ADVANCED SCARRING OF THE LIVER
Liver Cirrhosis
An advanced stage of chronic liver damage with extensive scarring, reducing liver function and leading to serious complications. Managed with specialist long-term care.
ABOUT THIS CONDITION
What is Liver Cirrhosis
Liver cirrhosis is an advanced stage of chronic liver damage in which normal liver tissue is progressively replaced by scar tissue, leading to reduced liver function and disturbances in blood flow through the liver. Common causes include chronic hepatitis B and C, long-term excessive alcohol intake, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease and a number of other less common causes. Early cirrhosis may have no symptoms (compensated cirrhosis), while advanced cirrhosis (decompensated) presents with jaundice, fluid build-up in the abdomen (ascites), confusion (hepatic encephalopathy), bleeding from varices, and increased risk of infections and liver cancer. Diagnosis is based on clinical features, liver function tests, imaging including ultrasound and elastography, and sometimes liver biopsy. Treatment focuses on managing the underlying cause, preventing and treating complications, regular screening for liver cancer and, in selected patients, liver transplantation. Dr. Patnam Pravallika Reddy provides comprehensive cirrhosis care in coordination with specialist hepatology at Lux Hospitals, Hyderabad.
SIGNS TO WATCH
Common Symptoms
Symptoms that need attention
WHY IT HAPPENS
Causes & Risk Factors
- Chronic hepatitis B and C
- Long-term excessive alcohol intake
- Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NASH)
- Autoimmune liver diseases
- Inherited conditions affecting the liver
- Long-standing bile duct disease
- Certain medications and chronic exposure to liver-affecting substances
CLINICAL DETAILS
KeyFacts
Clinical features, liver function tests, ultrasound, elastography and sometimes biopsy
Compensated (no major complications) · Decompensated (with complications)
Managing the underlying cause and treating complications
Ascites, bleeding varices, hepatic encephalopathy, infections and liver cancer
Regular ultrasound and blood tests are essential
Available at Lux Hospitals, Hyderabad — co-managed with specialist hepatology
HOW WE TREAT IT
Treatment Approach
Cause Treatment with Complication Management
The most effective approach combines treatment of the underlying cause (such as antiviral therapy for hepatitis B or C, alcohol cessation, weight loss for NAFLD), prevention and management of complications, regular liver cancer screening, and consideration of liver transplantation in selected patients.
- 1
Consultation & Assessment
Dr. Pravallika reviews symptoms, examines for signs of liver disease and arranges liver function tests, imaging and other relevant investigations.
- 2
Treatment Planning
A personalised plan is created in coordination with hepatology, including cause-specific therapy and complication management.
- 3
Medical Management
Treatment of underlying cause, management of ascites and other complications, prevention of infections and regular liver cancer screening.
- 4
Recovery & Follow-up
Long-term follow-up with regular blood tests, imaging and assessment, with referral for liver transplantation evaluation when appropriate.
AVAILABLE TREATMENTS
Treatment Options
Treatment of Underlying Cause
Antiviral therapy for chronic hepatitis B or C, alcohol cessation support, weight loss for NAFLD and treatment of other specific causes can significantly slow or halt progression.
Management of Ascites
Salt restriction, diuretic therapy and selected procedures help control fluid build-up in the abdomen.
Prevention and Treatment of Variceal Bleeding (Referral for gastroenterology)
Regular endoscopic screening and specific medical and procedural therapies prevent and treat bleeding from varices.
Management of Hepatic Encephalopathy
Specific laxative therapy and identification of triggers manage confusion and behavioural changes due to liver dysfunction.
Liver Cancer Screening and Transplant Consideration (Referral for hepatology / transplant evaluation)
Regular liver cancer screening with ultrasound and blood tests, and consideration of liver transplantation in selected patients.
COMMON QUESTIONS
Frequently Asked Questions
Not sure about your condition?
Compassionate, confidential consultations — Book your appointment today.