Noninvasive tests for liver fibrosis.
There is little doubt that we need fibrosis markers or scoring systems that have proven utility in assessing common hepatic diseases, such as hepatitis C and NASH. Despite multiple research studies, none has yet proved to be of clinical value. The most likely benefit of these tests will be to distinguish between minimal and advanced fibrosis or cirrhosis. Several panels of markers have shown utility in this regard but are not yet established as useful for all hepatic diseases. Until they have been validated and clinically accepted, liver biopsy will continue to be the "gold standard" for assessing liver fibrosis.
Luxon
Bruce A
BA
Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, Iowa City 52242, USA. bruce-luxon@uiowa.edu
D000465:Algorithms; D015415:Biomarkers / Q000097:blood; D001707:Biopsy, Needle; D006801:Humans; D008099:Liver / Q000473:pathology; D008103:Liver Cirrhosis / Q000097:blood / Q000175:diagnosis*; D008111:Liver Function Tests
D015415:Biomarkers