The pathophysiology of liver failure involves the inability of the liver to perform its functions due to the destruction of the hepatocytes. Acute liver failure symptoms do not last for more than six months while the chronic form of liver failure persists for longer. The main cause of hepatocyte injury and death in liver failure is the presence of toxins such as alcohol and viruses. The mechanism of cell death in liver failure is due to inadequacy of ATP production, and cell swelling and damage.
The signs and symptoms of liver failure include the yellow discoloration of mucous membranes and the skin. The stool becomes pale. The ursine become dark due to the loss of bile salts through it. There is development of spider nevi due to the development of collateral circulation. Other signs include the development of hepatic encephalopathy due to the accumulation of toxins in the blood.
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