FATTY LIVER

(HEPATIC STENOSIS)
Lipid infiltration may lead to hepatic stenosis, or fatty liver,
one of the most common metabolic disease of the liver. This
pathologic process causes liver enlargement and increased
firmness and may result in decreased function. Liver biopsy
establishes the diagnosis. Lab. Studies disclose that triglycerides
are the major type of lipid involved, but small amounts of
cholesterol and phospholipid also may have infiltrated the liver

Major causes of lipid infiltration include chronic alcoholism,

protein malnutrition in early life, diabetes mellitus, obesity,
Cushings syndrome, jejunoileal bypass, prolonged IV
hyperalimentation, chronic illnesses that involve impaired
nutrition or malabsorption, some hepatotoxins and Reyes
syndrome in children

Manifestations of fatty liver are related to the degree of fat

infiltration, the amount of time of fat has been accumulating, and
the underlying cause. Clients with moderate to severe lipid
infiltration are frequently asymptomatic; however, clients with
massive infiltration experience anorexia, abdominal pain, and
sometimes jaundice.

Recovery begins after the source of the problem is removed

and metabolic balance and adequate nutrition are restored.
Residual damage, if it occurs, usually follows persistent fatty
infiltration and chronic alcoholism. Fat embolization may occur
and can cause death

INTERVENTIONS

Directing attention to correction of the cause (abstinence

from alcohol, control of diabetes mellitus, weight loss, or
correction of the intestinal absorptive defect)
Preparing the client for diagnostic procedures
Emotional support by allowing verbalization of concerns and
fears
Supportive physical care including adequate nutritional
intake
Teaching guidelines that promote proper diet and prevent
recurrence.

END
DE VEYRA BSN IV