Investigation and Management

Question 0

What does a full history and examination comprise?

Answer 0

Drugs and alcohol consumption; risk for viral infection

Question 1

How do you investigate chronic liver disease?

Answer 1

Full history and examination; basic bloods; specific bloods; ultrasound

Question 2

What does a basic blood investigation comprise?

Answer 2

FBC; liver function tests, clotting and urea & electrolytes

Question 3

What does a specific blood test comprise?

Answer 3

Viral hepatitis serology; autoimmune profile; ferritin (haemochromatosis); alpha-1 antitrypsin (deficiency); caeruloplasmin (Wilson’s)

Question 4

What does a liver ultrasound provide evidence of?

Answer 4

Cancer and vascular abnormalities

Question 5

What is the prophylactic management of liver disease?

Answer 5

Remove underlying risk factors (alcohol, drug taking, high risk sexual behaviour)

Question 6

What are the medical step taken to manage liver disease?

Answer 6

Treat the underlying cause (eg. alcohol abstinence, antiviral therapy, immunosuppression for autoimmune diseases). Prevent complications by screening for varices and hepatocellular carcinoma. Treat ascited with diuretics.