Liver elastography

Liver Elastography

We remind you that independent interpretation of the results is unacceptable, the information provided below is for reference purposes only.

Liver elastography is a non-invasive imaging technique that measures the stiffness or elasticity of the liver tissue. It is particularly useful in the assessment and monitoring of liver fibrosis, which is a common consequence of various chronic liver diseases, such as viral hepatitis, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), and alcoholic liver disease.

Principles and Applications of Liver Elastography

Liver elastography works by sending low-frequency shear waves into the liver tissue and measuring the propagation speed of these waves. The stiffer the liver tissue, the faster the shear waves will travel. By analyzing the wave propagation, the elasticity or stiffness of the liver can be quantified and expressed in kilopascals (kPa).

The main applications of liver elastography include:

• Diagnosing and staging liver fibrosis
• Monitoring the progression or regression of liver fibrosis
• Assessing the risk of developing liver-related complications
• Evaluating the response to treatment for chronic liver diseases

Liver elastography can be performed using different modalities, such as ultrasound-based elastography (e.g., FibroScan) or magnetic resonance elastography (MRE).

Liver elastography has become an important tool in the management of chronic liver diseases, as it provides valuable information about the degree of liver fibrosis and can help guide treatment decisions and monitor disease progression or response to therapy.

Role of Liver Elastography in Diagnosis

Liver elastography is a non-invasive imaging technique used to assess the stiffness or elasticity of the liver tissue. This technique plays a crucial role in the diagnosis and monitoring of various liver conditions, particularly those related to fibrosis and cirrhosis. By measuring the stiffness of the liver, elastography can provide valuable information about the presence and severity of liver disease.

Indications for Liver Elastography

Liver elastography is recommended in the following cases:

• Evaluation of liver fibrosis: Elastography is widely used to detect and stage liver fibrosis, which is the buildup of scar tissue in the liver. This technique can help differentiate between various stages of fibrosis, from mild to severe, and aid in the diagnosis of conditions like chronic hepatitis and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD).
• Monitoring progression of liver disease: Elastography can be employed to monitor the progression of liver diseases over time, allowing healthcare professionals to assess the effectiveness of treatments and make informed decisions about disease management.
• Screening for cirrhosis: Cirrhosis is an advanced stage of liver disease characterized by extensive scarring and loss of liver function. Elastography can help identify patients with cirrhosis, enabling timely interventions and appropriate management strategies.
• Evaluation of portal hypertension: In patients with liver cirrhosis, elastography can provide information about the presence and severity of portal hypertension, which is a complication that can lead to serious consequences if left untreated.

Preparation for Liver Elastography Procedure

The preparation for a liver elastography procedure typically involves the following steps:

• Fasting: You may be asked to fast for several hours (usually 6-8 hours) before the procedure to ensure accurate results.
• Avoiding certain medications: Inform your healthcare provider about any medications you are taking, as some may need to be temporarily discontinued before the procedure.
• Hydration: Drink plenty of water and avoid dehydration, as it can affect the accuracy of the results.
• Loose clothing: Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing that allows easy access to the upper abdomen.

Liver Elastography Procedure

The liver elastography procedure is typically performed as follows:

1. You will lie on your back on an examination table, with your right arm raised above your head to expose the right upper abdomen.

2. A healthcare professional will apply a water-based gel to your skin to help transmit the ultrasound waves.

3. The healthcare professional will then place an ultrasound probe on your abdomen and gently press it against your skin.

4. The ultrasound machine will emit sound waves that travel through your body and reflect off the liver tissue, creating images and measurements of liver stiffness.

5. You may be asked to hold your breath for a few seconds during the imaging process to ensure clear and accurate images.

6. The procedure is generally painless and takes approximately 10-20 minutes to complete.

Sources:

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/elastography-liver
https://www.healthline.com/health/liver-elastography
https://www.mskcc.org/cancer-care/patient-education/understanding-your-fibroscan-results
https://medlineplus.gov/lab-tests/elastography/
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diagnostics/23335-elastography

IMPORTANT!

It is crucial to remember that the information provided in this section is not intended for self-diagnosis or self-treatment. If you experience any pain or exacerbation of symptoms, it is essential to consult a healthcare professional for diagnostic tests and proper medical advice. Only a qualified specialist can accurately diagnose and determine the appropriate treatment. To ensure the most accurate and consistent evaluation of test results, it is recommended to have them performed at the same laboratory. Different laboratories may use varying methods and units of measurement for similar tests.