Diseases of the Liver and Gallbladder

Cirrhosis is a liver disease characterized by scarring of hepatic lobules, which are replaced by fibrous tissue. This scarring disrupts normal liver function and can lead to serious complications. The condition often results from chronic liver damage caused by hepatitis, alcohol use, or other factors that progressively destroy liver tissue.

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) has two types: NAFL and NASH. NAFL is the milder form, causing little to no liver damage despite excess fat buildup. NASH, or non-alcoholic steatohepatitis, is more severe and can lead to inflammation, liver damage, and potentially progress to cirrhosis if left untreated.

Gallstones form when bile contains excessive cholesterol or lacks sufficient bile salts. Small gallstones typically pass without problems, but larger stones can damage the gallbladder or block the cystic duct, causing pain and other complications. Understanding bile composition helps explain why certain dietary and metabolic factors increase gallstone risk.

Jaundice results from bilirubin buildup, causing yellowish coloration of the sclerae, skin, and mucous membranes. Prehepatic jaundice stems from excessive bilirubin production. Hepatic jaundice arises from liver dysfunction such as hepatitis or cirrhosis. Extrahepatic jaundice is caused by obstruction of bile flow outside the liver.

Hepatitis is liver inflammation caused by multiple factors including viral infections, drugs, and toxins. These agents damage hepatic tissue and trigger inflammatory responses. Depending on the cause, hepatitis can be acute or chronic, and severity ranges from mild inflammation to severe liver dysfunction requiring medical intervention.

NAFLD is characterized by excess fat buildup in the liver that is not caused by heavy alcohol use, distinguishing it from alcoholic fatty liver disease. Despite similar fat accumulation, NAFLD develops through different metabolic pathways related to obesity, insulin resistance, and metabolic syndrome rather than alcohol metabolism.

The gallbladder stores and concentrates bile produced by the liver, releasing it during digestion to help break down fats. When gallstones form or the gallbladder becomes diseased, bile flow is disrupted, affecting fat digestion and potentially causing pain or complications. Proper gallbladder function is essential for normal digestive processes.