Liver Disease

Diagnosis of Liver Disease

Finding the cause of liver damage and its severity helps guide treatment. Your healthcare professional begins with a detailed health history and a complete physical exam.

Your healthcare professional may then recommend:

Blood tests

A group of blood tests called liver function tests can diagnose liver disease. Additional blood tests may be performed to identify specific liver problems or genetic conditions.

Imaging tests

An ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI can show the extent of liver damage.

Liver biopsy

Removing a tissue sample (biopsy) from the liver may help diagnose liver disease.

• The biopsy is most often done using a long needle inserted through the skin to obtain a tissue sample.
• The sample is then sent to a laboratory for testing.

Treatment Options for Liver Disease

Treatment for liver disease depends on the specific diagnosis.

Lifestyle changes

Some liver problems can be treated with lifestyle modifications, such as losing weight or stopping alcohol consumption.

• These changes are often part of a medical program that includes ongoing monitoring of liver function.

Medications or surgery

Other liver problems may be treated with medications or surgery.

Liver transplant

Liver disease that leads to liver failure may require a liver transplant.