A liver disease that persists over a long period of time, resulting in a progressive destruction of the liver. Normal liver function is essential for many reasons, including its production of blood clotting factors and its role in detoxifying the blood. In the end stages patients experience excessive bleeding, and can become confused. There are many causes with alcohol and viral infections being the most common. Hepatitis B and C are the most common viral infections related to this disorder. Less common causes of cirrhosis include autoimmune diseases, medications, hemochromatosis and Wilson's disease.