Liver Enlargement Due to Cirrhosis – Is It a Terminal Illness?

Liver enlargement caused by cirrhosis is not necessarily a terminal condition. Many patients can manage and stabilize their health with appropriate treatment. Cirrhosis is a widespread liver disease in China, often resulting from chronic hepatitis B. One of its common complications is splenomegaly, or an enlarged spleen.

The spleen's blood must flow back to the liver. However, when the liver becomes hardened and shrinks in size, it obstructs the normal blood flow through the portal vein, increasing pressure within this vessel. As a result, blood backs up in the spleen, causing it to swell due to congestion. This situation typically falls into two categories:

In cases where liver function remains intact: This refers to compensated cirrhosis. In such cases, the patient's liver function is not significantly affected, and there is no presence of ascites (fluid buildup in the abdomen). Platelet levels and clotting functions are generally stable. If the underlying causes of cirrhosis are addressed and eliminated, the condition can often be controlled effectively.

On the other hand, decompensated cirrhosis indicates a more advanced stage of the disease. Here, liver damage progresses beyond the body's ability to compensate, leading to complications such as an overactive spleen, fluid accumulation, and the formation of alternative blood circulation pathways. Patients may also experience gastrointestinal bleeding or severe infections. These complications increase the risk of developing hepatocellular carcinoma (liver cancer).

Repeated episodes of gastrointestinal bleeding can be life-threatening. Blood clots formed during these events do not heal on their own, and recurring bleeds require immediate medical attention. At this stage, aggressive treatment strategies are essential to manage symptoms, prevent further deterioration, and improve quality of life.