The liver is a large organ that serves to detoxify the blood, make proteins and produce digestive molecules. It can be affected by many different diseases. External toxins, genetic disorders, infections, tumors and autoimmune diseases are culprits that may destroy liver tissue and interfere with its normal functioning.
Hepatitis
Hepatitis refers to inflammation of the liver, according to the National Institutes of Health. This usually implies damage to the liver cells and to some degree compromising liver functions. Viral hepatitis includes the more common hepatitis A, B and C. Hepatitis A is generally a self-limited disease. Hepatitis B and C infections are chronic, however. Other infections and toxins such as alcohol are also culprits.
Cirrhosis
Cirrhosis may be the outcome of longstanding hepatitis. In cirrhosis, the normal functional liver cells are replaced by fibrous scar tissue, and the liver is filled with nodules. Its functional capacity is greatly impaired, leading to fluid and protein imbalances in the body, jaundice, abdominal infections, confusion and possibly lung and kidney problems. Advanced cirrhosis causes complete liver failure and requires a transplant in suitable recipients.
Hemochromatosis
According to the Mayo Clinic, hemochromatosis is an inherited condition that causes iron overload and deposition in the tissues. It is also known as bronze diabetes because it turns the skin brown or yellow and damages the pancreas, causing diabetes. In addition, it damages the liver and causes arthritis, diminished sexual functioning and thyroid and heart problems.
Primary Biliary Cirrhosis
Primary biliary cirrhosis is an inflammatory condition of the liver that causes the bile ducts to disappear, according to the National Institutes of Health. This eventually leads to cirrhosis. The cause is unknown. Treatment is with ursodiol, a drug that slows the progression of the disease. In its final stages, a liver will transplant will be required.
Liver Cancer
The most common form of liver cancer is called hepatocellular carcinoma, or hepatoma. According to Pathology Outlines, 85 percent of liver cancers are of this form. It is strongly associated with cirrhosis. Transplantation may be possible if there is a single cancer nodule that is 5 cm or less, or multiple nodules that are 3 cm or less.
