hepatic encephalopathy

brain disease that is characterized by loss of brain function, the occurrence of confusion, altered level of consciousness, and coma that results when the liver is unable to remove toxins from the blood

Key facts

Other names: Portosystemic encephalopathy, hepatic coma, coma hepaticum
Specialty: Gastroenterology
Complications: hepatic coma.
Types: Acute, recurrent, persistent
Causes: Liver failure
Risk factors: Infections , GI bleeding , constipation , electrolyte problems , certain medications
Diagnostic method: Based on symptoms after ruling out other possible causes
Differential diagnosis: Wernicke–Korsakoff syndrome , delirium tremens , hypoglycemia , subdural hematoma , hyponatremia
Treatment: Supportive care , treating triggers, lactulose , liver transplant
Prognosis: Average life expectancy less than a year in those with severe disease
Frequency: Affects >40% with cirrhosis

via Wikipedia infobox

Article

Hepatic encephalopathy (HE) is an altered level of consciousness as a result of liver failure. Its onset may be gradual or sudden. Other symptoms may include movement problems, changes in mood, or changes in personality. In the advanced stages, it can result in a coma.

Hepatic encephalopathy can occur in those with acute or chronic liver disease. Episodes can be triggered by alcoholism, infections, gastrointestinal bleeding, constipation, electrolyte problems, or certain medications. The underlying mechanism is believed to involve the buildup of ammonia in the blood, a substance that is normally removed by the liver. The diagnosis is typically based on symptoms after ruling out other potential causes. It may be supported by blood ammonia levels, an electroencephalogram, or computer tomography (CT scan) of the brain.