Cirrhosis is a condition of the liver that results from long-term damage to liver cells. In cirrhosis, bands of fibrosis (internal scarring) develop,  leaving nodules of regenerating cells that are inadequately supplied with blood. Liver function is gradually impaired; the liver no longer effectively removes toxic substances from the blood (liver failure). The distortion and fibrosis also lead to portal hypertension (abnormally high blood pressure in the veins leading from the intestines and spleen to the liver).

CIRRHOSIS CAUSES

The most common cause of cirrhosis is excessive alcohol consumption. Another possible cause is one of the forms of chronic hepatitis (inflammation of the liver). Other causes, which are rare, include disorders of the bile ducts; haemochromatosis, in which increased iron absorption occurs; Wilson’s disease (an increased in copper absorption); cystic fibrosis, which causes obstruction of the bile ducts with mucus; and heart failure.

CIRRHOSIS SYMPTOMS AND COMPLICATIONS

Cirrhosis may go unrecognized until symptoms such as mild jaundice, oedema (an accumulation of fluid in body tissues) and vomiting of blood develop. There may be enlargement of the liver and spleen. Men may experience loss of body hair and enlargement of the breasts due to an imbalance in sex hormones caused by liver failure.

Complications of cirrhosis include ascites (an accumulation of fluid in the abdominal cavity) oesophageal varices (enlarged veins within the oesophagus wall), and hepatoma (liver cancer). Cirrhosis may also cause toxins to build up in the brain, producing symptoms such as confusion and coma (hepatic enecephalopathy).

CIRRHOSIS TREATMENT

Treatment is focused on slowing the rate at which liver cells are being damaged, if possible by treating the cause. Any complications will also be treated. In some cases, however, the cirrhosis progresses and a liver transplant may need to be considered.

Source: A-Z family medical encyclopedia by BMA

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