Magnetic resonance elastography (MRE) assesses tissue stiffness in vivo by imaging propagating shear waves through the tissues and processing the wave information. MRE is a robust technology with excellent technical success; is applicable in almost all patients and body habitus; and has excellent reproducibility, repeatability, and interobserver agreement for assessing liver stiffness. It is currently the most accurate noninvasive technique for detection and staging of liver fibrosis and has the potential to replace liver biopsy. This article describes the principles and technique of MRE, current clinical applications, and emerging clinical indications.
Key points
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Magnetic resonance elastography (MRE) is the most accurate currently available technique for noninvasive detection of liver fibrosis.
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MRE can accurately differentiate simple steatosis from nonalcoholic steatohepatitis with or without fibrosis.
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MRE is a promising technique for characterization of focal liver lesions.
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MRE may be useful for during follow-up of chronic liver diseases and assessment of treatment response.