Cirrhosis of Liver
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The liver has an amazing capacity for regeneration - it can heal itself by replacing or repairing injured cells. However, in cirrhosis, the healing process is altered. In response to chronic injury liver cells increse in size and number leading to the formation of excess scar tissue that interfere with the liver's ability to function. Although groups of cells may continue to regenerate, the pattern of regeneration isn't normal . As scar tissue replaces normal tissue, blood flow through the liver is affected, making it increasingly difficult for the liver to carry out functions that are essential for life and health. The loss of normal liver tissue slows the processing of nutrients, hormones, drugs, and toxins by the liver. Also slowed is production of proteins and other substances made by the liver. Cirrhosis is more common in men, as men drink more heavily than women.
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