Liver cirrhosis
Liver cirrhosis is a medical condition characterized by the loss of liver cells and irreversible scarring of the liver.
Pronunciation
Liver cirrhosis is pronounced as "li-ver si-roh-sis".
Etymology
The term "cirrhosis" is derived from the Greek word "kirrhos" meaning "yellowish, tawny" – the color of the diseased liver.
Definition
Liver cirrhosis is a late stage of scarring (fibrosis) of the liver caused by many forms of liver diseases and conditions, such as hepatitis and chronic alcoholism.
Symptoms
The symptoms of liver cirrhosis include jaundice, fatigue, easy bruising, itchy skin, loss of appetite, nausea, leg swelling, weight loss, and spider-like blood vessels on the skin.
Causes
Liver cirrhosis is primarily caused by long-term exposure to toxins such as alcohol or viral infections like hepatitis C. Other causes include autoimmune hepatitis, diseases that damage or destroy bile ducts, genetic diseases, and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis of liver cirrhosis can be confirmed through a variety of tests such as blood tests, imaging tests, and liver biopsy.
Treatment
Treatment for liver cirrhosis focuses on slowing the progression of the liver damage, managing the symptoms and reducing complications. In severe cases, a liver transplant may be necessary.
Related Terms
- Hepatitis
- Liver disease
- Liver transplant
- Jaundice
- Autoimmune hepatitis
- Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Liver cirrhosis
- Wikipedia's article - Liver cirrhosis
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