What is cirrhosis of the liver?
Last content review 2026-09-23
The short answer
Cirrhosis is the most advanced stage of liver scarring (fibrosis stage F4). Scar tissue and regenerating nodules replace normal liver structure, which can reduce liver function and raise pressure in the veins that feed the liver. Early (compensated) cirrhosis may cause no symptoms; decompensated cirrhosis brings complications such as fluid build-up, bleeding or confusion.
What is happening?
Long-term injury from causes such as metabolic dysfunction (MASLD), alcohol or chronic hepatitis B and C can lead to progressive fibrosis and, in some people, cirrhosis.
Doctors distinguish compensated cirrhosis (no major complications yet) from decompensated cirrhosis (ascites, variceal bleeding, hepatic encephalopathy or jaundice).
Why does this matter?
People with cirrhosis need regular specialist follow-up, including surveillance for liver cancer and for varices, because complications can be prevented or treated earlier.
Treating the underlying cause can slow progression and, in some people, improve fibrosis; the outcome varies and is not guaranteed.
What does the evidence say?
NIDDK describes cirrhosis as a condition in which the liver is scarred and permanently damaged, commonly caused by alcohol, MASLD and chronic viral hepatitis, and lists its complications.
The Baveno VII consensus (2022) uses the concept of compensated advanced chronic liver disease and non-invasive tests such as liver stiffness to identify people at risk of portal hypertension.
Key takeaway
Cirrhosis is serious but not a single fixed state: early detection, treating the cause and structured follow-up change what happens next.
Sources & references
US National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases
Cirrhosis · Official health information
View original sourceBaveno VII Faculty (Journal of Hepatology)
Baveno VII – Renewing consensus in portal hypertension (2022) · Consensus statement
View original sourceEuropean Association for the Study of the Liver
EASL Clinical Practice Guidelines on non-invasive tests for evaluation of liver disease severity and prognosis – 2021 update (2021) · Clinical guideline
View original source
This page is general health education. It is not a diagnosis, and it cannot replace advice from your treating doctor. Never start or stop a prescribed medicine based on what you read here.
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