Liver stiffness, also known as liver fibrosis, is a condition in which the liver becomes hardened and less able to function properly. Causes of liver stiffness include viral hepatitis (such as hepatitis B and C), alcohol abuse, and certain metabolic disorders (such as nonalcoholic fatty liver disease). Symptoms of liver stiffness can include fatigue, weakness,
abdominal pain, and jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes). In advanced cases, liver stiffness can lead to liver cirrhosis and liver failure. It’s important to know that in early stages of liver fibrosis, there may be no symptoms at all. A liver biopsy or non-invasive tests can help to diagnose liver fibrosis.
Some other causes of liver stiffness include autoimmune hepatitis, biliary cirrhosis, and certain medications.
Symptoms of liver stiffness can also include weight loss, loss of appetite, nausea, and vomiting. In advanced cases, patients may experience fluid accumulation in the abdomen (ascites), easy bruising or bleeding, and spider-like blood vessels on the skin (spider angiomas).
Liver stiffness is a progressive condition, which means that it typically gets worse over time. However, if caught early, certain causes of liver stiffness, such as viral hepatitis and alcohol abuse, can be treated and the progression of the disease can be slowed or even reversed.
Testing for liver stiffness typically involves measuring levels of liver enzymes in the blood, imaging tests such as ultrasound or MRI, and Fibroscan(a non-invasive test). In some cases, a liver biopsy may be done to confirm the diagnosis and determine the stage of fibrosis.
