Liver Imaging Tests Explained: Ultrasound, FibroScan, CT, and MRI
Liver health plays a vital role in digestion, metabolism, and overall well-being. When liver-related symptoms appear—or when blood tests show abnormal results—doctors often recommend imaging tests to understand what is happening inside the liver. These tests help identify conditions such as fatty liver disease, fibrosis, cirrhosis, tumors, cysts, and blockages. This guide explains the most commonly used liver imaging tests — Ultrasound, FibroScan, CT scan, and MRI —in a simple, patient-friendly way, so you know what each test does, when it is used, and how a liver specialist decides which test is right for you. Why Liver Imaging Tests Are Important Liver diseases often progress silently. Many people do not experience symptoms until the condition becomes advanced. Imaging tests allow doctors to: Assess liver size, shape, and texture Detect fat accumulation or scarring Identify masses, cysts, or tumors Monitor disease progression or treatment response Guide further inv...