Interpretation of liver biopsies for young hepatologists

A few decades ago it was common that experienced hepatologists had a major role in the interpretation of liver biopsy findings; in some cases the liver pathologist was indeed a clinician. The combination of clinical expertise and knowledge in pathology was considered very valuable. Nevertheless, the super-specialization of medicine and the incorporation of new (and more complex) diagnostic techniques in pathology has diminished the role of the liver disease specialist in the interpretation of liver biopsies. Pathologists are currently in charge of liver biopsy diagnosis. It is still very important, however, to discuss each case with the clinicians who are in charge of the patient. It is not uncommon that the findings in a liver biopsy may correspond to a wide spectrum of diseases. In such cases, a good clinical history, relevant laboratory results and imaging data may be crucial to narrow the diagnostic possibilities. The discussion between clinicians and pathologists is thus crucial to reach a diagnosis.