What are the 4 Stages of Cirrhosis of the Liver?

Main Source: Liver Specialist in Kochi

Liver cirrhosis is often classified into four stages based on the severity of liver damage and the extent of fibrosis (scarring) present in the liver. These stages are commonly referred to as the Child-Pugh classification or the Child-Turcotte-Pugh (CTP) score. The stages are as follows:

1. Stage A (Compensated Cirrhosis):
   

   • In this early stage, the liver can still function relatively well despite the presence of fibrosis and some damage.

   • Symptoms may be mild or absent, and the liver is still able to perform its essential functions.

   • Complications and symptoms of advanced cirrhosis, such as ascites (fluid retention in the abdomen) or hepatic encephalopathy, are not present or are minimal.

1. Stage B (Decompensated Cirrhosis):
   

   • At this stage, liver function starts to decline, and complications become more evident.

   • Symptoms may include jaundice, fatigue, weakness, loss of appetite, weight loss, and a decline in overall health.

   • Complications like ascites, hepatic encephalopathy, and variceal bleeding (enlarged veins in the esophagus or stomach) may occur.

1. Stage C (Advanced Cirrhosis):
   

   • In this stage, the liver function significantly deteriorates, and complications become severe.

   • Symptoms worsen, and individuals may experience significant fatigue, jaundice, abdominal pain, easy bruising, and an increased risk of infections.

   • Complications such as ascites, hepatic encephalopathy, variceal bleeding, and kidney dysfunction (hepatorenal syndrome) are more pronounced.

1. Stage D (End-Stage Cirrhosis):
   

   • This is the most advanced stage of cirrhosis, often referred to as end-stage liver disease.

   • Liver function is severely impaired, and complications are life-threatening.

   • Symptoms are severe and may include extreme fatigue, jaundice, significant weight loss, muscle wasting, and a high risk of infections.

   • Decompensated complications, including liver failure, kidney failure, and fluid imbalances, become more prominent.

It's important to note that the progression of cirrhosis can vary among individuals, and not all individuals will experience the same symptoms or complications at each stage. Regular monitoring by a healthcare professional, including liver function tests and imaging studies, can help assess the stage of cirrhosis and guide appropriate management.

The four-stage classification system provides a general framework to understand the progression and severity of cirrhosis, but individual variations and specific complications can influence the course of the disease.