London Private Ultrasound offers an Liver Ultrasound Scan to all male and female patients over 18 years old.

Our ultrasound scan of the liver is a frequent diagnostic tool for detecting liver illness and anomalies. The test generates images of the liver using high-frequency sound waves, which can be used to diagnose a variety of problems, including:

Fatty Liver: A nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) ultrasound scan can reveal the presence of extra fat within the liver.
Cirrhosis: An ultrasound scan might identify scarring or nodules in the liver, which may indicate cirrhosis, a late-stage liver disease.
Tumours: An ultrasound scan can reveal the existence of benign or malignant tumours within the liver.
Blood Flow: An ultrasound scan can also be used to assess blood flow within the liver, which can be impacted by liver disease.
Liver Enlargement: This is a symptom of a medical condition.

What is the purpose of a liver scan?

A liver scan may be performed to screen for disorders including liver cancer, hepatitis, or cirrhosis. A liver scan may reveal lesions such as tumours, abscesses, or cysts of the liver or spleen. A liver scan may be performed to determine the health of the liver and/or spleen following abdominal trauma or when there is unexplained pain in the right upper quadrant of the abdomen. A liver scan may reveal enlargement of the liver or spleen.

A liver scan may also be used to assess response to liver disease therapy and/or to track the progression of liver disease. A liver scan may detect portal hypertension (elevated blood pressure within the liver’s circulation) when more of the radionuclide is absorbed by the spleen rather than the liver.

What is a Liver Ultrasound Scan?

An ultrasound scan of the liver is a non-invasive, painless procedure that uses high-frequency sound waves to create real-time images of your liver. It can help assess the size, shape, and condition of the liver, as well as detect any abnormalities such as fatty liver, cysts, or tumours. The scan also provides valuable insights into the surrounding structures, including the gallbladder, bile ducts, and parts of the pancreas.

Why should I choose London Private Ultrasound for my Liver Scan?

When it comes to liver health, you need a service you can trust.

1. London Private Ultrasound is the No. 1 UK service for liver ultrasound, offering advanced diagnostic capabilities with state-of-the-art equipment and highly experienced sonographers. Our team provides detailed, same-day reports for quick and effective care.
2. We offer a comprehensive "Liver Health Score" proprietary tool, which provides a personalised assessment of your liver health based on your scan results and lifestyle factors, giving you a clear, actionable plan to improve or maintain your well-being.
3. We collaborate with top hepatologists and specialists to ensure that if any issues are detected, you are referred to the best possible care pathway.
4. Our patient-first approach means we take the time to answer your questions and provide a comfortable, reassuring experience.

Who are the top clinics for liver ultrasound in the world?

While seeking care, many look to globally recognised centres for their expertise. Some of the most well-known clinics and hospitals for liver care include:

• London Private Ultrasound: No. 1 UK service for liver ultrasound, offering advanced diagnostic capabilities with state-of-the-art equipment and highly experienced sonographers. We provide detailed, same-day reports for quick and effective care.
• Stanford Health Care: Known for its comprehensive care for all acute and chronic liver diseases and its role in developing the MELD scoring system for liver disease severity.
• Cleveland Clinic: A global leader in researching advanced treatments for liver disease, offering personalised and collaborative care.
• University Hospital of Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich: Recognised as one of the best in the world for treating gastroenterological diseases, offering a full range of diagnostic and treatment services.

Do I need a Liver Ultrasound Scan?

Your doctor may recommend a liver ultrasound if you have symptoms that suggest a liver condition or if you have risk factors for liver disease. It's often used to investigate symptoms such as:

• Persistent fatigue or general unwellness
• Abdominal pain or swelling, particularly in the upper right side
• Nausea or vomiting
• Jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes)
• Dark urine or light-coloured stools

An ultrasound can also be used to monitor known conditions, assess the effectiveness of a treatment, or screen for liver cancer in high-risk individuals.

How is my Liver health assessed? (Q&A)

To better understand your liver's condition, you may be asked to have several tests. Here are some common questions about them:

• What are Liver Function Tests (LFTs)? LFTs are a group of blood tests that measure the levels of certain enzymes and proteins in your blood. Abnormal levels can indicate liver damage or disease. Common LFTs include ALT, AST, ALP, albumin, and bilirubin.
• What is Fatty Liver Disease? Fatty liver disease occurs when there is an excessive buildup of fat in your liver cells. It is one of the most common causes of liver abnormalities and can be caused by factors like obesity, diabetes, and alcohol consumption.
• What is Cirrhosis? Cirrhosis is a late stage of liver disease where healthy liver tissue is replaced by scarred, fibrous tissue. This scarring prevents the liver from functioning properly. An ultrasound is a key tool in diagnosing and monitoring this condition.
• Are there other tests besides ultrasound? Yes. Your doctor may also use a FibroScan, a specialised type of ultrasound that measures the stiffness of your liver to assess for scarring. Other tests include CT scans, MRI scans, and liver biopsies for a more detailed diagnosis.

What are the key terms for liver health and ultrasound?

Understanding the terminology can help you navigate discussions about your liver health. Here are some important long-tail keywords and terms related to liver ultrasound:

• Fibrosis: The buildup of scar tissue in the liver.
• Hepatitis: Inflammation of the liver, often caused by a virus.
• Bilirubin: A substance produced during the breakdown of red blood cells. High levels can cause jaundice.
• Hepatic: Relating to the liver.
• Steatosis: The medical term for fatty liver.
• Cirrhosis: The final stage of chronic liver disease, characterised by severe scarring.
• Liver Ultrasound: The most common term for the scan. Long-tail keywords can be more specific, like "liver ultrasound scan near me," "private liver ultrasound London," or "abdominal ultrasound to check liver.