A liver biopsy involves inserting a long needle between
the ribs to collect a small sample of liver tissue. Samples of liver tissue
can then be examined under a microscope to further evaluate a suspected or
known liver disease.
A liver biopsy may be done after other tests have failed
to provide a clear diagnosis or determine the severity of a liver problem.
It can also be used to monitor certain forms of liver disease, such
as hepatitis C. A liver biopsy can reveal long-term inflammation (chronic
hepatitis), scar tissue formation (cirrhosis), or cancer.
