The liver is an organ that performs many functions, such as filtering waste, producing bile, storing energy, and synthesizing proteins. A healthy liver is crucial for our overall health.

Liver diseases can arise from various causes, and many liver conditions often do not show symptoms in the early stages or may present vague symptoms, such as:

Fatty liver
Hepatitis B and C viral infections
Alcoholic hepatitis
Drug-induced hepatitis

Therefore, a detailed and accurate assessment of liver health should not be overlooked, as it helps determine whether our liver is functioning well and is in a normal condition.

Methods for Liver Health Assessment

There are several ways to assess liver health, including:

Blood Tests: This is the most popular preliminary liver health assessment. Blood tests can indicate whether there is inflammation in the liver at that time. However, they may not be detailed enough to identify early-stage liver diseases, as there are often no detectable signs in the blood results. They also cannot indicate the stage of chronic liver disease or the extent of fibrosis, nor can they confirm cirrhosis.
Liver Biopsy: This is a detailed method for diagnosing liver diseases, accurately determining the cause and stage of liver disease. However, due to the risks and complications associated with the procedure, it is not commonly used as a first-line diagnostic method.

What is FibroScan?

Currently, there is a new technology called FibroScan, which is a device that uses low-frequency sound waves to measure the liver’s stiffness and fat content. This allows individuals undergoing the test to know how much fat is accumulated in the liver and the extent of fibrosis, as well as whether there is cirrhosis, without the need for a liver biopsy. This significantly reduces the risk of complications from the procedure.

Preparation for a FibroScan Test

FibroScan tests can be done safely and without causing pain. Preparation is straightforward: fasting for 3-4 hours before the test is required. The actual examination takes only 10-15 minutes, during which the individual lies on their back, and the doctor uses a probe to touch the right rib area to measure the fat content and stiffness of the liver. The results are highly accurate, allowing the doctor to plan appropriate self-care or treatment.

Who Should Get a FibroScan?

Several groups of people should consider undergoing a FibroScan, including:

Those at risk for liver disease, such as individuals who are overweight or have central obesity
Individuals with chronic liver disease
Regular alcohol consumers
Those taking medications that affect the liver
Individuals with chronic hepatitis virus infections
Those with abnormal liver findings from blood tests or ultrasound
Others as determined by a doctor

Limitations of the FibroScan Test

FibroScan has some limitations, such as:

In individuals with severe obesity, measurements may be difficult, unless a special probe is used
Patients with ascites (fluid in the abdominal cavity)
Pregnant individuals
Those with certain medical devices, such as pacemakers

Using FibroScan to Plan Liver Care

Once the FibroScan results are obtained, doctors can create a more targeted care plan for patients, such as recommending weight loss, exercise, and dietary changes for those with fatty liver. It can also be used to monitor progress after patients have made lifestyle adjustments to see if liver fat and stiffness values decrease.

FibroScan is a useful test, especially for those at risk for chronic liver disease, providing quick, accurate, safe, and painless results. Therefore, if you find you are at risk or want to prevent issues, it is advisable to consult a specialist for an examination to ensure appropriate care and treatment.