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Liver Cirrhosis Overview

Liver cirrhosis is the late stage of progressive liver fibrosis, characterized by liver structural deformation and the formation of regenerative nodules. Common causes include alcoholic liver disease, metabolic-associated fatty liver disease, and chronic viral hepatitis (hepatitis B and C). Early symptoms are often nonspecific, such as loss of appetite, weight loss, fatigue, itching, muscle cramps, and sexual dysfunction. The disease progresses slowly but has severe consequences, ultimately leading to portal hypertension, hepatic encephalopathy, and hepatocellular carcinoma. Delayed diagnosis and treatment can result in rapid deterioration.

Prevalence Worldwide

Europe and the United States

In Western countries, liver cirrhosis is closely related to alcohol use and metabolic syndrome. With rising obesity rates, cirrhosis caused by non-alcoholic fatty liver disease has significantly increased, adding to the treatment burden.

Southeast Asia

In China, Vietnam, Thailand, and other regions, viral hepatitis is the leading cause of cirrhosis. Widespread hepatitis B and C infections, combined with incomplete vaccine coverage in rural areas, increase the risk of disease transmission and chronic progression.

Main Hazards

1. Liver Failure

Impaired liver function reduces metabolism, detoxification, and synthesis capabilities, which may eventually cause hypoproteinemia, abnormal bilirubin metabolism (jaundice), coagulation disorders (bleeding tendency), elevated ammonia (hepatic coma), and other severe consequences.

2. Portal Hypertension Complications

Increased portal vein pressure can lead to ascites, splenomegaly, and esophageal-gastric varices. Some patients may die from acute upper gastrointestinal bleeding.

3. Increased Cancer Risk

Chronic cirrhosis is a major risk factor for liver cancer, especially in the context of hepatitis B. Regular monitoring of AFP and imaging examinations is essential.

Emerging Therapies

Stem Cell Therapy

Stem cells can promote liver tissue repair, improve liver function, and reduce fibrosis, making them an important future direction for cirrhosis treatment.

① Promote liver cell regeneration

② Improve liver metabolic function

③ Anti-inflammatory and antifibrotic effects

④ Repair damaged microenvironment

⑤ Delay progression of cirrhosis

Conventional Treatments

1. Antiviral Therapy

For hepatitis B and C patients, standardized antiviral therapy can effectively control the virus, reduce liver cell damage, and slow disease progression.

2. Antifibrotic Drugs

Some drugs, such as ursodeoxycholic acid, statins, and antioxidants, can partially inhibit fibrosis and alleviate the condition.

3. Nutritional Support Therapy

Cirrhosis is often accompanied by malnutrition. Increasing protein and vitamin intake can help improve strength and immunity.

4. Diuretics for Ascites Control

Diuretics such as spironolactone and furosemide can relieve ascites symptoms and reduce abdominal distension and discomfort.

5. Endoscopic Treatment for Varices

For patients with varices, endoscopic ligation or sclerotherapy can prevent and control gastrointestinal bleeding.

6. Hepatic Encephalopathy Treatment

Lactulose or antibiotics can reduce blood ammonia levels, helping to improve confusion and cognitive impairment.

7. Alcohol Abstinence and Avoidance of Hepatotoxic Drugs

Abstaining from alcohol and avoiding hepatotoxic drugs are key measures for managing alcoholic or drug-induced cirrhosis.

8. Liver Transplantation

For patients with advanced cirrhosis, liver transplantation is the ultimate life-saving option, but it requires strict evaluation of indications.

Conclusion

Advanced cirrhosis is irreversible. Without timely treatment, patients face severe complications and even life-threatening risks. Experts from the United Life International Medical Center point out that stem cell therapy combined with conventional approaches is bringing new hope for long-term disease control and improved quality of life.