Final answer:
Cirrhosis is the condition where liver cells degenerate and surrounding connective tissues thicken, often due to hepatitis, alcoholism, or exposure to liver-toxic chemicals. It leads to decreased liver function and can necessitate a liver transplant in severe cases.
Step-by-step explanation:
Condition of Liver Cell Degeneration and Connective Tissue Thickening
The condition in which liver cells degenerate and surrounding connective tissues thicken is known as cirrhosis. This degenerative disease involves the formation of fibrous tissue that replaces dead liver cells, which can occur due to various factors such as viral hepatitis, alcoholism, or exposure to liver-toxic chemicals. The progression of cirrhosis leads to a decrease in liver function, with complications such as ascites and the potential requirement for a liver transplant in advanced stages.
Factors contributing to cirrhosis include chronic liver diseases such as hepatitis, excessive alcohol intake, and metabolic disorders that may cause fatty liver disease. Over time, the liver's ability to function properly is compromised, leading to a need for medical intervention to manage symptoms and prevent further damage.
It's also important to note that cirrhosis is a common cause for chronic liver failure, and once the condition becomes irreversible, patients may face life-threatening complications. Treatment focuses on stopping the progression of the disease and managing complications, and in severe cases, a liver transplant may be considered as the only treatment option.