Does a liver function test treat fatty liver disease?

The test is a blood test that measures substances released or processed by the liver. Results can suggest liver irritation or reduced function, but they cannot by themselves show the full extent of fat or scarring. Some people with fatty liver disease have results within the usual range, while others have abnormal results for several reasons.

Fatty liver disease means excess fat has accumulated in liver cells. Management usually focuses on the cause and on protecting the liver over time, such as reviewing alcohol use, medicines, weight, blood sugar, cholesterol and activity with a clinician. The test may be repeated to follow changes.

Arrange a clinical review if fatty liver disease has been found or suspected. Bring a list of medicines, supplements and health conditions. Your clinician may combine the blood results with an examination and imaging, then decide whether further assessment is needed. Do not stop prescribed medicine without advice.

Practical steps can include choosing balanced meals, being physically active in a way that suits your health, avoiding alcohol if advised, and addressing diabetes or cholesterol. The appropriate plan depends on the cause and whether inflammation or scarring is present.

Seek urgent medical help for yellowing of the skin or eyes with confusion, marked drowsiness, vomiting blood, black stools, severe abdominal swelling, or sudden severe pain. Contact a clinician promptly for persistent jaundice, worsening swelling, or unexplained weight loss.

Ask what your results show, whether imaging is needed, what may be contributing to the fatty liver, and how you will monitor liver function and possible scarring.