liver biopsy

A liver biopsy is a procedure to remove a small piece of liver tissue, so it can be examined under a microscope for signs of disease. Most common type of liver biopsy is the percutaneous liver biopsy. It involves inserting a fine needle through the skin into the liver and removing a very small piece of liver tissue. The procedure is generally safe and is done under sedation in children.

Liver biopsy is indicated if liver function tests or liver imaging studies suggest any suspicion of liver problem. A liver biopsy also helps in determining severity of liver disease. All this information helps guide treatment.

Indications:

• Persistent abnormal liverblood tests/liver enzymes – Hepatitis
• Unexplained jaundice
• A liver abnormality found on ultrasound or a CT scan
• Unexplained enlargement of the liver (Hepatomegaly)