Liver Disease
What is liver disease?
A wide range of conditions can damage the liver and impair its ability to function. The liver is a vital organ responsible for numerous functions, including detoxification, protein synthesis, and digestion. Common causes of chronic liver disease include fatty liver disease (NAFLD/NASH), viral hepatitis (Hepatitis B and C), alcohol-related liver disease, and autoimmune conditions. Progressive liver damage that is not addressed can lead to fibrosis, cirrhosis, liver failure, and liver cancer.
Symptoms and signs
Symptoms can be vague or non-existent in the early stages of liver disease. As the disease progresses, symptoms may include:
Fatigue and weakness
Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)
Abdominal pain or swelling (ascites)
Nausea and loss of appetite
Easy bruising or bleeding
Dark urine or pale stools
Confusion or difficulty concentrating (hepatic encephalopathy)
How is liver disease diagnosed and investigated?
Diagnosis involves a combination of tests and imaging:
Blood tests: Liver function tests (LFTs), viral hepatitis serology, and markers for autoimmune or metabolic causes.
Imaging: Ultrasound, CT, or MRI to assess the size, structure, and presence of fat or masses in the liver.
Fibroscan (transient elastography): A non-invasive test that measures the stiffness of the liver, helping to determine the degree of fibrosis or scarring (cirrhosis).
Liver biopsy: A procedure where a small sample of liver tissue is taken for microscopic examination, often necessary to confirm the diagnosis and assess the severity
Treatment and management of liver disease
Treatment is highly specific to the underlying cause of the liver disease:
Lifestyle modifications: Essential for fatty liver disease and alcohol-related disease, including weight loss, exercise, and abstinence from alcohol.
Medication: Antiviral drugs for chronic hepatitis B and C, immunosuppressants for autoimmune conditions, and other medications to manage complications of cirrhosis.
Monitoring: Regular surveillance for patients with cirrhosis to detect liver cancer (hepatocellular carcinoma) early, using ultrasound and blood tests
Protect your liver’s health
Dr Shane Selvanderan provides expert consultation for the diagnosis, investigation, and ongoing management of all liver conditions, with a focus on holistic, evidence-based care to preserve and restore liver function.