Magnetic resonance elastography of the liver

Elastography evaluates the intrinsic mechanical viscoelastic properties of liver parenchyma and allow for estimation of liver stiffness (LS), whereby elevated stiffness is associated with presence of advanced fibrosis. Measurement of liver stiffness by magnetic resonance elastography (MRE) has been tested for staging of liver disease in a variety of patients, providing convincing data especially among those with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. Beyond diagnosis, non-invasive measures may have a prognostic role. Measurement of LS by MRE may serve as a complementary tool to monitor progression of disease. However, clinical algorithms are needed whereby MRE and other non-invasive markers can seamlessly be incorporated in care of patients with CLD, keeping in mind the cost, accessibility and incremental clinical utility offered above and beyond that which may be gained by simple bedside clinical assessment.