It is important to realize, however, that these scores are still not correlated with clinical prognosis. Knodell's scoring system is presented in Table 1 on the next page. Summary A thorough history and physical examination can help identify and diagnose liver disease. Blood tests for specific antibodies or antigens can confirm infection or autoimmune disease. Certain metabolic disorders can also be indicated by specific blood tests.
Liver biopsy is an important tool for the physician.
In the past, these patterns have been used to predict disease progression and prognosis. However, histologic appearance does not correlate with clinical prognosis in chronic viral hepatitis, since progression in this case is more closely related to viral activity. This module discussed the basic structure and function of the liver and the manifestations of those diseases afflicting the liver. It is a resilient organ, able to regenerate after partial removal or subtotal damage, but this capacity can be exceeded, resulting in irreversible scarring. Liver disease of any kind can adversely affect these functions.