Question

1. Explain with appropriate details the normal anatomy and physiology of the organs/ structures that are affected by Hepatitis C.

2. How is the homeostasis of the anatomical structures and physiological processes affected by Hepatitis C. Be thoughtful and thorough as you consider homeostasis.

3. Discuss any differential diagnosis issues related to Hepatitis C.

Answer 1

1) Hepatitis C virus mainly affects the liver. Apart from liver, hepatitis C also affects other organs like kidneys, lungs, intestines and vascular system.

Liver is situated in the right upper quadrant of abdomen and us made up of eight lobes. It is an important organ necessary for digestion of fats by secretion of bile from gall bladder. Porta hepatis, the structural and functional unit of liver consists of a triad of portal vein, hepatic artery and bile duct.

2) Hepatitis C elicits inflammatory reaction resulting in fibrosis and cirrhosis of liver. This affects it's normal functions like deposition of glycogen, secretion of bile and in the metabolism of xenobiotics.

3) The differential diagnosis for hepatitis C include,

• Alcoholic liver disease
• Steatohepatitis
• Chronic hepatitis B
• Hemochromatosis