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Ethanol Induced Hepatic Cirrhosis
Cirrhosis is a term which describes irreversible damage to the liver, most often occurring secondarily to the direct toxic effects of alcohol. There are a number of different diseases that can lead to cirrhosis (e.g. primary biliary cirrhosis, hemochromatosis), but the end resulting condition is often the same. Cirrhotic patients can have a multiplicity of problems including gastrointestinal bleeding, congestive heart failure, peptic ulcer disease, malnutrition, and other complications as a direct result of their inadequate liver function, or from the direct toxic effects of the ethanol molecule on the body tissues.
Common symptoms include abdominal pain and swelling, vomiting (occasionally with blood), jaundice, muscle weakness, and weight loss. Patients with alcoholic cirrhosis have FREQUENT episodes gastrointestinal bleeding from the esophagus and the stomach, secondary to ulcers, gastritis, or esophageal varices (dilated veins prone to bleeding in the esophagus). Liver dysfunction leads to blood clotting abnormalities and anemia. Evaluation will include blood tests such as blood counts, liver profile, and coagulation studies. An upper GI series or upper GI endoscopy can reveal ulcers or esophageal varices. Biopsy of the liver may be performed in cases of questionable diagnosis. Treatment starts with complete avoidance of all alcohol containing substances. Nutritional supplementation and B-complex vitamins (thiamine and folic acid) can help rebuild the blood. Diuretic medications (Aldactone) are used for reducing abdominal swelling. A special liver diet is recommended that restricts total protein and is low in fat. Gastrointestinal bleeding is treated as a separate problem.
Hope this article will provide you information about ethanol induced hepatic cirrhosis.
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