What is Fibroscan?
The Centre offers Fibroscan (transient elastography) for non-invasive assessment of liver stiffness and fat content.
Fibroscan is a specialised, non-invasive ultrasound-based test that measures liver stiffness (an indicator of fibrosis or scarring) and, on many machines, the amount of fat in the liver (steatosis), using a parameter called CAP — Controlled Attenuation Parameter. It offers a painless alternative to liver biopsy for assessing the extent of liver damage in a range of chronic liver conditions, giving results within minutes.
Why is the test performed?
Fibroscan is commonly used to evaluate and monitor liver health in people with:
- • Chronic viral hepatitis (Hepatitis B or C).
- • Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) or non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH).
- • Alcohol-related liver disease.
- • Suspected or confirmed liver fibrosis or cirrhosis.
- • Ongoing treatment for a liver condition, to track progress over time.
It helps doctors estimate the stage of liver scarring and the degree of fatty change without the need for a surgical biopsy in many cases.
How to prepare
- • Fast for at least 3 hours before the test (food intake can affect liver stiffness readings).
- • Wear comfortable clothing that allows easy access to the right side of your abdomen.
- • Continue your regular medications unless your doctor advises otherwise.
- • Carry your previous liver-related reports and prescription, if any.
What happens during the test?
You will lie on your back with your right arm raised behind your head to widen the space between your ribs. A probe, similar to an ultrasound probe, is placed on the skin over the liver, on the right side of the abdomen. The probe sends a painless vibration and low-frequency sound wave into the liver and measures how fast it travels — the faster the wave, the stiffer (more fibrotic) the liver tissue. Several measurements are taken to get a reliable average. The entire test is quick, usually taking about 10 minutes, requires no needles or sedation, and you can resume normal activity immediately afterwards.
FAQs
Is Fibroscan painful?
No. Fibroscan is completely painless and non-invasive. You may feel a light vibration on the skin, similar to a gentle tap.
Does Fibroscan replace a liver biopsy?
In many cases, yes — it can reduce the need for a biopsy. However, your doctor may still recommend a biopsy in certain situations for a more detailed diagnosis.
How long does the test take?
The test itself typically takes about 10 minutes, and results are usually available immediately.
Do I need to fast before the test?
Yes, fasting for at least 3 hours before the test is generally recommended, as recent food intake can affect the accuracy of the liver stiffness reading.
What do the results mean?
Results are given in kilopascals (kPa) for liver stiffness and dB/m for the CAP (fat) score. Higher values generally indicate greater fibrosis or fat content. Your doctor will interpret the results alongside your clinical history and other tests.
Who should get this test?
Anyone with chronic liver disease, viral hepatitis, fatty liver, or a doctor's referral for liver health monitoring may benefit from Fibroscan. Your doctor can advise if and when you need one.