What department should I visit for a liver function test?

Jan 03, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Gao Jun
Introduction
In general, liver function tests can be performed at departments such as hepatology, gastroenterology, hepatobiliary surgery, infectious diseases, and general internal medicine. Detailed explanations are as follows: The hepatology department specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of liver diseases, such as acute and chronic hepatitis, cirrhosis, etc. If abnormal liver function is suspected to be caused by liver disease, you may choose to undergo examination at the hepatology department.

Generally, for liver function tests, you can visit departments such as hepatology, gastroenterology, hepatobiliary surgery, infectious diseases, or general internal medicine. Detailed explanations are as follows:

1. Hepatology

Hepatology specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of liver diseases, such as acute and chronic hepatitis, cirrhosis, etc. If abnormal liver function is suspected to be caused by liver disease, you can choose to undergo examination at a hepatology department.

2. Gastroenterology

This department mainly diagnoses and treats diseases of the digestive system, including the esophagus, stomach, small intestine, large intestine, as well as the liver and biliary system. Liver diseases related to daily dietary factors, such as alcoholic liver disease and fatty liver, can be treated at the gastroenterology department. If there is abnormal liver function, such as elevated transaminases or abnormal bilirubin levels, visiting the gastroenterology department is also an option.

3. Hepatobiliary Surgery

This department specializes in surgical treatment of diseases of the liver and biliary system. If you have diseases requiring surgical treatment, such as liver tumors, liver cysts, hepatic hemangiomas, or these conditions may lead to abnormal liver function, it is recommended to visit the hepatobiliary surgery department.

4. Infectious Diseases

This department diagnoses and treats various infectious diseases, and viral hepatitis is one of the common liver diseases seen in this department. If there is a viral hepatitis infection or suspected viral hepatitis-induced abnormal liver function, you can choose to visit the infectious diseases department.

5. General Internal Medicine

General internal medicine physicians typically have comprehensive medical knowledge and clinical experience, enabling them to initially determine the causes of abnormal liver function and recommend patients for further liver function testing.

If you suspect abnormal liver function, you should seek medical attention promptly and follow the guidance of a physician for treatment.

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