What I need to know about Liver Transplantation Page 3 of 12
What are the reasons for needing a liver transplant?
In adults, the most common reason for liver transplantation is
cirrhosis. Cirrhosis is caused by many different types of liver injuries
that destroy healthy liver cells and replace them with scar tissue.
Cirrhosis can be caused by viruses such as hepatitis B and C, alcohol,
autoimmune liver diseases, buildup of fat in the liver, and hereditary
liver diseases.
In children, the most common reason for liver transplantation is
biliary atresia. Bile ducts, which are tubes that carry bile out of the
liver, are missing or damaged in this disease, and obstructed bile causes
cirrhosis. Bile helps digest food.
Other reasons for transplantation are liver cancer, benign liver
tumors, and hereditary diseases. Sometimes the cause of liver disease is
not known.
 
Liver transplants can help adults and children.
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