Fibrosis

Updated: 2025-01-28

Description

The overgrowth of hardened or scarred connective tissue.

Overview

Fibrosis is an overgrowth of hardened or scarred tissue in the body. There are many different types of fibrosis. One example is cystic fibrosis, which damages the lungs and digestive system. Pulmonary fibrosis damages lung tissue, making it hard to breathe.

Symptoms

Symptoms depend on where the fibrosis has formed in the body. For example, symptoms for fibrosis in the lungs may include cough and difficulty breathing. Skin fibrosis may cause thickened, hard patches and joint stiffness.

Treatments

Treatments may include medicines, physical therapy and surgery.