Name of the Condition

• Other cirrhosis of liver
• Medical term: Cirrhosis not otherwise specified

Summary

Cirrhosis of the liver is a condition where healthy liver tissue is replaced with scar tissue, impeding liver function. "Other cirrhosis of liver" covers cases not specified under other specific classifications of cirrhosis.

Causes

This condition can occur due to various reasons, including:

• Chronic alcohol abuse
• Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD)
• Chronic viral hepatitis (such as hepatitis B or C)
• Autoimmune hepatitis
• Genetic diseases like Wilson's disease or hemochromatosis

Risk Factors

• Excessive alcohol consumption
• Obesity
• Viral hepatitis infection
• Family history of liver disease
• Being male or of older age

Symptoms

Patients may experience:

• Fatigue
• Easy bruising or bleeding
• Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)
• Itchiness
• Swelling in legs and abdomen
• Confusion or other mental changes

Diagnosis

Diagnosing cirrhosis may include:

• Physical examination for signs of liver damage
• Blood tests to check liver function
• Imaging studies like ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI
• Liver biopsy to assess the extent of the fibrosis

Treatment Options

• Abstaining from alcohol
• Diet modifications (e.g., reducing salt intake)
• Medications to manage symptoms and complications (e.g., diuretics for swelling)
• Antiviral drugs for hepatitis
• In advanced cases, liver transplantation

Prognosis and Follow-Up

The prognosis depends on the extent of liver damage and underlying causes. Regular follow-up is vital to monitor liver function and prevent complications. Early intervention can improve outcomes.

Complications

Without treatment, cirrhosis can lead to:

• Liver failure
• Portal hypertension
• Esophageal varices
• Hepatic encephalopathy
• Liver cancer

Lifestyle & Prevention

• Limiting alcohol intake
• Maintaining a healthy weight
• Keeping vaccinations up to date (e.g., hepatitis vaccines)
• Regular medical check-ups

When to Seek Professional Help

Seek medical attention if experiencing symptoms such as jaundice, severe abdominal pain, confusion, or vomiting blood.

Additional Resources

• American Liver Foundation: https://www.liverfoundation.org
• National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK): https://www.niddk.nih.gov

Tips for Medical Coders

• Ensure specificity when coding by reviewing the complete medical record.
• Be aware of overlapping conditions and confirm the diagnosis category.
• Verify the presence of cirrhosis-related complications for accurate coding.