What condition is described as a diffuse process of fibrosis and distortion of normal liver architecture?

Cirrhosis is characterized by a diffuse process of fibrosis, leading to significant distortion of the normal liver architecture. This condition typically arises as a result of chronic liver disease, caused by factors such as chronic alcohol abuse, viral hepatitis, or metabolic disorders. The ongoing injury to liver cells prompts an inflammatory response, which ultimately results in excessive deposition of fibrous tissue.

As the fibrotic tissue replaces healthy liver parenchyma, the liver’s structure is altered, affecting its functionality. This distorted architecture can lead to complications such as portal hypertension, liver failure, and an increased risk of hepatocellular carcinoma.

In contrast, fatty infiltration primarily involves the accumulation of fat within liver cells without the same degree of fibrosis or distortion. Hepatitis refers to liver inflammation, which can lead to liver damage but does not necessarily involve the fibrosis and architectural changes seen in cirrhosis. Portal vein thrombosis involves occlusion of the portal vein but does not intrinsically involve fibrosis of the liver tissue itself. Thus, the defining characteristic of cirrhosis is its extensive fibrosis and alteration of the liver's structural integrity.