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Elastography Test

Elastography is an imaging test that checks if your organs, especially the liver, are stiffer than normal. Stiff areas can be a sign of scar tissue (fibrosis) caused by liver disease. The test helps find liver scarring early so treatment can start before damage becomes severe.

What this test measures

Elastography measures the stiffness of your liver tissue and the amount of fat buildup in your liver. Stiffness indicates scarring (fibrosis), and fat buildup is measured as a CAP score.

What your results mean

Reference ranges vary by laboratory and by your age and sex. MedlinePlus does not publish a single normal range for this test — always read your result against the range printed on your own lab report and discuss it with your provider.

Higher-than-normal results

Higher stiffness scores (F2 to F4) mean more liver scarring. F2 is moderate scarring, F3 is severe, and F4 is cirrhosis (very severe scarring). Higher CAP scores mean more fat in the liver (fatty liver disease), which may cause fibrosis.

Lower-than-normal results

Lower stiffness scores (F0 to F1) mean little or no scarring in the liver, which is normal. A CAP score of 5% or less means a normal amount of fat in the liver.

Frequently asked questions

What is elastography?

Elastography is an imaging test that checks if your organs, especially the liver, are stiffer than normal. Stiff areas can be a sign of disease.

Why is elastography used?

It is used to check for liver fibrosis (scarring) and may be used instead of a liver biopsy. It can help diagnose liver conditions, show how serious liver disease is, guide treatment, and monitor treatment.

What do the fibrosis scores mean?

F0 to F1 is normal (little or no scarring). F2 is moderate scarring. F3 is severe scarring. F4 is cirrhosis (very severe scarring).

What is a CAP score?

A CAP score measures the percentage of fat in your liver. A normal liver has 5% or less fat. Higher amounts mean you have fatty liver disease.

Can liver scarring improve?

Yes, if you have mild to severe fibrosis and/or fatty liver disease, treating the cause and making lifestyle changes can improve your condition. If you have cirrhosis, treatment may keep scarring from getting worse and may slowly improve some scarring.

Related lab tests

Sources

Last updated . Information is aggregated from official public sources and is not a substitute for professional medical care.