What is the simple definition of liver?
(Entry 1 of 2) 1a : a large very vascular glandular organ of vertebrates that secretes bile and causes important changes in many of the substances contained in the blood (as by converting sugars into glycogen which it stores up until required and by forming urea)
What is liver short answer?
The liver is the largest solid organ and the largest gland in the human body. It carries out over 500 essential tasks. Classed as part of the digestive system, the roles of the liver include detoxification, protein synthesis, and the production of chemicals that help digest food.
What is liver and its function?
The liver filters all of the blood in the body and breaks down poisonous substances, such as alcohol and drugs. The liver also produces bile, a fluid that helps digest fats and carry away waste.
What is liver in medical term?
Hepatic – referring to the liver. Hepatic artery – the blood vessel which brings blood with oxygen to the liver. Hepatic vein – the blood vessel which takes blood away from the liver. Hepatitis – inflammation of the liver.
Why is the liver so important?
All the blood leaving the stomach and intestines passes through the liver. The liver processes this blood and breaks down, balances, and creates the nutrients and also metabolizes drugs into forms that are easier to use for the rest of the body or that are nontoxic.
What are examples of liver disease?
Liver Diseases Diseases caused by viruses, such as hepatitis A, hepatitis B, and hepatitis C. Diseases caused by drugs, poisons, or too much alcohol. Examples include fatty liver disease and cirrhosis.
What are the facts about a liver transplant?
Definition & Facts of Liver Transplant. What is a liver transplant? A liver transplant is surgery to remove your diseased or injured liver and replace it with a healthy liver from another person, called a donor. If your liver stops working properly, called liver failure, a liver transplant can save your life.
What are the functions of the liver in the body?
The liver processes this blood and breaks down, balances, and creates the nutrients and also metabolizes drugs into forms that are easier to use for the rest of the body or that are nontoxic. More than 500 vital functions have been identified with the liver.
What do the results of liver function tests mean?
Other liver function tests measure enzymes that liver cells release in response to damage or disease. Abnormal liver function test results don’t always indicate liver disease. Your doctor will explain your results and what they mean. Liver function tests can be used to:
What does it mean when your liver function is lower than normal?
Levels that are higher or lower than normal can indicate liver problems. Some common liver function tests include: Alanine transaminase (ALT). ALT is an enzyme found in the liver that helps your body metabolize protein. When the liver is damaged, ALT is released into the bloodstream and levels increase.