FibroScan
FibroScan: Non-Invasive Assessment of Liver Health
What is FibroScan?
FibroScan is a non-invasive, FDA-approved diagnostic device that measures liver stiffness (a marker of fibrosis or scarring) and fat accumulation (steatosis) in the liver123. It is also known as transient elastography and serves as a modern alternative to liver biopsy for evaluating liver disease progression145.
How Does FibroScan Work?
- Procedure:
A probe is placed on the skin over the liver (right upper abdomen). The device sends painless energy waves (ultrasound and low-frequency vibrations) through the liver253. The speed at which these waves travel is measured:- Stiffer liver tissue (more scarring/fibrosis) allows waves to travel faster.
- Softer liver tissue (less scarring) slows the waves down.
- Duration:
The test is quick (usually 10–20 minutes), painless, and performed in an outpatient setting5. - Results:
Why is FibroScan Used?
FibroScan is used to:
- Assess and monitor liver fibrosis (scarring) and cirrhosis in chronic liver diseases (e.g., hepatitis B/C, NAFLD, alcoholic liver disease)1247.
- Measure liver fat content to evaluate and monitor fatty liver disease23.
- Guide treatment decisions and monitor disease progression or response to therapy47.
Who Should Get a FibroScan?
Doctors may recommend FibroScan for patients with:
- Chronic hepatitis (B, C, or other types)
- Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) or nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH)
- Alcoholic liver disease
- Suspected or known liver fibrosis or cirrhosis127
Benefits and Limitations
Benefits:
- Non-invasive, painless, and quick15
- No need for sedation or hospital stay
- Can be repeated to monitor liver health over time7
- Reduces the need for liver biopsy in many cases14
Limitations:
- May be less accurate in people with obesity or ascites (abdominal fluid)4
- Not suitable for pregnant women or those with certain implanted devices (e.g., pacemakers)5
- Disease-specific cutoffs and interpretation may vary46
Alternatives
- Liver biopsy: Invasive, carries risks (bleeding, pain), but provides detailed tissue analysis5.
- Other imaging and blood tests: Used in combination to assess liver health.
Summary Table
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| What it measures | Liver stiffness (fibrosis) and fat content |
| Technology | Transient elastography (ultrasound-based) |
| Key indications | Chronic liver disease, NAFLD, hepatitis, cirrhosis |
| Procedure time | 10–20 minutes, outpatient, painless |
| Main benefits | Non-invasive, repeatable, no recovery time |
| Main limitations | Less accurate in obesity/ascites, not for pregnancy |
In summary:
FibroScan is a rapid, non-invasive, and reliable tool for assessing liver fibrosis and steatosis, widely used to guide management in chronic liver diseases and reduce the need for liver biopsy1246753.
Consult with Our Team of Experts Now!
At DrStemCellsThailand (DRSCT)‘s Anti-Aging and Regenerative Medicine Center of Thailand, we emphasize comprehensive evaluations and personalized treatment plans of Cellular Therapy and Stem Cells for managing various health conditions. If you have questions about Neuromodulation Programs (NMP) or would like more information on our services, consult with our experts today!
Consult with Our Team of Experts Now!
Reference with DOI for FibroScan (Transient Elastography):
- “AGA Clinical Practice Update on the Role of Noninvasive Biomarkers in Chronic Liver Disease: Expert Review”
DOI: 10.1053/j.gastro.2021.04.070
Authors: Loomba R, Adams LA, Angulo P, et al.
Journal: Gastroenterology. 2021;160(7):2572-2586.
