Hepatology Department: Conditions, Tests and When to Go
Hepatology is the branch of medicine dedicated to the liver, gallbladder and bile ducts. The liver processes nutrients and medicines and makes vital proteins, so liver disease can affect the whole body. Hepatology also includes care before and after liver transplantation.
What Does Hepatology Treat?
- Hepatitis B and C
- Fatty liver disease
- Alcohol-related liver disease
- Cirrhosis and its complications
- Liver cancer surveillance
- Liver transplant assessment and follow-up
Common Tests in Hepatology
- Liver function tests (ALT, AST, bilirubin, albumin)
- Hepatitis virus tests and viral load
- Liver ultrasound and elastography (FibroScan)
- CT or MRI
- Liver biopsy in selected cases
When Should You See a Hepatology Specialist?
- Yellow skin or eyes (jaundice)
- Swelling of the abdomen
- Vomiting blood or black stools (emergency)
- Confusion or drowsiness in someone with liver disease
Who Works in Hepatology?
Hepatology teams include hepatologists, transplant surgeons, anaesthetists, specialist nurses and dietitians.
Patient Tip
Avoid alcohol and herbal remedies without advice if you have liver disease.
How to Prepare for Your Visit
- Write down your symptoms, when they started and what makes them better or worse.
- Bring a list of all medicines and supplements, with doses.
- Carry previous reports, scans and discharge summaries.
- Note your questions in advance and, if possible, bring a family member.
Questions to Ask Your Hepatology Specialist
- What is the most likely cause of my symptoms, and what else could it be?
- Which tests do I need, and what will the results change?
- What are the benefits and risks of each treatment option, including doing nothing?
- Which warning signs mean I should return urgently?
Getting Referred
In Pakistan and many other countries, the usual route to a Hepatology specialist is through a family physician or general practitioner, who can start tests and write a referral. Large teaching hospitals and specialist centres also run outpatient clinics. In an emergency, go straight to the nearest emergency department.
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This Hepatology department guide is educational and based on public information from WHO, CDC, NIH and NHS. It does not replace advice from a qualified clinician. Explore all specialties in our medical departments directory.