Hepatomegaly: causes and consequences.

Many steps in the diagnostic workup of the patient with liver disease or surgical jaundice can be taken by the general practitioner with subsequent referral on to a gastroenterologist or surgeon to complete the diagnostic process. The principal objective in patients with parenchymal liver disease is to make an early diagnosis and initiate early treatment so that progression to cirrhosis and its complications can be avoided. Maintaining an awareness and knowledge of the various symptoms and signs of liver disease will aid in this objective.