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Abnormal Liver Function Studies (Lfts)
At GastroDoxs in Houston, Dr. Nghia Nguyen offers expert comprehensive care for abnormal liver function tests (LFTs). Utilizing advanced diagnostics and personalized treatment, he evaluates causes—from hepatitis to fatty liver—guiding patients toward improved liver health, symptom relief, and lasting well-being.
Dr. Nghia Nguyen, DO, is a board-certified gastroenterologist providing advanced digestive care in the Greater Houston area. He earned his medical degree from the Texas College of Osteopathic Medicine and completed both his Internal Medicine residency and Gastroenterology fellowship at the University of Texas at Rio Grande Valley. Dr. Nguyen specializes in treating conditions such as acid reflux, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and liver disorders.
What Are Abnormal Liver Function Studies (LFTs)?
Liver function tests measure key enzymes and proteins in your blood—such as ALT, AST, ALP and bilirubin—to assess how well your liver is working. When one or more values fall outside the normal range, it may signal liver injury, inflammation or impaired bile flow that requires further evaluation.
Swelling in legs (edema) or abdomen (ascites) in advanced disease
How Dr. Nghia Nguyen Diagnoses Abnormal Liver Function Studies (LFTs)?
Dr. Nguyen uses a step-by-step approach:
Medical History and Physical Exam
He reviews your symptoms—especially epigastric pain—along with alcohol use, medication history, family liver disease, and risk factors for viral hepatitis.
Blood Tests
We order a comprehensive panel:
Liver enzymes (ALT, AST, ALP, GGT) and bilirubin levels
Viral hepatitis markers (A, B, C)
Pancreatic enzymes (amylase, lipase) if epigastric pain suggests pancreas involvement
Autoimmune or metabolic panels to rule out rarer causes
Imaging Studies
Abdominal ultrasound to assess liver texture, gallbladder, and biliary tree
FibroScan (elastography) to measure liver stiffness
CT or MRI if structural lesions, masses, or complications are suspected
Endoscopic Evaluation (if indicated)
Upper endoscopy may be performed to identify peptic ulcers, gastritis, or varices that can contribute to epigastric pain.
Advanced Testing (as needed)
If noninvasive studies are inconclusive, a liver biopsy can confirm inflammation, fibrosis, or specific histologic diagnoses.
Treatment
Treatment Options at GastroDoxs in Houston
1. Lifestyle and Diet Changes
A diet rich in vegetables, fruits, and lean proteins
Cutting down on sugary drinks and processed foods
Avoiding alcohol
Gradual weight loss if you have fatty liver
2. Medications
Antiviral drugs for hepatitis
Immune-suppressing medicine for autoimmune liver disease
Cholesterol-lowering medicine for fatty liver
3. Advanced Treatment Options
Endoscopic treatment for bleeding from liver-related veins
TIPS procedure to lower pressure in liver blood vessels
Dr. Nghia Nguyen, DO, is a board-certified gastroenterologist providing advanced digestive care in the Greater Houston area. He earned his medical degree from the Texas College of Osteopathic Medicine and completed both his Internal Medicine residency and Gastroenterology fellowship at the University of Texas at Rio Grande Valley. Dr. Nguyen specializes in treating conditions such as acid reflux, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and liver disorders.
Frequently Asked Questions
What causes a fatty liver?
Fat often collects in the liver from poor diet, obesity, diabetes, alcohol use, or certain medications.
How can I lower my liver enzymes?
Eat a balanced diet, exercise regularly, and avoid excess alcohol. Dr. Nguyen creates a personalized plan to help you lower liver enzyme levels.
What tests show hepatic echogenicity?
A fatty liver ultrasound or FibroScan measures echogenic liver changes without surgery.
Is there a drug for fatty liver disease?
Yes. We use FDA-approved medications for fatty liver disease when lifestyle changes alone aren't enough.
What is NASH liver disease life expectancy?
It varies by stage. Early NASH can often be managed with diet and exercise. Dr. Nguyen will discuss your individual prognosis.
Do I need a biopsy?
Most patients avoid biopsy. We rely on blood tests, imaging, and non-invasive scans unless advanced disease is suspected.
