Diagnosis in liver disease

Liver diseases in childhood encompass a wide range of conditions, including cholestasis, metabolic, autoimmune, fibro-cystic diseases, tumors, and infections. Diagnosis begins with a thorough medical history and complementary tests, allowing for disease identification, prognosis evaluation, and treatment response monitoring. Laboratory tests are essential to detect liver damage, liver failure, or cholestasis. Key markers include transaminases AST (aspartate aminotransferase), ALT (alanine aminotransferase), bilirubin, GGT (gamma-glutamyl transferase) and clotting. Additionally, imaging techniques and genetic studies complement the diagnostic approach, enabling comprehensive management. Primary care pediatricians play a vital role in the early detection and follow-up of these conditions, such as prolonged jaundice or persistent hypertransaminasemia.