Cirrhosis of the Liver

Overview

Cirrhosis of the liver refers to extensive scarring caused by disease (such as hepatitis) or alcohol consumption. The liver damage done by cirrhosis can't be undone, and it can have life-threatening consequences. But if liver cirrhosis is diagnosed early and the cause treated, further damage can be limited. People with advanced cirrhosis may need a liver transplant.

Why choose Mayo Clinic

• Experience. Each year, Mayo Clinic doctors diagnose and treat thousands of adults and children who have liver disease.
• Advanced techniques. State-of-the-art imaging helps Mayo doctors find liver disease early.
• Excellence in liver transplants. Mayo Clinic has performed more than 4,500 liver transplants and survival rates exceed the national average.
• Team approach. Many diseases can cause cirrhosis. Mayo Clinic has specialists experienced in all of them. They work together to ensure you receive all the expertise you need.
• Research. You have access to clinical trials of new treatments for cirrhosis of the liver.

Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minn., ranks No. 1 for digestive disorders in the U.S. News & World Report Best Hospitals rankings. Mayo Clinic in Scottsdale, Ariz., and in Jacksonville, Fla., are ranked among the Best Hospitals for digestive disorders by U.S. News & World Report.

Read more about cirrhosis of the liver at MayoClinic.com.