Diagnosis of Alcohol-Related Liver Disease
Early diagnosis of alcohol-related liver disease can save lives, yet it remains a challenge because initial symptoms are often mild or absent. Doctors often diagnose people only after the disease has progressed to a more serious stage.
Medical History and Examination
The first step in diagnosing ARLD is a detailed patient history, focusing on:
- Quantity and frequency of alcohol consumption
- Duration of drinking habits
- Symptoms like fatigue, weight loss, abdominal pain, or nausea
Doctors may perform a physical examination to check for:
- Jaundice (yellowing of skin and eyes)
- Enlarged liver
- Fluid buildup in the abdomen (ascites)
- Skin changes like spider veins or red palms
Blood Tests
Key blood tests used to assess liver function include:
- Liver enzymes (AST, ALT, GGT)
- Bilirubin levels
- Full blood count and clotting factors
- Albumin (a protein made by the liver)
These tests help determine the severity of liver inflammation or damage.
Imaging and Scans
To asses we use Ultrasound, CT, or MRI scans:
- Fat buildup (fatty liver)
- Liver size and texture
- Presence of nodules or scarring (suggestive of cirrhosis)
Liver Biopsy
In some cases, doctors may perform a liver biopsy to confirm the extent of damage and rule out other causes, such as autoimmune liver disease or viral hepatitis.
In South Africa, public hospitals may face delays in diagnostic imaging or biopsy due to resource constraints, making early screening even more important for at-risk individuals.
If doctors detect ARLD early, patients can manage it with lifestyle changes and medical support. But if left undiagnosed, it can progress silently toward irreversible liver failure.
Related Topics
Liver function tests, Imaging for liver disease, Alcoholic hepatitis diagnosis, Cirrhosis detection, Liver biopsy, Medical evaluation, Liver enzyme levels, Fatty liver diagnosis, Alcohol-related damage, Liver ultrasound, Chronic liver disease, Hepatology tests
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