Liver fibrosis generally refers to the connective tissue remodeling of the liver tissue. As a result of these processes, the function of the liver is impaired. There are various causes for this connective tissue remodeling. The process is generally irreversible. This means that the treatment options are also limited.
Here you will find further information as well as selected liver fibrosis specialists and centers.
In liver fibrosis, the tissue of the liver is gradually remodeled.
At the beginning of liver fibrosis, fat cells (lipocytes) and hepatic stellate cells (Ito cells) are transformed into collagen-forming cells. As a result, the amount of collagen produced increases, while at the same time less and less collagen is broken down. As a result, more collagen fibers are deposited in the liver tissue and the functional units of the liver, the liver sinusoids.
Collagen as the scaffolding substance of the connective tissue is increasingly stored in the inner liver structures. As liver fibrosis progresses, liver function can become increasingly impaired. The liver functions to an increasingly limited extent until it loses its function completely.
Liver fibrosis is not in itself a typical consequence of individual liver damage or an infection. Instead, liver fibrosis can develop as a result of various pre-existing conditions. These include, among others
In addition, liver fibrosis can also develop into cirrhosis at an advanced stage. This leads to a loss of liver function as a result of liver cirrhosis.
In liver fibrosis, the function of the liver is already severely damaged © nmfotograf | AdobeStock
In the majority of cases, liver fibrosis remains asymptomatic. Those affected are therefore initially unaware of the disease. The connective tissue remodeling of the liver only becomesnoticeable in the stage of liver cirrhosis. Then, for example, jaundice (icterus) or an unpleasant itchy skin may occur.
Some people also complain of non-specific accompanying symptoms, which can often occur together with liver fibrosis. These include, for example
With the help of sonography(ultrasound examination), doctors can visualize altered structures in the liver, for example.
A blood test is also a tried and tested method of looking for liver diseases. Those affected usually have increased collagen IV levels and more liver enzymes (aspartate aminotransferase, AST and alanine aminotransferase, ALT) in their blood.
Liver fibrosis itself cannot be treated or reversed. This means that once liver tissue has been damaged, it remains damaged. The course of the disease therefore depends
In the best case scenario, liver fibrosis is diagnosed at an early stage. Treatment can then stop deterioration at an early stage.
If the cause is not treated, liver fibrosis will eventually develop into liver cirrhosis in the final stage.
The treatment of liver fibrosis is always aimed at the underlying disease . For example, viral hepatitis can be treated with medication, which can also stop liver fibrosis. However, it is not (yet) possible to treat liver fibrosis itself with medication.
Advanced liver fibrosis is usually only treated symptomatically. Although a cure is not possible, patients can maintain a certain quality of life. Frequent measures are then, for example
A liver transplant is necessary in particularly severe and advanced cases.
To prevent liver fibrosis, you should first and foremost avoid alcohol.
Also watch out for large quantities of liver-damaging medication. One of the best known is paracetamol.
Normal weight and vaccinations against hepatitis A and B can also prevent certain causes of liver fibrosis.
The liver is the most important metabolic organ in the human body. Its diagnosis and treatment belongs in the hands of specialists in internal medicine with a specialization in hepatology. They sometimes work in special liver therapy centers. These have solid knowledge and case numbers to ensure that patients receive excellent care.
Depending on the underlying disease, it may also be necessary to consult other specialists, for example from
If a liver transplant is necessary, specialists in transplant medicine should be involved in the treatment of liver fibrosis.
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