Changes in the use of percutaneous liver biopsy over time

AIM: To study, through the pathology diagnosis obtained, the current use of percutaneous liver biopsy and its change with time. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Pathology diagnosis of 759 liver biopsies performed during last 5 years are reviewed and compared with our previously published experience. RESULTS: Neoplasms have decreased from 16% of all pathologic diagnosis obtained in 1961-81 to less than 1% in the last 5 years. In 1985-87, liver cirrhosis was the final diagnosis in 60% of all biopsies, while currently it is only 18%, with a steady absolute number of cirrhosis each year. The most remarkable change is the number of biopsy diagnosis of chronic hepatitis, which has increased from 19% in 1985-87 to 51% in the last 5 years. Ten percent of all biopsies was performed in HIV-positive patients; granulomatous hepatitis and tuberculosis were more prevalent in them. CONCLUSIONS: Percutaneous liver biopsy has been displaced for the diagnosis of liver cirrhosis and has been focussed on the diagnosis of chronic hepatitis. HIV-positive patients represent an important population for those who perform liver biopsy.