The controlled attenuation parameter (CAP): A novel tool for the non-invasive evaluation of steatosis using Fibroscan

Summary Steatosis is a reversible and benign condition. However, in a few cases, steatosis is associated with inflammation and hepatocyte changes, and is then defined as steato-hepatitis. Steatosis can also be a co-factor in many chronic liver diseases that can lead to fibrosis and cirrhosis. Although an important parameter, until now, evaluation of steatosis by non-invasive methods has remained challenging. In this paper, we report on the use of a novel non-invasive methodology called a controlled attenuation parameter (CAP). This is based on signals acquired by the Fibroscan® , which was developed to specifically assess liver steatosis concomitant to liver stiffness measurements (LSM). CAP's performance from published articles and communications is also reported.