Cirrhosis is caused by irreversible scarring of the liver. Once cirrhosis develops, it is not possible to heal the liver or return its function to normal. It is a serious condition that can lead to many complications.

A gastroenterologist or liver specialist (hepatologist) should help evaluate and manage complications. Cirrhosis may result in the need for a liver transplant.

• Bleeding disorders (coagulopathy)
• Buildup of fluid in the abdomen (ascites) and infection of the fluid (bacterial peritonitis)
• Enlarged veins in the esophagus, stomach, or intestines that bleed easily (esophageal varices)
• Increased pressure in the blood vessels of the liver (portal hypertension)
• Kidney failure (hepatorenal syndrome)
• Liver cancer (hepatocellular carcinoma)
• Mental confusion, change in the level of consciousness, or coma (hepatic encephalopathy)

Call your health care provider if:

• You develop symptoms of cirrhosis

Call your provider, go to the emergency room, or call the local emergency number (such as 911) if you have:

• Abdominal or chest pain
• Abdominal swelling or ascites that is new or suddenly becomes worse
• A fever (temperature greater than 101 °F)
• Diarrhea
• New confusion or a change in alertness, or it gets worse
• Rectal bleeding, vomiting blood, or blood in the urine
• Shortness of breath
• Vomiting more than once a day
• Yellowing skin or eyes (jaundice) that is new or suddenly becomes worse

Images

Clubbing

Digestive system organs

Liver cirrhosis, CT scan

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Review Date: 12/13/2010
Reviewed By: George F. Longstreth, MD, Department of Gastroenterology, Kaiser Permanente Medical Care Program, San Diego, California. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org)