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A liver biopsy involves inserting a needle between the ribs to collect a small sample of liver tissue. Samples of liver tissue can then be examined under a microscope to further check a suspected or known liver disease.
A liver biopsy may be done after other tests have failed to provide a clear diagnosis or determine the severity of a liver problem. It can also be used to monitor certain forms of liver disease, such as hepatitis C. A liver biopsy can reveal long-term inflammation (chronic hepatitis), scar tissue formation (cirrhosis), or cancer.
Current as of: November 30, 2022
Author: Healthwise Staff
Medical Review:E. Gregory Thompson MD - Internal Medicine & Brian D. O'Brien MD - Internal Medicine & Adam Husney MD - Family Medicine & Martin J. Gabica MD - Family Medicine & Michel M. Murr MD - General Surgery, Bariatric Surgery
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