What does liver dysfunction mean?

Dec 01, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Huang Yuhong

Introduction

The liver plays important roles in metabolizing nutrients, detoxifying harmful substances, and synthesizing proteins. When liver dysfunction occurs, these functions are impaired, potentially leading to symptoms such as decreased appetite, fatigue, jaundice, and abdominal distension. In severe cases, coagulation function may also be affected, resulting in a tendency to bleed, and various physiological activities of the body can be disrupted due to abnormal liver function.

Liver dysfunction generally refers to a condition in which the liver's normal functions—such as metabolism and detoxification—are impaired due to disease or injury. If there are any concerns, it is recommended to seek medical advice early. A detailed explanation is as follows:

The liver plays crucial roles in metabolizing nutrients, detoxifying harmful substances, and synthesizing proteins. When liver dysfunction occurs, these functions are compromised and may manifest as symptoms such as decreased appetite, fatigue, jaundice, and abdominal bloating. In severe cases, coagulation function may also be affected, leading to a tendency to bleed, while various physiological activities throughout the body can be disrupted due to abnormal liver function.

Multiple factors may lead to liver dysfunction. For example, long-term alcohol consumption can cause alcoholic liver damage; viral infections may trigger hepatitis; use of hepatotoxic drugs; or underlying conditions such as fatty liver disease, cirrhosis, or liver tumors. These factors gradually destroy liver cells, impairing the liver’s ability to function normally and eventually progressing to liver dysfunction.

In daily life, it is important to avoid excessive alcohol consumption and misuse of medications, and to have regular liver function check-ups. If symptoms suggestive of liver problems appear, prompt medical attention is advised. Once the underlying cause is identified, follow medical guidance for treatment to prevent further deterioration and additional damage to liver function.

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Can short-acting interferon be used again after having been administered for 4 years and then discontinued for 4 years?

If the underlying disease (e.g., chronic hepatitis B or C) is currently in an active phase, with abnormal liver function or elevated viral load, and no severe baseline conditions (e.g., cirrhosis) have occurred during the 4-year period off treatment, the patient may be eligible for re-treatment—provided a physician evaluates them as having good overall tolerance and no contraindications to interferon use (such as severe cardiac or renal disease, or psychiatric history). An individualized dosing regimen would then be required.

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What should I do if liver function is abnormal?

Liver function abnormalities require timely identification of the underlying cause, targeted treatment as directed by a physician, lifestyle adjustments, regular follow-up examinations to monitor the condition, and avoidance of factors that may harm the liver. If symptoms such as fatigue, jaundice, or ascites occur, seek medical attention immediately. 1. Identify the cause: Through liver function tests, liver ultrasound, viral testing, and other methods.