Approach to diagnosis of liver fibrosis: serum markers

Abstract

Hepatic fibrosis is the final common pathway for many different liver insults. Originally considered to be irreversible, hepatic fibrosis is now known to be a dynamic process with a significant potential for resolution. Timely diagnosis of liver fibrosis can prevent development of unwanted complications. The diagnosis and quantitation of fibrosis have traditionally relied on liver biopsy. However, there are a number of drawbacks that limit its use. This article reviews the current methods of assessment of hepatic fibrosis based on the serum markers.