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Liver Cirrhosis Complications

Management of complications of advanced liver disease.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Published:

This content is for general information; please consult your physician for diagnosis and treatment.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Dahiliye (İç Hastalıkları) department. Book Appointment →

What is Liver Cirrhosis Complications?

Liver cirrhosis is the end stage of chronic liver disease, characterized by widespread fibrosis and regenerative nodules. It is classified as compensated cirrhosis (asymptomatic) and decompensated cirrhosis (ascites, variceal bleeding, encephalopathy, jaundice). Prognosis worsens markedly with decompensation.

Portal hypertension (HVPG >10 mmHg) underlies many cirrhosis complications. Esophageal varices, ascites, hepatic encephalopathy, hepatorenal syndrome, and spontaneous bacterial peritonitis are the main complications.

MELD (Model for End-Stage Liver Disease) score is used in prognostic assessment and liver transplant prioritization. Non-selective beta-blockers (carvedilol, propranolol) reduce portal pressure and decrease complications.

Symptoms

Ascites (abdominal distension)
Variceal bleeding (hematemesis, melena)
Hepatic encephalopathy (confusion, flapping tremor)
Jaundice
Hepatorenal syndrome (oliguria, rising creatinine)
Spontaneous bacterial peritonitis (fever, abdominal pain)

Risk Factors

Chronic hepatitis B and C
Alcohol use disorder
Non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH)
Autoimmune hepatitis
Primary biliary cholangitis/sclerosing cholangitis

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • If abdominal distension and leg edema develop
  • If hematemesis or black stools occur (emergency)
  • If altered consciousness and confusion develop
  • If fever and abdominal pain (suspected SBP) occur

Treatment Methods

01
Ascites: Salt restriction + spironolactone with or without furosemide; paracentesis (in tense ascites)
02
Variceal prophylaxis: Non-selective beta-blocker or endoscopic band ligation
03
Hepatic encephalopathy: Lactulose + rifaximin
04
SBP: Ceftriaxone (treatment), norfloxacin (prophylaxis)
05
Hepatorenal syndrome: Terlipressin + albumin
06
Liver transplant evaluation (MELD greater than or equal to 15)

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Dahiliye (İç Hastalıkları) department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About Dahiliye (İç Hastalıkları) Department

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.