Review article: Coagulation disorders in chronic liver disease

Abstract

Background: The liver is the site for synthesis of the vast majority of proteins that play a central role in maintaining hemostasis, by participating in the regulation of coagulation and fibrinolysis. Aim: To summarize the available data on the impact of coagulation disorders in patients with chronic liver disease. Results: Hepatocellular damage in patients with severe liver disease can lead to abnormalities in the production and function of coagulation and fibrinolytic factors, disrupting the balance between coagulation and anticoagulation systems. Conclusions: Hemostatic abnormalities (eg. impaired synthesis of clotting factors, heightened fibrinolysis, disseminated intravascular coagulation, thrombocytopenia, and platelet dysfunction) can increase the risk of bleeding in cirrhotic patients. © 2007 The Author.