Karolinska Institutet Develops Blood Test for Early Liver Disease Detection

What's Happening?

Researchers at Karolinska Institutet have developed a simple blood test that can predict the risk of severe liver disease years before symptoms appear. Published in The BMJ, the study introduces the CORE model, which uses routine blood tests to assess the risk of liver cirrhosis and cancer. The model, based on age, sex, and liver enzyme levels, aims to facilitate early screening in primary care settings. The test has shown high accuracy in predicting liver disease, outperforming existing methods like FIB-4, and is available through a web-based calculator for healthcare professionals.

Why It's Important?

The development of this blood test represents a significant advancement in preventive healthcare, offering a tool for early detection of liver diseases that are often diagnosed late with poor prognosis. By enabling early intervention, the test could improve patient outcomes and reduce healthcare costs associated with advanced liver disease treatments. This innovation highlights the potential of personalized medicine in transforming disease management, particularly for conditions with high prevalence and impact. The test's integration into primary care could lead to widespread adoption, influencing public health strategies and clinical practices.

What's Next?

Further testing of the CORE model is needed in high-risk groups, such as individuals with type 2 diabetes or obesity, to validate its effectiveness across diverse populations. Researchers aim to integrate the model into medical records systems to streamline its use in clinical settings. The availability of drug treatments for high-risk individuals could complement the test, offering a comprehensive approach to liver disease prevention. Continued collaboration with international health institutions may expand the test's application globally, enhancing its impact on liver disease management.