FibroScan Liver Health Assessment – What You Need to Know
FibroScan liver health assessment is a fast, non-invasive, painless test that measures the health of the liver. It is key in identifying issues such as liver fibrosis and fatty liver disease, completely without the use of needles, incisions, or sedation. FibroScan is rapidly gaining traction as the go-to tool for early and accurate diagnosis of liver problems, particularly among those who have obesity, diabetes, or alcohol use, or have abnormal liver tests.
What is a FibroScan?
A FibroScan is a device that takes a reading of liver stiffness and fat content in the liver, using ultrasound technology. On the technical side, the technology is known as vibration-controlled transient elastography (VCTE).
The process is easy and quick, usually 5 to 10 minutes. You lie on your back as a technician applies a probe to the skin over your liver. Painless vibrations are transmitted through the liver tissue by the probe, and data are collected on how quickly they pass through. No anaesthesia, no “downtime,” and no time off from work is necessary.
FibroScan is non-invasive and, compared to a liver biopsy procedure that requires needles and recovery time, it is a safer and less uncomfortable option for ongoing liver check-ups.
Who Needs a FibroScan Liver Test?
FibroScan is suggested for everyone, especially those who are more likely to develop liver disease. This also covers individuals with chronic liver problems such as:
- Hepatitis B or C
- Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD)
- Alcohol-related liver disease
If you’ve had abnormal liver function tests, especially with elevated ALT or AST enzymes, a FibroScan can provide clarity about any underlying liver damage. It’s also beneficial for people who have obesity, type 2 diabetes, or drink too much alcohol — all major risk factors for liver disease.
Furthermore, FibroScan helps patients on long-term drugs that might affect their liver, such as methotrexate, or even those without symptoms who just want to check their liver, according to Kwan.
Understanding FibroScan Results
A. Liver Stiffness (Fibrosis) Grades
FibroScan readings are taken in kilopascals (kPa), and aid in staging fibrosis by the level of liver stiffness:
- < 7.0 kPa: Normal (F0-F1)
- 7.0–9.4 kPa: Significant fibrosis (F2)
- 9.5–12.4 kPa: Advanced fibrosis (F3)
- ≥ 12.5 kPa: Very probable cirrhosis (F4)**
These findings are crucial for determining whether intervention is necessary or whether lifestyle modifications can prevent disease development.
B. CAP Scores
The CAP scores quantify the fat content in the liver in decibels per metre (dB/m):
- < 238 dB/m: Normal (S0)
- 238–259 dB/m: Mild steatosis (S1)
- 260–289 dB/m: Moderate steatosis (S2)
- ≥ 290 dB/m: Serious steatosis (S3)**
The liver stiffness and CAP scores work together to help clinicians establish the full picture of liver health and inform next steps — be it medication, lifestyle advice, or further tests.
Benefits of FibroScan Over Traditional Methods
FibroScan is better than traditional liver checks in several important ways:
- Non-invasive: No needles or surgery required.
- Fast results: Get results back instantly rather than waiting for the lab.
- Repeatable: Can be used safely for long-term monitoring of liver health.
- Affordable: Less expensive than MRI scans or biopsies.
That being said, it is not without shortcomings. Accuracy may be poorer in people with obesity or with fluid accumulation in the abdomen (ascites). Moreover, although FibroScan is great for evaluating fibrosis and steatosis, it cannot substitute for a liver biopsy in diagnosing liver cancer or other specific liver conditions.
Preparing for Your FibroScan
Preparing for Your FibroScan
The preparation for a FibroScan is simple. To ensure accurate results:
- Do not eat or drink anything for 3 hours before the test.
- Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothes.
- Avoid applying lotions and oils to your stomach on the day of your appointment.
For the test, you will lie on your back with your right arm extended back over your head. The technician will place a small probe on your side — you will feel small vibrations but without any pain.
Next Steps After FibroScan Results
If your results are normal, your doctor may suggest further monitoring, especially if you are at high risk.
If your FibroScan result was abnormal, possible next steps include:
- Modifiable risk factors, for example, liver-improving diet, alcohol consumption, and physical activity.
- Medications, including antivirals for hepatitis or drugs to treat metabolic risk factors.
- Consultation with a liver specialist (hepatologist) for further work-up or a higher level of care.
- Follow-up examinations may be recommended to monitor liver changes over time and determine the effectiveness of treatment.
Conclusion
The FibroScan liver examination is a non-invasive, painless, quick, and simple way to assess your liver and help your doctor detect liver problems at an early stage — long before you have any symptoms or even suspect that your liver is at risk. Whether you are living with a diagnosed liver condition or are just seeking reassurance, this test provides meaningful information about the health of your liver.
Book your FibroScan now and take control of your liver health.
Chase Lodge Hospital
