Liver Clinic
Fatty Liver Disease
Fatty liver disease occurs when there is a layering of fat along the surface of the liver. This excess fat can lead to immune-mediated inflammation and damage to liver cells.
Autoimmune, Metabolic, Viral Liver Disorders
Autoimmune liver disorders occur when the body’s own immune system targets a specific aspect of the liver which can lead to inflammation and liver damage. The 3 most common types are autoimmune hepatitis, primary biliary cholangitis and primary sclerosing cholangitis.
Cirrhosis
Cirrhosis occurs when progressive scarring on the liver replaces functional tissue which, in turn, interferes with its function.
Abdominal Ultrasound With Elastography.
This is a non-invasive imaging evaluation that evaluates liver stiffness to determine baseline characteristics of fatty liver disease and/or cirrhosis and then monitor response to treatments and surveillance.
Biliary Tract Disorders
Biliary tract disorders are a group of conditions that affect bile ducts, gallbladder and other structures involved in the production, storage, and transportation of bile. The biliary tract consists of the gallbladder, bile ducts, and the associated liver structures. Bile is essential for the digestion and absorption of fats in the small intestine.
The most common types of biliary tract disorders are:
- Gallstones (Cholelithiasis) – hardened accumulation of bile that forms in the gallbladder. These stones can block the flow of bile causing abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and even pancreatitis.
- Gallbladder Inflammation (Cholecystitis) – This occurs when a gallstone is causing a blockage and preventing bile from exiting the gallbladder. It can be extremely painful and cause nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, fever, and jaundice.
- Biliary Colic – Biliary colic is very painful and typically occurs when gallstones move from the gallbladder to the common bile duct, causing a brief obstruction. Once the gallstone passes or is dislodged from the duct, the pain usually subsides. The pain can last anywhere from a few minutes to several hours.