When there is damage to the liver, it attempts to repair itself. The remaining cells (mainly hepatocytes, but also oval cells) - undergo mitotic division in order to replace damaged or dead cells. This process is known as hyperplasia. When hyperplasia occurs in the liver, it results in nodular formations of new cells.
A cirrhotic liver is an end-stage liver. It cannot be repaired, and if the person is to live they will need a transplant. A cirrhotic liver will be diffusely (all-over) covered with nodules, where the liver has attempted to regenerate. It will also have scar-tissue and fibrosis as a result of the damage to the liver.
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A nodular liver typically refers to the presence of multiple small nodules on the liver surface, which can be a sign of advanced liver disease like cirrhosis. Cirrhosis is a late stage of scarring of the liver caused by many forms of liver diseases and conditions, leading to loss of normal liver function. It can be caused by alcohol abuse, chronic viral hepatitis, or other conditions.
The medical term for liver inflammation and fibrosis is "hepatitis." This condition can lead to scarring of the liver, known as fibrosis, and if left untreated, can progress to cirrhosis, where the liver becomes severely scarred and may eventually fail.
The medical term for this condition is cirrhosis. It is a chronic liver disease characterized by progressive scarring of the liver tissue, leading to impaired liver function and potentially serious complications.
Milk thistle may help prevent cirrhosis by protecting the liver from damage and promoting liver regeneration. However, more research is needed to fully understand its effectiveness in preventing cirrhosis. It is always best to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement.
The name given when alcohol damages the liver cells is alcoholic hepatitis.
The body tries to maintain homeostasis with cirrhosis by compensating for the liver damage through mechanisms such as regeneration of liver cells, increased production of certain proteins, and redirection of blood flow to healthy liver tissue. However, these compensatory mechanisms may be insufficient over time, leading to further liver damage and disruption of homeostasis.