Noninvasive monitoring of hepatitis C fibrosis progression.

Noninvasive approaches in the diagnosis and monitoring of fibrosis are still evolving. Transient elastography is an inexpensive, rapid, and relatively accurate form of noninvasive monitoring, especially in severe fibrosis It is a nascent technology, however, and there is no clear indication that elastography is better than biopsy for less severe fibrosis. With improved resolution and longer term data, it may become a vital supplement. The combined use of transient elastography and biochemical markers seems to be the most promising noninvasive technique.