This represents irreversible liver damage. Scar tissue replaces much of the normal liver. In end stage cirrhosis, liver transplantation is the only hope for survival. However, transplantation in alcoholic liver disease is very controversial. Even then, the majority die while on the transplant list.
Some patients die of acute alcoholic hepatitis, but most survive.
Patients with cirrhosis inevitably die of progressive liver disease if they continue to drink. If all alcohol intake is stopped, the progression to serious liver disease can usually be stopped or at least slowed. Further refinements should improve therapy. The major advances will be in the field of alcohol addiction. Investigators are currently trying to find therapies that will block the craving for alcohol, etc.