Final answer:
Cirrhosis is the formation of fibrous tissue in the liver, primarily caused by viral hepatitis, alcoholism, or exposure to liver-toxic chemicals. It leads to progressive loss of liver function. Complications include ascites and bypassing of the liver by blood.
Step-by-step explanation:
Cirrhosis is the formation of fibrous tissue in the liver, replacing dead liver cells. It is primarily caused by viral hepatitis, alcoholism, or contact with liver-toxic chemicals. Cirrhosis leads to progressive loss of liver function, primarily affecting the liver.
The most common complication of cirrhosis is ascites, which is fluid retention in the abdominal cavity. Cirrhosis is generally irreversible once it occurs, and advanced stages may require a liver transplant.
Portal hypertension and bypassing of the liver by blood are common in cirrhosis, leading to complications such as hepatic encephalopathy. Other liver diseases like haemochromatosis and cancer of the liver can also cause liver damage and dysfunction.