What Is Hepatic Fibrosis?
Hepatic fibrosis occurs when scar tissue builds up in your liver over time, replacing healthy tissue. It's an early sign that your liver is trying to heal after long-term damage. If left untreated, it can progress to cirrhosis or even liver failure.
Common Causes and Risk Factors
- Chronic viral hepatitis (Hepatitis B or C)
- Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and metabolic syndrome
- Heavy or long-term alcohol use
- Autoimmune liver diseases (e.g., primary biliary cholangitis)
- Genetic disorders (hemochromatosis, Wilson's disease)
- Certain medications or toxins (methotrexate, industrial chemicals)
- Obesity, type 2 diabetes, high cholesterol or triglycerides
Signs and Symptoms
- Often no noticeable symptoms in early stages
- Fatigue or generalized weakness
- Mild pain or fullness in the upper right abdomen
- Unexplained weight loss
- Itchy skin or jaundice (yellowing of skin and eyes)
- Swelling of legs or abdomen (advanced fibrosis)
How Dr. Rishi Chadha Diagnoses Hepatic Fibrosis?
Step 1: Medical History & Physical Exam
Dr. Chadha reviews your personal and family liver history, alcohol use, medications, and other risk factors, then performs a thorough physical exam.
Step 2: Blood Tests
We check liver enzymes (AST, ALT), bilirubin, platelet count and viral markers to assess function and rule out other causes of liver injury.
Step 3: Imaging Studies
- Abdominal ultrasound evaluates liver size, texture changes and fatty infiltration.
- Elastography (FibroScan) measures liver stiffness to estimate fibrosis stage noninvasively.
Step 4: Advanced Testing (If Needed)
When noninvasive tests are inconclusive, a percutaneous liver biopsy may be performed to directly assess the degree of scarring and inflammation.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What's the difference between fibrosis and cirrhosis?
Fibrosis is the early formation of scar tissue in the liver as it heals from long-term injury. Cirrhosis (stage F4) is advanced, widespread scarring that disrupts liver function and can lead to failure.
2. How many stages are there?
Hepatic fibrosis is graded from F0 (no scarring) to F4 (cirrhosis). Stage F3 is severe scarring but not yet full cirrhosis.
3. What's the ICD-10 code for fibrosis?
The primary code for hepatic fibrosis is K74.0.
4. Can it be reversed?
Yes. In early stages (F1-F2), lifestyle changes and appropriate treatment often reduce or even reverse scar tissue buildup.
5. When will I feel better?
Many patients notice improved energy levels, lab results, and symptoms within 3-6 months of following a personalized care plan.
6. Is a biopsy always needed?
No. Noninvasive tests'like blood work, ultrasound elastography (FibroScan) and MRI-usually provide enough information. A biopsy is reserved for unclear or advanced cases.
7. What foods should I avoid?
Avoid fried and highly processed foods, sugary drinks and snacks, and alcohol. Focus on fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean proteins.
8. Do I need supplements?
Only if Dr. Chadha recommends them. In some cases, vitamin E or other nutrients may be prescribed to support liver health.
9. Can kids get fibrosis?
Yes, but it's rare. Pediatric fibrosis often stems from congenital or genetic liver disorders rather than lifestyle factors.
10. How often should I get checked?
Most patients benefit from repeat blood tests and imaging every 6-12 months, though your schedule will be personalized based on your stage and risk factors.