Liver

Hepar

A large, wedge-shaped organ occupying the right hypochondriac and epigastric regions of the abdomen. It is divided into right and left lobes by the falciform ligament. The porta hepatis on the inferior surface is where the hepatic artery, portal vein, and bile duct enter and exit.

Type Organ
Body System Digestive
Body Region Abdomen
Latin Name Hepar
FMA ID 7197

Function

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

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 liver disease.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main functions of the liver?
The liver performs over 500 known functions. Key roles include metabolizing carbohydrates, fats, and proteins; detoxifying drugs, alcohol, and metabolic waste products; producing bile for fat digestion; synthesizing plasma proteins including albumin and clotting factors; and storing glycogen, vitamins (A, D, B12), and iron. It is the primary organ of metabolism.
Where is the liver located?
The liver is located in the upper right quadrant of the abdomen, beneath the diaphragm and above the stomach. It is the largest solid organ in the body, weighing approximately 1,400–1,600 grams in adults. It is covered by a fibrous capsule (Glisson's capsule) and is divided into right and left lobes separated by the falciform ligament.
What is liver cirrhosis?
Cirrhosis is a late-stage liver disease characterized by replacement of normal liver tissue with fibrotic scar tissue, disrupting normal liver architecture and function. Common causes include chronic alcohol use, hepatitis B or C infection, and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. Complications include portal hypertension, ascites, hepatic encephalopathy, and increased risk of hepatocellular carcinoma.

Related Structures

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Educational Disclaimer

This content is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for medical decisions.

Data sources: Terminologia Anatomica, Foundational Model of Anatomy, Wikidata.