Hepatic Encephalopathy: Clinical Manifestations

Clin Liver Dis. 2024 May;28(2):253-263. doi: 10.1016/j.cld.2024.01.005. Epub 2024 Feb 2.

Abstract

Hepatic encephalopathy (HE) can occur as a complication of chronic liver disease as well as acute liver failure. HE is associated with significantly increased morbidity and worse patient outcomes. The clinical manifestation of HE ranges from early less-severe presentations that may only be accurately detected on dedicated psychomotor diagnostic testing to overt alterations in cognition and mental status to the most severe form of coma. Greater awareness of the clinical manifestations of HE across the spectrum of symptom severity is critical for early identification and timely initiation of appropriate therapy to improve patient outcomes.

Keywords: Clinical manifestations; Hepatic encephalopathy; West Haven.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Cognition
  • Hepatic Encephalopathy* / diagnosis
  • Hepatic Encephalopathy* / etiology
  • Hepatic Encephalopathy* / therapy
  • Humans
  • Liver Cirrhosis / complications
  • Liver Diseases* / complications
  • Severity of Illness Index