Evaluating the accuracy of APRI and FIB-4 scores in chronic HBV-related liver fibrosis: A literature review

Chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection poses significant risks to liver health, often progressing to complications such as fibrosis, cirrhosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma. Accurate assessment of liver fibrosis is essential for guiding treatment decisions and improving patient outcomes. Non-invasive scoring systems like the AST to Platelet Ratio Index (APRI) and the Fibrosis Index Based on 4 Factors (FIB-4) have emerged as reliable alternatives to invasive liver biopsy. These tools utilize readily available biomarkers to classify patients based on fibrosis severity, supporting early intervention and reducing the risks associated with traditional diagnostic methods.
This review evaluates the diagnostic performance of APRI and FIB-4 in chronic HBV-related liver fibrosis. Studies indicate that while APRI is valued for its simplicity, FIB-4 demonstrates superior sensitivity and specificity, particularly in older populations. Both scores show strong correlations with histological findings and serve as effective tools for diagnosing significant fibrosis and cirrhosis. However, factors such as liver inflammation, comorbidities, and variable fibrosis distribution can influence their accuracy, highlighting the need for careful interpretation.
Comparison with advanced methods like FibroScan® underscores the limitations of biochemical indices alone and the importance of combining multiple diagnostic approaches. Future research should focus on longitudinal studies and algorithm optimization to enhance the utility of these non-invasive tools. Integrating APRI and FIB-4 into clinical practice offers a cost-effective and accessible strategy for managing chronic HBV-related liver fibrosis, ultimately improving patient care and outcomes