Liver Cirrhosis: What Does the Liver Look Like?

Liver cirrhosis is a descriptive diagnosis that refers to a liver that has become hardened and yellow-brown in appearance. It is a chronic, progressive, and diffuse inflammatory liver disease accompanied by fibrosis. When harmful agents persist or recur over time, liver cells undergo widespread degeneration, necrosis, and apoptosis. The remaining liver cells attempt to regenerate, forming nodules known as regenerative nodules. At the same time, connective tissue proliferates extensively, with fibrous tissue creating partitions throughout the liver. Eventually, this fibrous tissue disrupts or replaces the normal lobular structure of the liver, giving rise to what are called pseudolobules—distinctive pathological changes associated with cirrhosis.

This structural transformation leads to impaired liver function and may also result in portal hypertension. Clinically, cirrhosis presents with varying degrees of liver dysfunction, either with or without symptoms related to increased pressure in the portal vein system.

There are several causes of liver cirrhosis. Chronic hepatitis B and C are among the most common contributors. Other significant causes include alcoholic liver disease, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), drug-induced liver injury, autoimmune liver diseases, and biliary obstruction conditions such as primary biliary cholangitis. In rare cases, disorders like Budd-Chiari syndrome or Wilson's disease can also lead to cirrhosis.

Understanding the underlying cause is essential for managing the condition effectively and slowing its progression. Early detection and targeted treatment can significantly impact the quality of life and prognosis for individuals affected by this serious liver condition.