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Abnormal Liver Function Studies (Lfts)
Abnormal liver function tests reveal irregular levels of liver enzymes or bilirubin, indicating possible liver injury. Testing (ICD-10 R94.5) guides diagnosis and treatment. At GastroDoxs in Houston, Dr. Scott provides comprehensive evaluation and personalized plans to restore your liver health.
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Dr. Scott Liu, MD, is a board-certified gastroenterologist with over six years of experience and a background in military medicine. He earned his medical degree from the University of Maryland, Baltimore, completed his Internal Medicine residency at Naval Medical Center Portsmouth, and finished his Gastroenterology fellowship through the National Capital Consortium. Dr. Liu provides comprehensive care for a broad range of digestive conditions, including abdominal pain, acid reflux, liver disease, chronic diarrhea, and colon cancer screening. He is a member of the American College of Gastroenterology and is known for his disciplined, patient-focused approach and clear communication.
What Are Abnormal Liver Function Test Results?
Abnormal liver function results mean your blood tests show unusual levels of liver enzymes or bilirubin. These tests assess how well your liver works. In ICD-10 coding, this finding is recorded as R94.5 and usually prompts further evaluation.
Common Causes and Risk Factors
Fatty liver disease (alcoholic or nonalcoholic)
Viral hepatitis A, B, or C
Excessive alcohol consumption
Certain medications (statins, high-dose acetaminophen)
Swelling of the legs or abdomen (advanced disease)
Nausea, loss of appetite
How Dr. Scott Diagnoses This Condition?
Dr. Scott uses a step-by-step approach:
Medical History and Exam
He reviews your symptoms-especially epigastric pain or discomfort-along with risk factors such as alcohol use, medication history, and metabolic conditions.
Blood Tests
He orders a comprehensive liver panel (ALT, AST, ALP, bilirubin, albumin), viral hepatitis serologies, and pancreatic enzymes (amylase/lipase) to distinguish liver injury from other causes of epigastric pain.
Imaging Studies
Abdominal Ultrasound examines liver echotexture, gallbladder stones, and biliary dilation.
FibroScan or elastography measures liver stiffness to gauge fibrosis or steatosis.
CT scan or MRI provides detailed views if there's suspicion of mass lesions, pancreatitis, or complex biliary pathology.
Advanced Testing (if needed)
If non-invasive tests are inconclusive, Dr. Scott may recommend a liver biopsy to confirm inflammation or fibrosis, or an upper endoscopy to evaluate peptic ulcers and other causes of persistent epigastric pain.
Treatment
Our Team offers a full range of care for fatty liver disease.
1. Lifestyle and Diet Modifications
Personalized meal plans to reduce sugar and unhealthy fats
Exercise programs to support steady weight loss
Guidance on how to lower liver enzymes through diet and fitness
2. Medications
We follow the latest FDA fatty liver disease guidelines.
We may prescribe an FDA-approved fatty liver disease drug to reduce inflammation or control cholesterol.
3. Minimally Invasive or Advanced Procedures
FibroScan for non-surgical monitoring
Clinical trials of new therapies for NASH or MASH liver disease
Endoscopic treatments for advanced scarring (in selected cases)
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. Liucreates a plan to help you lower liver enzymes.
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 fatty liver disease drugs when lifestyle changes alone aren't enough.
What is NASH liver disease life expectancy?
It varies by stage. Early NASH can be managed with diet and exercise. Dr. Liu 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.
Take charge of your liver health. Book a visit with Dr. Scott at GastroDoxs in Houston. Get answers, a clear plan, and the care you deserve.
