| Function |
The largest artery in the body, carrying oxygenated blood from the left ventricle to distribute to all body tissues via its branches. Maintains blood pressure through elastic recoil of its … |
The largest internal organ, performing over 500 metabolic functions including bile production, detoxification, protein synthesis (albumin, clotting factors), glycogen storage, and drug metabolism. |
| Clinical Significance |
Aortic aneurysm (dilation) can rupture, causing fatal hemorrhage. Aortic dissection is a life-threatening tear in the aortic wall. Atherosclerosis commonly affects the aorta. Coarctation of the aorta is a congenital … |
Cirrhosis results from chronic liver disease (alcohol, hepatitis). Hepatocellular carcinoma is a primary liver cancer. Hepatitis B and C are major global health concerns. Liver transplantation is performed for end-stage … |