The liver is one of the body’s most important organs. It acts like a chemical factory, filter, and storage centre, helping to keep your body healthy and working properly. Almost all the blood coming from your stomach and intestines passes through the liver. The liver processes nutrients from food, removes harmful substances, and helps your body fight infection. Liver disease is silent in its early stages and once symptoms start to appear it may be too late to reverse the condition. The only way to identify early stages of liver disease is through blood tests and specialist assessment. This is essential for accurate diagnosis and timely intervention.
What's involved
The Consultation
- Initial consultation - detailed history, medication review and clinical examination as appropriate.
- Liver specific blood tests - Complete non invasive liver screening including screening for viral hepatitis, autoimmune liver conditions, inherited liver conditions
- Liver imaging and scans - Ultrasound, CT, MRI Liver with contrast (gadolinium and Primovist), endoscopic ultrasound, fibroscan
- Liver biopsy when required either ultrasound guided or endoscopic ultrasound guided approach
Afterwards
After Care
- Written results summary and personalised management plan issued after each appointment
- Regular liver function monitoring — frequency determined by your condition and treatment
- Six-monthly surveillance ultrasound for hepatocellular carcinoma in patients with cirrhosis
- Direct clinic line between appointments — for prompt review if symptoms change
FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a GP referral?
No — self-referred patients are welcomed directly. If you have one it is helpful, but it is not required. Dr Lekharaju will write to your GP following the consultation to ensure your care is fully coordinated.
How quickly can I be seen?
Private appointments are typically available within 5–7 days at Circle Cheshire Clinic, Northwich, or The Alexandra Hospital, Cheadle. Patients with acute symptoms or markedly abnormal blood results can often be seen more urgently — please contact the clinic directly.
My liver function tests are abnormal — what does that mean?
Abnormal liver function tests require proper investigation to identify the underlying cause. Common causes include fatty liver disease, medication side effects, viral hepatitis, and autoimmune liver conditions. Dr Lekharaju will assess your results in full context and arrange appropriate investigation with a clear explanation.
Can fatty liver disease be reversed?
Yes — non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) at its early stage is reversible with sustained lifestyle modification, including a 7–10% reduction in body weight and dietary improvement. Dr Lekharaju provides personalised, evidence-based guidance and monitors liver function and imaging to track your progress closely.
Is liver disease treatment covered by private medical insurance?
In most cases, yes. Dr Lekharaju is recognised by all major UK private medical insurers including Bupa, AXA Health, Vitality, and WPA. Please confirm your cover directly with your insurer before booking and quote GMC No. 6094541. Self-pay patients are also warmly welcomed — all fees are confirmed transparently at the time of booking.
