Liver Biopsy

Biopsy, Liver

Results

A liver biopsy is done using a long needle inserted between two of the right lower ribs to remove a sample of liver tissue. The tissue sample is sent to a laboratory and looked at under a microscope to see if there are any liver problems.

• Samples of liver tissue sent to a pathology lab will be looked at under a microscope for liver diseases such as liver cancer or cirrhosis.
• Other samples of liver tissue may be sent to a microbiology lab to see whether an infection, such as tuberculosis of the liver, is present.

Test results are generally ready in 2 to 4 days. If tests are done to find infections, it may take several weeks for the results to be ready.

Percutaneous liver biopsy

Normal:	The liver tissue looks normal under a microscope. No signs of infection, inflammation, cancer, or cirrhosis are present.
Abnormal:	Abnormal cells or liver tissue are present. This may be caused by an infection, liver disease, or cancer.
	If liver cancer is present, the biopsy can help find the type of cancer.
	If hepatitis is present, the test can be used to see the chance of developing cirrhosis. Test results may also show the severity of cirrhosis.

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Author:	Monica Rhodes	Last Updated: August 14, 2008
Medical Review:	Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine C. Dale Mercer, MD, FRCSC, FACS - General Surgery
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