Cirrhosis of the Liver

Types

Alcoholic cirrhosis is typically caused by excess alcohol consumption. Abstinence from alcohol is the most important part of treatment. Other treatment may include medication that helps reduce liver inflammation and scarring.

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease is typically caused by excess fatty acid and triglyceride storage within liver cells. Excess body weight, diabetes mellitus, and high serum cholesterol and/or triglyceride levels are risk factors. Treatment is directed toward reducing inflammation and scarring in the liver.

Hepatitis-related cirrhosis is most commonly caused by a virus or an autoimmune disease. Medication such as interferon or steroids may be given to control the hepatitis.

Cryptogenic cirrhosis is a condition which exhibits no obvious cause. The most important part of treatment includes avoiding substances that might cause further damage. If the condition is severe, a liver transplant may be necessary.

Primary biliary cirrhosis is typically caused by an autoimmune disorder of the liver. Treatment approaches include ursodeoxycholic acid, which slows the progress of the disease, or other medications to lessen disease symptoms. If severe liver failure occurs, a liver transplant may be necessary.

Primary sclerosing cholangitis is also typically caused by an autoimmune disorder of the liver. Treatment focuses on controlling symptoms and slowing its progression. If the disease progresses to severe cirrhosis, patients may need a liver transplant.

Secondary biliary cirrhosis affects the bile ducts of the liver. This condition is sometimes treated with drugs that help slow the disease's progression.

Hemochromatosis causes iron to accumulate in the liver and other organs. This condition is treated by regularly removing blood from the patient through phlebotomy. Mayo Clinic in Rochester has the largest registry of hemochromatosis patients in the world, making it an important location for research and treatment of the disease.

Wilson's disease causes copper to accumulate in the liver and other organs. This condition is treated with medications that help reduce copper levels in the body.

Alpha-1-antitrypsin deficiency is a rare, inherited condition that creates a shortage of an enzyme key to proper liver function.