Feature ArticleThe Care of the Decompensated Cirrhotic Patient

- This article discusses the definition of end-stage liver disease.
- The pathology of end-stage liver disease is presented.
- Medical management for the decompensated cirrhotic patient is provided.
- Physical examination findings of the cirrhotic patient are also discussed.

Liver cirrhosis is among the leading causes of death in the United States, and decompensated cirrhosis is a complicated disease state that can present with various complications such as thrombocytopenia, coagulopathy, ascites, bleeding varices, hepatic encephalopathy, hepatorenal syndrome, anasarca, and jaundice. Each episode of decompensation is associated with an increase in mortality rate. Therefore, it is necessary for providers to equip themselves with a proper understanding of cirrhosis and its complex comorbidities to improve outcomes. Current literature regarding the management of cirrhosis and its complications was reviewed and summarized in this article.