Hepatic Coma

Hepatic coma, also called advanced hepatic encephalopathy, is a serious disturbance of brain function that arises when the liver loses its ability to filter toxic substances from the blood.

When is it urgent? Marked confusion, deep drowsiness, or loss of consciousness in a person with liver disease require immediate care.

What is it? It is the most severe expression of liver deterioration, in which the toxins that are normally eliminated reach the brain and affect its functioning.

Which specialist treats it? It is usually managed in the hospital setting with the involvement of the critical care and intensive care specialist, the emergency physician, and the gastroenterologist; the general practitioner can provide the first guidance. When neurological warning signs appear in someone with liver problems, seeking professional help without delay is essential.