This page is an archive. Its content may no longer be accurate and was last updated on the original publication date. It is intended for reference and as a historical record only. For hep C questions, call Help4Hep BC at 1-888-411-7578.
People who overdose on paracetamol (acetaminophen) could be helped by a blood test that shows immediately if they are going to suffer liver damage.
Researchers in Edinburgh and Liverpool said the test would help doctors identify which patients arriving in hospital need more intensive treatment.
The blood test detects levels of specific molecules in blood associated with liver damage.
The three different molecules are called miR-122, HMGB1 and FL-K18.
Previous studies have shown that levels of these markers are elevated in patients with liver damage long before current tests can detect a problem.
Read more…http://www.bbc.com/news/uk-scotland-edinburgh-east-fife-41969181