Chronic Liver Diseases: Diagnosis and Treatment

A progressive deterioration of the liver functions for more than six months is referred to as chronic liver disease (CLD). The function of liver includes production of clotting factors and other proteins, detoxification of toxic substances of metabolism, and excretion of bile. The continuous process of CLD that includes inflammation, destruction, and regeneration of liver parenchyma results in fibrosis and cirrhosis. Diagnosis and treatment of CLD focuses on stopping the disease progression through a multidisciplinary approach. Abdominal ultrasound, CT scan, fibro scan, hepatic wedge pressure, endoscopy, EEG, TIPS, triphasic CT, and Doppler scan are some of the radiologic investigations that can be used to diagnose and evaluate CLD. Ultrasound of abdomen is the most common imaging tool used for CLD. Computed Tomography (CT) scan is used to detect a lesion in the liver whereas triphasic CT detects hepatocellular carcinoma. The management of CLD involves underlying cause correction, portal hypertension management, and specific treatments for individual diseases. The topics included in this book with respect to the diagnosis and treatments of chronic liver diseases are of utmost significance and bound to provide incredible insights to readers. It is appropriate for students seeking detailed information on these diseases as well as for experts.