Respiratory system involvement in chronic liver diseases

Abstract

Liver diseases are often associated with respiratory complications. They may manifest as pleural effusion, interstitial lung disease, as well as various combinations of symptoms affecting the pulmonary vasculature. The duration and severity of liver disease is not always reflected by the degree of lung function impairment. On the other hand, progressive damage to the lungs significantly worsens prognosis in the course of severe liver disease. The diagnosis is difficult and often requires multidisciplinary cooperation. The effects of pharmacological treatment are not always satisfactory. In numerous cases, liver transplantation proves to be the best option. Copyright by Medycyna Praktyczna, 2013.