the presence of hepatitis c infection in the liver triggers the human immune system which leads to inflammation. over time (usually decades) prolonged inflammation may cause scarring. extensive scarring in the liver is called cirrhosis. when the liver becomes cirrhotic the liver fails to perform its normal functions (liver failure) and this leads to serious complications and even death. cirrhotic livers also are more prone to become cancerous.
how does liver damage occur in hepatitis c infection?