Understanding Liver Biopsy
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A liver biopsy is a special procedure that's safe and quick. It can help your doctor assess the health of the liver.
Who Needs a Liver Biopsy?
A liver biopsy may be done if you have:
Symptoms of a liver problem, such as jaundice (yellowing skin and eyes or dark urine), due to infection, scarring, or damage from medications
Abnormal liver imaging or blood tests
A chronic liver condition
What a Liver Biopsy Can Do
A liver biopsy helps your doctor diagnose a liver problem, such as cirrhosis or a fatty liver. It also aids him or her in assessing the cause and severity of your liver problem.
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Possible Risks and Complications
Infection
Internal bleeding from the liver
Damage to organs near the liver (lungs, gallbladder, or intestines)
Need for a second liver biopsy if not enough liver tissue was obtained the first time
