Cirrhosis
Table of Contents
Define cirrhosis
Cirrhosis is a condition in whichΒ liver is scarred and permanently damaged. Scar tissue replaces healthy liver tissue which affects the normal functioning of liver . Scar tissue also partly blocks flow of blood through the liver. As cirrhosis gets worse : lead to liver failure .
Pathophysiology of cirrhosis
Cirrhosis can be classified histologically into:
β’ Micronodular cirrhosis, characterized by small nodules about 1mm in diameters and typically seen in alcoholic cirrhosis.
β’ Macronodular cirrhosis, characterized by larger nodules of various sizes. Areas of previous collapse of liver architecture are evidenced by large fibrous scars.
Causes of cirrhosis
Worldwide, the most common causes of cirrhosis are chronic viral hepatitis, prolonged excessive alcohol consumption and NAFLD but any condition leading to persistent or recurrent hepatocyte death may lead to cirrhosis.
- Alcohol
- Chronic viral hepatitis (B or C)
- Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease
- Chronic venous outflow obstruction
- Any chronic liver disease
- Autoimmune liver disease
- Wilsonβs disease
- Cystic fibrosis
Cirrhosis symptoms
Many people are not aware that they have cirrhosis, because as cirrhosis is asymptomatic until their liver is badly damaged.
When symptoms are present, they are often can be seen early in the disease but is of limited diagnostic value
- Weakness,
- Fatigue,
- Muscle cramps,
- Weakness,
- Anorexia,
- Nausea,
- Vomiting
- Upper abdominal
discomfort. - Jaundice :Jaundice is mild when it first appears and is due primarily to a failure to excrete bilirubin.
- Β
- Circulatory changes: spider telangiectasia, palmar erythema, cyanosis
- Portal hypertension: splenomegaly, collateral vessels, variceal bleeding
- Endocrine changes: loss of libido, hair loss.
- Other features: pigmentation, digital clubbing, Dupuytrenβs contracture
- Ascites
Cirrhosis treatments
This includes treatment of the underlying cause, maintenance of nutrition and treatment of complications, including ascites, hepatic encephalopathy, portal hypertension and varices. Once the
diagnosis of cirrhosis is made, endoscopy should be performed to screen for esophageal varices and repeated every 2 years. As cirrhosis is associated with an increased risk of hepatocellular carcinoma, patients should be placed under regular surveillance for it .
Chronic liver failure due to cirrhosis can also be treated by the liver transplantation. This currently accounts for about three-quarters of all liver transplants
Prognosis
The overall prognosis in liver cirrhosis is poor. Overall, only 25% of patients survive 5 years from diagnosis, but where liver function is good, 50% survive for 5 years and 25% for up to 10 years.
The prognosis is more favorable when the underlying cause can be corrected, as in alcohol misuse, haemochromatosis or Wilsonβs disease
What is the best diet to lower LDL cholesterol?
What is the best diet to lower LDL cholesterol? Introduction If you are concerned about high cholesterol, especially elevated LDL (Low-Density Lipoprotein) cholesterol, making the
What is best diet for high cholesterol ?
What is best diet for high cholesterol ? Β Maintaining healthy cholesterol levels is essential for protecting the heart and reducing the risk of cardiovascular
Best 25 Heart Healthy Foods to Eat
Best 25 Heart Healthy Foods to Eat Heart disease remains one of the leading health concerns worldwide, but many risk factors can be managed through
Sharp Pain in the Heel of My Foot: Causes and Treatment
Sharp Pain in the Heel of My Foot: Causes and Treatment Pain in the heel of my foot is one of the most common foot
Why my heel hurts when i walk : Possible Reasons and Fixes
Why my heel hurts when i walk : Possible Reasons and Fixes Heel pain can make everyday activities difficult. Many people notice discomfort while getting
8 best pain killers for muscle pain
8 best pain killers for muscle pain Pain is one of the most common health complaints worldwide, and pain killers are often the first solution