Definition:
Liver cirrhosis is disease characterized by the replacement of the liver tissue with fribrous scar tissue and regenerative lumps that lead to loss of liver functions.
Diagnosis:
The best way to determine liver cirrhosis is by liver biopsy. Other laboratory measures are also taken to further learn about other complications of the disease, such as imaging and endoscopy.
Treatment:
The disease can be treated by taking action on underlying causes as well as preventing complications like those of ascites and esophageal variceal bleeding. For severe cases, there comes a need for liver transplant.
Symptoms and Signs:
A lot of symptoms characterize liver cirrhosis, the most common being nail changes, jaundice, hypogonadism, ascites, asterixis and fetor hepaticus.
Causes:
Liver cirrhosis is often a result of excessive alcoholism, and other diseases such as hepatitis C.
