What does an ultrasound tell you about liver fibrosis?

The manifestations of ultrasound in the presence of fibrosis in the liver are divided into direct and indirect signs. They are as follows: 1. Direct signs: When fibrosis occurs in the liver, the direct signs are atrophy of the liver, i.e., the volume is reduced, the surface of the liver is uneven and not smooth, and the edges of the liver are blunt. The echoes are diffusely thickened and enhanced, uneven, and occasionally hyperechoic. The hepatic veins are thin, stiff and tortuous. In the presence of cirrhosis, the liver can be seen unevenly distributed small nodules. 2. Indirect signs: Indirect signs of liver fibrosis are increased spleen size, small amount of fluid in the abdominal cavity, and decreased diameter of intrahepatic veins. If liver fibrosis leads to portal hypertension, abdominal ultrasound can detect that the internal diameter of the main portal vein is >13mm and the internal diameter of the splenic vein is >8mm, and it can also detect the speed and direction of blood flow in the portal vein. If the ultrasound suggests that liver fibrosis has occurred, you should consult the attending physician to clarify the cause of the disease and standardize the treatment under the doctor’s guidance.