Labs
- ↑ AST & ALT, ↑ Bilirubin
- ↑ Ammonia
- ↓ Albumin (and bound calcium)
- Platelets often low
- ↑ PT/PTT & INR
What is Cirrhosis?
Cirrhosis is the buildup of scar tissue that prevents the liver from functioning normally. The liver also connects to the hepatic portal vein, so scarring alters blood flow and pressure.
- Produces bile to digest fats
- Regulates clotting & glucose
- Detoxifies the body & metabolizes nutrients/drugs
- Makes albumin; converts ammonia into urea
- Chronic alcohol use
- Chronic viral hepatitis (B, C, D)
- Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (obesity, diabetes, hyperlipidemia)
- Cystic fibrosis; biliary cirrhosis
- Toxins & hepatotoxic drugs
Confirm specifics in your medical protocols.
Diagnostics
Imaging
- CT / MRI: fatty tissue & damage
- Abdominal ultrasound: ascites
Gold Standard
Liver biopsy to assess extent of damage.
Symptoms
Early signs
- Fatigue, decreased appetite
- Hepatomegaly
- Nausea/vomiting, abdominal pain
Late signs
- Jaundice, ascites, edema
- Pruritus, clay-colored stool
- Anemia, easy bruising/bleeding
- Portal hypertension, splenomegaly, caput medusae
Major Complications
- High ammonia → cognitive changes, severe AMS
- Asterixis (flapping tremor)
- Portal hypertension → fragile varices
- High risk for hemorrhage
Treatment & Precautions (Overview)
Medications
- Lactulose to lower ammonia
- Albumin support as indicated
- Diuretics for edema/ascites
Procedures
- Paracentesis (drain ascites)
- Liver transplant (definitive)
Diet & Bleeding Precautions
- No alcohol; low-sodium diet
- Limit fluids if prescribed
- Soft toothbrush; electric razor
- Monitor stool for blood
Quick Risk Checker (Educational)
Cited Keywords & Referral Links
Each keyword links to gyathshammha.com pages for further learning.
Need help or local guidance?
Consult your institution’s policies and speak with your medical director or hepatology service as appropriate.