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Liver Elastography (FibroScan/Shear Wave)

Non-invasive measurement of liver stiffness for fibrosis grading.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Radyoloji department. Book Appointment →

What is Liver Elastography (FibroScan/Shear Wave)?

Liver elastography is a technique that non-invasively evaluates the degree of liver fibrosis by measuring tissue stiffness. Different methods are available, including transient elastography (FibroScan), Shear Wave elastography (SWE), and MR elastography (MRE).

FibroScan measures liver stiffness in kilopascals (kPa); <7 kPa is normal, while >12-14 kPa suggests cirrhosis. SWE provides real-time elastography evaluation during ultrasound. MRE has the highest accuracy.

It is used as an alternative to biopsy for fibrosis staging and follow-up in chronic hepatitis B and C, alcohol-related liver disease, NAFLD/NASH, autoimmune hepatitis, and other chronic liver diseases.

Symptoms

Fibrosis staging in chronic hepatitis B or C
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD/NASH)
Alcohol-related liver disease
Treatment response follow-up (antiviral therapy)
Suspicion of cirrhosis and risk of portal hypertension

Risk Factors

No serious risk (non-invasive method)
Obesity may reduce measurement success (XL probe may be required)
Presence of ascites can affect measurement
Acute hepatitis (transaminase elevation) gives falsely high results
Congestion (heart failure) gives falsely high results

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • To determine the degree of fibrosis in chronic liver disease
  • When fibrosis staging is needed for the decision of antiviral therapy
  • As an alternative to liver biopsy
  • For follow-up in known cirrhosis

Treatment Methods

01
Measurement after at least 2 hours of fasting
02
Measurement from the intercostal space in right lateral decubitus position
03
At least 10 valid measurements (IQR/median <30%)
04
Correlation of kPa value with METAVIR fibrosis score
05
Follow-up of fibrosis progression with serial measurements

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Radyoloji department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.