Glossary

Ascites: The accumulation of fluid in the abdomen, causing abdominal swelling.

Cirrhosis: A condition in which many of the normal liver cells become replaced with fibrous (scar) tissue after repeated damage.

Fatty liver disease [steatosis]: A disease comprising the accumulation of fat in the liver. This may occur through heavy alcohol consumption, in some metabolic syndromes, in pregnancy, in malnutrition, in viral hepatitis, or from certain medications (such as oestrogens or steroids).

Peripheral vascular disease: A disease causing restricted blood flow to the arms, legs, or other body parts. Blood flow and oxygen supply becomes reduced by blockages and narrowing in the arteries or veins.

Polyp: A growth, usually benign, protruding from a mucous membrane.