Cirrhosis of the liver is a long-term (chronic) condition where healthy liver tissue is replaced by scar tissue. This “hardening” of the liver prevents the liver from working properly resulting in poor liver function and the development of other liver-related conditions.
In most cases, the liver is able to regenerate new cells when they are damaged. However, after a prolonged duration of liver damage, this ability is lost, leading to the formation of the scar tissues. This, in turn, leads to the formation of the scar tissues. Common causes include Metabolic Dysfunction-associated Steatotic Liver Disease (MASLD) – also known as fatty liver disease – chronic alcohol use, hepatitis B and C infections, and other genetic or auto-immune conditions.
Left unchecked, this can lead to complications from liver failure or the development of liver cancer.
Understanding the functions of the liver is important in this regard. The liver, similar to the heart and brain, is an important organ of our body. Firstly, it is known as the body’s metabolic factory as it processes, stores, and disseminates nutrients from ingested food to the entire body. Secondly, the blood proteins that aid in clotting blood and strengthening the immune system are also formed by the liver. Thirdly, the liver secretes bile which helps the absorption of fats, fat-soluble vitamins (vitamin A, D, E, K), and cholesterol. Above all, the liver also aids in removing waste products such as medications, toxins, cholesterol, and fats.
Hence, any damage to the liver can make a person vulnerable to scores of diseases.
Currently, there are no options available for reversal of liver cirrhosis. Liver transplant is the only curative option for liver cirrhosis and end-stage liver disease.
The other treatment options only slow down the progress of scarring and manage the symptoms resulting from cirrhosis. Finding the root cause of the problem (diagnosing the underlying liver disease) can help a patient to stop cirrhosis from getting worse by treating the underlying condition. For example, for patients with hepatitis C infection, anti-viral medication can be prescribed. Patients are also encouraged to make changes to their lifestyle if they are overweight, or consume alcohol heavily.
Professional Care You Can trust
New DLS Group Office
We have opened a new administrative office to support our operations.
The address is:
545 Orchard Road
#10-09 Far East Shopping Centre
Singapore 238882
All medical services continue as usual at our four clinics.
Thank you!
Senior Consultant Surgeon
Senior Consultant Surgeon