The liver, gallbladder, bile ducts and pancreas have important roles in digestion, metabolism, blood sugar regulation and the processing of nutrients, medicines and waste products. Use the links below to read about common conditions affecting these organs.
Liver conditions
- Hepatitis B — a viral infection that can cause acute or chronic liver disease.
- Hepatitis C — a blood-borne viral infection that can become chronic and damage the liver but can now often be cured with antiviral treatment.
Gallbladder and bile duct conditions
- Gallstones — hardened deposits in the gallbladder that may cause pain or complications if they block bile flow.
- Acute Cholecystitis — inflammation of the gallbladder, most often caused by a gallstone blocking the cystic duct.
Pancreas and related conditions
- Cystic Fibrosis — an inherited condition that can affect both the lungs and the pancreas and interfere with digestion and nutrient absorption.
- Abdominal Pain — upper abdominal pain can have many causes, including conditions affecting the liver, gallbladder or pancreas.
Symptoms that may occur
Possible symptoms include pain in the upper abdomen, nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, unexplained weight loss, jaundice, dark urine, pale stools, itching or abdominal swelling. Some liver conditions cause few or no symptoms until disease is advanced.
When to seek urgent help
Seek urgent medical care for severe or persistent upper abdominal pain, especially with fever, repeated vomiting or jaundice. Emergency assessment may be needed for vomiting blood, black stools, severe confusion, collapse, rapidly increasing abdominal swelling or severe abdominal pain with serious illness.
Diagnosis and treatment
Assessment may include blood tests for liver and pancreatic function, viral hepatitis testing, ultrasound, CT or MRI imaging, and sometimes endoscopic procedures or biopsy. Treatment depends on the cause and may include antiviral medicines, symptom management, procedures to remove bile duct stones, gallbladder surgery or specialist liver and pancreatic care.
Sources and further reading
- NIDDK: Liver Disease
- MedlinePlus: Liver Diseases
- MedlinePlus: Gallbladder Diseases
- MedlinePlus: Pancreatic Diseases
Last reviewed: 4 September 2026. This page provides general health information and does not replace individual medical assessment or treatment.