End-stage liver cirrhosis occurs when there is so little healthy liver tissue left that the organ starts to fail. Life expectancy at this point is determined by how effectively the disease's growth can be slowed down.
Cirrhosis
Cirrhosis of the liver is a chronic condition that happens slowly over time and is caused by alcohol abuse or viral hepatitis. As the condition progresses, scar tissue replaces healthy tissue, diminishing the liver's ability to function properly, eventually leading to liver failure.
Symptoms
Symptoms of liver failure include confusion, disorientation, extreme sleepiness, coma and death.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis of end-stage liver disease is determined by CT scans, and blood tests that evaluate the levels of certain enzymes and toxins.
Treatment
The goal of treatment is not to cure, but rather to slow the progression of the disease. Therapy options include chemotherapy and radiation treatments to slow growth, and painkillers and anti-nausea drugs to alleviate symptoms and keep the patient as comfortable as possible.
Life Expectancy
When an individual reaches end-stage cirrhosis, his life expectancy is determined by how well the progression of the disease can be slowed. According to the American Cancer Society, the five-year survival rate for people with liver cancer is only 12%.
Tags: Life Expectancy, liver failure, progression disease