Hepatic steatosis: a major trap in liver imaging

Abstract

Hepatic steatosis is a common condition, the prevalence of which is increasing along with non-alcoholic hepatic steatosis. In imaging, it can present in a typical homogeneous or heterogeneous way. Some forms create traps in imaging, whether localised steatosis is concerned or areas which have been spared by steatosis, and the purpose of this paper is to explain and illustrate them. The role of different imaging methods is described while emphasizing the importance of MRI.

Keywords: Heterogeneous steatosis; Liver; MRI; Steatosis.