Regression of liver fibrosis: evidence and challenges

It has been reported that liver fibrosis could be reversed after eliminating liver injuries. This article systematically summarizes the evidence of fibrosis regression based on histology, liver stiffness, and serum biomarkers, and discusses several clinically relevant challenges. Evidence from liver biopsy has been regarded as the gold standard in the assessment of fibrosis regression. Semi-quantitative staging and grading systems are traditionally and routinely used to define regression. Recently, the predominantly regressive, indeterminate, and predominantly progressive score was proposed, based on the regressive features from “hepatic repair complex”, to provide additional information regarding the quality of fibrosis. For non-invasive assessment, although liver stiffness and serum biomarkers could be applied to reflect the dynamic changes of liver fibrosis, other confounding factors such as liver inflammation have to be considered. In conclusion, both histology and non-invasive methods can provide evidence regarding fibrosis regression. The predictive value of fibrosis regression in long-term prognosis warrants further investigation.