Researchers in the United Kingdom have now developed a new algorithm that they believe will help in the early detection of serious liver disease.
The new algorithm is called CIRRUS (CIRRhosis using Standard tests) and uses primary care data to predict a person’s risk of advanced liver disease. According to the researchers, the use of this tool can help predict these risks in advance and could possibly mitigate the exacerbation of the symptoms.
There are several types of liver disease that could possibly qualify for Social Security disability benefits. A person suffering from liver cirrhosis, a serious condition in which there is permanent scarring of the liver as a result of chronic alcoholism or hepatitis, could possibly qualify for benefits. Other conditions include autoimmune hepatitis, a condition in which the body’s immune system tries to attack the liver cells, resulting in the development of conditions like hepatitis.
The American Liver Foundation estimates that approximately 30 million Americans live with liver disease. The Foundation says that more than 100 liver diseases have been identified. Several forms of liver disease are extremely rare, but could prove serious. For example, liver cancer begins in cells elsewhere in the body, but then spreads to the cells of the liver.
About 70% of all liver cancers constitute hepatocellular carcinoma. People who already suffer from some kind of liver disease like cirrhosis may be at a much higher risk of hepatocellular carcinoma. According to the American Liver Foundation, over the past 4 decades, the rates of hepatocellular carcinoma in the United States have risen steadily.