#17 - Endoscopic Ultrasound-guided Versus Percutaneous Liver Biopsy: a Real-world Comparison of Histologic Quality
Year: 2026
Type: article
Study design: Observational Study
Abstract: Introduction and Objectives Endoscopic ultrasound-guided liver biopsy (EUS-LB) has emerged as an alternative to percutaneous liver biopsy (PLB), with variable comparative results regarding histologic quality. Our study aimed to compare the histologic quality of samples obtained by PLB and EUS-LB in patients with parenchymal liver disease in real-world clinical practice. Secondary objectives included diagnostic adequacy and major adverse events associated with both procedures. Materials and Methods We conducted a retrospective study of patients undergoing liver biopsy for suspected parenchymal liver disease between March 2024 and November 2025. Histologic quality was assessed according to the number of portal tracts, proportion of samples with 11 portal tracts, and longest specimen length. Diagnostic adequacy was defined as the ability to achieve a conclusive histopathologic diagnosis. Results A total of 47 patients were included: 17 EUS-LB (36%) and 30 PLB (64%). Median age was 53 years (16–86), and 70% were female. EUS-LB showed a higher number of portal tracts (14 vs. 9; p=0.002) and greater specimen fragmentation (4 vs. 2; p=0.001). Samples with 11 portal tracts were more frequent with EUS-LB (58.8% vs. 30%; p=0.13), whereas the longest specimen length was similar between groups (15 vs. 15 mm; p=0.26). Diagnostic adequacy was 100% in both groups. No major adverse events were reported. Conclusions EUS-LB showed a higher number of portal tracts and adequate diagnostic performance, although with greater specimen fragmentation. These findings suggest that EUS-LB is a feasible and effective alternative in real-world clinical practice.
Source: Annals of Hepatology
Language: English
Subfield: Hepatology
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $1,500
OpenAlex ID: W7204236387