Liver Cirrhosis Diagnosis: Essential Tests and Evaluations

When it comes to diagnosing liver cirrhosis, several key medical assessments help determine the progression and severity of the condition. For patients in the early stages—especially those showing no symptoms—it's crucial to evaluate liver function, blood clotting ability, and overall blood health.

One of the most effective modern diagnostic tools is liver elastography, a non-invasive test that measures liver stiffness to assess fibrosis levels. This method is particularly useful for patients with fatty liver disease, which is increasingly common in China and other parts of the world. Elastography can also detect fat accumulation in the liver, making it valuable for long-term monitoring and treatment planning.

In addition to blood tests, imaging techniques such as ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) play a significant role in evaluating structural changes in the liver. These methods help identify complications like portal hypertension or the development of liver nodules. Due to cost considerations, doctors typically begin with basic blood work and ultrasound scans.

For individuals with chronic hepatitis B, regular screening becomes even more important. It is recommended that men over the age of 40 and women over 50 undergo biannual ultrasound examinations and alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) testing to detect early signs of liver cancer. This proactive approach significantly improves outcomes by catching potential issues at a treatable stage.

Early detection and consistent follow-up are vital in managing liver cirrhosis and preventing life-threatening complications.