DISEASE SCANNER

Global Incurable Diseases Tracker

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Hepatologic Disease

Cirrhosis

HIGH SEVERITY

End-stage liver disease characterized by replacement of normal hepatic architecture with fibrosis and regenerative nodules. Results from chronic liver injury. Irreversible but progression can be halted.

Global Affected

120.0M

Countries

111

Symptoms

Fatigue
Weakness
Loss of appetite
Weight loss
Nausea
Jaundice
Itchy skin
Edema (legs, abdomen)
Ascites
Easy bruising/bleeding
Confusion (hepatic encephalopathy)
Spider angiomata

Treatment Options

Treating underlying cause (alcohol cessation, antivirals)
Nutritional support
Diuretics (ascites)
Beta-blockers (variceal prophylaxis)
Lactulose/rifaximin (encephalopathy)
Endoscopic band ligation
TIPS procedure
Liver transplantation

Risk Factors

1Chronic alcohol use
2Chronic hepatitis B/C
3NAFLD/NASH
4Autoimmune hepatitis
5Primary biliary cholangitis
6Primary sclerosing cholangitis
7Wilson disease
8Hemochromatosis
9Alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency

Diagnostic Methods

  • 1Liver function tests
  • 2Coagulation studies
  • 3Complete blood count
  • 4Abdominal ultrasound/CT/MRI
  • 5Elastography (FibroScan)
  • 6Liver biopsy (gold standard)
  • 7Endoscopy (varices)
  • 8Serum ammonia

Prognosis

Child-Pugh and MELD scores predict survival. 5-year survival: Child A 85-90%, Child B 60-80%, Child C 35-45%. Hepatocellular carcinoma risk 3-5%/year. Liver transplant 5-year survival 70-80%.

Prevention

  • Hepatitis B vaccination
  • Hepatitis C treatment
  • Alcohol moderation/cessation
  • NAFLD prevention (weight, exercise)
  • Regular screening for liver cancer
  • Avoiding hepatotoxins

Research Status

Non-selective beta-blockers (propranolol, nadolol) for variceal prophylaxis. TIPS procedure for refractory ascites. Liver transplantation definitive treatment. Artificial liver support devices. Antifibrotic therapies in development. Stem cell therapy research.

Sources

  • https://www.cdc.gov/
  • https://www.hematology.org/education/patients
  • https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books
  • https://rarediseases.org/rare-diseases

Medical Disclaimer

This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult healthcare professionals for medical advice, diagnosis, and treatment.