Hepatology is the study of liver disease and related conditions.
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Why Would Someone Be Referred to Hepatology?
Youll be referred to hepatology if your healthcare provider is concerned about your liver function.
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Hepatologists treat many conditions, including:
Hepatic System Organs
Hepatology primarily focuses on the liver.
The liver interacts with surrounding organs that make up the hepatic system.
What Does a Hepatologist Do?
A hepatologist is a liver specialist.
As such, they can help treat liver disease and provide knowledge that general practitioners may not have.
When you get to a hepatology appointment, your healthcare provider will ask about your symptoms and general health.
Procedures
Oftentimes, a hepatologist will order more testing to get a picture of your liver health.
Common tests include:
How Are Gastroenterology and Hepatology Connected?
The liver and hepatic system are part of the digestive tract.
So, hepatology is a subspecialty under gastroenterology.
Gastroenterology vs Hepatology
Specialist appointments can be hard to find.
Do You Need a Referral?
Usually, you see a hepatologist after another healthcare provider has referred you.
Some medical systems and insurance companies require a referral, while others do not.
They can order basic blood work to look at liver function and let you know whether to see hepatology.
Next Steps
Once youve been referred to hepatology, youll get an appointment.
Since liver issues can progress quickly, its important to get an appointment as soon as possible.
Summary
Hepatology is the study of the liver and surrounding organs, like the bile ducts.
Mount Sinai.General hepatology for liver disease.
Hopkins Medicine.Liver anatomy and function.
University of Pittsburgh Medical School.What to expect at the center for liver care.
Coreyell Health.Gastroenterology vs hepatology: what’s the difference?
