Cirrhosis of the Liver

Treatment

Treatment options vary based on the underlying cause or type of cirrhosis. Liver damage caused by cirrhosis cannot be reversed, but proper care related to the underlying cause may inhibit further damage. With each case of cirrhosis, proper nutrition and abstinence from substances that can cause further damage are keys to maintaining health.

Cirrhosis that develops for any reason can cause cancer to develop in the liver (primary liver cancer). Cirrhosis can also cause obstructions in the veins of the liver (portal hypertension). Resection or ablation of tumors and decompression of the hypertensive system of veins within the abdomen can be treated surgically. Experienced surgeons at Mayo Clinic offer a full range of surgical options.

If cirrhosis is not diagnosed in time, or if liver deterioration cannot be stopped, a liver transplant may be the patient's only option. Mayo Clinic is one of the leading centers in the world for liver transplantation.

Mayo Clinic hepatologists work with other specialists to help patients manage cirrhosis-related complications from portal hypertension, including bleeding blood vessels, fluid retention, itching, and hepatic encephalopathy.

For more details, see types of cirrhosis.