A major factor in the development of hepatic encephalopathy is:

Question

A) Hypersplenism
B) High sodium level
C) Neurotoxin accumulation
D) Steroid hormone deficiency

Answer 1

Ans: C
Feedback:
Although the cause of hepatic encephalopathy is unknown, the accumulation of neurotoxins, which appear in the blood because the liver has lost its detoxifying capacity, is believed to be a factor. The liver metabolizes the steroid hormones; therefore, these hormones are often elevated in persons with liver failure and cause feminization (rather than encephalopathy) of male clients. Hypersplenism associated with liver failure is a factor in the development of anemia, thrombocytopenia, and leukopenia. Although the mechanisms responsible for the development of ascites are not completely understood, several factors seem to contribute to fluid accumulation, including salt and water retention by the kidney and increase in capillary pressure due to portal hypertension and obstruction of venous flow through the liver.