Definition
Liver cirrhosis is a chronic, progressive liver disease characterized by extensive fibrosis and restructuring of the organ’s normal architecture. It leads to loss of liver function and can cause severe complications.

Pathogenesis
Cirrhosis is the end stage of chronic liver diseases such as alcoholic liver disease, chronic hepatitis B and C, non-alcoholic steatohepatitis, and autoimmune or metabolic disorders. Chronic inflammation and destruction of liver cells result in their replacement with fibrotic tissue.

Diagnosis
Diagnosis is based on the patient’s history, clinical symptoms (such as fatigue, jaundice, abdominal swelling), and laboratory tests (elevated liver enzymes, reduced albumin). Imaging (ultrasound, CT, MRI, elastography) and liver biopsy confirm the diagnosis and assess fibrosis stage.

Treatment
Treatment focuses on managing the underlying cause and preventing complications:

• Causal treatment: Abstinence from alcohol, treatment for hepatitis B or C, or control of metabolic factors.
• Managing complications: Medications for ascites, preventing variceal bleeding, and controlling hepatic encephalopathy.
• Liver transplantation: The only definitive treatment for advanced cirrhosis with liver function decompensation.

Early diagnosis and close monitoring by a hepatologist are essential for maintaining quality of life and preventing complications such as hepatocellular carcinoma.