[Alcohol-related liver cirrhosis and related complications]

Ugeskr Laeger. 2021 Apr 5;183(14):V11200850.
[Article in Danish]

Abstract

Alcohol is still the dominating cause of liver cirrhosis in Denmark. Only a minor fraction of individuals with alcohol abuse develop cirrhosis, and the pathophysiological mechanisms are only partly understood. About 50% of patients are diagnosed, when complications such as ascites, renal failure, or oesophageal varices occur. Treatment of alcohol-related cirrhosis is mainly symptomatic, and a summary is given in this review. It is, however, anticipated, that improved focus on nutrition, prevention of complications and therapeutic agents directed towards hepatic fibrogenesis will improve life and health of patients with alcohol-related cirrhosis.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Ascites
  • Esophageal and Gastric Varices*
  • Humans
  • Liver Cirrhosis / complications
  • Liver Cirrhosis, Alcoholic / complications