Why does skin dryness occur during the decompensation stage of liver dysfunction?

Generally, during the decompensated stage of liver dysfunction, dry skin may be caused by impaired bile excretion, hormonal metabolic disorders, reduced synthesis and absorption of nutrients, accumulation of metabolic toxins, or abnormal circulation. Patients should seek timely medical consultation at a qualified hospital and receive treatment according to their specific conditions. Detailed explanations are as follows:

1. Impaired bile excretion: During the decompensated stage of liver function, severe liver cell damage may lead to obstruction of intrahepatic or extrahepatic bile ducts, preventing bile from being excreted smoothly into the intestines. Obstruction of bile excretion causes bile acids to accumulate in the body, failing to effectively nourish the skin, thereby accelerating moisture loss from the stratum corneum and making the skin dry and rough.

2. Hormonal metabolic disorders: During the decompensated stage of liver function, the liver's ability to inactivate estrogen decreases, causing elevated estrogen levels in the blood. This leads to skin vessel dilation, accelerates skin moisture evaporation, and worsens dryness.

3. Reduced synthesis and absorption of nutrients: During the decompensated stage of liver function, the liver's ability to synthesize albumin declines, leading to reduced plasma colloid osmotic pressure, decreased tissue fluid reabsorption, and insufficient moisture supply to the skin. Increased moisture loss results in dry skin.

4. Accumulation of metabolic toxins: The liver is a key organ for detoxification. When liver function enters the decompensated stage, its detoxification capacity is severely impaired. Metabolic toxins such as ammonia and bilirubin cannot be effectively removed. Accumulation of these toxins exerts toxic effects on skin cells, interfering with their normal metabolism and function, and impairing the skin's hydration capacity.

5. Abnormal circulation: The decompensated stage of liver function often accompanies portal hypertension, which disrupts the circulatory system. Portal hypertension can cause splenomegaly and hypersplenism, damaging platelets and other blood cells and affecting coagulation function, which may lead to subcutaneous bleeding. Additionally, impaired circulation results in inadequate microcirculatory perfusion of the skin, depriving it of sufficient blood nourishment, oxygen, and nutrients, while metabolic waste is difficult to remove, ultimately causing dry, dull skin.

Patients in the decompensated stage of liver function can take medications such as furosemide tablets, spironolactone tablets, and entecavir tablets under a doctor's guidance to improve symptoms. Additionally, patients should maintain skin hygiene, appropriately replenish water and nutrients, and avoid using harsh skincare products to alleviate discomfort caused by dry skin.