A disease that progressively damages the liver, causing irreversible scarring of the organ. This leads to serious complications in the body.
The most common causes include chronic hepatitis B and C virus infections, chronic alcohol use, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, and other liver diseases.
Initially, the disease is asymptomatic, but as it progresses, symptoms such as fatigue, weight loss, anorexia, nausea, vomiting, changes in stool and urine, skin pruritus, and edema of the extremities and abdomen appear.
Diagnosis is made by blood tests, imaging tests such as ultrasound or CT scans, and liver biopsies.
Treatment is aimed at controlling the disease and preventing complications. This includes lifestyle changes, such as avoiding alcohol and eating a balanced diet, and the use of medications to control symptoms. In severe cases, liver transplantation may be a therapeutic option.
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