FibroScan
A New and Simple Method for Early Diagnosis of Liver Disease
FibroScan is a non-invasive medical test that measures liver stiffness to assess liver damage, which is an indicator of liver scarring (fibrosis). It is an ultrasound based technology to assess the health of the liver. It helps us to evaluate the extent of liver damage.
How Fibroscan Works
- Fibroscan Pricing We bill your insurance for the scan. If your insurance does not pay you are liable for a charge of $100. In our experience, most insurance carriers are paying for the fibroscan. However, if you do not have insurance you can pay $100 at the time of the testing.
Non-invasiveThe test involves placing a probe on the skin over the liver, typically on the right side of the rib cage.
Ultrasound wavesThe probe emits ultrasound waves that travel through the skin and into the liver.
Measuring stiffnessThe machine measures how quickly the waves bounce back, which correlates with the stiffness of the liver tissue.
Immediate resultsThe machine calculates the liver stiffness score and displays it immediately.
CAP scoreIn addition to liver stiffness, FibroScan can also measure the amount of fat in the liver, using a CAP score.
Meaning of Fibroscan Result
- Liver Stiffness (Fibrosis Score)The stiffness score indicates the degree of fibrosis, ranging from F0 (no scarring) to F4 (severe scarring or cirrhosis).
- CAP Score (Fat Content):The CAP score indicates the amount of fat in the liver, with higher scores indicating more fat.
- Diagnosis and Monitoring:FibroScan helps diagnose and monitor liver disease, including conditions like non alcoholic liver disease, and MASH, formerly known as NASH. It is a serious liver condition characterized by fat buildup, inflammation, and potential scarring (fibrosis) in the liver.
Why Use Fibroscan ?
- Non-invasive alternative to biopsy:It provides a less invasive way to assess liver health compared to a liver biopsy.
- Early detection of liver damage:It helps identify liver damage in its early stages, allowing for timely intervention and management.
- Monitoring disease progression:It can track the progression or regression of liver disease over time.
- Assessing treatment effectiveness:FibroScan results helps us to evaluate the effectiveness of treatment for liver conditions.
