The liver is the largest organ in the body. It plays an primary role in the processing of substances (both foodstuffs and toxins) absorbed through the gut. Disorders of the liver consequently have a major impact on the wellbeing of the entire body. They include cancers, viral infections (hepatitis A, B, C, D), alcohol related damage (cirrhosis) and auto-immune conditions.
The liver is directly connected to the gall bladder and pancreas via the biliary tree and so clinical units dealing with liver disorders often deal with these systems as well. They may therefore be known as HPB units - H for Hepato (another word for liver), Pacreatic and Biliary.
Private treatment for liver disease may vary widely depending on the liver condition but may include surgery, chemo/radiotherapy and private liver transplants.
