What are the causes of cirrhosis?

Patient's question:

My father-in-law has always had a good appetite, and we call him a foodie. But recently, he hasn't been feeling very hungry. We're all wondering what's going on. After going to the hospital, we found out he has cirrhosis. Now, we're eager to ask about the causes of cirrhosis.

Doctor's answer:

The Causes of Hepatocirrhosis
1. Hepatitis Virus: The most common triggers of hepatocirrhosis are infections with hepatitis B virus (HBV), hepatitis C virus (HCV), and hepatitis D virus (HDV). Some individuals infected with HBV develop chronic hepatitis, and a small portion of those with chronic HBV progress to hepatocirrhosis. Approximately half of acute HCV infections become chronic, with 10% to 30% of these cases developing into hepatocirrhosis.
2. Metabolic Disorders:
- Copper metabolism disorders, such as Wilson's disease (hepatolenticular degeneration).
- Iron metabolism disorders, seen in conditions like hemophilia, galactosemia, fibrocystic disease, α-antitrypsin deficiency, and glycogen storage disease.
3. Drug-Induced or Chemical Toxicity: Long-term use of certain medications, such as phenformin, ticlofen, and methyldopa, can lead to drug-induced hepatitis, which may progress to hepatocirrhosis. Prolonged exposure to certain chemical toxins, such as carbon tetrachloride, arsenic, and phosphorus, can cause toxic hepatitis, ultimately resulting in hepatocirrhosis.
4. Alcohol-Related Factors: Chronic heavy alcohol consumption causes liver cell damage, leading to fatty degeneration, necrosis, and hepatic fibrosis, with severe cases developing into hepatocirrhosis.