Medusa and Cirrohsis of Liver

10th August,2020

Medusa,the unfortunate character of Greek mythology.She was the most beautiful girl with perfect skin and hair.Everyone in Greece was fascinated by her beauty.Medusa wanted to become a priestess of temple dedicated for Athena,the goddess of knowledge.Virginity and chastity were major requirements for being Athena's priestess ,which she was.

Athena had conflict with Poseidon,the god of seas.He had a evil intention to tarnish Goddess's reputation.He raped Medusa after being rejected by her Infront of Athena's statue and then left.After that,Athena enragedly appeared before her and cursed her.Medusa's beautiful hair replaced by venomous snakes and she became a monster by Athena's curse.

So,what is happen in Liver cirrhosis?

In Liver cirrhosis , progressive hepatic fibrosis occur and there is formation of nodules.

As liver get hardened,there is an increase in pressure on draining vein of liver (portal vein) results in Portal hypertension.

Portal vein cannot drain in cirrohsed liver so blood backflows to peripheral veins.Blood backflows to periumbilical veins and there is dilatation of these veins.

It resembles like the head of Medusa so medically it is termed as 'Caput Medusae'.

There are many other complications caused by Portal Hypertension. These are splenomegaly,esophageal varices, haemorrhoids.

Cirrohsis of liver is an irreversible condition.The common causes of Cirrohsis are:

1.Chronic viral hepatitis (hepatitis B and C)

2.Alcoholic liver disease

3.Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease

4.Heamochromatosis

In most cases,Hepatitis B virus is responsible for this condition.But don't worry,vaccines against this virus is available.If you're not vaccinated against hepatitis B virus, hurry,go and get your vaccines.

I am ending my article here and wishing you a healthy life.

Thanks for patience reading.♥