Can liver function tests detect cirrhosis?

Aug 01, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Gao Jun

Introduction

In general, liver function tests alone cannot definitively diagnose cirrhosis. To confirm whether cirrhosis is present, other diagnostic methods must be used in combination. If cirrhosis is suspected, in addition to liver function tests, imaging examinations such as liver ultrasound, CT scan, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) are required to observe changes in the liver's morphology, size, and texture. When necessary, a liver biopsy may also be performed.

Generally speaking, liver function tests alone cannot definitively detect cirrhosis. To determine whether cirrhosis is present, other diagnostic methods must also be used. Detailed analysis is as follows:

Liver function tests mainly assess the liver's functional status—such as whether liver cells are damaged and whether the liver's metabolic and synthetic functions are normal—by measuring indicators like alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), total bilirubin, and albumin. In the early stages of cirrhosis, liver function tests might show only mild abnormalities or even appear completely normal. In moderate to advanced stages of cirrhosis, decreased albumin levels and elevated bilirubin levels may occur. However, these changes are not unique to cirrhosis, as other liver diseases can also lead to similar results. Therefore, liver function tests can only provide certain clues for diagnosing cirrhosis but cannot directly and definitively identify it.

If cirrhosis is suspected, in addition to liver function tests, imaging examinations such as liver ultrasound, CT scans, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) should also be performed to observe changes in the liver's morphology, size, and texture. A liver biopsy may also be necessary when indicated, to confirm the diagnosis. In daily life, individuals with a history of chronic liver disease or long-term alcohol consumption should undergo regular comprehensive examinations to detect liver abnormalities such as cirrhosis early and take timely treatment measures.

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