Liver biopsy in children 2014: who, whom, what, when, where, why?

Abstract

Liver biopsy is the standard procedure for obtaining hepatic tissue for histopathological examination. The three major techniques are percutaneous, transvenous, and laparoscopic/open biopsy, with either cutting or suction needles. The indications for liver biopsy are shifting as knowledge of etiologies, non-invasive biomarker alternatives, and treatment options in paediatric liver disease expand. This mini-review presents specific indications, alternative approaches, methods, complications, and contraindications for paediatric liver biopsy.