What is it?
Transient hepatic elastography (or Fibroscan®) is a test that makes it possible to assess the presence of fibrosis and steatosis in the liver.
How is it done?
Fibroscan is performed with a probe that sends ultrasound waves through the liver.
The speed of these waves is related to the stiffness of the liver, which is an indicator of fibrosis.
Using an accessory tool (CAP), the degree of fat in the liver (steatosis) can also be assessed.
In which cases is it indicated?
Transient hepatic elastography is useful in the investigation and follow-up of people with liver disease:
- In the diagnosis of liver cirrhosis;
- In the assessment of liver fibrosis and its severity in multiple liver diseases:
- Chronic viral hepatitis B and C;
- Non-alcoholic fatty liver;
- Alcoholic liver disease;
- Other liver diseases such as hemochromatosis;
- Other metabolic or autoimmune diseases;
- In assessing the risk of complications (decompensation, hepatocellular carcinoma) in patients diagnosed with liver cirrhosis;
- In assessing the degree of fat in the liver (steatosis).
Preparation for Fibroscan / Hepatic Elastography
This test does not require any specific preparation, only a 4-hour fasting period is recommended before it is carried out.
Where to do it?
Fibroscan can be done at X-Clinic (Av. Eng. Duarte Pacheco, nº26 – Middle floor, 1070-110 Lisboa).
