Netter's Gastroenterology

Hepatic Encephalopathy

Hepatic encephalopathy (HE) is a common and debilitating complication of cirrhosis, and is characterized by cognitive impairment which occurs as the consequence of a complex series of alterations in brain functioning due to impaired liver function and portosystemic shunting. Although…

Ascites

Ascites is one of the most common and serious complications of cirrhosis and has significant prognostic importance as a marker of hepatic decompensation and liver failure. The development of ascites is associated with a decrease in overall and liver-related survival…

Liver Function Tests

Liver function tests (LFTs), also known as liver enzymes or liver chemistries, generally refer to a panel of serum biochemical studies used to screen for and monitor liver disease. This panel evaluates hepatic components ranging from hepatocellular necrosis and damaged…

Anatomy of the Liver

Topography of the Liver The liver (Greek hepar ) is located in the upper part of the abdomen, where it occupies the right hypochondrium and the greater part of the epigastric regions ( Fig. 143.1 ). The left lobe of…