Liver - Anatomy, Functions, And Liver Diseases

The liver is one of the most vital organs in terms of human physiology, credited with maintaining different crucial activities that help keep a person's health in good condition. This article gives an overview of the anatomy of the liver, its major functions, common diseases affecting this organ, strategies for keeping it healthy, and some frequently asked questions.

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This Story also Contains

1. Liver Anatomy
2. Functions Of The Liver
3. Liver Diseases
4. How To Keep Your Liver Healthy
5. The Video Recommended On Liver:

Liver Anatomy

The liver is the largest internal organ and always contributes to the overall metabolic balance in the human body. Located in the upper right quadrant of the abdominal cavity under the diaphragm, the organ is majorly situated on the right side. The liver is an example of a complex organ with a clear anatomical structure and function.

Position

• The liver lies in the upper right abdominal quadrant, underneath the diaphragm.

• It extends across the midline to the left side.

• Thus, in its anatomic position, it lies at the junction of the blood supply from both the hepatic artery and portal vein.

• It is anatomically well-placed for its metabolic and detoxification functions.

Structure

• The anatomic structure of the liver is divided into four lobes—right, left, caudate, and quadrate.

• All these lobes have different functions and different blood supply.

• These lobes essentially contain a similar form of tissue, that is, a tissue composed of hepatocytes, which are the main functional cells of the liver grouped into lobules.

• The hepatic artery delivers oxygen-rich blood

• The portal vein delivers nutrient-rich blood from the gastrointestinal tract—to accomplish metabolic processes in the liver.

Histology

• Under the microscope, the tissue of the liver consists of hepatocytes organised into hexagonal lobules.

• These project from a central vein, which is at the centre of each lobule.

• The hepatocytes are also surrounded by sinusoids and specialised capillaries.

• Blood from the hepatic artery and portal vein flows into the sinusoids.

• The liver also lodges the Kupffer cells, which are specialised macrophages that form an integral part of the immune function of the liver and its detoxification ability.

Diagram: Liver Anatomy

Functions Of The Liver

It is one of the most vital organs performing a wide range of crucial functions related to the maintenance of overall health. They can be broadly categorised into metabolic processes and detoxification.

Metabolic Functions:

• Protein metabolism: It synthesises important proteins like albumin, which helps in maintaining blood volume, and clotting factors necessary for blood coagulation.

• Carbohydrate metabolism: It stores glucose in the form of glycogen and releases it in amounts needed to maintain blood sugar.

• Lipid metabolism: The liver is a significant organ for regulating cholesterol synthesis and degradation; it plays a critical role in lipid metabolism.

Detoxification

Biotransformations by the liver change drugs and other toxins into forms readily excreted by the body.

Bile production

The liver produces bile, which aids the digestion of fats and removes waste products from the body.

Liver Diseases

Liver diseases are a group of disorders characterised by damage to liver structures and functions. The effects result in considerable health problematic situations. These can be caused by various factors, either viral infection or chronic diseases, and may require special treatment management and care. These include the following:

Hepatitis

• Type A, B and C occur due to viral infection and result in inflammation.

• Symptoms include Jaundice, Fatigue and Abdominal discomfort.

• Treatments are antiviral medications and supportive care.

Liver Cirrhosis

• Causes: Prolonged alcohol abuse, chronic viral hepatitis, and other causes which end up with irreversible scarring

• Symptoms: Ascites and Hepatic encephalopathy.

• Managed by lifestyle modifications. Sometimes Liver Transplantation.

Liver Cancer (Hepatocellular Carcinoma)

• It may occur due to underlying liver disease, such as cirrhosis or chronic hepatitis.

• Diagnosis may be done with the aid of imaging techniques like CT, MRI, and biopsy. Treatment may vary from surgery to chemotherapy, depending on the stages.

How To Keep Your Liver Healthy

• Having a well-balanced diet that is rich in fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins.

• Exercising regularly and maintaining your body weight generally reduce the risk of fatty liver.

• Avoid heavy consumption of liquor, usable drugs, and herbal supplements that can induce damage to liver function.

The Video Recommended On Liver: