Prevalence and Determinants of Hepatic Fibrosis and Steatosis as Measured by Fibroscan in an Unselected Population in Southern Nigeria

Abstract

Background: Fibroscan is a non-invasive medical device that uses proprietary vibration-controlled transient elastography to assess liver fibrosis and cirrhosis by measuring the degree of liver stiffness. Fibroscan remain a reliable tool for the diagnosis of liver diseases in patients with viral hepatitis, Alcoholic liver disease, and Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. Liver biopsy though the standard for assessment of liver fibrosis and steatosis, is not routinely performed due to its invasiveness, cost, and potential complications. Methodology: This is a descriptive cross-sectional study of 111 consenting unselected individuals visiting the medical outpatient clinic of RSUTH, as well as other centers in Port Harcourt, Nigeria. Results: The prevalence of hepatic steatosis and fibrosis in this study with a female: male ratio of 1.71 and mean age of 50.0±15.1 years was 29.7% and 5.5% respectively. Majority of the patients (94.6%) were in fibrosis stage F0F1 and 15% with CAP of ≥290dB/m. Hepatic steatosis was significantly higher in older, overweight or HBV infected patients while male sex and increased BMI were major determinants of fibrosis. Hepatitis C and morbid obesity were not significantly associated with hepatic steatosis and fibrosis respectively. Conclusion:  Fibroscan, though relatively expensive remains a safe, reproducible and non-invasive tool for evaluation of liver disease.