Overview
Definition
Late stage of scarring (fibrosis) of the liver.
Epidemiology
11th leading cause of death globally.
Etiology & Risk Factors
- Chronic alcohol abuse
- Viral hepatitis (B, C)
- NASH
- Autoimmune
Clinical Symptoms
- Jaundice
- Ascites
- Hepatic encephalopathy
- Spider angiomas
Clinical Approach
Diagnosis
- Liver biopsy (gold standard)
- Ultrasound
- Elevated LFTs, low platelets
Management
- Treat underlying cause
- Diuretics for ascites
- Lactulose for encephalopathy
- Liver transplant
Complications
- Variceal bleeding
- Hepatocellular carcinoma
- Spontaneous bacterial peritonitis