Liver Tests & Diagnosis

The liver plays a vital role in the body, responsible for filtering toxins, processing nutrients, and supporting digestion. When the liver is damaged or functioning abnormally, it can affect overall health and lead to serious complications. At Emirates Hospitals, we provide a comprehensive range of liver tests and diagnostic services to assess liver health, detect diseases early, and ensure prompt and effective treatment. Our state-of-the-art technology and expert medical team offer a thorough approach to diagnosing liver conditions, helping patients maintain optimal liver function and health.

Common Symptoms of Liver Disease

Liver disease can present a wide variety of symptoms, some of which may be subtle in the early stages. Common signs of liver dysfunction include:

• Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)
• Fatigue or weakness
• Unexplained weight loss
• Abdominal pain or swelling
• Dark urine and pale stool
• Nausea or vomiting
• Loss of appetite

If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to seek medical evaluation to identify potential liver issues and start early treatment.

Comprehensive Liver Tests at Emirates Hospitals

At Emirates Hospitals, we offer a wide range of liver function tests and diagnostic procedures to assess liver health. These include:

1. Blood Tests (Liver Function Tests – LFTs)
Liver function tests are a group of blood tests that measure specific enzymes and proteins in the blood to evaluate how well the liver is working. Common LFTs include:

• Alanine Transaminase (ALT): High levels of ALT indicate liver damage.
• Aspartate Transaminase (AST): Elevated AST levels may suggest liver injury or disease.
• Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP): High levels of ALP can be a sign of liver or bile duct disease.
• Bilirubin: Elevated bilirubin levels may indicate jaundice or a liver processing issue.
• Albumin and Total Protein: These tests assess the liver’s ability to produce essential proteins.

2. Imaging Tests
To visualize the liver and detect abnormalities, we offer a variety of imaging tests:

• Ultrasound: A non-invasive imaging test that provides detailed images of the liver, helping to identify tumors, cysts, or blockages in the bile ducts.
• CT Scan (Computed Tomography): A CT scan provides detailed cross-sectional images of the liver, useful for detecting masses, infections, or cirrhosis.
• MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging): MRI is used to visualize liver tissue and blood vessels, helping to diagnose conditions such as fatty liver disease, tumors, or bile duct obstructions.

3. Fibroscan (Transient Elastography)
Fibroscan is a specialized test that measures liver stiffness, helping to assess the level of fibrosis (scarring) in the liver. It is a non-invasive alternative to a liver biopsy and is particularly useful for diagnosing and monitoring conditions like cirrhosis and chronic liver disease.

4. Liver Biopsy
A liver biopsy is a procedure in which a small sample of liver tissue is removed for examination under a microscope. This test is used to diagnose liver diseases such as hepatitis, cirrhosis, and liver cancer, or to evaluate unexplained liver abnormalities. At Emirates Hospitals, our biopsy procedures are performed using minimally invasive techniques to ensure patient comfort and safety.

5. Genetic Testing
In certain cases, genetic testing may be recommended to identify inherited liver conditions such as Wilson’s Disease or hemochromatosis. This helps in early diagnosis and the development of a tailored treatment plan.

6. Endoscopy (ERCP)
Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) is a specialized procedure that combines endoscopy and X-rays to examine the bile ducts, pancreas, and liver. It is often used to diagnose conditions such as gallstones, blockages, or tumors in the bile ducts.

Diagnosis and Treatment Planning

Once liver tests and diagnostics are completed, our team of hepatologists and specialists will review the results to make an accurate diagnosis. We take a personalized approach to treatment planning, developing a care plan based on the specific condition, its severity, and the patient’s overall health. Early diagnosis allows us to implement effective interventions to prevent further damage and improve the long-term health of the liver.