Hepatic ischemia
Definition
Hepatic ischemia is a condition where not enough blood or oxygen gets to the liver. This shortage causes injury to liver cells.
Alternative Names
Causes
Low blood pressure resulting from any condition can lead to hepatic ischemia. Such conditions may include:
- Heart failure
- Abnormal heart rhythms
- Dehydration
- Severe bleeding
- Infection
Symptoms
If low blood pressure continues for a long time, the patient may feel weak and lightheaded. However, the period of low blood pressure may be brief and produce no symptoms at the time. The damage to the liver cells is generally without symptoms as well.
Exams and Tests
Blood levels of liver enzymes such as AST and ALT typically rise 1-3 days after the episode of low blood pressure. Levels of another enzyme in the blood, LDH, are also usually quite high.
Treatment
Treatment depends on the cause of the low blood pressure, which must be addressed to keep the liver's blood supply stable.
Outlook (Prognosis)
Patients generally recover if the underlying illness can be treated. Death from liver failure as a result of hepatic ischemia is very rare.
Possible Complications
Liver failure is a possible but rare complication that can lead to death.
When to Contact a Medical Professional
See your health care provider urgently if you have persistent weakness or signs of shock or dehydration.
Prevention
Prompt treatment of underlying causes of low blood pressure may prevent hepatic ischemia.
Reviewed By: Jenifer K. Lehrer, MD, Department of Gastroenterology, Frankford-Torresdale Hospital, Jefferson Health System, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
