How to perform a liver examination
Jan 25, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Gao Jun
Introduction
Under normal circumstances, methods for liver examination include liver function tests, liver ultrasound examinations, liver CT scans, liver MRI scans, and liver biopsy. Before undergoing a liver examination, it is important to inform the doctor about your medical history, medication history, and any allergies in order to allow the doctor to develop an appropriate examination plan. If you experience any discomfort, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly.
Generally, methods for liver examination include blood tests, liver ultrasound, liver CT scan, liver MRI scan, and liver biopsy. The details are as follows:
1. Blood Tests
Blood tests involve laboratory analysis of blood samples to assess whether the liver's metabolic, detoxification, and synthesis functions are normal. Commonly tested parameters include alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), bilirubin, albumin, and globulin. These indicators can reflect whether liver cells are damaged and the overall functional status of the liver.
2. Liver Ultrasound
Liver ultrasound uses ultrasound waves to create images of the liver, allowing evaluation of its shape, size, and internal structure. This examination can detect space-occupying lesions such as liver cysts, hepatic hemangiomas, fatty liver, and cirrhosis. Additionally, ultrasound can assess liver texture and echogenicity, providing important information for diagnosing liver diseases.
3. Liver CT Scan
Liver CT scanning involves X-ray tomography combined with computer imaging technology to provide more detailed imaging of the liver. CT scans clearly show the density and structure of the liver, aiding in the detection of small lesions such as liver cancer and intrahepatic bile duct stones.
4. Liver MRI Scan
Liver MRI uses magnetic fields and radiofrequency waves to generate images of the liver, offering higher resolution and deeper imaging capabilities. MRI clearly visualizes subtle liver structures and abnormalities such as fatty liver, cirrhosis, and liver cancer.
5. Liver Biopsy
Liver biopsy involves inserting a fine needle into the liver to obtain a small tissue sample for pathological examination. Histopathological analysis directly observes morphological changes in liver tissue, accurately determining the presence, nature, and severity of liver disease.
Prior to undergoing liver examinations, it is important to inform your physician about your medical history, medication use, and allergies, to assist in developing an appropriate diagnostic plan.
