A disease in which the liver undergoes progressive damage, leading to scarring of the organ that cannot be reversed. This generates serious complications in the organism.
The most frequent causes include chronic hepatitis B and C virus infections, chronic alcohol consumption, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease and other liver conditions.
Initially it 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 emerge.
Diagnosis is made by blood tests, imaging tests such as ultrasound or CT scans, and liver biopsies.
Treatment aims to control the disease and prevent complications. This involves lifestyle changes, such as alcohol abstinence and a balanced diet, as well as the use of medications to control symptoms. In severe cases, liver transplantation may be a therapeutic option.
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