Liver Failure

**Semantic type:** Disease or Syndrome

**Definition:** A disorder characterized by the inability of the liver to metabolize chemicals in the body. Causes include cirrhosis and drug-induced hepatotoxicity. Signs and symptoms include jaundice and encephalopathy. Laboratory test results reveal abnormal plasma levels of ammonia, bilirubin, lactic dehydrogenase, and alkaline phosphatase.

**Synonyms:** - Hepatic Failure - Hepatic failure