Liver cirrhosis. Computer illustration and light micrograph of a section through a human liver with from primary biliary cirrhosis. Cirrhosis is a disease in which bands of fibrosis (internal scarring) break up the internal structure of the liver. The surviving cells multiply to form regeneration nodules separated by scar tissue. This gives a cirrhotic liver a typical granulated aspect. Primary biliary cirrhosis is caused by inflammation or obstruction of the bile ducts, which results in the accumulation of bile in the liver. This disease classically affects middle aged women. Treatment involves drugs (such as cholestyramine) or a liver transplant.