Final answer:
The incorrect statement is that the third stage of alcoholic liver disease is also known as cirrhosis. Cirrhosis is characterized by the replacement of dead liver cells with fibrous tissue, leading to progressive loss of function and complications like ascites and hepatic encephalopathy.
Step-by-step explanation:
The third stage of alcoholic liver disease, also known as cirrhosis, is characterized by the formation of fibrous tissue in the liver, which replaces dead liver cells. This condition can be caused by chronic alcohol abuse, viral hepatitis, or exposure to other hepatotoxic chemicals. As the liver cells continue to die, fibrous tissue accumulates, resulting in progressive loss of liver function. Common complications of cirrhosis include ascites, which is fluid retention in the abdominal cavity, and hepatic encephalopathy, a neuropsychiatric abnormality due to liver failure. Cirrhosis is often considered irreversible and treatment aims to prevent further progression and manage complications, with a liver transplant being the only option in advanced stages.
Beyond the immediate effect on liver function, cirrhosis also impacts other organs such as the kidneys, leading to potential dysfunction due to the added strain when the liver is not operating normally. The relationship between alcohol consumption, liver disease, and subsequent kidney issues is well-documented. Additionally, cirrhosis may contribute to conditions like jaundice due to liver's reduced ability to conjugate and excrete bilirubin and if severe enough, can result in portal hypertension leading to hepatic encephalopathy.