Because of the increasing burden of hepatitis C and fatty liver disease,
there is an explosion in the prevalence of chronic liver failure and
hence its complications. The onset of Hepatic Encephalopathy (HE) in
these patients has a significant impact on the quality of life,
morbidity and mortality. Unfortunately, the approach observed by most
clinicians to this complex disorder is minimalistic.
This book provides a comprehensive review on pathophysiology and
clinically important aspects in HE. Topics in basic physiology, nitrogen
metabolism, new insights into pathogenesis and brain edema are covered
in great detail. The authors have made a special effort by simplifying
the complex aspects of pathogenesis and diagnosis so that it can be
easily understood and applied clinically. This volume also focuses on
recent developments regarding diagnoses of subtle forms of HE, also
known as minimal or covert HE as well as on new treatments. Hepatic
Encephalopathy will be of great value to gastroenterologists,
hepatologists, pathologists, medical residents, fellows, internists and
general practitioners who treat patients with hepatic encephalopathy.