| Abstract: |
This chapter on hepatocellular failure is from a textbook that presents a comprehensive and up-to-date account of diseases of the liver and biliary system. The authors note that hepatocellular failure can complicate almost all forms of liver disease. Although the clinical features may differ, the overall picture and treatment are similar, regardless of etiology (cause). Topics include the general failure of health, jaundice, vasodilation and hyperdynamic circulation, pulmonary hypertension, fever and septicemia, fetor hepaticus, changes in nitrogen metabolism, skin changes, vascular spiders, palmar erythema (liver palms), white nails, mechanism of skin changes, endocrine changes, hypogonadism, hypothalamic-pituitary function, metabolism of hormones, general treatment considerations and precipitating factors. Each section has its own list of references, for further reading. 15 figures. 2 tables. 76 references. |