The Liver

The liver is situated behind the lower right rib cage, under the diaphragm. Therefore, it is typically only palpable during inhalation. Its border feels sharp but flexible in the normal state. It has the shape of an elongated triangle across, from the right hypochondrium to the epigastric hollow. The liver is the largest organ of the human body, weighing between 1 and 2 kg, depending on body weight. The liver is reddish-brown in color due to its high concentration in ferric pigments. Its smooth surface consists of a very fine capsule (<1 mm on histological sections), called Glisson’s capsule.