Understanding Liver Disease in Children
If your child has jaundice and liver blood test abnormalities, they may need comprehensive evaluation and specialized care.
Jaundice & Blood Test Abnormalities
If your child has jaundice and liver blood test abnormalities, they may need other investigations such as further blood tests or an ultrasound.
Viral Infections
Liver test abnormalities are most often related to viral infections but there are other numerous causes that may require more invasive investigations.
Specialized Evaluation
The need for further testing and potential causes will be discussed by your specialist, including the possibility of a liver biopsy.
Jaundice
Yellowing of skin/eyes
Blood Tests
Liver function tests
Diagnostic Process
A comprehensive approach to diagnosing liver conditions in children, starting with basic tests and progressing to more specialized investigations.
Initial Blood Tests
Liver function tests to assess enzyme levels and identify abnormalities in liver function.
Further Blood Tests
Additional specialized blood tests to investigate specific causes and rule out various conditions.
Ultrasound
Imaging study to visualize the liver structure and identify any abnormalities or changes.
Common Causes
Understanding the various causes of liver disease in children helps guide appropriate treatment.
Viral Infections
Most common cause of liver test abnormalities, including hepatitis viruses.
Genetic Conditions
Inherited liver disorders that may affect children from birth or early childhood.
Autoimmune Disorders
Conditions where the body's immune system attacks the liver tissue.
Metabolic Disorders
Disorders affecting how the body processes and stores nutrients, affecting liver function.
Common Symptoms
Recognizing the signs of liver disease in children is crucial for early diagnosis and treatment.
Jaundice
Yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes due to elevated bilirubin levels.
Fatigue
Persistent tiredness and lack of energy, often affecting daily activities.
Abdominal Pain
Discomfort or pain in the upper right abdomen where the liver is located.
Poor Appetite
Reduced interest in eating and potential weight loss.
Nausea
Feeling sick or queasy, particularly after eating certain foods.
Dark Urine
Urine that appears darker than normal due to elevated bilirubin levels.
