What is hepatology?

Hepatology is the specialty relating to the liver, gallbladder, biliary tree and pancreas. All gastroenterologists are trained in both gastroenterology as well as hepatology, although some have a particular interest in this area.

What conditions do hepatologists treat?

Common conditions that hepatologists can manage include:

• viral hepatitis,
• liver disease due to alcohol and drugs,
• non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD),
• autoimmune hepatitis,
• metabolic liver disease,
• liver cancer,
• biliary cirrhosis, and
• primary sclerosing cholangitis.

How are hepatological issues diagnosed?

Hepatologists often investigate symptoms by performing or referring you for a number of tests and procedures, depending on your symptoms. These may include endoscopies, ultrasounds, blood tests or biopsies.