Diagnostic Value of 2d-Swe in the Treatment Process of Diffuse Liver Disease

Abstract

Background: Two-dimensional shear wave elastography (2D-SWE) is a modern diagnostic meth-od for evaluating liver fibrosis. It is non-invasive, performed in real-time, and results are availa-ble immediately. 2D-SWE is integrated into the diagnostic apparatus of ultrasound imaging and allows us to determine the overall distribution of fibrosis in the liver during the examination. Therefore, it is possible to use this technique during the treatment process in chronic liver disease to monitor fibrosis assessment.
Objective: Revealing the diagnostic capabilities of shear wave elastography in the process of treating diffuse liver disease.
Materials and Methods: The examination included 52 patients with chronic liver disease. Before and 24 weeks after the treatment, we performed an ultrasound examination of the abdominal, 2D-SWE, conducted several laboratory analyses, and compared the obtained results.
Results: At 24 weeks after treatment, liver stiffness values detected by 2D-SWE decreased from 17.51 kPa to 15.45 kPa (p < 0.001). Also, spleen length (p<0.05), ALT (p < 0.001), and AST (p<0.01) in blood serum were decreased. There was a statistically significant increase in hemoglobin (p<0.001) and serum albumin (p<0.001) levels. Platelet count increased (p<0.001).

Conclusion: 2D-SWE helps monitor liver fibrosis during the treatment period.