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Pitfalls and sources of variability in two dimensional shear wave elastography of the liver: An overview
Author(s) -
Zelesco Marilyn,
Abbott Steve,
O'Hara Sandra
Publication year - 2018
Publication title -
sonography
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
eISSN - 2054-6750
pISSN - 2202-8323
DOI - 10.1002/sono.12132
Subject(s) - magnetic resonance elastography , cirrhosis , medicine , elastography , chronic liver disease , transient elastography , hepatocellular carcinoma , liver biopsy , fibrosis , liver disease , hepatic fibrosis , portal hypertension , radiology , ultrasound , confounding , magnetic resonance imaging , pathology , liver fibrosis , biopsy
Abstract Chronic liver diseases are a substantial worldwide problem that are increasing in prevalence. All forms of chronic liver disease have the potential to lead to a deposition of fibrous tissue within the liver resulting in the development of cirrhosis with its consequences – portal hypertension, hepatic failure or hepatocellular carcinoma. In recent years, new treatments for the management of liver fibrosis have been developed. However, the medical field has not been able to meet the demands for a non‐invasive diagnostic and monitoring method in these patients. Magnetic resonance (MR) and ultrasound elastography are rapidly becoming the method of choice for the assessment of liver fibrosis; replacing liver biopsy for diagnosis, evaluation of disease progression and treatment monitoring. However, both MR and ultrasound elastography estimate liver stiffness, of which fibrosis is only one cause. Multiple confounding factors are present. This paper looks at these potential sources of variability that sonographers need to consider when undertaking an hepatic two‐dimensional shear wave elastogram.