The morphology of cirrhosis. Recommendations on definition, nomenclature, and classification by a working group sponsored by the World Health Organization

Abstract

This memorandum provides guidelines on the definition, nomenclature, and classification of cirrhosis, chronic hepatitis, and hepatic fibrosis. These are considered according to morphological characteristics and etiology. It is hoped that this system will serve as a standard for diagnostic, research, and epidemiological purposes. The relationship of cirrhosis to liver cell carcinoma is briefly discussed and the possible morphological markers of an increased risk of malignancy are defined.