How to Detect Alcoholic Liver Disease

Alcoholic liver disease (ALD), also known as alcohol-related liver disease, typically develops due to long-term and excessive alcohol consumption. One of the key steps in diagnosing ALD is identifying a consistent history of heavy alcohol use combined with noticeable symptoms of liver damage. These symptoms may include fatigue, jaundice, abdominal swelling, and unexplained weight loss.

When it comes to clinical evaluation, liver function tests play a crucial role in identifying abnormalities that may indicate alcoholic liver disease. These blood tests measure levels of enzymes and proteins such as alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), bilirubin, alkaline phosphatase (ALP), gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT), and albumin. Elevated levels of these markers can signal liver inflammation or damage.

In addition to blood work, imaging studies like liver ultrasound are commonly used to assess the condition of the liver. An ultrasound can reveal changes in liver texture, such as increased echogenicity, which may suggest fatty liver infiltration or the early stages of fibrosis. As the disease progresses, imaging might also show signs of advanced scarring or cirrhosis.

For a more detailed assessment, some patients may require further diagnostic tools such as FibroScan or MRI scans to evaluate the extent of liver damage. In certain cases, a liver biopsy may be recommended to confirm the diagnosis and determine the severity of the condition.

Early detection and intervention are essential in managing alcoholic liver disease. If you have a history of heavy alcohol use or are experiencing symptoms of liver dysfunction, consulting a healthcare professional for proper evaluation and testing is highly recommended.