Final answer:
Cirrhosis is the formation of fibrous tissue in the liver, replacing dead liver cells. It is usually caused by viral hepatitis, alcoholism, or exposure to liver-toxic chemicals. The most common complication of cirrhosis is ascites, and treatment focuses on preventing progression and complications.
Step-by-step explanation:
Cirrhosis: Is the formation of fibrous tissue in the liver, replacing dead liver cells. The death of the liver cells can, for example, be caused by viral hepatitis, alcoholism, or contact with other liver-toxic chemicals. This leads to progressive loss of liver function.
Ascites (fluid retention in the abdominal cavity) is the most common complication of cirrhosis and is associated with a poor quality of life and increased risk of infection. Cirrhosis is generally irreversible once it occurs, and treatment generally focuses on preventing progression and complications. In advanced stages of cirrhosis, the only option is a liver transplant.