Alcoholic Liver Disease

ALSO KNOWN AS
Alcoholic Hepatitis

DESCRIPTION
* This occurs after periods of long-term Consumption of ethanol (alcohol), an agent toxic to the liver, which inflames and injures the liver. This condition is reversible, but commonly is a precursor to liver Cirrhosis (permanent damage and scarring of the liver).

SYMPTOMS
* Loss of Appetite
* Nausea
* Abdominal pain
* Fever
* Confusion
* Coma

CAUSE
* Excessive alcohol Consumption (this level may be less than the level for drunkenness)

HOW THE DIAGNOSIS IS MADE
* Possible findings on examination:

1. Jaundice (yellow skin or eyes)
2. Ascites (fluid in abdomen)
3. Hepatomegaly (enlarged liver)

* Tests that may be performed:

1. Blood tests
2. CBC, which may show anemia and elevated white blood cell count
3. Liver function tests show a moderately elevated AST that is usually double the ALT level, elevated GGTP, and elevated Bilirubin level.
4. Decreased albumin (protein level) and increased gamma globulin level
5. Liver biopsy
6. Ultrasound of liver
7. CT scan
8. MRI

TREATMENT
* Discontinuance of all alcoholic beverages
* Nutritional supplementation
* Vitamin supplementation with Folic Acid and Thiamin usually needed
* Methylprednisolone may be considered by your physician.

PREVENTION
* An alcoholic dependency treatment program, counseling, or Alcoholic Anonymous (AA) should strongly be considered.

SIMILAR CONDITIONS
* Cholecystitis
* Cholelithiasis
* Cirrhosis
* Alcoholism
* Drug & toxin-induced liver disease
* Hepatitis A
* Hepatitis B
* Hepatitis C