Liver Ultrasound or FibroScan: Why You May Be Asked to Have Both
Bloating & DigestionArticleLiver appearance and stiffness answer different questions in an assessment.
In this article
If you have already had a liver ultrasound, a second scan request may leave you wondering what the first appointment missed. Before assuming the tests repeat the same work, ask what the next one is meant to measure.
What the ultrasound looks for
Cambridge University Hospitals explains that ultrasound can assess possible fatty liver and features of severe scarring, including liver shape and spleen size. It does not directly measure the degree of scarring.1
Ask the clinician to explain the wording on your report. Point to the term you do not understand and ask what it establishes, what remains uncertain and which question the next test addresses.
What FibroScan measures
FibroScan uses a pulse of vibration through the skin over the liver. The probe measures stiffness to estimate fibrosis, another word for scarring. Increased stiffness may indicate liver damage. Unlike the ultrasound described above, it does not take pictures of the liver.1
When discussing the result, ask what the estimate means for your own assessment. Request an explanation of the next step before trying to interpret a number by itself.
Why the assessment may include more than scans
Blood tests help investigate causes of liver disease and related conditions; some offer a broad indication of possible scarring. CUH also describes MRI elastography as an option when FibroScan cannot be performed or does not give reliable readings.1
If you are offered another test, ask why it was selected and how its result will affect the plan. Write the answer beside the test’s name. Keep the appointment instructions with it, and contact that clinic about anything unclear in the preparation.
Bring the question that is bothering you
You can say: “I thought my ultrasound had already answered the liver question. Please explain what the FibroScan adds and when we will discuss the results together.”
If you feel worried about the referral, say that too. Ask who will review the reports, whether you need to arrange the follow-up yourself and whom to contact if the appointment has not arrived.
Bloated by Dinner includes a Test It list and visit script. Use the visit script to prepare your explanation and keep your testing questions together for the appointment.
This article is for general educational purposes only and is not medical advice. It isn't a substitute for diagnosis or treatment from a qualified healthcare professional who knows your health history. Please don't ignore professional advice or delay getting care because of something you read here. If you think you may be having a medical emergency, call 911 or your local emergency number right away. Girl Playbook does not endorse any specific product, test, or provider.
Girl Playbook sells this book. It provides education and worksheets, not individualized medical care.
Sources
The research behind this article, in the order it’s cited. How we source our articles.
- Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, 2025Metabolic dysfunction associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), assessment tests (opens in a new tab)abcd
Spotted something out of date? Tell us and we’ll check it.
