Under this head we consider not only the abnormal condition dependent upon exalted nutrition and increased deposition of the peculiar normal constituents of the organ, but those anomalies also in which the increase of size is the result of excessive deposition of separate elements of those constituents, and of the deposition of heterogeneous matter. The former is genuine hypertrophy; the latter, which are often mistermed hypertrophy, includes the nutmeg liver, the fatty liver, and its variety the waxy liver; and lastly, the infiltration of an albuminous, lardaceous, and gelatinous substance.

Although the last-named abnormal conditions are closely connected with deep-seated constitutional and acquired derangement in the vegetative sphere, it is of practical utility to consider them in this section until we shall have arrived at an accurate knowledge of the infiltrated abnormal matter, and of the corresponding anomalies in the vegetative system at large. We are the more justified in adopting this course as the enlargement of the viscus, and especially the peculiar features in its growth which are perceptible to external examination, afford a valuable aid in the recognition of these internal conditions.

a. Pure hypertrophy, i. e. a simple increase of the normal specific tissue, can scarcely occur without uniform hypertrophy of all the constituents of the liver. It is not unfrequent; it is a result of hyperaemia, and presents the following anatomical signs: the liver is increased in volume, but retains its usual shape; it is hard, lacerable and full of blood; the acini appear enlarged, and of the normal reddish-brown color. This coarse-grained texture must be carefully distinguished from so-called granular liver.