what is asterixis
Asterixis is associated with various encephalopathies due especially to faulty metabolism. The term derives from the Greek a, not and stÄrixis, fixed position. Asterixis is the inability to maintain posture due to a metabolic encephalopathy.This can be elicited on physical exam by having the patient extend their arms and bend their hands back. Asterixis is seen most often in drowsy or stuporous patients with metabolic encephalopathies, especially in decompensated cirrhosis or acute liver failure. 2  It is also seen in some patients with kidney failure and azotemia, and in carbon dioxide toxicity.