FibroScan is a promising tool used in liver health assessments. This test offers a quick, painless, and non-invasive experience, eliminating the need for needles or sedation. It stands as a highly valuable alternative to traditional liver biopsies in numerous clinical situations.

What Is FibroScan?

FibroScan is a non-invasive test that measures liver stiffness and fat content using a technique known as transient elastography. It is commonly used to assess for liver fibrosis (scarring) and steatosis (fat accumulation), especially in people with conditions such as fatty liver disease, hepatitis B or C, and alcohol-related liver disease.

How Does FibroScan Work?

FibroScan operates by emitting controlled vibrations from a specialised probe placed on the skin directly over the liver. These vibrations generate shear waves that propagate through the liver tissue, with their speed varying based on the organ's condition.
 

The test quantifies the Controlled Attenuation Parameter (CAP) score and the fibrosis score. These scores offer doctors a comprehensive understanding of both the fat buildup and scarring present in the liver.

Who Should Consider a FibroScan?

A FibroScan is a valuable diagnostic tool for several groups of individuals, particularly those at risk for liver conditions, such as:

• Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) or non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH)
• Chronic hepatitis B or C
• Alcohol-related liver disease
• Elevated liver enzymes with unknown cause
• Metabolic risk factors such as type 2 diabetes or obesity

FibroScan is especially useful for the early detection and routine surveillance of patients who may not yet show symptoms but are at risk of progressive liver disease.

What to Expect During the Test

The FibroScan test is a straightforward procedure performed in an outpatient clinic. Patients typically need to fast for 2–3 hours before the procedure. The test itself is quick, usually taking approximately 10–15 minutes.
 

The procedure is painless, and there's no downtime, meaning patients can resume their normal activities immediately afterwards.
 

The results you receive will include a liver stiffness score (measured in kPa) and a Controlled Attenuation Parameter (CAP) score (measured in dB/m). Interpretation should always be done by a doctor.

Where to Get a FibroScan in Singapore

FibroScan is available at several hospitals and specialist clinics in Singapore. At Mount Elizabeth Medical Centre, Dr Kieron Lim offers FibroScan assessments as part of his liver evaluation services. His clinical interests include fatty liver disease, liver cirrhosis, viral hepatitis, and liver cancer management.
 

Learn more on Dr Kieron Lim’s website.

Limitations of FibroScan

While FibroScan is a highly valuable tool, it does have certain limitations:

• It is not suitable for patients with ascites (fluid in the abdomen)
• Its accuracy may be reduced in cases of morbid obesity
• Results should always be interpreted in conjunction with blood tests, clinical history, and other imaging studies for a complete picture

FibroScan is a diagnostic tool, not a treatment. Therefore, its results must be reviewed with a qualified liver specialist to provide proper context and determine the appropriate next steps for your care.