Maksatsirroosi

Maksatsirroosi, commonly known as cirrhosis of the liver, 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. When the liver is injured repeatedly, it tries to repair itself. In doing so, scar tissue forms. As cirrhosis progresses, more and more scar tissue builds up, blocking blood flow through the liver and preventing it from working properly. The liver eventually becomes unable to function.

The most common causes of cirrhosis include chronic hepatitis B and C infections, long-term excessive alcohol consumption, and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Other causes can include autoimmune hepatitis, certain inherited diseases like hemochromatosis and Wilson's disease, and prolonged exposure to certain toxins or medications.

Symptoms of cirrhosis may not appear until the disease is advanced. Early symptoms can be vague and include fatigue, weakness, and loss of appetite. As the disease progresses, more serious signs and symptoms can emerge, such as jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes), abdominal swelling (ascites), easy bruising or bleeding, and confusion or cognitive difficulties (hepatic encephalopathy). Complications can include liver failure, liver cancer, and gastrointestinal bleeding.

Diagnosis typically involves a physical examination, blood tests to assess liver function and identify underlying causes, imaging studies like ultrasound or CT scans, and sometimes a liver biopsy for definitive diagnosis and staging. Treatment focuses on managing the underlying cause, preventing further liver damage, and treating complications. This may include medications, lifestyle changes such as abstaining from alcohol and adopting a healthy diet, and in severe cases, liver transplantation may be the only option.