Enhanced Liver Fibrosis (ELF)™ Test
Also known as: ELF, Fatty Liver Disease, Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease, Nonalcoholic Steatohepatitis, Noninvasive Liver Biopsy
Use
The Enhanced Liver Fibrosis (ELF™) blood test is a simple, accurate, non-invasive test that provides a simple, unitless numeric score that is generated via an algorithm for use in advanced liver fibrosis. It is indicated as a prognostic marker in conjunction with other laboratory findings and clinical assessments in patients with advanced fibrosis (F3 or F4) due to non-hepatitis (NASH) to assess the likelihood of progression to cirrhosis and liver-related clinical events.1 Because ELF™ uses a blood sample rather than a biopsy, it can be used routinely for the same patient over time.
Special Instructions
The ELF™ score is derived from an algorithm that combines PIIINP, TIMP-1, and HA using direct chemiluminometric technology. The test uses two monoclonal mouse antibodies in a sandwich immunoassay format.
Limitations
Currently, there are no clear screening guidelines for Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD). The test is limited by its high sensitivity, which comes at the expense of limited specificity, leading to substantial false positive results in low prevalence settings. ELF scores may be influenced by age and gender, and even a small proportion of healthy individuals can have high values, requiring cautious interpretation.
Methodology
Immunoassay (CLIA)
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 88055-9
- 48795-9
Result Turnaround Time
3-6 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Serum
Volume
2.5 mL
Minimum Volume
1 mL
Container
Gel-barrier tube or red-top tube
Collection Instructions
Complete clot formation should take place before centrifugation. Serum should be physically separated from cells within two hours of collection.
Storage Instructions
Refrigerate.
Causes for Rejection
Plasma sample; hemolyzed sample.
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 48 hours |
| Refrigerated | 7 days |
| Frozen | ≤ -20°C for up to 12 months |