FibroScan

FibroScan is a liver diagnostic test that measures liver fibrosis (stiffness) and quantifies steatosis (liver fat) using transient elastography, which is an enhanced ultrasound-based modality. This liver scan can help diagnose and monitor the progression of liver diseases.

Your doctor will order this test if you have one of the following: 

1. Elevated Liver Enzymes

Elevated liver enzymes often indicate inflammation or damage to cells in the liver. Common liver enzymes with elevations are Alanine transaminase (ALT), Aspartate transaminase (AST), Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and Gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase (GGT).

2. Fatty Liver

Also known as Metabolic Associated Fatty Liver Disease (MAFLD), whereby excessive amounts of fat is stored in liver cells, which puts you at risk for developing liver damage. 

3. Metabolic Associated Steatohepatitis (MASH)

This is a more aggressive form of fatty liver that can lead to cirrhosis and liver failure. 

4. Alcoholic liver disease

This is liver damage caused by drinking a substantial amount of alcohol than your liver can process and can lead to cirrhosis or serious scarring of the liver and can potentially cause liver failure. 

5. Hepatitis B (HBV) and Hepatitis C (HCV)

These viral infections cause inflammation of the liver that can put you at increased risk of developing liver cancer, cirrhosis, and liver failure.

The FibroScan test can also be used to help monitor and aid in treating patients with metabolic syndrome (a cluster of conditions that occur together, increasing your risk of heart disease, stroke and type 2 diabetes)

FibroScan procedure takes about 5-15 minutes and requires NO sedation. The only preparation for the test is nothing to eat 3 hours before. Water is ok and avoid any drinks with sugar 3 hours before. You will lie on your back with your right arm raised behind your head and your right abdominal area exposed for the probe. Wear loose-fitting clothing. You will feel some pulses from the probe as readings are taken.