Alternative Names
Liver cirrhosis; Cryptogenic chronic liver disease
Definition of Cirrhosis
Cirrhosis is scarring of the liver and poor liver function. It is the final phase of chronic .
Causes, incidence, and risk factors
Cirrhosis is the end result of chronic liver damage caused by chronic liver diseases. Common causes of chronic liver disease in the United States include:
Symptoms
Symptoms may develop gradually, or there may be no symptoms.
Signs and tests
During a physical examination the health care provider may find:
Treatment
All patients with cirrhosis can benefit from certain lifestyle changes, including:
Expectations (prognosis)
Cirrhosis is caused by irreversible scarring of the liver. Once cirrhosis develops, it is not possible to heal the liver or return its function to normal. It is a serious condition that can lead to many complications.
Review
George F. Longstreth, MD, Department of Gastroenterology, Kaiser Permanente Medical Care Program, San Diego, California. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc. – 12/13/2010
