Article Abstract:
Hepatic fibrosis is commonly seen in patients with chronic liver injury caused by such things as alcohol, persistent viral infections and hereditary metal overload. Fibrosis is essentially the formation of scar tissue. The mechanisms of hepatic fibrosis appear to be mediated by lipocytes, which are fat-storing cells of the liver. The four features of lipocyte activation are cell enlargement, loss of intracellular droplets containing vitamin A, local proliferation and the development of smooth muscle-like features. Kupffer-cell factors appear to play a role in the initiation of lipocyte activation, and it is still not clear whether inflammation is necessary for initiation. Cytokines appear to play a role in perpetuating lipocyte activation. Current treatment for hepatic fibrosis is focused on removing the inciting stimulus, for example by ending alcohol use or stopping metal overload.
User Contributions:
Comment about this article or add new information about this topic:
Article Abstract:
A study published in 2001 adds to the evidence that the liver can often regenerate damaged areas once the agent causing the damage is removed. This been shown in patients with liver fibrosis, hepatitis B, C, and D, hemochromatosis, primary biliary cirrhosis, and autoimmune and alcoholic hepatitis.
User Contributions:
Comment about this article or add new information about this topic:
Article Abstract:
Methods of liver regeneration to improve and restore liver volume for better success of liver surgery and liver transplantation are discussed in this article.
User Contributions:
Comment about this article or add new information about this topic: