Liver Cirrhosis

Liver cirrhosis is a progressive condition in which healthy liver tissue is gradually replaced by scar tissue (fibrosis), impairing liver function over time. It typically results from long-term liver damage due to chronic diseases, infections, or toxins. As scar tissue builds up, it disrupts the liver’s structure and ability to function, potentially leading to life-threatening complications.

Multiple conditions and lifestyle factors contribute to cirrhosis, including:

• Chronic Alcohol Abuse: Long-term alcohol use is a major cause, progressing from fatty liver to alcoholic hepatitis and eventually cirrhosis.
• Chronic Hepatitis B and C: Persistent viral infection leads to inflammation and liver damage.
• Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD): Associated with obesity, diabetes, and metabolic syndrome. It can progress to NASH and cirrhosis.
• Autoimmune Liver Diseases: Includes autoimmune hepatitis, primary biliary cholangitis (PBC), and primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC).
• Genetic Disorders: Conditions like Wilson’s disease (copper overload) and hemochromatosis (iron overload) damage the liver.
• Other Causes:
  • Prolonged toxin exposure
  • Certain medications
  • Chronic heart failure (cardiac cirrhosis)
  • Bile duct blockages

Early cirrhosis may not show symptoms. As it progresses, common signs include:

• Fatigue and weakness
• Loss of appetite and nausea
• Unexplained weight loss
• Jaundice (yellowing of skin and eyes)
• Abdominal swelling (ascites)
• Swelling in the legs and ankles (edema)
• Itchy skin and spider angiomas
• Easy bruising and bleeding
• Confusion and memory issues (hepatic encephalopathy)

Early diagnosis improves outcomes significantly.

Diagnosis involves medical history, physical examination, and tests such as:

• Blood Tests: Liver function tests (ALT, AST, ALP), bilirubin, albumin, platelet count, and prothrombin time.
• Imaging:
  • Ultrasound – liver texture and portal hypertension
  • FibroScan – measures liver stiffness
  • CT/MRI – evaluates complications and tumor detection
• Liver Biopsy: Confirms the stage and extent of liver damage.

While cirrhosis cannot be reversed, treatment focuses on managing the cause and slowing progression:

• Treating the Underlying Cause: Antivirals for hepatitis, alcohol cessation, chelation therapy for Wilson’s disease, or autoimmune medications.
• Preventing Complications:
  • Diuretics for ascites
  • Beta-blockers or banding for varices
  • Lactulose and rifaximin for encephalopathy
  • Vaccinations and antibiotics to prevent infections
• Nutritional Support: High-protein, low-sodium diet to prevent muscle wasting and fluid accumulation.
• Liver Transplant: Recommended for end-stage or decompensated cirrhosis. Evaluation is based on MELD score and other criteria.

Untreated cirrhosis can cause serious complications, such as:

• Liver failure
• Portal hypertension and variceal bleeding
• Spontaneous bacterial peritonitis (SBP)
• Hepatic encephalopathy
• Liver cancer (hepatocellular carcinoma)
• Multi-organ failure

India is a global destination for advanced liver care due to:

• Expert Doctors: Skilled hepatologists, gastroenterologists, and liver transplant surgeons with international experience.
• Modern Diagnostics: Availability of FibroScan, advanced imaging, and comprehensive liver panels.
• Affordable Transplants: Costs are up to 80% lower than in Western nations, with no compromise on care quality.
• Medical Tourism Services: Visa help, airport pickup, interpreters, and follow-up consultations provided.
• Globally Accredited Hospitals: Many hospitals are JCI and NABH certified, ensuring world-class standards.

Approximate cost for different treatment components:

• Diagnostic Evaluation: $500 – $800
• Medical Management (3-6 months): $2500 – $3500
• Liver Transplant (if needed): $24,000 – $30,000

*Note: Costs may vary depending on hospital, city, and patient condition.

Liver cirrhosis is a serious yet manageable condition. Early detection, correct diagnosis, and timely treatment significantly improve patient outcomes. India offers an ideal combination of expert care, advanced technology, and affordability for international patients seeking liver disease treatment.