Liver Cirrhosis Diagnosis

Blood analysis: an increase in bilirubin is usually seen, as well as a decrease in albumin and prothrombin time (markers that indicate liver damage). A decrease in the number of platelets is another feature. However, in some cases the analyzes may be normal or present minimal alterations.

Transient elastography: for the assessment of the amount of fibrous tissue (scars) in the liver. Elevated values above 8 kPa suggest the patient has significant fibrosis. Above 15 kPa, cirrhosis is suspected so tests are necessary to rule it out. This test is being evaluated as a potential screening technique for liver fibrosis in the general population.

Abdominal ultrasound: evaluates the shape of the liver. If the patient has cirrhosis, the ultrasound will show irregular liver margins, fibrous liver tissue or a decrease in liver size.

Liver biopsy: this test provides the definitive diagnosis of cirrhosis. This can be ultrasound guided or by insertion of a catheter into the liver. Performing liver catheterisation also makes it possible to measure the liver venous pressure, which is high in the case of cirrhosis and is useful for obtaining data on the prognosis of the disease.