Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease

Diagnosis

People with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) usually don't have any symptoms unless the condition is severe. NAFLD is often discovered from laboratory testing for an unrelated condition.

If NAFLD is suspected, Mayo Clinic doctors will inquire about your medical history and conduct a physical examination. Additional testing can include:

• Blood tests to assess liver function and to exclude other causes of liver disease
• Liver imaging tests, such as ultrasound, MRI, CT and magnetic resonance elastography
• In rare instances, a liver biopsy to confirm the presence and type of NAFLD

Tests are scheduled quickly and results are typically available on the same day or within 24 hours. Efficient testing helps the team quickly arrive at a diagnosis so your treatment can begin as soon as possible.