Cirrhosis of the Liver

Diagnosis

The first step to properly diagnose a patient's liver-related problem is to gather an in-depth medical history and conduct a physical examination. Because early stage cirrhosis often lacks symptoms, physicians typically discover the disease during checkups for other conditions.

If cirrhosis is suspected, a Mayo Clinic physician will conduct blood tests that measure certain enzymes. Additionally, blood work will determine if there is excess bilirubin in the blood. Bilirubin is a substance related to normal breakdown of red blood cells. It is normally broken down by the liver and excreted in urine. High levels left in the blood may signify a damaged liver.

Imaging studies may include ultrasonography, a computed tomography (CT) scan and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Each study provides different views of the liver and can provide additional clues about liver function.

The last and most conclusive way to diagnose cirrhosis is a liver biopsy. A physician removes a tiny sample of liver tissue and examines it under a microscope. The procedure can be conducted using a needle biopsy technique that typically requires only local anesthesia.