Hepatic disease is often treatable and has a predictable prognosis when a definitive diagnosisis made.
The many complex functions of the liver are reflected in a multitude of pathophysiologic derangements that occur with hepatic disease. An understanding of these derangements is necessary for accurate interpretation of laboratory tests, making clinical decisions regarding further diagnostic tests, and determining management of the patient. A brief discussion of some of the important pathophysiologic abnormalities is included at the beginning of this chapter. Recent advances in noninvasive imaging of the liver and biopsy methods have made hepatic biopsy a routine and essential tool in the management of patients with hepatic disease. This can lead to a definitive diagnosis, which allows the clinician to make appropriate decisions regarding management.