Usefulness of FibroScan-AST (FAST) score in Japanese patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease: A single-center retrospective experience

Abstract

FibroScan-AST (FAST) score, which is calculated based on aspartate transaminase, controlled attenuation parameter, and liver stiffness measurement, was recently reported to be useful as a non-invasive assessment for non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NASH) patients with significant activity [non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) activity score of ≥4] and advanced fibrosis (F≥2). The aim of this retrospective study was to investigate the usefulness of FAST score for Japanese patients with NAFLD. A total of 34 patients who received liver biopsy between April 2018 and March 2020 at Gunma Saiseikai Maebashi Hospital were included. The cut-off value for FAST score was 0.43, with 92.9% sensitivity, 75.0% specificity, and area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (95% confidence interval) of 0.86 (0.74-0.99). In conclusion, FAST score is a useful tool for identifying NASH patients with significant activity and advanced fibrosis. Further study is warranted to establish the optimum cut-off value of FAST score in Japanese patients.