Liver disease, also called hepatic disease, refers to a number of diseases that may affect the liver and its function. The liver plays a role in the production of bile, blood-clotting factors and amino acids, and aids in the processing and storage of iron for red blood cell production. The liver also helps remove waste products from the blood and regulates levels of chemicals in the body.
Some of the diseases that affect the liver include infectious
hepatitis, cirrhosis (scarring of the liver), liver failure, Gilbert’s syndrome, cancers, bile flow abnormalities and blood flow abnormalities. Some medications may also cause liver damage, including acetaminophen (Tylenol). Treatments for these conditions vary depending on the disease and its causes.