06/17/2026
Fatty Liver (Hepatic Steatosis)
What is it?
Fatty liver occurs when excess fat accumulates inside liver cells (hepatocytes).
Key Features in the Image
* Enlarged liver (hepatomegaly)
* Smooth liver surface
* Yellow, greasy appearance
* Fat droplets inside hepatocytes
* Minimal or no fibrosis (scarring)
* Liver structure remains normal
Causes
* Obesity
* Type 2 Diabetes
* Alcohol use
* High cholesterol
* Metabolic syndrome
Symptoms
Many patients have no symptoms. Some may experience:
* Mild right upper quadrant discomfort
* Fatigue
* Feeling of abdominal fullness
NCLEX Pearl
✅ Fatty liver is reversible with:
* Weight loss
* Exercise
* Healthy diet
* Avoiding alcohol
⸻
2. Liver Cirrhosis
What is it?
Cirrhosis is the irreversible replacement of healthy liver tissue with scar tissue (fibrosis).
Key Features in the Image
* Shrunken liver
* Irregular nodular surface
* Extensive fibrous bands
* Regenerative nodules
* Distorted blood vessels
* Portal hypertension
Causes
* Chronic alcohol abuse
* Hepatitis B and C
* Nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH)
* Long-term liver injury
Symptoms
The image highlights:
* Ascites (fluid in abdomen)
* Jaundice (yellow skin and eyes)
* Spider angiomas
Other NCLEX symptoms:
* Edema
* Esophageal varices
* Easy bruising
* Confusion (hepatic encephalopathy)
* Bleeding tendencies
NCLEX Pearl
❌ Cirrhosis is irreversible.
Treatment focuses on:
* Preventing complications
* Managing portal hypertension
* Liver transplantation if severe