Pathology - Liver Cirrhosis and Ascites

Pathology - Liver Cirrhosis and Ascites 
In this long-term illness, which is frequently brought on by alcoholism or hepatitis C, damage to the liver cells results in inflammation, necrosis, and eventually cirrhotic fibrosis and scarring.
The normal architecture and vascular components of the liver are destroyed by fibrosis, which gradually reduces liver function and blood supply. Low albumin production by the sick liver causes ascites, which is characterized by a drop in intravascular fluid osmotic pressure. Chronically low effective circulation volume causes the kidneys to retain fluid, which aggravates the development of edema. Other potential side effects include encephalopathy brought on by toxin accumulation (ammonia and other chemicals), coagulopathy linked to a decrease in vitamin K synthesis, and portal hypertension and consequent GI bleeding. Patients run the risk of developing hepatocellular carcinoma in the future. Ascitic fluid must be removed for patient comfort, appropriate thoracic expansion, and to lower the risk of peritonitis.