Patient Resources
The Liver
What is it?
The liver is a large and complex organ that has many important functions in the body. It helps process nutrients from food, produces bile which helps in digestion and absorption of fats, removes toxic substances from the blood, makes proteins that are important for blood clotting and other functions, and stores vitamins and minerals. Simply put, the liver helps keep the body healthy by performing a variety of essential tasks.
Common disorders affecting the liver
There are many disorders which can affect the liver. Common disorders include viral hepatitis, fatty liver disease and toxins (alcohol, medications). Some disorders can lead to chronic liver damage which increases the risk of developing liver cirrhosis and increase the risk of liver cancer.
What is liver cirrhosis?
Liver cirrhosis is the process of long-term liver damage resulting in the development of scar tissue. This causes impairment in the function of the liver increase the risk of various serious complications. There is also a significant increased risk of liver cancer associated with cirrhosis. Chronic liver disease can be insidious and some patients may not have symptoms until late in the course of the disease. Symptoms of advanced liver disease include jaundice, abdominal swelling and easy bleeding/bruising.