Illustration comparing the appearance a healthy liver (left) with its appearance in cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma, or liver cancer. Cirrhosis is a consequence of chronic liver disease characterized by replacement of liver tissue with fibrosis, scar tissue and regenerative nodules (lumps that occur as a result of a process in which damaged tissue is regenerated), leading to loss of liver function. Liver cancer is often secondary to cirrhosis. Hepatitis C can lead to cirrhosis and/or liver cancer; with alcohol abuse being another major risk factor.
Crédito: Album / Science Source / Monica Schroeder