The digestive system consists of the gastrointestinal tract, sometimes referred to as the GI tract, which includes the esophagus, stomach, small intestine and large intestine as well as the accessory organs of digestion which include the pancreas, gallbladder, and liver. [2][3]
University Gastroenterology is a 20-member group providing advanced, patient-friendly care for liver and gastrointestinal diseases, with expertise in gastroenterology, IBD, and liver disease.
Your liver is one hardworking organ (and gland). Every day, it filters toxins from your blood, produces proteins and fights infections.
Liver disease can be passed through families, called inherited. Anything that damages the liver also can cause liver problems, including viruses, alcohol use and obesity. Over time, conditions that damage the liver can lead to scarring, called cirrhosis. Cirrhosis can lead to liver failure, a life-threatening condition. But early treatment may give the liver time to heal.
The liver is a major metabolic organ exclusively found in vertebrates, which performs many essential biological functions such as detoxification of the organism, and the synthesis of various proteins and various other biochemicals necessary for digestion and growth. [2][3][4] In humans, it is located in the right upper quadrant of the abdomen, below the diaphragm and mostly shielded by the ...
The liver is located in the upper right-hand portion of the abdominal cavity, beneath the diaphragm, and on top of the stomach, right kidney, and intestines. Shaped like a cone, the liver is a dark reddish-brown organ that weighs about 3 pounds. There are 2 distinct sources that supply blood to the ...
The liver removes toxins from the body’s blood supply, maintains healthy blood sugar levels, regulates blood clotting, and performs hundreds of other vital functions. Learn more about the liver and why it is so essential.