Is Cirrhosis Genetic?

Cirrhosis is a medical term used for scarring of the liver, an organ that has responsibility for cleansing the blood and producing certain key nutrients. Certain forms of cirrhosis have a genetic basis.

The Facts

• According to the Mayo Clinic, cirrhosis is a response to long-term (chronic) liver damage. Potential serious risks of cirrhosis include heightened chances of liver cancer, increased blood pressure in and near the liver (portal hypertension), toxin buildup (hepatic encephalopathy), increased likelihood of infection and malnutrition.

Wilson's Disease

• Some individuals develop cirrhosis as a result of Wilson's disease, a genetic disorder that disrupts the body's ability to eliminate excess dietary copper, according to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse.

Primary Hemochromatosis

• Cirrhosis can also develop as a result of primary hemochromatosis, an excessive buildup of iron inside the liver. The U.S. National Library of Medicine cites this ailment as America's most common genetic disorder.

Cystic Fibrosis

• The genetic disorder cystic fibrosis can also trigger symptoms of cirrhosis. This occurs through obstruction or inflammation of the bile duct inside the liver.

Nongenetic Causes

• Many other sources of cirrhosis are not genetic. These include hepatitis B and C, long-term alcohol abuse, parasites and fat buildup inside the liver (nonalcoholic fatty liver disease).