What is the four-item fiber test?
May 16, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Shuwen
Introduction
The four-item liver fibrosis test mainly includes hyaluronidase, serum type III collagen, type IV collagen, and laminin. It is primarily used to assess whether the liver has any diseases and to determine the severity of the condition. Before undergoing the test, patients should remain emotionally stable and avoid smoking and drinking alcohol. If abnormal indicators are detected, timely treatment should be initiated.
Generally, the four-item fibrosis test is used to assess whether there is liver fibrosis or even cirrhosis. It includes hyaluronidase, serum type III collagen, type IV collagen, and laminin. The specific analysis is as follows:
1. Hyaluronidase
Mainly taken up and degraded by hepatic endothelial cells, it accurately reflects the extent of liver fibrosis and hepatocyte damage. The normal range is 50–180 ng/mL. Elevated levels indicate liver cirrhosis and liver fibrosis.
2. Serum Type III Collagen
This indicator is primarily used to evaluate the severity of liver cirrhosis and fibrosis. In patients with chronic hepatitis, primary liver cancer, or similar conditions, serum type III collagen levels are significantly elevated. Higher values generally correlate with more severe disease.
3. Type IV Collagen
A major component of the basement membrane's reticular structure, it participates in extracellular matrix formation and serves as an early marker for detecting liver fibrosis.
4. Laminin
A non-collagenous glycoprotein that forms part of the extracellular matrix, synthesized mainly by hepatic endothelial cells and stellate cells. It helps assess the progression of liver fibrosis and is also associated with tumor metastasis.
Prior to testing, patients should maintain emotional stability and avoid smoking and alcohol consumption. If abnormal results are detected, timely treatment is necessary.
