Which of the following statements are signs of hepatic failure?

• A. Jaundice, tachycardia, hypotension, and fluid retention.
• B. Hyperglycemia and weight gain.
• C. Bradycardia and hypertension.
• D. Rashes and joint pain.

Answer: (A)

Jaundice indicates a breakdown in the liver’s ability to process bilirubin, a hallmark of hepatic dysfunction. Fluid retention, including edema and ascites, arises from low albumin production and increased portal pressure. In advanced liver failure, systemic vasodilation reduces effective circulating blood volume, prompting the heart to beat faster (tachycardia) and, as this circulatory failure worsens, blood pressure can drop (hypotension). So the combination of jaundice with fluid retention and the accompanying hemodynamic changes best fits hepatic failure.

The other options don’t reflect liver-specific problems: hyperglycemia and weight gain aren’t classic signs of hepatic failure; bradycardia and hypertension aren’t typical; rashes and joint pain aren’t characteristic of liver failure.