Abstract: Embodiments include a system and method of using biomarkers in the diagnosis of liver disease. A subject can be screened based on expression of specific mRNAs, miRNAs, proteins or peptides in blood, serum or plasma. Specific mRNAs/miRNAs are used as biomarkers to distinguish healthy individuals from individuals affected with a liver disease. Embodiments include 14 mRNA biomarkers to diagnose NAFL vs. healthy liver (i.e. early detection of liver disease). Embodiments also include 9 mRNA biomarkers to diagnose NAFL vs. NASH (i.e. stage of liver disease progression) and 37 mRNA biomarkers to diagnose NASH. Further embodiments include 32 miRNA biomarkers to diagnose and distinguish between NASH, hepatitis B and hepatitis C. Levels of more than one of the mRNAs, miRNAs or proteins can be scored and compared to one or more threshold values to diagnose or determine the prognosis of a liver disease. Embodiments also include a kit for screening healthy subjects from subjects affected with a liver disease.