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Liver elastography is a diagnostic test used to measure the stiffness of the liver. This helps assess liver health, specifically looking for signs of liver damage or diseases such as cirrhosis or fatty liver. The procedure involves a quick scan that doesn't require surgery or needles, making it a safe and painless option. Results are typically available in just a few hours to a day, and the test is widely used to monitor liver conditions.
What Is Liver Elastography?
Liver elastography, also known as transient elastography, is a type of imaging test that looks for fibrosis in the liver. Elastography uses low-frequency vibrations during an ultrasound or MRI scan to measure the stiffness (or elasticity) of the body's internal organs. It is particularly useful in detecting the presence and severity of liver disease.
Fibrosis is a condition that reduces blood flow to and within the liver. This causes the buildup of scar tissue. If left untreated, fibrosis can lead to serious liver problems. These include cirrhosis, liver cancer, and liver failure. Early diagnosis and treatment can reduce or even reverse the effects of fibrosis.
Types of Liver Elastography
- Ultrasound elastography, also known as Fibroscan, is a commonly used ultrasound technique. The test uses sound waves to measure the stiffness of liver tissue. Stiffness is a sign of fibrosis.
- MRE (magnetic resonance elastography) is a test that combines ultrasound technology with nuclear magnetic resonance (MRI). MRI is a procedure that uses powerful magnets and radio waves to create images of internal organs and structures in the body.
- Elastography testing may be used in place of a liver biopsy, a more invasive test that involves removing a piece of liver tissue for testing.
- Other names: liver elastography, transient elastography, Fibroscan, MR elastography
Symptoms of Cirrhosis and Other Liver Diseases
The symptoms of cirrhosis and other liver diseases are similar and may include:
- Yellowing of the skin. This is known as jaundice.
- Fatigue
- Itching
- Bruising easily
- Heavy nosebleeds
- Swelling in the legs
- Weight loss
- Confusion
Liver Fibrosis can lead to serious liver problems! But early diagnosis & treatment can prevent fatal consequences. Consult ourGastroenterologist TODAY!
Why Is Liver Elastography Done?
- Liver elastography procedures help the doctor to determine the severity of liver fibrosis in patients with chronic liver disease.
- The FibroScan in particular can also help determine whether or not an HCV patient has advanced fibrosis/cirrhosis.
- Cirrhosis is a term used to describe excessive scarring of the liver. Cirrhosis is most often caused by alcohol abuse or hepatitis.
- Treatment helps in decisions about the need for oral antiviral therapy, liver cancer surveillance, etc.
- Some doctors also do serial liver elastography measurements once a year to see if liver disease is getting better or worse over time.
- FibroScan test results are always used in conjunction with other clinical data, laboratory test results, and liver imaging in the management of individual patients.
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Get Second OpinionHow Is the Liver Elastography Test Performed?
- The person will lie on an exam table with the right abdominal area exposed.
- An X-ray technician will spread the gel on the skin over the area.
- He or she will place a wand-like device, called a transducer, on the area of skin that covers the liver.
- The probe will emit a series of sound waves. The waves will travel to the liver and recover. The waves are so sharp no one can hear them.
- One may feel a gentle movement, but it shouldn't hurt.
- Sound waves are recorded, measured, and displayed on a monitor.
- The measurement shows the level of stiffness in the liver.
- The procedure only takes about five minutes.
MRE (magnetic resonance elastography) is done with the same type of machine and many of the same steps as a traditional MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) test. During an MRE procedure:
One will lie on an exam table.
- An X-ray technician will place a small pad on the abdomen. The pad will emit vibrations that will pass through the liver.
- The table will slide into an MRI scanner, which is a tunnel-shaped machine that contains the magnet. Earplugs or headphones may be provided before the test to help block out the noise from the scanner, which is very loud.
- Once inside the scanner, the pad will activate and send vibration measurements from the liver. The measurements will be recorded on a computer and converted into a visual map showing how stiff the liver is.
- The test lasts between 30 and 60 minutes.
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What are the Possible Risks and Complications of Liver Elastography?
Most patients with chronic liver disease can be tested, but the test is not recommended or can be interpreted in patients with:
- Fluid in the abdomen
- Acute hepatitis
- Right heart failure
- Severe obesity
- Small rib spaces
- Inability to lie down
Who Should Take the Liver Elastography Test?
Liver elastography is useful for a variety of individuals, including:
- People with liver disease: This test helps evaluate the severity of liver conditions like fatty liver, hepatitis, and cirrhosis.
- People with risk factors for liver disease: Individuals with obesity, heavy drinking habits, diabetes, or a family history of liver disease.
- Patients undergoing treatment for liver disease: It helps monitor how the liver is responding to treatment for conditions like hepatitis or cirrhosis.
How Should I Prepare for Liver Elastography?
There is no special preparation needed for liver elastography, but here are a few tips to ensure accurate results:
- Avoid eating: You may be asked to fast for about 3 hours before the test, as a full stomach could affect the results.
- Medications: Inform your doctor about any medications you're taking, especially for liver conditions or any that may affect liver function.
How Long Does Liver Elastography Take?
The test itself takes about 10-15 minutes. Afterward, the results will be analyzed and usually shared with you within a few hours to a day. If your doctor has any concerns, they may suggest follow-up tests.
When Will I Get My Liver Elastography Results?
Results from liver elastography are typically available within 12 to 24 hours. Reports are sent directly to you via WhatsApp or as a printed copy. Your doctor will discuss the results with you during a follow-up appointment or through an online patient portal.
How Do I Understand My Liver Elastography Results?
Liver elastography provides a measure of liver stiffness, which helps doctors assess the extent of liver damage or scarring (fibrosis). The results are often categorized as follows:
- Normal: No signs of liver stiffness or damage.
- Mild fibrosis: Early stages of liver scarring.
- Moderate fibrosis: Noticeable liver damage.
- Severe fibrosis or cirrhosis: Advanced liver disease with significant scarring.
What Should I Do After Getting My Liver Elastography Results?
- Normal results: You may not need any immediate action, but your doctor may monitor your liver health over time.
- Abnormal results: If your results show liver damage or scarring, your doctor may recommend further tests, such as a liver biopsy, or treatments to manage liver disease.
- Always follow your doctor's recommendations for any further tests or treatments.
Is Liver Elastography Painful?
No, liver elastography is not painful. You may feel some pressure or mild discomfort when the device is placed on your abdomen, but it's a quick and non-invasive procedure. Most people find it easy and tolerable.
What Factors Affect the Cost of Liver Elastography?
The cost of Liver Elastography can vary due to:
- The facility performing the procedure (hospital or specialized diagnostic center).
- The expertise of the physician performing the test.
- The geographic region and its healthcare costs.
- The need for post-test consultations or follow-up imaging.
- Insurance coverage and out-of-pocket costs.
How Much Does the Liver Elastography Test Cost in India?
Liver elastography, which helps assess liver stiffness and diagnose liver fibrosis, is available at a range of prices. Typically, the cost for liver elastography is between Rs. 2000 to Rs. 10000. The test may be more expensive in larger cities with specialized liver care centers, such as Chennai, Delhi, and Bengaluru.
Liver Elastography Test Prices in Different Cities Across India
| City | Price |
| Hyderabad | Rs.2000 - Rs.10000 |
| Vizag | Rs.2000 - Rs.10000 |
| Nashik | Rs.2000 - Rs.10000 |
| Chh. Sambhajinagar | Rs.2000 - Rs.10000 |
| Nellore | Rs.2000 - Rs.10000 |
| Chandanagar | Rs.2000 - Rs.10000 |
| Srikakulam | Rs.2000 - Rs.10000 |
| Sangamner | Rs.2000 - Rs.10000 |
| Kurnool | Rs.2000 - Rs.10000 |
| Kakinada | Rs.2000 - Rs.10000 |
| Karimnagar | Rs.2000 - Rs.10000 |
| Pune | Rs.2000 - Rs.10000 |
| Nizamabad | Rs.2000 - Rs.10000 |
| Navi Mumbai | Rs.2000 - Rs.10000 |
| Vizianagaram | Rs.2000 - Rs.10000 |
| Bengaluru | Rs.2000 - Rs.10000 |
| Warangal | Rs.2000 - Rs.10000 |
Citations
Liver ultrasound elastography: More than staging the disease
Magnetic Resonance Elastography of Liver: Clinical Applications
"Other Tests
Frequently Asked Questions
Elastography typically takes about 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the area being examined and the technique used, such as ultrasound or MRI elastography.
Water intake affects liver stiffness and hemodynamics. No water intake at least one hour prior to liver ultrasound elastography and Doppler sonography is recommended.
Abdominal ultrasound with elastography is a non-invasive technique used in ultrasound to determine fibrosis or stiffness of liver tissue.
Depending on the level and scope of the intervention, it can cost between INR 2000 and INR 10000.
Liver elastography involves the use of a surface ultrasound probe that emits a low-frequency pulse, hence it is completely painless.
For FibroScan, a normal liver stiffness range is typically <7 kPa. Values above this indicate potential liver fibrosis or cirrhosis, with higher values suggesting more severe liver damage.
Yes, it's recommended to fast for at least 2-4 hours before a liver elastography test or FibroScan to ensure accurate readings. Eating may affect the measurement of liver stiffness.
Both are used to measure liver stiffness, but FibroScan is a type of elastography specifically designed for liver assessments. FibroScan is widely preferred due to its ease of use and accuracy in diagnosing liver fibrosis.
