Disorders of Body Metabolism
Some disorders of the body’s metabolism that involve liver can lead to the appearance of liver cirrhosis, such as Wilson’s disease, hemochromatosis, and Alpha-I antitrypsin deficiency (AATD). This disease is rare, genetic, and has no cure. Its main feature is the inability of the body to metabolize, which leads to copper accumulation in the body, such as brain, liver, eyes, finally leading to cirrhosis or even liver failure.
Another metabolic disease that can cause liver cirrhosis is hemochromatosis, which is also known as iron overload disease – a genetic disease similar to Wilson’s disease. In this case, however, accumulation of iron occurs instead in the liver and other tissues, impairing the functions of these organs. Some symptoms of hemochromatosis include weakness, joint pain, diabetes, and hypothyroidism. This disease can be diagnosed through simple blood tests.
AATD often causes liver diseases and emphysema. The disease is a rare genetic condition that body produce a large number of abnormal protein, and gradually accumulate in the liver, leading to liver damage and scarring. Finally, it can cause many complications, such as chronic hepatitis, cirrhosis and liver cancer.