An overview of Liver Biopsy
A liver biopsy is a medical procedure in which a small piece of liver tissue is removed and examined under a microscope to detect signs of damage or disease. It helps diagnose, stage, and monitor liver conditions such as nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, chronic hepatitis B or C, autoimmune hepatitis, liver cirrhosis, primary biliary cholangitis, primary sclerosing cholangitis, hemochromatosis, and Wilson's disease. The most common type of liver biopsy is percutaneous, where a needle is inserted through the abdomen into the liver. Another type is transjugular biopsy, where a needle is inserted through a vein in the neck. Liver biopsy results are typically available within a few days to a week, and the recovery process involves resting for a few hours, avoiding strenuous activities, and managing any soreness or discomfort.
What is Liver Biopsy used for?
Liver biopsy is a medical procedure used to remove a small piece of liver tissue for examination under a microscope. It aids in diagnosing liver problems, determining the severity of liver diseases, guiding treatment decisions, and monitoring the liver after a transplant. A liver biopsy may be recommended if there are irregular liver test results, tumors or irregularities found on imaging tests, or to help diagnose and stage certain liver diseases such as nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, chronic hepatitis B or C, autoimmune hepatitis, liver cirrhosis, primary biliary cholangitis, primary sclerosing cholangitis, hemochromatosis, and Wilson's disease.
How to prepare for Liver Biopsy?
Before a liver biopsy test, patients generally need to prepare in the following ways:
- Stop taking certain medications: Patients may be advised to stop taking medications and supplements that can increase the risk of bleeding, such as aspirin, ibuprofen, warfarin, and certain dietary supplements.
- Fasting: Depending on the instructions from the healthcare provider, patients may be asked to fast for 6 to 8 hours before the liver biopsy, or they may be allowed to have a light breakfast.
- Blood tests: A pre-biopsy blood test is usually performed to check the blood's ability to clot. If there are any blood-clotting problems, patients may be given a medication before the biopsy to reduce the risk of bleeding.
- Sedative arrangements: If a sedative is administered to help the patient relax during the procedure, they should arrange for someone to drive them home after the procedure and have someone stay with them during the first night.
- Discussing concerns: Patients should meet with their healthcare provider to discuss what to expect during the biopsy, ask questions, and clarify any concerns they may have. It's essential to follow the healthcare provider's specific instructions for preparation to ensure the best possible outcome for the liver biopsy.
How is Liver Biopsy conducted?
A liver biopsy is conducted by inserting a needle through the abdomen or neck to collect a small piece of liver tissue. The most common type is the percutaneous liver biopsy, where a needle is inserted through the belly into the liver. The tissue is examined under a microscope to detect signs of damage or disease. The procedure is typically done to diagnose liver problems, stage liver disease severity, or monitor the liver after a transplant. Prior to the biopsy, the patient may have an IV line placed, receive a sedative, and rest in bed for a few hours after the procedure.
How are Liver Biopsy results reported?
The liver biopsy results are reported by a provider who specializes in diagnosing diseases, called a pathologist. The pathologist examines the liver tissue under a microscope for signs of damage or disease. The biopsy report is usually available within a few days to a week after the procedure. The results are communicated to the healthcare provider who can then discuss them with the patient and determine the appropriate course of treatment or further evaluation.