleeding for which he has been hospitalized on six separate occasions. He continues to drink and exhibits most of the common manifestations of alcoholic cirrhosis. He was recently hit by a car and was hospitalized for a broken leg. He appeared to be under the influence of alcohol at the time of the accident and had a blood alcohol level of 1.8. F.C.'s family reports that his mental functioning has deteriorated significantly over the past few months. Case Questions: 1. What are the common manifestations of alcoholic cirrhosis? Which of these are secondary to hepatocellular failure? Which are secondary to portal hypertension? 2. Why is F.C. at particular risk for GI bleeding? 3. What is the probable cause of F.C.'s progressive mental deterioration? How might his mental deterioration be medically managed? 4. What problems might be precipitated by F.C.'s abrupt cessation of alcohol intake while hospitalized?
Madhur L.
Cirrhosis Case Study Mr. V. is a 55-year-old alcoholic who checked into a clinic, complaining he has been experiencing a persistent cough and has been feeling more fatigued, nauseous, and irritable. In addition, he is experiencing more frequent memory lapses. His abdomen is distended, but on palpation, his liver is small in size and firm, indicating cirrhosis. Lab tests indicate a decrease in hemoglobin, albumin, and prothrombin levels with elevated serum bilirubin and ammonia levels. Case Study Questions Differentiate the various stages that Mr. V.’s liver has progressed through and the implications of the current stage. Examine specific rationale for each of Mr. V.’s manifestations and blood values. Appraise whether it is possible to reverse the damage to the liver at this stage. What is Mr. V's prognosis? Evaluate significant complications that are likely to occur, include a discussion on predisposing factors and effects on the liver
Supreeta N.
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