What Does It Mean If My Child Needs a Liver Biopsy?
A liver biopsy for a child involves taking a small tissue sample from the liver to help diagnose issues such as jaundice, an enlarged liver, abnormal liver tests, or possible complications after a liver transplant.
Oct. 1, 2024
The liver is the largest organ in the body. It helps the body digest food, store energy, and get rid of poisons.
During a liver biopsy, the provider will take a small sample of the liver to test in a lab. Your child may need a liver biopsy if they have liver-related jaundice, enlarged or swollen liver, or abnormal liver-related blood tests. They may also need a biopsy if they have a transplanted liver and their provider suspects possible rejection or infection.
Learn more about liver biopsies from the North American Society for Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition (NASPGHAN).
Learn More About Liver Biopsies