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Different causes of liver disease may have the same outcome

Category: Liver Diseases

A number of different problems can afflict the liver, some infectious, others caused by environment. This means that many people should consider live panel testing, as large numbers of individuals may be at risk.

Hepatitis C infection is one of the leading causes of liver disease. This virus can be transmitted during sexual intercourse or by sharing needles. There is currently no cure for the infection, which primarily attacks the liver.

Other causes are the result of environmental factors. The number of people who experience non-alcoholic fatty liver disease has grown exponentially in recent years as the obesity epidemic has worsened. According to the Mayo Clinic, this condition is the result of fatty deposits in the liver that can cause scarring, which diminishes the functioning of the liver. Overweight individuals face the greatest risk from this condition.

In many cases, these conditions can lead to cirrhosis, a very serious-stage liver condition that may eventually lead to total failure of the organ. This is why it is important for individuals who have risk factors for hepatitis infection or fatty liver disease to consider liver panel testing.