Which condition is characterized by permanent hardening of the liver?

Cirrhosis is characterized by the permanent hardening and scarring of the liver tissue. This condition often arises from chronic liver diseases, such as hepatitis or prolonged alcohol abuse, leading to the degeneration and regeneration of liver cells. Over time, the liver becomes increasingly fibrotic, resulting in impaired liver function and blood flow. This hardening can disrupt the liver’s ability to perform its essential roles, including detoxification, protein synthesis, and production of biochemicals necessary for digestion.

Other conditions listed, such as hepatitis, involve inflammation of the liver but do not inherently lead to permanent hardening. Pancreatitis relates to inflammation of the pancreas, and cholecystitis concerns inflammation of the gallbladder, neither of which directly affect the liver's structural integrity in the same manner as cirrhosis.