Correlation of fatty liver by CT scan, Ultrasound and lipid profile

Abstract

Background: Fatty liver disease also known as non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), is a growing health concern strongly associated with dyslipidemia and metabolic syndrome. Imaging modalities such as ultrasound (U.S.) and computed tomography (CT) are commonly used for non-invasive detection, alongside lipid profile evaluation. Patients and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted involving 50 patients clinically suspected of having fatty liver disease and 50 healthy cases. All subjects underwent abdominal ultrasound and non-contrast CT scanning. Concurrently, fasting blood samples were collected to assess serum lipid profile, including total cholesterol, LDL, HDL, and triglyceride levels. Imaging findings were graded for severity and compared with lipid parameters. Results: Abnormal HV Doppler waveforms (biphasic and monophasic) were found in 40% (20/50) and 12% (6/50) of cases, respectively, with a significantly higher prevalence in patients with fatty liver disease compared to healthy individuals (P < 0.001). No significant association was found between age or gender and fatty liver severity. The highest rate of monophasic waveform was observed in grade III (41.67%), while the highest biphasic pattern was seen in grade II (24%). A statistically significant correlation was found between fatty liver grade and Doppler waveform pattern (P < 0.0001). The highest triglyceride and cholesterol levels were recorded in grade III (249.8±56.41 mg/dL and 230.2±19.01 mg/dL, respectively). HDL was highest in grade III (49.5±2.16 mg/dL), while LDL was highest in grade I (142.8±9.63 mg/dL). Conclusion: Abnormal hepatic vein Doppler waveforms are significantly associated with the presence and severity of fatty liver disease. Doppler ultrasound, combined with lipid profiling, can serve as a useful non-invasive tool in assessing the progression of fatty liver disease.