Ultrasound elastography in the noninvasive diagnosis of liver disease in children: A review

Abstract

The objective of this review is to examine the clinical utility of ultrasound elastography (UE) in the work up of chronic pediatric liver disease as described in recent literature. We will discuss the technical aspects of the various UE techniques and review the elastography findings in several specific etiologies of chronic pediatric liver disease. These include non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, chronic viral hepatitis, cystic fibrosis, biliary atresia and liver transplant. Lastly, we will discuss the future direction of UE and unanswered questions that require further investigation before UE can be incorporated into routine clinical practice.

Conclusion – Research over the past several years has shown ultrasound elastography to be a potentially useful tool in assessing extent, progression and prognosis of chronic pediatric liver disease. There are many potential clinical indications for the use of elastography in the evaluation of pediatric liver disease.  Familiarity with this new non-invasive technique will be imperative in upcoming years as it moves from research into clinical practice.