Hepatic Encephalopathy
Overview of Hepatic Encephalopathy
Hepatic encephalopathy is a condition where the brain function declines due to severe liver disease causing the build-up of toxins entering the bloodstream which eventually affects the brain and it can cause mortality if it is not resolved quickly.
Signs and Symptoms of Hepatic Encephalopathy
Difficulty thinking, Personality changes, Poor concentration, Problems with handwriting or loss of other small hand movements, Confusion, Forgetfulness, Anxiety, Seizures, Severe personality changes
Common Causes of Hepatic Encephalopathy
Infections such as pneumonia, Kidney problems, Dehydration, Hypoxia or low oxygen levels, Recent surgery or trauma, Medications that suppress your immune system, Eating too much protein, Medications that suppress your central nervous system such as barbiturates or benzodiazepine tranquilizers, Electrolyte imbalance
Risk Factors of Hepatic Encephalopathy
Cirrhosis, Hypovolemia, GI bleeding, Hypokalemia, Metabolic alkalosis, Hypoxia, Sedative use, Hypoglycemia, Hepatic or portal vein thrombosis, Acute hepatic failure, Portacaval shunt
Investigation Techniques for Hepatic Encephalopathy
Liver Function Test, Serum glucose, Coagulation profile, Urine culture, Blood culture, Urine toxin screen, Ultrasonography, Psychometric tests, Head CT scan
Treatment and Prevention of Hepatic Encephalopathy
Supportive care, Reversal of precipitating factors, Lactulose, Antibiotic monotherapy or rifaximin
