Cirrhosis

What is Cirrhosis?

In cirrhosis of the liver, progressive scarring (fibrosis) of the liver causes scar tissue to replace normal liver tissue. The scar tissue damages the normal structure of the liver, which affects the normal flow of blood through the liver. The liver itself becomes distorted, hardened and lumpy. As the liver is such vital organ, cirrhosis can cause widespread changes in the body functions

Causes of Cirrhosis

Alcohol
Chronic viral hepatitis
Haemochromatosis – hereditary disorder where too much iron is absorbed and deposited in the liver
Wilson’s disease – hereditary disorder with an increased deposition of copper in the liver
Primary biliary cirrhosis
Primary sclerosing cholangitis
Cystic fibrosis
Drugs and toxins
Cardiac failure

Diagnosis

Diagnosis will involve clinical history, physical examination, blood tests and often a liver biopsy will be performed to confirm the diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatment is directed at managing the complications of cirrhosis and preventing further liver damage.

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