Table of Contents
Introduction: What is a Fibroscan?
A fibroscan is a type of ultrasound to measure inflammation in your liver. It helps to:
- understand how much scarring (fibrosis) is in your liver
- plan your treatment
It is also known as transient elastography and is a non-invasive test that measures liver stiffness and fat content. It helps detect and assess conditions such as fatty liver disease and fibrosis (scarring of the liver). Unlike a biopsy, which requires a needle and small tissue sample, FibroScan uses ultrasound-based technology to give instant results in a quick, comfortable procedure.
Importance of your Liver
Your liver plays a vital role in keeping you healthy from breaking down toxins and supporting digestion to storing essential nutrients. When the liver becomes damaged or inflamed, it can affect your entire body. Detecting liver problems early is key.
We have a few articles about your liver diseases and ultrasound that also give some more information about your liver you can click below to read more:
How Does a FibroScan Work?
The machine works by sending painless vibrations through your liver using a handheld probe. These vibrations measure how stiff the liver tissue is — the stiffer the liver, the more scarring (fibrosis) is likely present. You’ll simply lie on your back while a clinician places the probe over your skin, and within minutes, the results appear on screen. It’s quick, completely non-invasive, and doesn’t require any recovery time.
What Does a FibroScan Diagnose?
It helps identify and monitor conditions such as:
– Fatty liver disease (NAFLD or alcoholic liver disease)
– Liver fibrosis or cirrhosis
– Chronic hepatitis B or C
– Liver inflammation caused by medications or autoimmune diseases
By detecting changes in stiffness, the test helps doctors understand the stage of liver disease and guide further treatment.
Why Would I Need a FibroScan?
You may need a FibroScan if your liver blood tests are abnormal, if you drink alcohol regularly, are overweight, diabetic, or have been diagnosed with viral hepatitis. In the NHS, it is usually performed for specific conditions, but access can be limited.
Understanding FibroScan Results
The results are expressed in kilopascals (kPa), which measure liver stiffness. The higher the number, the more fibrosis is likely present. A CAP (Controlled Attenuation Parameter) score may also be provided to measure liver fat.
**Typical Results Interpretation:**
– F0–F1 (0–7 kPa): Normal or mild fibrosis
– F2 (7–9.5 kPa): Moderate fibrosis
– F3 (9.5–12.5 kPa): Advanced fibrosis
– F4 (>12.5 kPa): Cirrhosis
Your clinician will interpret these results in the context of your health history and other tests.
What Are Bad FibroScan Results?
High readings may indicate significant fibrosis or cirrhosis. However, a ‘bad’ result doesn’t mean irreversible damage, it’s an opportunity to take control of your liver health. Lifestyle changes, medication, and regular monitoring can slow or even reverse some forms of liver damage.
Can Liver Fibrosis Be Cured?
While advanced fibrosis can be challenging to reverse, early stages of liver scarring often improve with the right care. This includes stopping alcohol use, losing weight, treating underlying causes, and following a balanced, liver-friendly diet. Regular FibroScans can track your liver’s progress and help ensure recovery stays on track.
What are the causes of Liver Fibrosis?
Liver fibrosis develops as a result of chronic inflammation. Common causes include long-term alcohol use, viral hepatitis, fatty liver disease, autoimmune conditions, and exposure to toxins or medications. Over time, the liver’s natural healing process produces excess scar tissue, leading to stiffness and reduced function.
What Foods Reverse Liver Fibrosis?
No single food can reverse fibrosis, but a healthy diet plays a major role in supporting liver repair. Foods rich in antioxidants, fibre, and healthy fats help reduce inflammation and improve metabolism. Recommended foods include fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, nuts, olive oil, and fatty fish. Avoiding alcohol, processed foods, and added sugars is essential for liver recovery.
Other Tests for Liver Health
A FibroScan provides detailed information on stiffness and fat levels, but other tests complement it:
- Liver Ultrasound: Detects fatty liver, enlarged liver, or structural changes, click here for see our liver ultrasound
- Liver Blood Tests Measure enzymes like ALT, AST, and GGT to assess function, click here to see our liver blood tests.
How to Prepare for a FibroScan
The below are general preperation guidelines and its always best to check with the clinic or hopsital where you are having the test for specific preparation instructions.
Do not eat or drink anything for 2 hours before your fibroscan. You can take small sips of water or clear fluid if needed, but do not drink large amounts.
Before your fibroscan, we talk to you about the scan and make sure that you are happy to have it. You can ask us any questions.
You do not need to remove any clothes for the scan. However, we recommend that you do not wear a dress because we need to examine your tummy (abdomen).
You do not need to remove any jewellery, such as a belly button piercing.
How long does it take to get results from a FibroScan?
Depending on where you go, results are available immediately following the test, but explanation and interpretation may follow a few days/ week later by a member of the hepatology team or your local GP.
In some cases the results can be explained straight away as they are immediately available but this may not often be the case as this is used alongside other test results and history information
