Waxy liver, also known as amyloid liver, is a medical condition characterized by the abnormal deposition of a protein known as amyloid in the liver tissue. Amyloid refers to a group of insoluble abnormal proteins that can accumulate in various organs, causing damage and impairing their normal function. In the case of waxy liver, the amyloid deposits mainly affect the liver, leading to its enlargement and impaired function.
The term "waxy" is used to describe the appearance of the liver when affected by amyloidosis. The deposits of amyloid proteins result in a pale and firm liver tissue that has a waxy appearance upon visual examination. The accumulation of amyloid can disrupt the normal structure and function of the liver cells, interfering with their ability to process and metabolize substances such as toxins, drugs, hormones, and nutrients.
Waxy liver can be associated with various underlying conditions, including systemic amyloidosis, chronic inflammatory diseases, certain types of cancer (such as multiple myeloma), and chronic infections. Symptoms of waxy liver may include hepatomegaly (enlarged liver), jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes), fatigue, unintentional weight loss, abdominal pain, and signs of liver dysfunction such as elevated liver enzymes.
The diagnosis of waxy liver typically involves a combination of clinical evaluation, blood tests to assess liver function, imaging studies (such as ultrasound or computed tomography) to evaluate liver size and structure, and a liver biopsy to confirm the presence of amyloid deposits. Treatment modalities vary depending on the underlying cause and often aim to manage symptoms, slow down the progression of the disease, and address any associated conditions.
