Definition of liver biopsy
La liver biopsy is an examination which consists of taking a fragment of liver using a fine needle. The tissue sample is then analyzed in the laboratory to help doctors diagnose various chronic liver disorders and diseases.
Why perform a liver biopsy?
A liver biopsy is the best way to determine the cause of many liver conditions. It also makes it possible to assess the progression of the disease if it is known and to decide on an appropriate treatment.
The biopsy makes it possible in particular to detect a cancer, the infection, determine the cause of an abnormal level of liver enzymes in the blood, unexplained yellowing of the skin (jaundice) or find the cause of an enlarged liver.
The course
Before performing a liver biopsy, the doctor first performs local anesthesia of the skin (with lidocaine). You will then be asked to block breathing so as to immobilize the liver during the short time required for the sample.
The doctor determines the best site, depth, and angle of needle penetration by physical examination or by using an ultrasound to pinpoint the appropriate location.
The needle used is hollow and can therefore retain a piece of liver when removed.
A dressing is finally placed at the puncture site.
The biopsy can also be done, although it is less common, by inserting a needle into the jugular vein (transvenous route). A small tube is inserted into the internal jugular vein in the neck and guided by x-ray to the hepatic vein which drains the liver. A biopsy needle is then inserted through the tube directly into the liver to remove a tissue sample.
The pieces of liver are analyzed in the laboratory, to undergo microscopy and microbiology analyzes.
The most common complications of a liver biopsy are vagal pain and discomfort. Major complications (hemorrhage, biliary peritonitis, perforation of an abdominal organ, etc.) are rare.
The results
A liver biopsy can show the presence of many liver conditions. These include:
- a cirrhosis
- a hepatitis B or C, an autoimmune hepatitis
- a infection like tuberculosis
- un liver cancer
- a hemochromatosis, a condition associated with too much iron in the blood (also known as iron overload)
- a Wilson’s disease, characterized by an excess of copper in the body and particularly in the liver
- a drug impairment
- etc.
Depending on the results, the doctor may detect a disease or establish its stage of development. He will offer adequate care and treatment.
Read also : All about cirrhosis Learn more about the different forms of hepatitis Our factsheet on liver cancer |