Pediatric Liver Disease

Overview

The liver is situated in the upper right quadrant of the abdominal cavity, beneath the diaphragm and on top of the stomach, right kidney, and intestines. It comprises two primary lobes, each of which has eight segments. A thousand lobules make up the segments.

The lobules are linked to tiny ducts, which join to bigger ducts to create the common hepatic duct. The bile generated by the liver cells is transported to the gallbladder and duodenum via the common hepatic duct (the first part of the small intestine).

Liver disease is defined as any injury or condition that restricts or impairs the function of the liver. It can be inherited or acquired (something that develops because of infection, unhealthy behaviors or habits, or exposure to certain toxins).