Liver Disease Screening

What is liver disease screening?

Liver disease screening, more commonly known as a liver function test in Singapore, is a diagnostic investigation designed to detect the presence of liver disorders or abnormalities. Additionally, it measures the liver’s ability to produce protein and clear bilirubin. The screening helps monitor liver damage and diseases and find the cause of symptoms. 

While screening for liver diseases is often recommended for patients with risk factors like obesity or a family history of liver diseases, irregular liver test results do not immediately indicate liver diseases. In fact, early detection through screening can facilitate timely intervention and treatment, potentially improving outcomes and preventing further complications associated with liver diseases.

How does liver disease screening in Singapore work?

Liver disease screening works by evaluating various markers of liver health and function through a combination of tests and procedures:

• Blood tests: blood tests or liver function tests are the most common procedure for liver disease screening. They measure levels of enzymes and proteins in the blood, such as alanine transaminase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), and bilirubin, which can indicate liver inflammation, injury, or bile duct blockage. Additionally, viral hepatitis serology tests detect the presence of antibodies or antigens associated with hepatitis viruses. 
• Imaging tests: imaging tests such as ultrasounds, computed tomography (CT) scans, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) can help visualise the liver and allow for the identification of liver cysts, fatty liver, liver cancer, and benign liver tumours.
• Liver biopsy: a liver biopsy may be performed to obtain a tissue sample for microscopic examination. This helps diagnose liver conditions and determine the severity of liver disease.

Benefits of liver disease screening

• Liver disease screening can detect liver diseases in their early stages when treatment is most effective.
• Early intervention can prevent complications such as liver cirrhosis, liver failure, and liver cancer.
• Screening results aid in developing personalised treatment plans based on the individual's condition and risk factors.
• Timely diagnosis and management lead to better treatment outcomes and quality of life for individuals with liver diseases.

What conditions can liver disease screening diagnose?

Liver disease screening can detect and diagnose various liver conditions, such as:

• Fatty liver (alcoholic and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease)
• Liver cirrhosis
• Liver cancer
• Liver cysts
• Benign liver tumours
• Liver abscess
• Viral hepatitis
• Autoimmune liver diseases 
• Hereditary liver diseases

What results can I expect after a liver disease screening?

The results of liver disease screening may vary depending on the tests performed and the individual's medical history. Assuming that your results are normal, this indicates that your liver is functioning within a healthy range and shows no signs of liver disease. However, abnormal results may indicate liver inflammation, injury, fibrosis, or the presence of liver tumours. Based on the screening results, your specialist may recommend further diagnostic tests, lifestyle modifications, or treatment interventions as needed.

You will be fit to resume your day-to-day activities immediately following the screening. However, you are advised to rest should you experience any lightheadedness or feel faint during the blood draw.

Although the liver test results will not provide doctors with a conclusive diagnosis or reveal the extent of your liver damage, it will point them in the right direction in determining the diagnosis and treatment. 

At Lee Surgery & Endoscopy, our doctors will typically review liver test results at your follow-up appointments and discuss the next course of action to ensure your liver is healthy.

Why would I need to undergo a liver disease screening?

Generally, a liver disease screening will be recommended for individuals who exhibit the following symptoms:

• Abdominal pain or swelling
• Dark-coloured urine or light-coloured stool.
• Itching
• Jaundice
• Loss of appetite
• Nausea or vomiting episodes
• Weakness or fatigue

Doctors may also order liver disease screening tests for patients with:

• Family history of liver diseases
• History of heavy alcohol consumption
• Infected with the hepatitis virus
• Liver damage or disease
• Medications that can affect the liver

How many liver disease screening sessions are needed?

The number of sessions for liver disease screening varies from patient to patient. Generally, depending on your medical condition, it is advisable to have your liver checked every 3, 6, and 12 months.

However, patients who are diagnosed with chronic liver diseases such as hepatitis, liver cancer, and fatty liver disease may require more frequent screenings. Doing so will enable your doctors to monitor your medical condition and ensure your liver is functioning efficiently.

Frequently asked questions

How should I prepare for a liver disease screening?

Your doctor will usually advise on the necessary instructions to prepare for the screening, including avoiding certain foods or medications as they may affect the level of enzymes in your blood. Additionally, your doctor may even ask you to fast for at least 8 hours before the test.

Are there any risks involved with liver disease screening?

It is a non-invasive liver screening test, but it is generally safe and has few risks. You may experience some soreness or a bruise where the blood is drawn.

Is liver disease screening exclusive to adults?

No, children may also be advised to undergo a liver disease screening if they exhibit any symptoms.

Would I need to repeat the liver disease screening?

If your initial results reveal any abnormalities or irregularities, your doctor may order a second screening to confirm them. Furthermore, it may also be done to assess the trend of liver dysfunction.