Hepatic changes in systemic infection

Abstract

Liver is an integral part of the host-defense mechanism and facilitates clearance of pathogenic organisms in systemic infection by modulating the immunological response. It undergoes several cellular and molecular changes resulting in the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines, which regulate various metabolic and immunological signalling pathways. Some of these changes are pathogen-specific and essential in determining the host response to systemic infection. However, alterations in the immunological homeostasis can adversely affect the liver and lead to hepatic dysfunction. This article focuses on these molecular and immunological changes that occur within the liver in response to extra-hepatic systemic infection and its consequences.

Keywords: Cholestasis; Extra-hepatic infection; Hepatic dysfunction; Sepsis.