What should you know?
Fatty liver disease develops when excess fat accumulates in liver cells. It is often associated with excess weight, diabetes and lipid disorders, although alcohol, medication and other causes must be considered.
Early steatosis is frequently silent. Ultrasound can show increased liver echogenicity, but standard ultrasound alone cannot reliably determine inflammation or the stage of fibrosis.
Common symptoms and signs
- No symptoms in many people
- Fatigue or reduced energy
- Right upper abdominal discomfort
- Abnormal liver enzymes on blood testing
Diagnosis and the role of ultrasound
Abdominal ultrasound evaluates liver size and texture, focal lesions, bile ducts, gallbladder and spleen. Fibrosis risk may require blood-based scores, elastography or hepatology review.
- Liver size and uniformity
- Degree of increased echogenicity
- Gallbladder and bile ducts
- Indirect signs of advanced liver disease
Ultrasound findings must be interpreted together with symptoms, examination and, when needed, laboratory or other imaging results. An image alone should not be used for self-diagnosis or self-treatment.
Treatment and next steps
Management focuses on sustainable weight reduction when appropriate, regular activity, diabetes and lipid control, and limiting alcohol. Rapid diets and unproven liver-cleansing supplements may cause harm.
Management is individual and depends on age, symptoms, imaging findings, other health conditions and pregnancy plans. Medication or a procedure should be selected with the appropriate clinician.
When is urgent care needed?
- Yellow skin or eyes
- Rapid abdominal swelling, confusion or severe weakness
- Severe right-sided pain with fever or vomiting
Related reading
- Abdominal ultrasound
- Gallstones — symptoms, diagnosis and treatment
- Bloating — causes, relief and warning signs
When should you consult radiologist Lana Ezieshvili?
Radiologist Lana Ezieshvili performs targeted ultrasound examinations, describes findings using standard imaging criteria and explains the report in clear language.
If you have symptoms, a referral or need follow-up imaging, use the form below to book a visit with Lana Ezieshvili. Timely, appropriately selected imaging can reduce uncertainty and help determine the right next step.
This article is for education and does not replace medical advice. Seek urgent care for severe or rapidly worsening symptoms.