New blood test score detects hidden alcohol-related liver disease
Medical Xpress
February 25, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Researchers at the University of California San Diego School of Medicine have developed a groundbreaking new blood test score that can identify alcohol-related liver disease early and accurately, even when it’s hidden or overlooked in routine care. This innovative tool helps distinguish between fatty liver disease caused by excessive alcohol use and metabolic factors, offering clearer guidance for clinicians to determine whether additional alcohol testing is necessary.
The study, published in the journal *Gastroenterology*, highlights the importance of this distinction in improving patient outcomes. Current methods often fail to recognize the role of alcohol in liver damage, leading to delayed or missed diagnoses. The new blood test score provides a simple and effective way for healthcare providers to assess whether liver injury is likely linked to alcohol consumption rather than metabolic causes, such as obesity or poor diet.
This advancement is particularly significant because it addresses a critical gap in early detection. Many individuals with fatty liver disease caused by excessive drinking may not show obvious symptoms until the condition progresses to more severe stages like cirrhosis or liver failure. By identifying alcohol-related liver disease earlier, this test could enable timely interventions, potentially preventing further damage and improving long-term health outcomes.
For patients, this means a more accurate understanding of their condition and access to targeted treatments tailored to address alcohol use. For clinicians, the test offers a reliable tool to guide clinical decision-making and prioritize care for those most at risk. With millions worldwide affected by fatty liver disease, including many whose condition is unknowingly driven by alcohol, this breakthrough could have far-reaching implications for public health.
Overall, this new blood test score represents a significant leap forward in diagnosing and managing liver disease caused by excessive drinking. By providing clearer insights into the root causes of liver injury, it empowers healthcare providers to take action earlier, ultimately saving lives and reducing the burden of liver-related illnesses globally.
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Originally published on Medical Xpress on 2/25/2026