The liver is the body's main filter. It cleans the blood of harmful substances, stores vitamins and minerals, regulates inflammation processes, and produces energy. However, liver diseases often develop without clear symptoms, which is why they are often diagnosed at a later stage. So, what diagnostic methods are used in modern medicine to identify such pathologies?
Erkin Musaboev, the director of the Virology Research Institute, an academician, shared his insights on this matter.
— Liver-related pathologies are usually manifested by symptoms such as constant fatigue, a bitter taste in the mouth, nausea, yellowing of the skin and eyes, pain in the right side under the ribs, and changes in urine and stool color, — the expert says. — In such cases, the following diagnostic methods are recommended:
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The initial examination should be carried out by a therapist. He will listen to the patient's complaints, assess their condition, and, if necessary, refer them to specialists in relevant fields such as gastroenterology, hepatology, oncology, or infectious diseases.
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Laboratory tests are required. Their types are determined by the doctor. For example, the total protein levels reflect the liver's ability to synthesize proteins. An increase in this level can indicate dehydration or liver inflammation, while a decrease can be a sign of cirrhosis, hepatitis, metastases, or toxic damage.
Bilirubin — a yellow pigment produced in the liver when red blood cells break down. Increased bilirubin levels can indicate liver or bile duct diseases.
ALT (alanine aminotransferase) — an enzyme released when liver cells are damaged. Its increase may indicate hepatitis, toxic poisoning, or fatty liver disease.
AST (aspartate aminotransferase) — an enzyme associated not only with the liver but also with the heart and muscles. An increase in its level may indicate hepatitis or cirrhosis.
Checking the albumin level is also useful in diagnosing liver failure or cirrhosis. Additionally, tests for hepatitis, AFP, and other indicators are used for this purpose.
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Patients may be referred for instrumental tests. These include diagnostic methods such as ultrasound, CT, MRI, elastography, and others.
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If necessary, in severe conditions such as fibrosis, tumors, or rare diseases, special tests may be conducted.
These diagnostic methods play an important role in the early detection and treatment of liver diseases. With these tests, liver condition can be monitored, and necessary actions can be taken in a timely manner.
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