Which disease is described as chronic destruction of liver cells?

• A. Gastroenteritis
• B. Hemorrhoids
• C. IBS
• D. Cirrhosis

Answer: (D)

Cirrhosis is a chronic liver disease characterized by ongoing destruction of liver cells (hepatocytes) with replacement by fibrous scar tissue and regenerative nodules. This long-term injury distorts the liver’s architecture and severely impairs its ability to perform essential functions, like making clotting factors, processing toxins, and metabolizing nutrients. Over time, the scar tissue blocks blood flow through the liver, leading to complications such as jaundice and portal hypertension.

Gastroenteritis is an acute inflammation of the stomach and intestines, usually from infection, with symptoms like vomiting and diarrhea. Hemorrhoids are swollen veins in the rectal or anal region. Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a functional disorder of the bowel causing abdominal pain and altered bowel habits without structural liver damage.