Fibroscan - A New And Simple Method For Liver Biopsy

Do you have a fatty liver? If yes, chances are your doctor might recommend elastography, also called fibroscan. It’s a type of liver elastography and ultrasound technology that measures liver stiffness and detects changes in liver fat. With a fibroscan, it becomes easier for the doctor to understand more about liver disease. So, if you are recomended to have fibroscan test, you can book your appointment with one of the Best Gastroenterologist In Jaipur at CK Birla Hospitals.

What is a Fibroscan?

Fibroscan is a device and non-invasive procedure approved by the FDA recently for determining the liver scarring extent or fibrosis that occurred because of several liver illnesses. It is just like conventional liver ultrasound, however, is fast, easy, and painless, and delivers a comprehensive non-surgical substitute to the traditional liver biopsy for evaluating liver damage.

If your doctor suspects liver disease, a fibroscan is recommended as it assists them in assessing the liver health and determining liver fibrosis indicating the extent and existence of the liver disease or damage. Fibroscan uses advanced technology called transient elastography to measure liver stiffness.

Why Do I Need Fibroscan?

A fibroscan test is recommended by a doctor when he/she suspects that certain diseases are affecting the liver. Here is why there is a need for a fibroscan test:

• Non-alcoholic fatty liver illness 
• Alcoholic liver disease 
• Nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH)
• Viral infection
• Hemochromatosis
• Autoimmune Hepatitis
• Cirrhosis
• Genetic Diseases such as Wilson’s Disease
• Hepatitis B
• Hepatitis C

How to Prepare for the Fibroscan Test?

The Fibroscan liver test is a simple procedure. You are advised to fast for about three hours before the test, consuming only clear fluids during that time. It's also recommended to wear comfortable clothing, such as loose dresses or shirts.

It helps you to move around or reposition while the nurse assesses the right upper abdomen. It is highly suggested not to wear tight clothing outfits during the procedure. The doctor further might ask you to rest on the bed for a few minutes before initiating the test. It is so that measurements can be taken while the body is resting.

How is Fibroscan Done?

During a fibroscan, you will lie on your back with your right arm lifted behind your head. Usually on the right side of your belly, over your liver, a small amount of water-based gel is placed on your skin. After that, the technician or doctor will apply a probe — similar to an ultrasound device to your skin, just above the liver. 

The Fibroscan device sends painless, low-frequency sound waves (shear waves) into your liver, and as these waves pass through the liver tissue, the device measures the speed at which they travel, which correlates with liver stiffness. The entire procedure typically takes about 10-15 minutes. Fibroscan is a quick and easy test that provides valuable information about liver health and is often used as an alternative to liver biopsy for assessing liver disease.

What are the Conditions Affecting the Fibroscan Results?

Many conditions cause stiffness in the liver and hence affect the test results displaying it to be very high, which is not right. There are chances of less scarring than the tests result recommend and it occurs when the patient has the following conditions:

1. Liver Inflammation: It occurs because of current liver disease and is an outcome of long-term use of heavy alcohol for a long time. 
2. Benign or Cancerous Tumours in the Liver: Benign liver tumours are non-cancerous and typically don't spread. Cancerous liver tumours, or liver cancer, are malignant and can spread, hindering the results.
3. Liver Congestion: It indicates that the patient’s liver is filled with blood and other fluids. It is an outcome of heart failure.

Fibroscan also involves giving correct results or no results if the patient has:

1. Obesity: It shows that the body mass index of a patient is above 30 which is an unhealthy fat amount.
2. Ascites: Fluid is accumulated in the belly.
3. Biliary Obstruction: There is a blockage that is hindering the flow of bile from the liver.
4. Scar Tissues: Tissue from surgery or surgery accumulated near the liver.

How to Interpret Fibroscan Results?

Here is how to interpret the fibroscan test results:

1. CAP Score: This is a way to measure the amount of liver with fatty change in decibels per meter (dB/m) corresponding to the steatosis stage- S1, S2, or S3. The lower percentage is an indication that the liver is healthy. A CAP score should be less than 5% for a healthy liver. Above this range, the liver is considered to be fatty and damaged 
2. Fibrosis Score: A fibrosis score is a scarring amount in the liver. It is measured in kilopascals (kPa) which ensures a correct fibrosis score. The lower score indicates that the liver is healthy whereas a normal test is i.e. between 2 and 6 kPa. If the score is above 4, then it is an indication of liver cirrhosis.

Conclusion 

Fibroscan is the latest technological advancement in the medical field. If you are diagnosed with liver illness, your doctor might recommend a fibroscan liver test. If the fear of a liver biopsy is stopping you from moving forward with the test for a fatty liver, then consult the doctor.

With a fibroscan, your doctor will take care of everything. This test is non-invasive, fast, and painless which can help your doctor to understand your condition comprehensively. People with fatty liver must not delay their appointment and must consult a specialist about fibroscan tests. 

If you are looking for a healthcare service, then reach out to Rukmani Birla Hospital, the multispeciality hospital in Jaipur. It has integrated the most talented and highly experienced healthcare professionals. 

FAQs

Why would I need a fibroscan?

A fibroscan measures liver stiffness to evaluate the extent of fibrosis or liver damage, helping diagnose liver conditions.

Can fibroscan detect cirrhosis?

Yes, fibroscan can detect cirrhosis by assessing liver stiffness, which increases with the severity of fibrosis.

Can you eat before a fibroscan?

Typically, eating is allowed before a fibroscan. However, follow any specific instructions advised by your doctor.

What is the normal range of CAP in fibroscan?

The normal range of the Controlled Attenuation Parameter (CAP) in fibroscan is generally between 100 and 300 dB/m.

Can we drink water before a fibroscan?

Yes, you can drink water before a fibroscan. Ensure to follow any additional instructions given by your doctor.

Can a fibroscan detect liver cancer?

No, fibroscan is designed to assess liver stiffness and fibrosis but cannot detect liver cancer or other tumours.

How much does a fibroscan cost?

The cost of a fibroscan typically ranges between 5000-10,000 depending on the location and hospital.