Email a Friend
Print ArticleMedical Dictionary
liver
Pronunciation (liv′ĕr)
- The largest gland of the body, lying beneath the diaphragm in the right hypochondrium and upper part of the epigastric region; it is of irregular shape and weighs from 1–2 kg, or about one fortieth the weight of the body. As an exocrine gland, it secretes bile; it initially receives most absorbed nutrients through the portal vein; it detoxifies drugs and many exogeneous substances and is also of great importance in fat, carbohydrate, and protein metabolism; also stores glycogen.
Syn: hepar
[A.S. lifer]
WebMD Medical Reference from "Stedman's Medical Dictionary"
The publisher is not responsible (as a matter of product liability,
negligence or otherwise) for any injury resulting from any material contained
herein. This publication contains information relating to general principles of
medical care which should not be construed as specific instructions for
individual patients. Manufacturers’ product information and package inserts
should be reviewed for current information, including contraindications,
dosages and precautions.
Stedman’s Medical Dictionary 28th Edition, Copyright© 2006_Lippincott Williams & Wilkins. All rights reserved.
-
1
-
2
-
3
-
4
-
5
-
6
-
7
-
8
-
9
-
10
-
11
-
12
-
1
-
2
-
3
-
4
-
5
-
6
-
7
-
8
-
9
-
10
-
11
-
12
To avoid injury before you hit the gym, personal trainer, Aaron Small, PhD offers these hamstring and calf stretches.
Most Popular Stories
WebMD does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.