No matter the cause of liver disease, the American Liver Foundation indicates that it generally progresses in a similar manner. Unless an individual receives treatment, liver damage due to disease will progress to liver failure; however, with intervention this destruction can become slowed or stopped. Depending on whether an individual receives treatment, the end stage of liver disease may vary.
Cirrhosis
Beginning with fibrosis, a progressive buildup of scar tissue in liver, cirrhosis occurs when scar tissue in the liver interrupts normal functioning resulting in the liver's inability to heal itself. The National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse indicates that symptoms generally do not emerge in the early stages of cirrhosis. When they do develop, the University of Maryland Medical Center states that they may differ depending on severity and on the individual. Some common symptoms may include abnormal nerve function, build-up of fluid in the abdomen, a condition called ascites, hair loss, itching, poor appetite, weakness and weight loss. The National Digestive Disease Clearinghouse warns that death may result from cirrhosis.
Advanced Cirrhosis
The American Gastroenterological Association recognizes a late stage of cirrhosis where further symptoms and complications may emerge. Several conditions related to buildup of bile products may emerge in the individual. Jaundice occurs when excess bile pigment accumulates in the skin and the whites of the eyes, turning both yellow. Additionally, excess bile in the skin may cause intense itching. The failure of bile to reach the gallbladder may result in gallstones. Other serious conditions that may develop in advanced cirrhosis include hepatic encephalopathy and portal hypertension. Hepatic encephalopathy occurs as a result of toxic levels of ammonia in the blood that may lead to coma. With portal hypertension blow flood to the liver becomes reduced resulting in building pressure, causing the enlargement of the spleen. Additionally, other blood vessels throughout the body may become enlarged, increasing the risk of internal bleeding.
Liver Failure
Liver disease does not progress farther than complete liver failure, a definitive end stage. The American Liver Foundation indicates that at this stage the liver no longer functions or only minimally. Chronic liver failure occurs as a result of cirrhosis, a process that may take years. Initial symptoms of this stage general include, according to the American Liver Foundation, nausea, loss of appetite, fatigue and diarrhea. Eventually, if left untreated, more serious problems will develop, including cognitive problems, coma and death. In acute liver failure, MayoClinic.com explains that the liver loses functioning in a rapid manner, resulting in liver failure in a matter of days at times. Symptoms, according to MayoClinic.com, are similar to chronic liver failure. With either forms of liver failure, the American Liver Foundation warns that immediate medical care is necessary. Treatment may include saving any part of liver that continues to function. When this is unsuccessful, the American Liver Foundation states that the only remaining option involves liver transplant.
References
- The American Gastroenterological Association: Understanding Cirrhosis of the Liver
- American Liver Foundation: The Progression of Liver Damage
- MayoClinic: Acute Liver Failure
- National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse: What I Need to Know About Cirrhosis of the Liver
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Liver Disease -- Chronic Liver Disease/Cirrhosis
