There are more than a hundred different types of liver diseases out there. It affects over 2 million people in the US. And this figure is just the tip of the iceberg since most liver disease cases are never diagnosed. Your liver is a very resourceful organ. It can work well even when damaged, but only to a certain extent. That means that, often, you won’t see clear symptoms of liver illness or disease and neither may your doctor. Signs and symptoms may only show up sometimes when the liver is in its initial stages of damage. However, a number of liver function tests will still be suggested to you if your GP suspects the presence of a liver condition.
Following the liver disease diagnosis, your GP may suggest a complete blood screening to get a general overview of your physical health. It will take a while to get back the results of these blood tests. Very often, you’ll be contacted sooner if the blood test yields problematic readings indicating reasons for concern. If you require further testing for your condition, you will be referred to one of the local hospitals or a liver specialist clinic. More particular blood samples will be taken here for testing. Test for virology (viruses), immunology (antibodies), and liver function will be carried out. In some cases, genetic studies may also be requested to check for the presence of hereditary diseases.
A tummy scan may need to be carried out to get a clearer picture of the required diagnosis. Usually, the first resort for this will be an ultrasound scan.
Your booking for the tes will be made under the name of your consultant. In spite of the consultant bearing overall responsibility for the treatment, you will see other members of the medical team as well. Such doctors are practicing at different levels and bear different levels of responsibility and experience. You might want to write down your consultant and other doctors’ name on the day of the visit for later reference.
You may also be referred to radiologists for confirmation of your diagnosis. Such tests will include CT scans, MRI scans, liver biopsies, liver function tests and ultrasound. If problems with blood flow to your liver occur, you may perform an angiogram.
Giving Your Consent
Before undertaking any kind of liver function tests, you will always be asked for your consent or permission. For certain liver testing procedures, written consent will be sought from you. This process is carried out to ensure that you fully understand the purpose and nature or undergoing that particular treatment, potential side effects, and why you will need to provide a sample. No process will be carried out without your consent. You may decline the test if you have serious reservations with doing the test.
- Make sure you understand the following before giving your consent for treatment:
- Why you require the treatment
- What will be done to you during the test or treatment
- Side effects or risks involved
- Alternative forms of treatment available
- Potential side effect of not having the test or treatment
- Pros and cons of undertaking the treatment