MRI with diffusion-weighted image in assessment of hepatic fibrosis and steatosis

Abstract

Background FibroScan and diffusion MRI have been recommended for staging and noninvasive diagnosis of hepatic fibrosis and steatosis. Aim To evaluate the diagnostic efficiency of conventional MRI and diffusion-weighted imaging in diagnosis and staging of hepatic fibrosis and steatosis. Patients and methods This research was conducted on 30 patients proven to have hepatic fibrosis or steatosis based on clinical, laboratory, and/or ultrasonographic criteria. Both sexes were included. Their age ranged from 20 to 60 years. The participants were sent to the MRI Unit in the Department of Radiodiagnosis, Tanta University Hospitals, over a period of 12 months from March 2021 till March 2022. Results There was a significant difference between apparent diffusion coefficient values of F0 and F1, F3, and F4 (P=0.010, 0.041, and 0.019, respectively); however, no significant difference was observed among the other various fibrosis stages. Conclusions FibroScan is a good noninvasive route for detection of hepatic fibrosis and steatosis. It can differentiate among various phases of hepatic fibrosis and steatosis. MRI can differentiate between fibrotic and nonfibrotic liver and also steatotic from nonsteatotic liver. However, it cannot differentiate between various phases of hepatic fibrosis and steatosis, especially the intermediate stages.