Liver Health: Preventing Cancer, Cirrhosis, and Jaundice

Liver

Hello, Doctor: I apologize for the interruption.
I would like to ask you about liver issues.

1.
Liver cancer is one of the top ten causes of death.
I read a section in "Preventing Liver Cancer" that states: "Preventing Chronic Hepatitis": vaccination against Hepatitis B, avoiding unnecessary injections, not sharing razors, and blood bank screening for Hepatitis B and C; what does "blood bank screening" for Hepatitis B and C mean?
2.
How does cirrhosis develop? What are the signs?
3.
I have read somewhere that hepatitis seems to be related to jaundice? How does jaundice occur? Thank you!

Wen, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2003/11/24

Dr. Chen Jingwen reply Internal Medicine

1.
Hepatitis B and C are transmitted through blood, so sharing needles or using the same razor that causes cuts and bleeding can transmit these viruses if blood enters another person's wound.
Additionally, drug users sharing needles and tattooing can also lead to transmission.
Receiving blood from "illegal donors" (blood that has not been screened by a blood bank) that contains Hepatitis B or C viruses can infect the recipient; therefore, only receiving "blood that has been screened by a blood bank" is safe.
2.
Chronic progressive hepatitis is most commonly caused by chronic Hepatitis B and C, which may progress to cirrhosis after one or two decades.
Long-term alcohol consumption can also lead to alcoholic hepatitis and subsequently cirrhosis.
Early stages often show no symptoms, and diagnosis typically requires abdominal ultrasound.
In advanced stages, symptoms may include vomiting blood, black stools, ascites, lower limb edema, and hepatic encephalopathy, at which point cirrhosis may have led to liver shrinkage.
3.
Acute or chronic hepatitis can cause obstruction of the small bile ducts within the liver, potentially resulting in jaundice, which can be indicated by elevated bilirubin levels in blood tests.

Reply Date: 2003/11/24

More Info

Understanding liver health is crucial, especially given the significant role the liver plays in our overall well-being. Liver diseases, including liver cancer and cirrhosis, are serious health concerns that can lead to severe complications and even death. Let’s address your questions one by one.

1. Blood Bank Screening for Hepatitis B and C: Blood bank screening refers to the testing of donated blood for infectious diseases, including Hepatitis B and C viruses. These viruses are primarily transmitted through blood, so screening is essential to ensure that blood transfusions do not transmit these infections. When blood is collected from donors, it undergoes rigorous testing to check for the presence of these viruses. This process helps prevent the spread of Hepatitis B and C, which can lead to chronic liver diseases, including cirrhosis and liver cancer. It is also important to avoid sharing personal items that may come into contact with blood, such as razors or needles, to reduce the risk of transmission.

2. Cirrhosis Development and Symptoms: Cirrhosis is a late-stage liver disease characterized by the replacement of healthy liver tissue with scar tissue, which impairs liver function. The most common causes of cirrhosis include chronic viral hepatitis (especially Hepatitis B and C), excessive alcohol consumption, and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). The progression to cirrhosis can take years, often without noticeable symptoms in the early stages. However, as the disease progresses, symptoms may include fatigue, weakness, jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes), swelling in the legs and abdomen (edema and ascites), easy bruising, and confusion or difficulty thinking clearly (hepatic encephalopathy). Regular monitoring and early intervention are crucial for those at risk of developing cirrhosis.

3. Jaundice and Its Connection to Hepatitis: Jaundice is a condition characterized by the yellowing of the skin and eyes, resulting from an accumulation of bilirubin in the blood. Bilirubin is a byproduct of the breakdown of red blood cells, and the liver normally processes it for excretion. In cases of liver inflammation, such as hepatitis, the liver's ability to process bilirubin can be impaired, leading to its buildup in the bloodstream. Hepatitis can be caused by viral infections, alcohol use, certain medications, and autoimmune diseases. When the liver is inflamed or damaged, it may not effectively remove bilirubin, resulting in jaundice. Monitoring bilirubin levels through blood tests can help assess liver function and diagnose underlying liver conditions.

In summary, maintaining liver health is vital for overall health. Preventive measures, such as vaccination against Hepatitis B, avoiding risky behaviors that can lead to viral infections, and regular health check-ups, are essential. For those with existing liver conditions, early detection and management can significantly improve outcomes. If you or someone you know is at risk for liver disease, it is important to consult a healthcare professional for personalized advice and monitoring.

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