Can Biochemical Tests Detect Fatty Liver Disease?

Biochemical tests alone are not sufficient to diagnose fatty liver disease. While these tests can indicate whether liver function is normal or impaired, they cannot directly identify the presence of fat accumulation in the liver.

For an accurate diagnosis of fatty liver disease, imaging techniques are typically used. Ultrasound is the most common and simple method to detect fatty liver changes. It provides a clear view of the liver's structure and can reveal the presence of excess fat. Alternatively, a CT scan of the liver can also be used to assess fat accumulation.

In addition to these imaging techniques, liver transient elastography with CAP measurement is a modern and non-invasive method to evaluate liver fat content. This method measures stiffness and fat levels in the liver tissue, helping to determine the severity of fatty liver disease.

It is important to note that in routine physical exams, individuals with mild fatty liver disease may still have normal biochemical markers. However, imaging tests like ultrasound and CT can show characteristic signs of fatty liver even when blood tests appear normal.

If the condition progresses to fatty liver inflammation, also known as steatohepatitis, biochemical tests may reveal elevated levels of liver enzymes such as ALT and AST. In more advanced cases, bilirubin levels may also be elevated. This indicates a more severe condition compared to simple fatty liver disease.

When imaging results are inconclusive, a liver biopsy may be recommended for definitive diagnosis. This involves taking a small sample of liver tissue for pathological examination, which can confirm the presence and severity of fatty liver disease. Techniques such as transient elastography, CT scans, and liver biopsies can also help classify fatty liver disease into mild, moderate, or severe stages.