Journal of magnetic resonance imaging : JMRI
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J Magn Reson Imaging · May 2017
ReviewLiver fibrosis: Review of current imaging and MRI quantification techniques.
Liver fibrosis is characterized by the accumulation of extracellular matrix proteins such as collagen in the liver interstitial space. All causes of chronic liver disease may lead to fibrosis and cirrhosis. The severity of liver fibrosis influences the decision to treat or the need to monitor hepatic or extrahepatic complications. ⋯ Further, some techniques are only available on MRI-such as spin-lattice relaxation time in the rotating frame (T1 ρ), diffusion of water molecules, and hepatocellular function based on the uptake of a liver-specific contrast agent-remain investigational in the setting of liver fibrosis staging. In this review, we summarize the key concepts, advantages and limitations, and diagnostic performance of each technique. The use of multiparametric MRI techniques offers the potential for comprehensive assessment of chronic liver disease severity.