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Medical Neuropsychology pp 85–105Cite as

Neuropsychological Dysfunction due to Liver Disease

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Part of the book series: Critical Issues in Neuropsychology ((CINP))

Abstract

Among all organs, the liver ranks first both in size and the variety of its functional accomplishments. Located between the intestine and systemic circulation, the liver is both a filter and a metabolic factory. Through mechanisms regulated by the level of available energy substrate and the two hormones, insulin and glucagon, the liver is the organ that is responsible for determining whether ingested and absorbed nutrients in the form of chemical energy are to be utilized immediately or stored for later use. The liver also is the primary site for the activation, storage, and release of several vitamins. Moreover, it is a major site of protein synthesis, glycogen synthesis, and storage and is the primary regulator of the plasma level of cholesterol and other fats. An additional important function, performed by hepatocytes, is the manufacture of bile, a unique biological detergent containing, among many other components, bile salts and cholesterol. Thus, the liver plays an integral role in maintaining nutritional and metabolic well-being.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, 15261, USA

    Ralph E. Tarter

  2. Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Loyola University, Maywood, Illinois, 60101, USA

    David H. Van Thiel

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  1. Ralph E. Tarter
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  2. David H. Van Thiel
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Editors and Affiliations

  1. University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

    Ralph E. Tarter , Meryl A. Butters  & Sue R. Beers ,  & 

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Tarter, R.E., Van Thiel, D.H. (2001). Neuropsychological Dysfunction due to Liver Disease. In: Tarter, R.E., Butters, M.A., Beers, S.R. (eds) Medical Neuropsychology. Critical Issues in Neuropsychology. Springer, Boston, MA. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-4615-1287-5_5

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-4615-1287-5_5

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