Liver cirrhosis

Liver cirrhosis is a chronic disease that results in the scarring of the liver tissue, leading to progressive liver dysfunction. This condition is often the end stage of chronic liver diseases and is characterized by the replacement of normal liver tissue with non-functioning scar tissue.

Causes

The most common causes of liver cirrhosis include chronic hepatitis types B and C, alcohol-related liver disease, and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. Other less common causes include autoimmune hepatitis, inherited diseases such as Wilson's disease and hemochromatosis, and chronic heart failure with liver congestion, a condition often termed "cardiac cirrhosis".

Symptoms

Symptoms of liver cirrhosis can vary greatly, ranging from none at all in the early stages to debilitating, life-threatening complications in the advanced stages of the disease. Common symptoms include jaundice, ascites, hepatic encephalopathy, and portal hypertension.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of liver cirrhosis can be challenging, as patients often have no symptoms in the early stages of the disease. However, as the disease progresses, symptoms such as jaundice, ascites, and hepatic encephalopathy may become apparent. Diagnosis is typically confirmed through a combination of blood tests, imaging studies, and sometimes a liver biopsy.

Treatment

While there is no cure for liver cirrhosis, treatments can help slow the progression of the disease and manage symptoms. Treatment options include lifestyle changes, medications, and in severe cases, liver transplantation.

Prognosis

The prognosis for liver cirrhosis varies greatly depending on the cause, stage of the disease, and the patient's overall health. Early detection and management can significantly improve the prognosis.

See also

• Hepatitis
• Alcoholic liver disease
• Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease
• Liver transplantation