| Summary: | The third edition of this acclaimed work provides clinicians and investigators with a wealth of state-of-the-art information that will lead to fresh approaches in thinking about liver physiology and liver diseases. Developed by a panel of renowned international authors, this edition outlines a range of important advances in our understanding of the liver's role as an immune organ and the functions of innate and adaptive immunity in the pathogenesis of all liver diseases. Indeed, the liver is a vitally important immune organ producing liver-derived products that can trigger the innate and adaptive immune system to initiate, mediate, regulate, and resolve systemic inflammation. The book begins with an analysis of the core concepts of immunology, including the definition of autoimmunity and its unique application to the liver, a tolerogenic organ. Subsequent chapters then explore the biological elements of liver diseases caused by epigenetics, genetics, and innate and adaptive immunity. Specific clinical presentations and aspects of liver diseases are also examined, such as Hepatitis C, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease and parasitic infections. Closing chapters then discuss liver diseases among specific populations, including pediatrics, those with comorbidities and preexisting conditions, pregnant women, and finally patients with transplanted organs.
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