Preface

Article information

Clin Mol Hepatol. 2024;30(Suppl):S3-S3
Publication date (electronic) : 2024 August 8
doi : https://doi.org/10.3350/cmh.2024.0595
1Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
2Editor-in-Chief Emeritus, Clinical and Molecular Hepatology
3Chair of the Guideline Development Committee

It is with great pride that I announce the release of the “Korean Association for the Study of the Liver (KASL) Clinical Practice Guidelines for Noninvasive Tests To Assess Liver Fibrosis in Chronic Liver Disease.” This guideline is the result of a dedicated, collaborative effort by an exceptional team of experts. Their collective expertise and rigorous review of both Korean and international literature have culminated in this comprehensive guideline. We have meticulously reviewed studies and integrated consensus opinions where data were sparse, ensuring that our guidelines are both evidence-based and reflective of clinical realities in Korea.

Liver fibrosis, a condition characterized by scar-like changes in the liver due to prolonged inflammation, is a critical aspect of chronic liver disease (CLD) [1]. Traditionally, liver biopsy has been the gold standard for evaluating liver fibrosis; however, it is invasive and carries a risk of complications [2]. Therefore, the need for noninvasive tests (NITs) has reached an unprecedented level. This guideline offers healthcare providers practical, evidence-based recommendations for using NITs to assess liver fibrosis in patients with various forms of CLD.

Our guidelines are designed to be a valuable resource for a wide range of healthcare providers. They offer detailed information about the types of NITs available, their diagnostic performance, cost-effectiveness, and applicability in both adult and pediatric populations. Therefore, they will enable more accurate diagnosis, better monitoring of disease progression, and ultimately, improved patient outcomes.

It is our hope that this guideline will serve as a cornerstone for improving the diagnosis and management of liver fibrosis in CLD, benefiting both healthcare providers and patients. On behalf of the KASL and the entire guideline development committee, I extend my deepest gratitude to all who contributed to this monumental effort.

References

1. Wang Y, Song SJ, Jiang Y, Lai JC, Wong GL, Wong VW, et al. Role of noninvasive tests in the prognostication of metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease. Clin Mol Hepatol 2024;Jun. 27. doi: 10.3350/cmh.2024.0246.
2. Yoo JJ, Park SY, Moon JE, Lee YR, Lee HA, Lee J, et al. Long-term prognosis and the need for histologic assessment of chronic hepatitis B in the serological immune-tolerant phase. Clin Mol Hepatol 2023;29:482–495.

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