What is Liver cirrhosis?

 Liver cirrhosis

Liver cirrhosis

 Cirrhosis is a late and permanent stage of liver disease. It is characterized by fibrosis due to repeated cycles of damage and repair. As a result of excess of scarring, there is profound damage to the liver and its functioning. 






Common causes 


1. Non- alcoholic steatohepatitis
2. Chronic viral hepatitis
3. Alcoholic hepatitis 
4. Autoimmune hepatitis


Clinical features


1. Chronic fatigue 
2. Loss of appetite 
3. Weight loss
4. Jaundice 
5. Abdominal distension
6. Pedal edema
7. Redness of palms 



Complications 


1. Increased risk of bleeding
2. Hepatic encephalopathy 
3. Increased risk of infections 
4. Malnutrition
5. Elevated risk of liver cancer


Management


 The goal is to identify the cause of the disease and the stage of the disease.

1. Liver function tests 
2. Blood counts
3. Liver biopsy 
4. Fibro scan 
5. Magnetic resonance elastography

Treatment


 1. Supportive care 
 2. Complete alcohol abstinence
 3. Modified diet 
 4. Nutrient supplementation


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