Korean J Med.  2024 Oct;99(5):232-239. 10.3904/kjm.2024.99.5.232.

Recent Trends in Noninvasive Tests for Assessing Hepatic Fibrosis in Patients with Chronic Liver Disease

• Yu JH

• KMID: 2559723
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.3904/kjm.2024.99.5.232

Abstract

Hepatic fibrosis is a critical factor in predicting hepatocellular carcinoma occurrence and prognosis in patients with liver disease, making its accurate assessment essential for managing chronic liver disease. Traditionally, liver biopsy has been the standard method for evaluating hepatic fibrosis. However, due to its invasive nature and the limitation of sampling only a small portion of the liver, it is not suitable for widespread use in chronic liver disease patients. Recently, there has been growing interest in noninvasive tests for assessing hepatic fibrosis, including imaging techniques and serum biomarkers. These noninvasive tests are being continuously developed and are increasingly being utilized to evaluate the prognosis of chronic liver disease patients and to inform clinical practice. This paper reviews the recent trends in noninvasive methods for assessing hepatic fibrosis in patients with chronic liver disease, based on studies published to date.

Keyword

Noninvasive test; Chronic liver disease; Hepatic fibrosis; 비침습적 검사; 만성 간질환; 간섬유화