What is a severe complication of chronic hepatitis?

Fibrosis is a severe complication of chronic hepatitis because it refers to the accumulation of excessive connective tissue in the liver due to ongoing inflammation and liver cell injury caused by the hepatitis virus. Over time, this fibrotic tissue replaces healthy liver tissue, impairing liver function and leading to further complications such as cirrhosis, liver failure, or liver cancer.

Chronic hepatitis can lead to this condition as the persistent inflammatory process stimulates the activation of hepatic stellate cells, which produce collagen and other extracellular matrix proteins, resulting in the scarring known as fibrosis. The extent of fibrosis is a key factor in assessing the severity of liver disease and determining the prognosis for individuals with chronic hepatitis.

Understanding the potential for fibrosis underscores the importance of early detection and management of chronic hepatitis to prevent progression to more severe liver damage.