Can liver cirrhosis be detected by ultrasound?

In general, whether liver cirrhosis can be detected by ultrasound depends on the specific extent of the disease. In severe cases of cirrhosis, ultrasound usually enables detection; however, in mild cases, ultrasound may fail to provide a definitive diagnosis. The details are as follows:

In advanced liver cirrhosis, the overall shape of the liver typically changes, such as shrinking or atrophy. As the disease progresses, alterations in liver morphology and internal echogenicity become increasingly evident, manifesting as irregular liver contours, uneven surface, enhanced parenchymal echogenicity, and narrowing of the hepatic veins. Under these circumstances, ultrasound can usually accurately suggest cirrhosis.

In the early stages of cirrhosis, when symptoms are mild, ultrasound may not reliably confirm the diagnosis. Additionally, if the patient is overweight, ultrasound imaging quality may be compromised, making a definitive diagnosis difficult.

Patients with liver cirrhosis are advised to maintain a healthy diet, avoid spicy and irritating foods, and engage in regular exercise to strengthen their immune system.