Liver Cirrhosis: Evolving Definitions, and Recent Advances in Diagnosis, Prevention and Management
Andrew R. Battle, Julie Mudd, Golo Ahlenstiel, Eric Kalo
Abstract
Liver cirrhosis poses major challenges for both individual health and global healthcare systems. Recent studies have challenged the traditional and predictable linear course of cirrhosis, demonstrating marked heterogeneity in the patterns of the first decompensating events. This review presents an updated epidemiology of cirrhosis and its main causes, outlines an overview of the clinical features, and explores the evolving concepts of the spectrum of decompensation. It further delineates recent advancements in the diagnosis, prognostic scoring, and management of decompensated cirrhosis and the subsequent clinically challenging complications of portal hypertension. Emerging innovations in non-invasive imaging, diagnostic serum biomarkers, and etiology-specific therapies, together with the development of novel liver support systems, underscore a paradigm shift toward a multimodal approach for cirrhosis care. Furthermore, the integration of precision medicine into clinical practice holds promise for reshaping the future of liver cirrhosis management in the coming decades.