“How is a liver disease diagnosed in children?”
My child has had flu-like symptoms for the past few days, but the doctor tested for the flu and it came back negative. She said that it had to be a common cold. But now my son's skin is yellowing. We have liver diseases in my family, and I recognize these symptoms in him. What tests are done on children to diagnose liver diseases?
4 Answers
A group of blood tests called liver function tests can be used to diagnose liver disease.
The most common pediatric liver disease is Nonalcoholic Fetty Liver Disease (NAFLD). Is the most common form of chronic liver disease in children and adolescents. Studies reveal that 5% to 10% of children have NAFLD. The most common causes are hepatitis and other viruses, and alcohol. In very young children. In very young children, cirrhosis is the most often caused by genetic (inherited) liver problem such as biliary atresia. Early symptoms are feeling unwell, tired, loss of appetite, feeling sick, tenderness or pain around the liver, spider angiomas (spider-like small blood capillaries on the skin above the waist), blotchy red palms and disturbed sleep pattern. Liver damage can often be reversed with a well-managed treatment plan. Consult your pediatric. Thank you.
The most common pediatric liver disease is Nonalcoholic Fetty Liver Disease (NAFLD). Is the most common form of chronic liver disease in children and adolescents. Studies reveal that 5% to 10% of children have NAFLD. The most common causes are hepatitis and other viruses, and alcohol. In very young children. In very young children, cirrhosis is the most often caused by genetic (inherited) liver problem such as biliary atresia. Early symptoms are feeling unwell, tired, loss of appetite, feeling sick, tenderness or pain around the liver, spider angiomas (spider-like small blood capillaries on the skin above the waist), blotchy red palms and disturbed sleep pattern. Liver damage can often be reversed with a well-managed treatment plan. Consult your pediatric. Thank you.
Usually, laboratory tests can be done initially to evaluate the liver. If they are abnormal, then further studies can be done including imaging studies.
Basic liver function tests can be performed in both children and adults. Please share with your doctor what type of liver diseases run in your family, and if a specific test is needed for that particular disease, it can be ordered.
RB Thomas, MD
RB Thomas, MD
Blood Liver function tests and ultrasound of the abdomen.
