IGCSE Biology glossary
Cirrhosis
Biology editorial review is supported by the named review panel. Reviewer participation may vary by guide. Checked against Cambridge IGCSE Biology 0610 (2026–2028); last reviewed August 2026.
Definition
A disease of the liver caused by long-term excessive alcohol consumption, in which liver cells are damaged and replaced by scar tissue. Cirrhosis reduces the liver's ability to carry out its functions, including deamination, detoxification and bile production.
What to include in an exam answer
Link cirrhosis to alcohol as a specific effect of long-term alcohol abuse on the liver. The liver cannot regenerate once cirrhosis is advanced. Name specific liver functions that are impaired.
Example in context
Explain why excessive alcohol consumption can lead to liver failure (2 marks): Alcohol damages liver cells over time, causing them to be replaced by scar tissue (cirrhosis). The scarred liver cannot carry out its normal functions such as deamination of excess amino acids and detoxification.
Related syllabus topic
Drugs