Cirrhosis secondary prevention

Cirrhosis Microchapters
Home
Patient Information
Overview
Historical Perspective
Classification
Pathophysiology
Causes
Differentiating Cirrhosis from other Diseases
Epidemiology and Demographics
Risk Factors
Screening
Natural History, Complications and Prognosis
Diagnosis
Diagnostic Study of Choice
History and Symptoms
Physical Examination
Laboratory Findings
Electrocardiogram
Chest X Ray
CT
MRI
Echocardiography or Ultrasound
Other Imaging Findings
Other Diagnostic Studies
Treatment
Medical Therapy
Surgery
Primary Prevention
Secondary Prevention
Tertiary Prevention
Cost-Effectiveness of Therapy
Future or Investigational Therapies
Case studies
Case #1
Cirrhosis secondary prevention On the Web
Most recent articles
cited articles
Review articles
CME Programs
Powerpoint slides
Images
American Roentgen Ray Society Images of Cirrhosis secondary prevention All Images X-rays Echo & Ultrasound CT Images MRI
Ongoing Trials at Clinical Trials.gov
US National Guidelines Clearinghouse
NICE Guidance
FDA on Cirrhosis secondary prevention
CDC on Cirrhosis secondary prevention
Cirrhosis secondary prevention in the news
Blogs on Cirrhosis secondary prevention
Directions to Hospitals Treating Cirrhosis
Risk calculators and risk factors for Cirrhosis secondary prevention

Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1] ; Associate Editor(s)-in-Chief: Raviteja Guddeti, M.B.B.S. [2]

Overview

Secondary prevention in patients with cirrhosis is aimed at preventing further damage in an ailing liver. Avoidance of alcohol and other hepatotoxins, treatment of any underlying chronic liver disease and immunisation against hepatitis A and B for susceptible patients are the key measure of secondary prevention of cirrhosis.

Secondary Prevention

• Abstinence from alcohol is the initial step in secondary prevention to prevent further damage to the liver in patients who already have cirrhosis. One should discuss the alcohol intake with the doctor. Patients with Hepatitis B and C should cut down on alcohol intake as alcohol aggravates fibrosis, cirrhosis, and makes liver cancer more likely.

• Vaccination against Hepatitis A and B in cirrhotic patients can help prevent superimposed insult to the live that has already been damaged.

• Avoid intake of foods and water with high concentrations of copper to prevent worsening of Wilson's disease.