Hepatic encephalopathy: suspect it early in patients with cirrhosis

Cleve Clin J Med. 2011 Sep;78(9):597-605. doi: 10.3949/ccjm.78a10117.

Abstract

As viral hepatitis and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease continue to increase in prevalence, we will see more cases of hepatic encephalopathy. Primary care physicians are often the first to suspect it, as they are familiar with the patient's usual mental and physical status. This serious complication typically occurs in patients with severe comorbidities and requires multidisciplinary evaluation and care.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Gastrointestinal Agents / therapeutic use
  • Hepatic Encephalopathy / diagnosis*
  • Hepatic Encephalopathy / etiology
  • Hepatic Encephalopathy / pathology
  • Humans
  • Lactulose / therapeutic use
  • Liver Cirrhosis / complications*
  • Liver Cirrhosis / pathology
  • Oxidative Stress
  • Risk Factors
  • Severity of Illness Index
  • Time Factors

Substances

  • Gastrointestinal Agents
  • Lactulose