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InstaDiag Liver: Speeding Up the Diagnosis of Suspected Liver Abnormalities
A liver abnormality detected during an ultrasound, CT scan, MRI, or outpatient workup may require prompt specialized evaluation. Launched in 2024, InstaDiag Foie coordinates the initial steps of diagnosis and treatment planning within a short timeframe. This care pathway is designed for patients with a suspected or recently diagnosed liver tumor.
InstaDiag Liver—what is it?
InstaDiag Liver is a rapid diagnostic pathway designed for suspected or recently diagnosed liver tumors. It is based on the coordinated scheduling of appointments, imaging tests, any necessary biopsies, and review of the patient’s medical records by several specialists.
Some liver abnormalities may turn out to be benign, while others require specialized care. The initial evaluation helps determine whether each patient should undergo monitoring, additional tests, or a tailored treatment strategy.
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2024
Launch of the InstaDiag Liver care pathway at Gustave Roussy.
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48 hours maximum
An initial consultation may be scheduled within a maximum of 48 hours, during business hours, after the request has been reviewed.
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7 days
The treatment strategy can be approved at a multidisciplinary consultation meeting within 7 days, depending on the necessary tests and the patient's condition.
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A file prepared in advance: a medical assistant helps gather the relevant reports, images, and test results.
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A multidisciplinary consultation: The patient may meet with several specialists involved in the diagnosis and treatment of liver tumors.
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Promptly scheduled tests: Dedicated time slots can be arranged for imaging, endoscopic ultrasound, or a biopsy, as needed.
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A shared decision: The results are included in a summary consultation report and then discussed during a multidisciplinary consultation meeting.
The process may include, among other things:
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a multidisciplinary consultation with liver specialists;
an ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI; -
an endoscopic ultrasound, when an endoscopic examination is necessary;
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a percutaneous biopsy, i.e., a sample taken through the skin under imaging guidance;
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a follow-up consultation;
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a multidisciplinary team meeting;
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support consultations, for example in nutrition, hepatology, addiction medicine, geriatrics, or pain management.
These tests and consultations are not routine. They are scheduled based on the results already available, the nature of the abnormality, the patient’s overall condition, and the questions the evaluation is intended to answer. The diagnosis of liver cancer is based on a combination of clinical, laboratory, and radiological findings; in some situations, analysis of a biopsy sample may be necessary[1].
Who is InstaDiag Foie intended for?
InstaDiag Liver is intended for patients with a suspected or recently diagnosed liver tumor. The request can be made directly by the patient or through a primary care physician, radiologist, gastroenterologist, hepatologist, or other specialist.
This process begins after an abnormality has been detected. It does not replace routine medical care, particularly for individuals already being treated for chronic liver disease. Its purpose is to expedite specialized evaluation in order to determine the nature of the tumor and the available treatment options.
Useful documents include consultation reports, imaging results, corresponding images, laboratory test results, current treatments, and, when available, biopsy results or pathological examination findings.
The process is designed to minimize wait times. An initial consultation may be scheduled shortly after the patient’s file is compiled. Some tests can be performed the same day; others—particularly invasive procedures—may need to be scheduled for the following days.
After the diagnosis: What's the next step?
Following the evaluation, additional tests may be performed, and the patient’s case may be discussed during a multidisciplinary team meeting. The treatment strategy may combine surgery, locoregional or systemic therapy, radiation therapy, clinical trials, and supportive care. It depends on the type and extent of the tumor, the condition of the liver, the patient’s overall health, and any other medical conditions. In cases of primary liver cancer, chronic liver disease—particularly cirrhosis—is often present and factored into the decision-making process[2].
Schedule an appointment for InstaDiag Liver
The InstaDiag Liver pathway is intended for patients with a suspected or recently diagnosed liver tumor requiring rapid specialized evaluation. If your situation meets the criteria for this pathway, you may submit a request for an appointment along with your available medical records so that the teams can review your request and arrange the necessary tests.
Bibliography
[1] National Cancer Institute. Diagnosis of Liver Cancer.
[2] National Cancer Institute. Liver Cancer: The Basics.
[3] National Cancer Institute. Liver Tumors.