Acute Liver Failure

If you have signs and symptoms of liver failure, a healthcare provider will run tests to confirm it. These may include:

• Blood tests. Liver function tests measure different liver products in your blood to determine how well your liver is functioning. Blood tests may also help identify the cause of your liver failure and some of its complications, like reduced blood clotting or anemia.
• Imaging tests. Imaging studies of your liver can show signs of liver disease, like swelling, scarring or fluid in your abdomen (ascites). An elastography is a type of imaging test that uses ultrasound or MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) to determine the degree of fibrosis or stiffness in your liver.
• Liver biopsy. A liver biopsy is a minor procedure to take a small tissue sample from your liver to test in a lab. A healthcare provider can usually take the sample through a hollow needle. A liver biopsy can confirm cirrhosis and help determine the cause of your liver disease.