2009-11-06 14:29:27 -

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Chronic hepatic insufficiency may result in blood which normally passes through the liver entering the regular circulation. This condition is most commonly caused by cirrhosis. It often produces periods of stupor or coma. The condition can be set off by gastrointestinal bleeding. Reyes syndrome is a hepatic encephalopathy in children that occurs in association with viral disorders.

Causes of Hepatic Encephalopathy


Hepatic

encephalopathy may be triggered by:

* Any condition that causes alkalosis
* Dehydration
* Eating too much protein
* Electrolyte abnormalities (especially a decrease in potassium) from vomiting, or from treatments such as paracentesis or taking diuretics ("water pills")
* Gastrointestinal bleeding
* Infections
* Kidney problems
* Low oxygen levels in the body
* Shunt placement or complications
* Surgery
* Use of medications that suppress the central nervous system (such as barbiturates or benzodiazepine tranquilizers)

Disorders that can mimic or mask symptoms of hepatic encephalopathy include:

* Alcohol intoxication
* Complicated alcohol withdrawal
* Meningitis
* Metabolic abnormalities such as low blood glucose
* Sedative overdose
* Subdural hematoma
* Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome

Hepatic encephalopathy may occur as an acute, potentially reversible disorder. Or it may occur as a chronic, progressive disorder that is associated with chronic liver disease.

Signs and Symptoms of Hepatic Encephalopathy


The major symptoms associated with hepatic encephalopathy are mental confusion and lethargy. Drowsiness may increase and progress to coma. There may be abnormal posturing of the extremities. Seizures may occur. The symptoms usually progress over several days or several weeks.

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