Feasibility of using portal vein pulsatility index for risk stratification in patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease
Jolanta Webb, Aintree University Hospital
Background
Non-alcoholic steatosis is the most common cause of abnormal liver function tests (LFTs). With rising levels of obesity, up to 30% of the general population are estimated to have steatosis. Prognosis depends on liver fibrosis rather than actual fat. Predicting which individuals will progress to steatohepatitis (NASH) and cirrhosis, with the inherent risk of developing hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), is of importance. The most definitive measure for diagnosing NASH and cirrhosis is a liver biopsy. Non-invasive methods to select individuals to undergo liver biopsy are in use, such as elastography, which measures liver stiffness (e.g. Fibroscan), and laboratory indices.