Liver: Transplants | Causes | Symptoms | Considerations

Liver diseases are becoming increasingly common. Here are some of the most common reasons for a liver transplant:

Chronic Viral Hepatitis (B, C, D)

Hepatitis is caused by viral infections that lead to inflammation, swelling, and cell death. This can result in liver destruction or scarring, and hepatitis B is the leading cause of liver cancer globally.

Autoimmune Hepatitis

In autoimmune hepatitis, the body's immune system attacks its own liver cells, leading to scarring, cirrhosis, and eventually end-stage liver disease. Unlike viral hepatitis, this is not caused by a virus.

Laennec Cirrhosis

This type of cirrhosis is caused by excessive alcohol consumption, which severely damages the liver. It is one of the leading reasons for liver transplants.

Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD)

Fat accumulation in the liver cells leads to this condition, which is commonly seen in patients with obesity and diabetes. While excessive alcohol is a known cause, NAFLD can also cause liver cirrhosis in non-alcoholics.

Cryptogenic Cirrhosis

Sometimes, liver cirrhosis occurs without any clear cause, such as alcohol abuse or viral infections. This is known as cryptogenic cirrhosis.

Biliary Cirrhosis

When bile ducts are blocked, bile produced by the liver cannot flow properly, leading to liver swelling and eventual loss of function.

Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis

This condition results in inflammation and scarring of the bile ducts, obstructing bile flow and leading to liver damage.

Caroli's Disease

This congenital condition causes bile ducts to dilate and form cysts, leading to infections and bile duct obstruction.

Choledochal Cyst

A congenital disorder where a malformed bile duct leads to the formation of a choledochal cyst.

Acute Liver Failure

Liver failure caused by factors such as viral infections, NAFLD, or other issues may require a liver transplant.

Toxic Exposures

Exposure to hazardous pollutants like pesticides, herbicides, or lead can lead to life-threatening liver diseases.

Hepatic Tumors

Primary or metastatic tumors in the liver may cause severe damage and necessitate a liver transplant.

There are several other conditions, including traumatic injuries, glycogen storage diseases, and others, that could lead to the need for a liver transplant.