ASSESSING CIRCULATING ENDOTROPHIN AS A NON-INVASIVE MARKER OF CHRONIC LIVER FIBROSIS

Chronic liver disease (CLD) is a significant global public health concern, contributing to substantial morbidity and mortality. The prognosis and management of CLD are closely tied to the degree of liver fibrosis, which traditionally has been assessed via liver biopsy, the current gold standard. Histologic scoring systems developed for viral hepatitis have also been adapted for steatotic and alcohol-related liver diseases. However, liver biopsy is invasive, costly, and associated with patient discomfort and potential complications, motivating the development of non-invasive alternatives. Clinical scoring systems such as the aspartate aminotransferase-to-platelet ratio index (APRI) and fibrosis‑4 index (FIB‑4), derived from routine laboratory parameters, offer practical tools for fibrosis assessment. More recently, imaging techniques, including transient elastography (FibroScan) and magnetic resonance elastography, provide quantitative, non-invasive measures of liver stiffness, improving fibrosis detection and monitoring. This review highlights current methods for assessing liver fibrosis, emphasizing the advantages, limitations, and clinical applications of non-invasive approaches. Advancements in imaging and biomarker-based assessments are poised to reduce reliance on invasive procedures while enhancing early detection, monitoring, and management of CLD, ultimately improving patient outcomes