Cirrhosis, << suh ROH sihs, >> is the formation of scar tissue throughout the liver. It is a complication of liver disease. The scar tissue results from chronic (ongoing) injury. Groups of cells called regenerative nodules form, surrounded by sheets of scar tissue. These tissues replace the normal spongy liver tissue. The diseased liver may be unable to perform such vital functions as manufacturing proteins and removing harmful substances from the blood. The scar tissue may block the flow of blood. Such blockage can cause high pressure in blood vessels that serve the liver. Internal bleeding may then result. The blockage also may lead to the accumulation of fluids in the abdomen, a condition called ascites << uh SY teez >> . As cirrhosis progresses, a patient may become malnourished, weak, and disoriented.
Cirrhosis can result from any ongoing injury to the liver. Some causes include hepatitis (inflammation of the liver) and excessive use of alcoholic beverages.
There is no specific treatment for cirrhosis. Physicians address or treat the underlying cause of liver injury. In some advanced cases, a liver transplant may be needed. In this operation, a surgeon removes the damaged liver and replaces it with a healthy liver from a donor.
See also Fatty liver disease ; Liver (Cirrhosis) .
