Simple Blood Tests Help Diagnose Liver Disorders

Friday, April 28, 2000

ROCHESTER, MINN. — Your doctor's office calls. The results of a routine blood test indicate a potential problem with your liver — even though you are feeling fine.

An abnormal blood test can be the first indication of a minor or a serious problem with your liver, according to the May issue of Mayo Clinic Health Letter.

The liver acts as the body's chemical factory by regulating blood composition, making vital nutrients and neutralizing toxic substances. If your liver isn't able to carry out these functions, your health is jeopardized.

Mild liver test abnormalities are common and many never develop into serious liver disease. But significantly abnormal test results shouldn't be ignored. Your doctor will likely recommend additional blood tests to determine any liver damage and a treatment plan.

There are many liver disorders. Some of the more common ones that can be detected with the help of blood tests are: ** Viral hepatitis, an inflammation of the liver caused by a virus. There are three kinds of hepatitis — A, B and C. Hepatitis C is a growing concern worldwide. It's spread through contact with contaminated blood and is the leading reason for liver transplants.

** Excessive and chronic use of alcohol and use of certain medications.

** Cancer, which has most often spread to the liver from another part of the body.

Shelly Plutowski 507-284-2417 (days) 507-284-2511 (evenings) e-mail:newsbureau@mayo.edu

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