Hepatic Elastography

Hepatic Elastography

The importance of hepatic elastography for liver health

See how important this liver test is for taking care of your health

When it comes to liver health care, hepatic elastography stands out as an innovative and efficient test. This test makes it possible to assess the stiffness of the liver without the need for invasive interventions.

This type of test plays a useful role in diagnosing liver diseases. It also has the benefit of providing faster results compared to traditional tests.

In addition to identifying chronic liver diseases early on, hepatic elastography contributes to more assertive clinical decisions. Instead of resorting to liver biopsy, an invasive procedure, elastography offers a safe and accessible alternative, becoming a milestone in the modernization of liver care.

Patients with fatty liver, hepatic steatosis or even mild changes in liver function tests benefit from early elastography. This allows interventions to be initiated before more severe functional impairment of the organ occurs.

Another relevant aspect is its use in routine consultations with Gastroenterologists, especially in São Paulo (SP), where the incidence of liver diseases associated with lifestyle has increased. As it is a quick, painless test and widely available in specialized clinics such as Instituto Medicina em Foco, it can be requested even for preventive evaluations.

Liver elastography can also be repeated periodically, serving as a follow-up tool for patients being treated for cirrhosis, hepatitis B, hepatitis C, or who are adopting lifestyle changes to control fatty liver.

Find out more about this test in our detailed article.

What is hepatic elastography and what is its importance?

Hepatic elastography is a modern technique in which the results are obtained by measuring the speed with which a shear wave passes through the liver parenchyma.

This speed will be directly proportional to the degree of fibrosis of the parenchyma. The results can be presented in m/s (speed) or Kilopascals (measure of rigidity).

If the liver is too stiff, it means that the patient may have liver fibrosis, a condition resulting from the accumulation of connective tissue to repair damage that causes inflammation and compromises liver function.

This stiffness can be caused by

• chronic and repetitive injuries.
• excessive alcohol consumption.
• accumulation of fat.
• hepatitis.

This test is painless, quick and provides reliable results. It is therefore used to diagnose and monitor conditions such as hepatitis B, hepatitis C and cirrhosis.

In addition, the procedure helps to assess fat in the liver, one of the main complications related to hepatic steatosis.

Click here and book your exam at MEF, with the best team of specialists in Gastroenterology in São Paulo (SP).

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Benefits of liver elastography

Unlike other tests, hepatic elastography does not require complex preparation and takes just a few minutes. This makes it a practical option for patients who need constant monitoring.

Another plus point: it is a non-invasive procedure. Therefore, there’s no need for anesthesia or prior medication during the procedure. No contraindications. And because it’s an imaging test, the results of the test are immediately and accurately available to the patient.

In addition, the test helps to differentiate between early and advanced liver diseases, providing precise information that guides personalized treatment.

Another important benefit is its use in prevention programs for at-risk populations, such as patients with diabetes, obesity or a family history of liver disease. In these cases, the test can detect alterations at an early stage, helping to start a therapeutic plan before liver fibrosis progresses.

Elastography also stands out for its excellent cost-benefit ratio. Compared to traditional methods such as liver MRI, it offers effective results at a lower cost and greater availability, especially in Gastroenterology units in São Paulo (SP). This expands access to early diagnosis and reinforces its importance in the clinical routine.

With the popularization of the test, more and more clinics and specialized centers have adopted ultrasound liver elastography as part of the digestive health check-up, consolidating it as one of the best tools for screening liver problems.

Schedule your face-to-face consultation with a Gastroenterologist in São Paulo (SP) by calling +55 11 3289-3195 and receive a complete liver care plan.

Ultrasound liver elastography: precision technology for reliable diagnosis

Ultrasound liver elastography combines conventional ultrasound technology with advanced software for analyzing liver stiffness. This test provides not only images of the liver, but also numerical values that help determine the degree of fibrosis.

Its differential lies in its ability to take repeated measurements in real time, which guarantees greater reliability and precision. For clinics that treat a large volume of patients, such as the Instituto Medicina em Foco in São Paulo (SP), this feature allows for a continuous flow of tests with quality and agility.

In addition, the technology is safe for different patient profiles, including pregnant women and people with contraindications to contrast examinations. As it is radiation-free, it is an excellent option for routine assessments and long-term follow-up of liver diseases.

In the context of Gastroenterology, ultrasound liver elastography allows not only the early detection of liver fibrosis, but also its classification into stages, which is fundamental for clinical decisions and defining prognosis.

Do you want to take your test with state-of-the-art technology? Schedule your appointment with a Gastroenterologist in São Paulo (SP) at Instituto Medicina em Foco on +55 11 3289-3195.

Ultrasound liver elastography: how it differs from FibroScan

Among the most common methods for assessing liver stiffness and diagnosing liver disease are FibroScan and ultrasound liver elastography, which have different characteristics.

Ultrasound elastography uses conventional ultrasound waves to measure the elasticity of liver tissue. This method is safe, non-invasive and painless, and is effective in detecting changes in the structure of the liver.

Because it is a versatile technique, ultrasound elastography can be combined with the evaluation of other parameters during the imaging exam, providing a broad view of liver health.

FibroScan, on the other hand, is a more specific technology that combines mechanical vibrations and sound waves to measure liver stiffness. Although it is highly accurate, it is a separate technology that does not integrate other aspects of imaging assessment, such as ultrasound liver elastography can offer.

For those looking for a reliable, complete and affordable test, ultrasound elastography is an excellent choice.

Consult a specialist for a detailed assessment, schedule your test at Instituto Medicina em Foco and take care of your liver health.

Gastroenterologist appointment: when to go?

The health of the liver is directly linked to the proper functioning of the body as a whole. That’s why it’s essential to see a Gastroenterologist in São Paulo (SP) as soon as signs or symptoms related to the digestive system or liver function appear.

You should consider scheduling a face-to-face or online consultation with Gastroenterology in the following situations:

• Persistent abdominal pain or swelling in the upper abdomen;
• Altered blood tests (ALT, AST, GGT);
• History of hepatic steatosis or fatty liver;
• Recent diagnosis of hepatitis B, hepatitis C or cirrhosis;
• Presence of risk factors such as obesity, sedentary lifestyle or diabetes.

In addition, people with a family history of liver disease or frequent use of medication should undergo regular monitoring.

Schedule your appointment with a Gastroenterologist at the Instituto Medicina em Foco in São Paulo (SP). Call +55 11 3289-3195.

How does a liver test help identify liver disease?

Hepatic elastography measures the stiffness of the liver through the propagation of ultrasound waves that pass through the organ. The faster they are, the stiffer the liver is, indicating problems such as liver fibrosis, cirrhosis and hepatitis.

This test is carried out in a similar way to ultrasound scans. The patient lies on a stretcher and the specialist slides a probe over the abdomen using a gel.

In addition, because it can detect small changes in the structure of liver tissue, hepatic elastography helps to differentiate between reversible conditions, such as hepatic steatosis, and more advanced conditions, such as cirrhosis. This differentiation is essential for the Gastroenterologist to define the most appropriate therapeutic approach for each stage of the disease.

Another important point is that the test can be safely repeated periodically, which makes it possible to assess the response to treatment and adjust clinical strategies whenever necessary. This is especially important in diseases such as hepatitis B or hepatitis C, where the progression of fibrosis needs to be monitored.

It is also worth noting that the test is useful even in asymptomatic patients, making it an excellent tool for preventive check-ups and for people with a family history of liver disease or who take hepatotoxic drugs for a long time.

At Instituto Medicina em Foco, the tests are carried out by trained professionals with extensive experience in Gastroenterology, guaranteeing a detailed and reliable assessment. Accurate interpretation of the results allows preventive or treatment measures to be initiated at an early stage.

Make an appointment with a Gastroenterologist in São Paulo (SP) and accurately investigate possible liver problems.

When should I have my liver checked?

Tests such as hepatic elastography are indicated when there are suspicions or signs of liver disease. Among the most common symptoms are

• pain or discomfort in the right upper abdomen;
• extreme tiredness for no apparent reason;
• changes in blood tests, such as high levels of anti-HBs;
• yellowing of the skin or eyes, known as jaundice.

These symptoms should always be carefully evaluated by a Gastroenterologist in São Paulo (SP). In many cases, the test may be requested to confirm or rule out the progression of liver fibrosis, a condition that can develop silently.

In addition, asymptomatic people with risk factors such as:

• obesity;
• diabetes;
• family history of liver problems.
• continuous use of drugs that affect liver function;
• regular alcohol consumption;
• previous diagnosis of fatty liver or hepatic steatosis.

Finally, people with hepatitis B, hepatitis C and liver fibrosis should be tested regularly to monitor the progress of the disease. Early detection makes all the difference in controlling liver disease. When diagnosed early, many conditions can be successfully treated, preventing them from progressing to serious conditions such as cirrhosis or the need for a liver transplant.

So if you have symptoms or are at risk, don’t wait for the signs to get worse. A simple test can change the course of your liver health.

Schedule your test today at MEF, a reference clinic for liver diseases in São Paulo (SP).

Difference between liver elastography and liver biopsy

For many years, liver biopsy was considered the gold standard for diagnosing liver fibrosis.

However, with advances in technology, hepatic elastography has become a modern, safe and painless alternative.

See the comparison between the two exams:

Hepatic elastography does not replace biopsy in all cases, but it has proved extremely effective in assessing liver stiffness in patients with chronic liver disease.

For a complete and painless assessment, opt for liver elastography in São Paulo (SP) with the best specialists in the city.

What treatments are recommended for fatty liver and hepatic steatosis?

Maintaining liver health is essential to avoid serious complications such as cirrhosis. So, for those looking to learn more about how to treat fatty liver, here are some valuable tips:

1. Weight maintenance: maintaining a healthy weight is decisive in preventing hepatic steatosis. Studies show that losing 5% to 10% of body weight can significantly reduce fatty liver problems.
2. Eating habits: in addition, avoiding fatty foods and adopting a diet rich in fruit, vegetables and whole grains can make a difference. Foods with anti-inflammatory properties, such as olive oil, are also recommended.
3. Physical activity: regular exercise helps reduce fat in the liver and improves liver function. Therefore, including aerobic activities in your routine is an effective strategy.
4. Moderate alcohol consumption: excessive drinking is one of the main causes of liver problems. However, moderation can prevent serious damage.
5. Regular monitoring: regular examinations are essential to identify changes in the liver at an early stage. Hepatic elastography can be a great ally for your health.

Prioritize your health and schedule your hepatic elastography exam at MEF. That way, you can take proper care of your liver.

What are the symptoms of hepatitis and how do you treat it?

Hepatitis B

Hepatitis B is a viral infection that causes inflammation in the liver and can be silent, especially in the early stages.

It is caused by the HBV virus and can be transmitted through contact with contaminated blood, unprotected sexual intercourse, sharing sharp objects or objects for personal use.

Some of the most common symptoms include:

• extreme tiredness;
• abdominal pain;
• jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes);
• dark urine;
• clear stools.

Furthermore, in more serious cases hepatitis B can lead to complications such as cirrhosis or even liver cancer, requiring continuous follow-up with a Gastroenterologist in São Paulo (SP).

Treatment can include specific antivirals and lifestyle changes, as well as monitoring through tests such as liver elastography to check on the progress of the condition.

Hepatitis C

Like the previous infection, hepatitis C is viral. It affects the liver silently in the early stages. However, it can manifest itself acutely or chronically, the latter being the most common sign.

Its symptoms are similar to those of hepatitis B. The difference between them is the type of virus: HBV causes the former disease and HCV causes hepatitis C.

When present, the symptoms can be

• constant fatigue;
• jaundice;
• pain in the upper abdomen;
• dizziness;
• darkening of the urine.

Chronic hepatitis C can cause liver fibrosis, cirrhosis and even liver cancer if left untreated. The good news is that there are highly effective drugs available, with cure rates exceeding 95% of cases when treatment is started early.

Monitoring and diagnosis

Hepatic elastography is essential for monitoring the evolution of inflammation caused by hepatitis. The test helps assess the degree of liver stiffness, contributing to assertive medical decisions.

In addition to elastography, the diagnosis of hepatitis also depends on the analysis of viral markers in the blood, such as anti-HBs and HCV RNA.

If you have symptoms or have already been diagnosed with hepatitis B or hepatitis C, make an appointment with a Gastroenterologist in São Paulo (SP) and receive complete care at Instituto Medicina em Foco.

How does hepatic elastography help with hepatitis B and C?

Hepatic elastography is an essential tool in the follow-up of patients with hepatitis B or hepatitis C, helping to assess the impact of viral inflammation on liver tissue. The test makes it possible to measure liver stiffness, one of the main indicators of liver fibrosis – a common complication of these chronic viral infections.

When there is persistent inflammation, the liver tends to form scar tissue, which increases its rigidity. Using hepatic elastography, it is possible to detect these changes early, even before serious symptoms appear. This allows the Gastroenterologist to establish a more effective treatment plan and monitor the response to medication over time.

It is important to emphasize that although elastography indicates the degree of liver stiffness, the definitive diagnosis of viral hepatitis still depends on laboratory tests, such as anti-HBs (in the case of hepatitis B) and viral RNA testing (in the case of hepatitis C). These tests identify the presence of the virus and help determine whether the infection is acute, chronic or resolved.

Another benefit of elastography is that it avoids the need for liver biopsies in many cases. In the past, this was the only way to assess the extent of fibrosis, a more invasive procedure with greater risks and discomfort for the patient. Today, with advances in technology, liver examination using hepatic elastography has replaced biopsy in most clinical situations.

The test is also useful for stratifying patients into different stages of the disease, which directly influences decisions about starting, adjusting or stopping antiviral treatments.

Finally, patients who are already being monitored for hepatitis B or C should undergo elastography regularly, as indicated by their doctor, to monitor the progression of liver fibrosis and prevent it from progressing to cirrhosis or liver cancer.

Are you being treated for or suspect you have hepatitis B or C? Schedule your hepatic elastography exam at Instituto Medicina em Foco in São Paulo (SP) and count on specialized follow-up.

Hepatic elastography at MEF

In São Paulo, the Instituto Medicina em Foco offers ultrasound liver elastography.

As well as being located at an easily accessible point in the city, MEF provides an accessible and modern way of obtaining an accurate diagnosis of liver diseases such as liver fibrosis, hepatitis and others.

If you are looking for Gastroenterologist in São Paulo for a hepatic elastography test, our clinic is a reference for diagnosing liver diseases.

Don’t hesitate and book your test.

Why take the exam at Instituto Medicina em Foco?

The Instituto Medicina em Foco is a reference in the diagnosis of liver diseases with in-person services at Rua Frei Caneca, 1380, Consolação – São Paulo – SP – CEP 01307-000.

We have a highly specialized team in Gastroenterology, state-of-the-art technology and a humanized and efficient service.

The Institute’s differentials:

• Modern tests such as liver elastography and abdominal ultrasound.
• Online and face-to-face consultations with a Gastroenterologist in São Paulo (SP).
• Fast and accurate results.
• Care focused on prevention, diagnosis and liver rehabilitation.
• Integrated team with other specialties to treat the patient comprehensively.

Make your appointment by calling +55 11 3289-3195 or visit emfoco.med.br and guarantee the best care for your liver.

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