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Hepatology

Dr. Harikumar - Hepatologist in Kochi

Over 100 vital functions including filtering, cleansing, manufacturing and digestive functions that it performs, the liver has the amazing ability to regenerate and return to its original size, even after the removal of up to 75 percent of the organ.
Hepatology is the medical specialty which deals with preventing, diagnosing and treating liver diseases. Liver disease occurs due to various causes. Alcohol happens to be the commonest cause. The lifestyle liver disorder known as Non Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD) is a growing problem. Some viruses which remain silently in the liver for 2-3 decades (Hepatitis B &Hepatitis C), iron over load, copper metabolic defect and many more genetic disorders can result in liver damage.
Most causes which induce liver disease have one thing in common, the disease silently progresses in 2-3 decades and then surfaces. The early silent stages are ideal time to fully cure while the late symptomatic phases mostly palliation is possible. Hepatologists generally get to manage only advanced stages of liver disease when long drawn silent liver damage results in liver scarring and complications related to raised liver pressure . Liver cancer and jaundice are also late manifestations of liver disease

To turn Yellow Is too Late!

Whatever be the cause of liver insult, generally it takes 2-3 decades for the liver to get swollen (inflamed) and subsequently accumulate scar tissue (Fibrosis) and turn into a stage with significant irreversible damage known as cirrhosis of liver. The point to be noted here is that the years of damage which happen is essentially silent; In contrast, once cirrhosis sets in there is no curative treatment possible with medicines. Liver transplant happens to be the only option. Detecting liver disease in the silent phase can result in complete cure, but this indeed is a challenge. Without symptoms, patients won’t reach the health care facility. Not only that early detection is complete cure, early treatment before permanent damage sets in incurs less cost. A liver transplant can be as costly as 18-20 lakhs, while treating viral hepatitis C which caused cirrhosis is less than Rs.50, 000.Same is applicable to various other causes of liver disease.
But this “nip at the bud” strategy can be applied only if the public is aware of modes of genesis of liver disease and preventive strategies. Hence community Hepatology has immense importance . This would include liver health awareness camps, outreach clinics and digital and print media based public education strategies. Willingness to undergo screening programs to detect liver disease in the silent stage forms backbone of comprehensive liver care aiming at cure.

Comprehensive Liver Care

Liver Specialist Doctor in Kochi

Contact Dr. Harikumar

The Clinical Service Concept - 360 Degree Hepatology 24/7

Encompasses management of entire spectrum of liver diseases starting from preventive strategies , screening and early detection , management of cirrhosis and complications due to increased liver pressure, surveillance for liver cancer in high risk individuals , assess need for liver transplantation and ensure long term survival after liver transplantation.
Services Offered
  • Evaluation of abnormal liver tests
  • Diagnosis and management of viral hepatitis
  • Treatment of alcohol induced liver disease
  • Screening and management of lifestyle related liver disorders
  • Management of patients with cirrhosis, end stage liver disease and liver failure
  • Intensive care management of acute liver failure
  • Multimodality treatment of patients with liver cancer (HCC)
  • Pre liver transplant evaluation
  • Long term follow up after liver transplantation
  • Management of patients with cirrhosis and portal hypertension
360-degree-liver-care-conce
Liver-Care-diagram
  • Therapeutic interventional endoscopy techniques (Advanced Endoscopy, ERCP)
  • Advanced Interventional Hepatobiliary radiology (RF ablation, Chemoembolization and Radioembolization for liver tumors, TIPS procedure, biliary and vascular stenting, trans-jugular liver biopsy)
  • Community outreach Hepatology programs to generate awareness in the society regarding screening and monitoring for common liver diseases

Frequently Asked Questions

What is hepatology, and what does it cover?

Hepatology is a medical field dedicated to studying, diagnosing, and treating liver, gallbladder, bile ducts, and pancreas disorders.

Why would someone need to see a hepatologist?

People consult a hepatologist for conditions like hepatitis, liver cirrhosis, fatty liver disease, liver cancer, or any signs of liver dysfunction, such as jaundice or unexplained abdominal pain.

What are common diseases treated in hepatology?

Common diseases in hepatology include hepatitis (A, B, and C), fatty liver disease, cirrhosis, liver cancer, and bile duct disorders.

How does a hepatologist diagnose liver diseases?

Hepatologists use blood tests, liver function tests, imaging like ultrasounds, CT scans, and sometimes liver biopsies to diagnose liver diseases.

What role does hepatology play in managing hepatitis?

Hepatology is essential in diagnosing and managing hepatitis, focusing on reducing liver inflammation, preventing progression, and managing symptoms.

How does hepatology approach liver cancer treatment?

In hepatology, liver cancer treatment depends on the stage and may include surgery, liver transplants, chemotherapy, or targeted therapies, often involving a multidisciplinary approach.

What lifestyle changes might hepatology recommend for liver health?

Hepatologists typically recommend a balanced diet, reducing alcohol, maintaining a healthy weight, and avoiding hepatitis infections through vaccination and safe practices.

What is the significance of liver function tests in hepatology?

Liver function tests are central to hepatology, providing crucial information about liver health, detecting inflammation, and guiding treatment plans.

Can hepatology help with genetic liver disorders?

Yes, hepatology addresses genetic liver disorders, such as Wilson’s disease or hemochromatosis, through monitoring, lifestyle guidance, and specific treatments.

How does hepatology contribute to liver transplant evaluation?

Hepatology plays a key role in assessing candidates for liver transplants, preparing patients, and providing post-transplant care.

What advancements in hepatology are improving patient care?

Advancements in hepatology, like targeted therapies, minimally invasive diagnostics, and improved liver transplant techniques, have significantly enhanced patient outcomes in liver disease management.

 

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