Quantitative ultrasound (QUS) in the evaluation of liver steatosis: data reliability in different respiratory phases and body positions

• DOI: 10.1007/s11547-024-01786-y
• Publication Date: 2024-03-21T11:02:22Z
• Authors: Aldo Rocca; Klara Komici; Maria Chiara Brunese; Giulia Pacella; Pasquale Avella; Chiara Di Benedetto; Corrado Caiazzo; Marcello Zappia; Luca Brunese; Gianfranco Vallone
• Keywords: Steatosis; Sitting; Liver disease; Steatohepatitis; Chronic liver disease; Expiration

Abstract Liver steatosis is the most common chronic liver disease and affects 10–24% of general population. As grade can range from fat infiltration to steatohepatitis cirrhosis, an early diagnosis needed set appropriate therapy. Innovative noninvasive radiological techniques have been developed through MRI US. MRI-PDFF reference standard, but it not so widely diffused due its cost. For this reason, ultrasound tools validated study parenchyma. The qualitative assessment brightness parenchyma has now supported by quantitative values attenuation scattering make analysis objective reproducible. We aim demonstrate reliability in assessing confirm inter-operator different respiratory phases. enrolled 45 patients examined during normal breathing at rest, peak inspiration, expiration, semi-sitting position. highest agreement both parameters was achieved inspiration followed In conclusion, technology also allows monitor uncompliant patients, as grants high reproducibility body position