The evaluation of a liver injury begins with a history and physical examination.

Physical findings in someone with a liver injury may include:

• Abdominal bruising
• Abdominal pain
• Abdominal swelling
• Low blood pressure
• Rapid pulse (greater than 100 beats per minute)

Testing is required to evaluate a liver injury.

Tests that may be used to evaluate a liver injury include:

• Amylase level and serum lipase level
• Complete blood count
• Liver profile
• Urinalysis
• Abdominal ultrasound:
• Often the quickest test to detect bleeding from an internal injury
• Abdominal CT scan:
• Usually the best test to detect a liver injury
• MRI scan of the abdomen
• Peritoneal aspiration or lavage:
• Sometimes a needle is used to check for blood inside the abdomen