Question 1

A patient is diagnosed with fibrotic liver disease; a liver biopsy shows micronodular cirrhosis. What is the most common cause of this form of cirrhosis?&#10;A) Alcoholism&#10;B) Hepatitis C&#10;C) Hepatocellular carcinoma&#10;D) Right-sided heart failure

Accepted Answer

Micronodular cirrhosis is most commonly caused by chronic alcohol abuse. Alcoholism leads to liver damage over time, resulting in the development of fibrosis and the characteristic small nodular appearance of the liver seen in micronodular cirrhosis.

Question 2

A patient diagnosed with cirrhosis develops ascites. Which medication will be ordered initially to improve symptoms?&#10;A) Cephalosporin&#10;B) Furosemide&#10;C) Lactulose&#10;D) Spironolactone

Accepted Answer

Spironolactone is a diuretic that is commonly used in the treatment of ascites in patients with cirrhosis. It works by blocking the action of aldosterone, which promotes sodium and water retention. Spironolactone has been shown to be more effective than other diuretics, such as furosemide, in reducing ascites and improving symptoms in patients with cirrhosis. Cephalosporins are antibiotics used for the treatment of bacterial infections, while lactulose is a medication used to treat hepatic encephalopathy, a complication of cirrhosis.

Question 3

A patient with a history of chronic alcoholism reports weight loss, pruritis, and fatigue. The patient's urine and stools appear normal. What do these findings indicate?&#10;A) Early liver cirrhosis&#10;B) Late liver cirrhosis&#10;C) Liver failure and ascites&#10;D) Probably viral hepatitis

Accepted Answer

The symptoms of weight loss, pruritis, and fatigue in a patient with a history of chronic alcoholism suggest the possibility of early liver cirrhosis. The normal urine and stool output may indicate that the liver has not yet become severely damaged. However, further testing and monitoring of the patient's liver function will be necessary to confirm the diagnosis and determine the appropriate treatment plan.

Deck 112: Cirrhosis