asterixis (liver flap)

Introduction

Sometimes referred to as a 'liver flap'.

Etiology

• may be seen in any diffuse encephalopathy related to
  • drug intoxication
  • organ system failure, especially
    • hepatic encephalopathy
    • renal failure
    • pulmonary insufficiency {especially with hypercarbia}
  • CNS infection

Clinical manifestations

• brief, arrhythmic interruptions of sustained voluntary muscle contraction, usually observed as a brief lapse of posture of wrists in dorsiflexion with arms outstretched

More general terms

• sign/symptom