Cirrhosis is a late stage of scarring (fibrosis) of the liver caused by long-term liver damage. The liver carries out several necessary functions, including detoxifying harmful substances in your body, cleaning your blood, and making vital nutrients. Cirrhosis can lead to a number of complications, including liver cancer.
Causes of Cirrhosis:
Alcohol Abuse: Excessive and chronic alcohol consumption is one of the most common causes of cirrhosis.
Viral Hepatitis: Hepatitis B and C viruses can lead to cirrhosis over time.
Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD): Accumulation of fat in the liver can cause inflammation and eventually lead to cirrhosis.
Chronic Bile Duct Disease: Conditions such as primary biliary cirrhosis, primary sclerosing cholangitis, and other chronic bile duct diseases can cause cirrhosis.
Genetic Disorders: Genetic conditions like Wilson's disease, hemochromatosis, and cystic fibrosis can lead to cirrhosis.
Autoimmune Hepatitis: An overactive immune response can attack and damage the liver.
Drug-Induced Liver Injury: Some medications and toxins can cause liver damage that progresses to cirrhosis.
Symptoms of Cirrhosis:
Symptoms of cirrhosis can vary, but they may include:
- Fatigue
- Weakness
- Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)
- Itchy skin
- Abdominal pain and swelling
- Unexplained weight loss
- Easy bruising and bleeding
- Swelling in the legs and ankles
- Confusion and cognitive impairment (hepatic encephalopathy)
Diagnosis:
Diagnosing cirrhosis typically involves a combination of:
Medical History: The doctor will ask about your medical history, including risk factors like alcohol consumption and viral hepatitis.
Physical Examination: They will look for signs of liver disease, such as jaundice and abdominal swelling.
Blood Tests: These can reveal liver function, the presence of viruses, and other indicators of liver damage.
Imaging: Imaging tests like ultrasound, CT scans, or MRI can show the liver's condition.
Liver Biopsy: A small sample of liver tissue may be taken and examined under a microscope to confirm cirrhosis and its cause.
Fibroscan or Elastography: These non-invasive tests measure liver stiffness to assess fibrosis.
Treatment:
Treatment for cirrhosis primarily focuses on addressing the underlying cause and managing complications. Common interventions include:
Lifestyle Changes: Abstaining from alcohol, losing weight, and managing diabetes can help in cases of alcohol-related or fatty liver cirrhosis.
Medications: Specific medications may be prescribed to manage symptoms and complications.
Hepatitis Treatment: Antiviral medications can be used to treat hepatitis B and C.
Dietary Changes: A low-sodium diet and proper nutrition can help manage fluid retention and malnutrition.
Liver Transplant: In advanced cases, a liver transplant may be necessary if the liver is severely damaged.
Pathology:
The pathology of cirrhosis involves the gradual replacement of normal liver tissue with fibrous scar tissue. This scarring disrupts the liver's structure and function, impeding its ability to process blood and perform essential functions. Over time, this can lead to complications such as portal hypertension (increased pressure in the liver's blood vessels), liver cancer, and other issues.
In summary, cirrhosis is a late-stage liver disease resulting from various causes, characterized by liver scarring and impaired function. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment are essential in managing the condition and preventing complications.
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