19th Century cirrhosis treatment. Illustration showing a doctor draining fluid from the abdomen of a patient with cirrhosis of the liver. Cirrhosis is a condition in which the liver does not function properly due to long-term damage. As the disease worsens, it can cause fluid build-up in the abdomen. Here, that fluid is being drained to relieve the pressure and resulting pain. Published in 'Illustrated Medicine' by Dr. Gerard (November 1887).