Diagnostic Tools Liver Specialists Use To Identify Health Concerns

A liver specialist is a medical doctor who can diagnose and treat conditions that affect the liver and gallbladder. These organs work together to support digestion and metabolism, and liver doctors treat a range of issues, including inflammation, genetic disorders, and cancer. To evaluate liver health and achieve accurate diagnoses, liver specialists use various diagnostic tools. Here are some tools liver specialists use to identify health concerns:

Blood Tests

Assessing liver health often begins with a comprehensive set of blood tests. Liver specialists order tests such as liver function tests, which measure the levels of

Proteins: Low albumin levels might indicate that the liver is not producing enough of this protein, which carries hormones throughout the bloodstream. Prothrombin helps blood clot, and measuring the clotting rate gives insight into the liver’s protein production.
Enzymes: Alanine transaminase and aspartate transaminase are enzymes found mainly in liver cells. When these cells are compromised or injured, the enzymes move into the bloodstream, leading to higher-than-normal results. Elevated levels may signal inflammation or injury, prompting further investigation.
Bilirubin: Blood levels of bilirubin, a byproduct of red blood cell breakdown, offer information about bile production and flow.

Blood tests can also detect specific viruses, such as hepatitis B or C, that affect liver health. In cases of autoimmune diseases or inherited disorders, targeted blood tests can detect antibodies or genetic markers. These results help clarify the cause of symptoms.

Imaging Tests

Imaging tests provide a clear picture of the liver’s anatomy and structure. Ultrasound produces images by sending sound waves through the abdomen and then capturing the echoes as they bounce back. This test provides real-time views of the liver’s shape, size, and surface, and is used to identify masses and blockages in the bile ducts. Ultrasound is a non-invasive technique that does not use radiation.

For complex evaluations, specialists often use computed tomography (CT) scans or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans. A CT scan uses X-rays to create cross-sectional images, allowing for the detection of tumors, lesions, and structural changes within the liver. An MRI uses strong magnets and radio waves to produce detailed images that are useful for distinguishing between different types of tissue. This allows a liver specialist to identify scarring, inflammation, or vascular abnormalities. Advanced MRIs may include contrast agents to improve image clarity.

Liver Biopsy

A liver biopsy can be used to confirm diagnoses suggested by blood or imaging tests, or to determine an unidentified cause of symptoms. During this procedure, a specialist extracts a sample of liver tissue, usually using a slender needle inserted through the skin of the upper abdomen. Local anesthesia helps reduce discomfort, and imaging guidance enables doctors to target the correct spot. After the sample is collected, it is sent to a laboratory for examination by a pathologist. Microscopic analysis reveals the degree of liver cell inflammation, the presence of scar tissue, the build-up of fat or iron, and cellular changes that could suggest cancer or other diseases. A biopsy plays a significant role in diagnosing complex or unclear liver disorders and shaping treatment decisions.

Visit a Liver Specialist

Liver specialists employ a thorough assessment process, beginning with blood tests and progressing to imaging or biopsy when a more in-depth understanding is required. Each diagnostic tool provides focused, reliable information. Receiving an accurate diagnosis supports a treatment plan tailored to your circumstances. Contact a liver doctor today to schedule a consultation.