1
|
Gomes NBN, Torres US, Caiado AHM, Fucuta PS, Ferraz MLCG, D'Ippolito G. Diagnostic accuracy of an uncorrected native T1 mapping sequence for liver fibrosis and inflammation in autoimmune hepatitis: a prospective study using histopathology as reference standard. LA RADIOLOGIA MEDICA 2024; 129:1431-1443. [PMID: 39106024 DOI: 10.1007/s11547-024-01863-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2024] [Accepted: 07/25/2024] [Indexed: 08/07/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE There is an unmet clinical need for non-invasive imaging biomarkers that could replace liver biopsy in the management of patients with autoimmune hepatitis (AIH). In this study, we sought to evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of a simple uncorrected, non-contrast T1 mapping for detecting fibrosis and inflammation in AIH patients using histopathology as a reference standard. MATERIAL AND METHODS Over 3 years, 33 patients with AIH were prospectively studied using a multiparametric liver MRI protocol which included T1 mapping. Biopsies were performed up to 3 months before imaging, and a standardized histopathological score for fibrosis (F0-F4) and inflammatory activity (PPA0-4) was used as a reference. Statistical analysis included independent t test, Mann-Whitney U-test, and ROC (receiver operating characteristic) analysis. RESULTS T1 mapping values were significantly higher in patients with advanced fibrosis (F0-2 vs. F3-4; p < 0.015), significant fibrosis (F0-1 vs. F2-4; p < 0.005), and significant inflammatory activity (PPA 0-1 vs. PPA 2-4 p = 0.048). Moreover, the technique demonstrated a good diagnostic performance in detecting significant (AUC 0.856) and advanced fibrosis (AUC 0.835), as well as significant inflammatory activity (AUC 0.763). CONCLUSION A rapid, simple, uncorrected, non-contrast T1 mapping sequence showed satisfactory diagnostic performance in comparison with histopathology for detecting significant tissue inflammation and fibrosis in AIH patients, being a potential non-invasive imaging biomarker for monitoring disease activity in such individuals.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Natália B N Gomes
- Grupo Fleury, São Paulo, Brazil.
- Department of Diagnostic Imaging, Escola Paulista de Medicina, Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP), Vila Clementino Rua Napoleão de Barros, 800, São Paulo, SP, 04024-000, Brazil.
| | - Ulysses S Torres
- Grupo Fleury, São Paulo, Brazil
- Department of Diagnostic Imaging, Escola Paulista de Medicina, Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP), Vila Clementino Rua Napoleão de Barros, 800, São Paulo, SP, 04024-000, Brazil
| | | | - Patricia S Fucuta
- Hospital de Base, Faculdade de Medicina de São José do Rio Preto (FAMERP), São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Maria Lucia C G Ferraz
- Department of Gastroenterology, Escola Paulista de Medicina, Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP), São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Giuseppe D'Ippolito
- Grupo Fleury, São Paulo, Brazil
- Department of Diagnostic Imaging, Escola Paulista de Medicina, Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP), Vila Clementino Rua Napoleão de Barros, 800, São Paulo, SP, 04024-000, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Alkhouri N, Beyer C, Shumbayawonda E, Andersson A, Yale K, Rolph T, Chung RT, Vuppalanchi R, Cusi K, Loomba R, Pansini M, Dennis A. Decreases in cT1 and liver fat content reflect treatment-induced histological improvements in MASH. J Hepatol 2024:S0168-8278(24)02559-5. [PMID: 39326675 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2024.08.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2023] [Revised: 08/26/2024] [Accepted: 08/29/2024] [Indexed: 09/28/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS MRI biomarkers of liver disease are robust and reproducible alternatives to liver biopsy. Emerging data suggest that absolute reduction in iron corrected T1 (cT1) of ≥ 80 ms and relative reduction in liver fat content of 30% reflect histological improvement. We aimed to validate the associations of changes to these noninvasive biomarkers with histological improvement, specifically the resolution of steatohepatitis. METHODS A retrospective analysis of participants from three interventional clinical trials who underwent multiparametric MRI to measure liver cT1 and liver fat content (LFC) (LiverMultiScan) alongside biopsies at baseline and end of study. Responders were defined as those achieving resolution of steatohepatitis with no worsening in fibrosis. Differences in the magnitude of change in cT1 and LFC between responders and non-responders was assessed. RESULTS Individual patient data from 150 participants were included. There was a significant decrease in liver cT1 (-119 ms vs. -49 ms) and liver fat content (-65% vs. -29%) in responders compared to non-responders (P < .001) respectively. The diagnostic accuracy to identify responders was 0.72 (AUC) for both. The Youden's index for cT1 to separate responders from non-responders was -82 ms and for liver fat was a 58% relative reduction. Those achieving a ≥ 80 ms reduction in cT1 were 5-times more likely to achieve histological response (sens 0.68; spec 0.70). Those achieving a 30% relative reduction in liver fat were ∼4 times more likely to achieve a histological response (sens 0.77; spec 0.53). CONCLUSIONS These results, from three combined drug trials, demonstrate that changes in multiparametric MRI markers of liver health (cT1 and PDFF) can predict histological response for steatohepatitis following therapeutic intervention. IMPACT AND IMPLICATIONS There is great interest in identifying suitable biomarkers that can be used to replace liver biopsy, or to identify those patients who would benefit from one, in both the clinical management of MASH and in drug development. We investigated the utility of two MRI-derived non-invasive tests, iron corrected T1 mapping (cT1) and liver fat content from proton density fat fraction (PDFF), to predict histological improvement in patients who had undergone experimental treatment for MASH. Using data from 150 people who participated in one of three clinical trials, we observed that a reduction in cT1 by over 80 ms and a relative reduction in PDFF of over 58% were the optimal thresholds for change that predicted resolution of steatohepatitis. PDFF as a marker of liver fat, and cT1 as a specific measure of liver disease activity, are both effective at identifying those who are likely responding to drug interventions and experiencing improvements in overall liver health. CLINICAL TRIAL NUMBER(S) NCT02443116, NCT03976401, NCT03551522.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Kitty Yale
- Akero Therapeutics Inc., South San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Timothy Rolph
- Akero Therapeutics Inc., South San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Raymond T Chung
- Liver Center, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Raj Vuppalanchi
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Kenneth Cusi
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Rohit Loomba
- MASLD Research Center, University of California at San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Michele Pansini
- Clinica Di Radiologia EOC, Istituto Di Imaging Della Svizzera Italiana (IIMSI), Ente Ospedaliero Cantonale, Via Tesserete 46, 6900, Lugano, Switzerland; John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, OX3 0AG, Oxford, UK
| | | |
Collapse
|
3
|
Schaapman J, Shumbayawonda E, Castelo-Branco M, Caseiro Alves F, Costa T, Fitzpatrick E, Tupper K, Dhawan A, Deheragoda M, Sticova E, French M, Beyer C, Rymell S, Tonev D, Verspaget H, Neubauer S, Banerjee R, Lamb H, Coenraad M. MRI-serum-based score accurately identifies patients undergoing liver transplant without rejection avoiding the need for liver biopsy: A multisite European study. Liver Transpl 2024:01445473-990000000-00433. [PMID: 39171987 DOI: 10.1097/lvt.0000000000000450] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2024] [Accepted: 07/09/2024] [Indexed: 08/23/2024]
Abstract
Serum liver tests (serum tests) and histological assessment for T-cell-mediated rejection are essential for post-liver transplant monitoring. Liver biopsy carries a risk of complications that are preferably avoided in low-risk patients. Multiparametric magnetic resonance imaging (mpMRI) is a reliable noninvasive diagnostic method that quantifies liver disease activity and has prognostic utility. Our aim was to determine whether using mpMRI in combination with serum tests could noninvasively identify low-risk patients who underwent liver transplants who are eligible to avoid invasive liver biopsies. In a multicenter prospective study (RADIcAL2), including 131 adult and pediatric (children and adolescent) patients with previous liver transplants from the Netherlands, Portugal, and the United Kingdom, concomitant mpMRI and liver biopsies were performed. Biopsies were centrally read by 2 expert pathologists. T-cell-mediated rejection was assessed using the BANFF global assessment. Diagnostic accuracy to discriminate no rejection versus indeterminate or T-cell-mediated liver transplant rejection was performed using the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve. In this study, 52% of patients received a routine (protocol) biopsy, while 48% had a biopsy for suspicion of pathology. Thirty-eight percent of patients had no rejection, while 62% had either indeterminate (21%) or T-cell-mediated rejection (41%). However, there was a high interobserver variability (0 < Cohen's Kappa < 0.85) across all histology scores. The combined score of mpMRI and serum tests had area under the receiver operating characteristic curve 0.7 (negative predictive value 0.8) to identify those without either indeterminate or T-cell-mediated rejection. Combining both imaging and serum biomarkers into a composite biomarker (imaging and serum biomarkers) has the potential to monitor the liver graft to effectively risk stratify patients and identify those most likely to benefit from a noninvasive diagnostic approach, reducing the need for liver biopsy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jelte Schaapman
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | | | - Miguel Castelo-Branco
- CIBIT (Coimbra Institute for Biomedical Imaging and Translational Research), Faculdade de Medicina, Instituto de Ciências Nucleares Aplicadas à Saúde, Universidade de Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Filipe Caseiro Alves
- CIBIT (Coimbra Institute for Biomedical Imaging and Translational Research), Faculdade de Medicina, Instituto de Ciências Nucleares Aplicadas à Saúde, Universidade de Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Tania Costa
- CIBIT (Coimbra Institute for Biomedical Imaging and Translational Research), Faculdade de Medicina, Instituto de Ciências Nucleares Aplicadas à Saúde, Universidade de Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | | | - Katie Tupper
- Institute of Liver Studies, Kings College London, London, UK
| | - Anil Dhawan
- Institute of Liver Studies, Kings College London, London, UK
| | | | - Eva Sticova
- Institute of Liver Studies, Kings College London, London, UK
| | | | - Cayden Beyer
- Translational Science, Perspectum Ltd., Oxford UK
| | | | | | - Hein Verspaget
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Stefan Neubauer
- Radcliffe Department of Medicine, Oxford NIHR Biomedical Research Centre, Oxford, UK
| | | | - Hildo Lamb
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
- Department of Radiology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Minneke Coenraad
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Gomes NBN, Torres US, Ferraz MLCG, D'Ippolito G. Advanced Magnetic Resonance Imaging for Detection of Liver Fibrosis and Inflammation in Autoimmune Hepatitis: A State-of-the-Art Review. Semin Ultrasound CT MR 2024:S0887-2171(24)00050-7. [PMID: 39069278 DOI: 10.1053/j.sult.2024.07.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/30/2024]
Abstract
Autoimmune hepatitis is a rare chronic liver disease, associated with a high level of morbidity and high mortality; approximately 40% of patients with severe untreated disease die within 6 months of diagnosis. It should be treated to achieve complete biochemical and histologic resolution of the disease using corticosteroids and immunosuppression to prevent further progression to cirrhosis. The use of invasive liver biopsy is recommended for the staging and assessment of inflammation and fibrosis for treatment decision-making in the face of an unsatisfactory response or clinical remission, including being a determinant for withdrawal of immunosuppression. On the other hand, liver biopsy is invasive, costly, and not free of complications. It also has potential sampling error and poor interobserver agreement. The limitations of liver biopsy highlight the importance of developing new imaging biomarkers that allow accurate and non-invasive assessment of autoimmune hepatitis in terms of liver inflammation and fibrosis, developing the virtual biopsy concept. Therefore, we review the state-of-the-art of Magnetic Resonance Imaging sequences for the noninvasive evaluation of autoimmune hepatitis, including historical advances and future directions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Natália B N Gomes
- Department of Radiology, Grupo Fleury, São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil; Department of Diagnostic Imaging, Escola Paulista de Medicina, Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP), São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Ulysses S Torres
- Department of Radiology, Grupo Fleury, São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil; Department of Diagnostic Imaging, Escola Paulista de Medicina, Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP), São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil.
| | - Maria Lucia C G Ferraz
- Department of Gastroenterology, Escola Paulista de Medicina, Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP), São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Giuseppe D'Ippolito
- Department of Radiology, Grupo Fleury, São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil; Department of Diagnostic Imaging, Escola Paulista de Medicina, Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP), São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Sundaravadanan S, Welsh FK, Sethi P, Noorani S, Cresswell BA, Connell JJ, Knapp SK, Núñez L, Brady JM, Banerjee R, Rees M. Novel multiparametric MRI detects improved future liver remnant quality post-dual vein embolization. HPB (Oxford) 2024; 26:764-771. [PMID: 38480098 DOI: 10.1016/j.hpb.2024.02.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2023] [Accepted: 02/11/2024] [Indexed: 06/02/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Optimisation of the future liver remnant (FLR) is crucial to outcomes of extended liver resections. This study aimed to assess the quality of the FLR before and after dual vein embolization (DVE) by quantitative multiparametric MRI. METHODS Of 100 patients with liver metastases recruited in a clinical trial (Precision1:NCT04597710), ten consecutive patients with insufficient FLR underwent quantitative multiparametric MRI pre- and post-DVE (right portal and hepatic vein). FLR volume, liver fibro-inflammation (corrected T1) scores and fat percentage (proton density fat fraction, PDFF) were determined. Patient metrics were compared by Wilcoxon signed-rank test and statistical analysis done using R software. RESULTS All patients underwent uncomplicated DVE with improvement in liver remnant health, median 37 days after DVE: cT1 scores reduced from median (interquartile range) 790 ms (753-833 ms) to 741 ms (708-760 ms) p = 0.014 [healthy range <795 ms], as did PDFF from 11% (4-21%), to 3% (2-12%) p = 0.017 [healthy range <5.6%]. There was a significant increase in median (interquartile range) FLR volume from 33% (30-37%)% to 49% (44-52%), p = 0.002. CONCLUSION This non-invasive and reproducible MRI technique showed improvement in volume and quality of the FLR after DVE. This is a significant advance in our understanding of how to prevent liver failure in patients undergoing major liver surgery.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Senthil Sundaravadanan
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Basingstoke and North Hampshire Hospital, Basingstoke, Hampshire, United Kingdom.
| | - Fenella Ks Welsh
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Basingstoke and North Hampshire Hospital, Basingstoke, Hampshire, United Kingdom
| | - Pulkit Sethi
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Basingstoke and North Hampshire Hospital, Basingstoke, Hampshire, United Kingdom
| | - Shaheen Noorani
- Department of Interventional Radiology, Basingstoke and North Hampshire Hospital, Basingstoke, Hampshire, United Kingdom
| | - Ben A Cresswell
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Basingstoke and North Hampshire Hospital, Basingstoke, Hampshire, United Kingdom
| | | | | | - Luis Núñez
- Perspectum, Gemini One, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | | | | | - Myrddin Rees
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Basingstoke and North Hampshire Hospital, Basingstoke, Hampshire, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Pedersen MR, Mayo MJ. Advances in the evaluation and treatment of autoimmune hepatitis. Curr Opin Gastroenterol 2024; 40:126-133. [PMID: 38363233 DOI: 10.1097/mog.0000000000001014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/17/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW The primary therapy of autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) has been established for over three decades. This review focuses on updates in the evaluation and management of patients with AIH. RECENT FINDINGS The evaluation of patients has recently been updated to include more definitive screening for other autoimmune diseases, including thyroid disease and celiac disease. Antibody detection by ELISA, an easier and more commonly available method, has been incorporated into the latest iteration of the AIH scoring system. Corticosteroids and AZA remain the backbone of AIH treatment, but there is growing evidence for mycophenolate mofetil as both first-line and second-line therapy, and growing inquiry into calcineurin inhibitors. Noninvasive markers of liver disease have now been validated in AIH, with the strongest evidence for VCTE in patients with minimal hepatic inflammation. SUMMARY Recent research of alternative immunosuppressant therapies, noninvasive markers of fibrosis, and updated society guidelines, have improved our ability to evaluate, treat, and follow patients with AIH.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- M R Pedersen
- Division of Digestive and Liver Disease, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Harry Hines Blvd, Dallas, Texas, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
7
|
D'Amato D, Carbone M. Prognostic models and autoimmune liver diseases. Best Pract Res Clin Gastroenterol 2023; 67:101878. [PMID: 38103932 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpg.2023.101878] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2023] [Revised: 10/18/2023] [Accepted: 11/24/2023] [Indexed: 12/19/2023]
Abstract
Autoimmune liver diseases (AILDs) are complex diseases with unknown causes and immune-mediated pathophysiology. In primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) and autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) disease modifying drugs are available which improve patient quality and quantity of life. In primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) no medical therapy is available and the only accepted treatment is liver transplantation (LT). PBC, PSC and AIH possess features that describe the archetype of patients within each disorder. On the other hand, the classical disorders are not homogeneous, and patients within each diagnosis may present with a range of clinical, biochemical, serological, and histological findings. Singularly, they are considered rare diseases, but together, they account for approximately 20% of LTs in Europe and USA. Management of these patients is complex, as AILDs are relatively uncommon in clinical practice with challenges in developing expertise, disease presentation can be sneaky, clinical phenotypes and disease course are heterogeneous. Prognostic models are key tools for clinicians to assess patients' risk and to provide personalized care to patients. Aim of this review is to discuss challenges of the management of AILDs and how the available prognostic models can help. We will discuss the prognostic models developed in AILDs, with a special focus on the prognostic models that can support the clinical management of patients with AILDs: in PBC models based on ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA) response and markers of liver fibrosis; in PSC several markers including biochemistry, disease stage and radiological semiquantitative markers; and finally in AIH, markers of disease stage and disease activity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Daphne D'Amato
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, Turin, Italy.
| | - Marco Carbone
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, Milan, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Roca-Fernandez A, Banerjee R, Thomaides-Brears H, Telford A, Sanyal A, Neubauer S, Nichols TE, Raman B, McCracken C, Petersen SE, Ntusi NA, Cuthbertson DJ, Lai M, Dennis A, Banerjee A. Liver disease is a significant risk factor for cardiovascular outcomes - A UK Biobank study. J Hepatol 2023; 79:1085-1095. [PMID: 37348789 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2023.05.046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2022] [Revised: 05/25/2023] [Accepted: 05/31/2023] [Indexed: 06/24/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Chronic liver disease (CLD) is associated with increased cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk. We investigated whether early signs of liver disease (measured by iron-corrected T1-mapping [cT1]) were associated with an increased risk of major CVD events. METHODS Liver disease activity (cT1) and fat (proton density fat fraction [PDFF]) were measured using LiverMultiScan® between January 2016 and February 2020 in the UK Biobank imaging sub-study. Using multivariable Cox regression, we explored associations between liver cT1 (MRI) and primary CVD (coronary artery disease, atrial fibrillation [AF], embolism/vascular events, heart failure [HF] and stroke), and CVD hospitalisation and all-cause mortality. Liver blood biomarkers, general metabolism biomarkers, and demographics were also included. Subgroup analysis was conducted in those without metabolic syndrome (defined as at least three of: a large waist, high triglycerides, low high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, increased systolic blood pressure, or elevated haemoglobin A1c). RESULTS A total of 33,616 participants (mean age 65 years, mean BMI 26 kg/m2, mean haemoglobin A1c 35 mmol/mol) had complete MRI liver data with linked clinical outcomes (median time to major CVD event onset: 1.4 years [range: 0.002-5.1]; follow-up: 2.5 years [range: 1.1-5.2]). Liver disease activity (cT1), but not liver fat (PDFF), was associated with higher risk of any major CVD event (hazard ratio 1.14; 95% CI 1.03-1.26; p = 0.008), AF (1.30; 1.12-1.51; p <0.001); HF (1.30; 1.09-1.56; p= 0.004); CVD hospitalisation (1.27; 1.18-1.37; p <0.001) and all-cause mortality (1.19; 1.02-1.38; p = 0.026). FIB-4 index was associated with HF (1.06; 1.01-1.10; p = 0.007). Risk of CVD hospitalisation was independently associated with cT1 in individuals without metabolic syndrome (1.26; 1.13-1.4; p <0.001). CONCLUSION Liver disease activity, by cT1, was independently associated with a higher risk of incident CVD and all-cause mortality, independent of pre-existing metabolic syndrome, liver fibrosis or fat. IMPACT AND IMPLICATIONS Chronic liver disease (CLD) is associated with a twofold greater incidence of cardiovascular disease. Our work shows that early liver disease on iron-corrected T1 mapping was associated with a higher risk of major cardiovascular disease (14%), cardiovascular disease hospitalisation (27%) and all-cause mortality (19%). These findings highlight the prognostic relevance of a comprehensive evaluation of liver health in populations at risk of CVD and/or CLD, even in the absence of clinical manifestations or metabolic syndrome, when there is an opportunity to modify/address risk factors and prevent disease progression. As such, they are relevant to patients, carers, clinicians, and policymakers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Rajarshi Banerjee
- Perspectum Ltd., Oxford, United Kingdom; Oxford University Hospitals Foundation Trust, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | | | | | - Arun Sanyal
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine, Richmond, VA, United States
| | - Stefan Neubauer
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Radcliffe Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Thomas E Nichols
- Big Data Institute, Li Ka Shing Centre for Health Information and Discovery, Nuffield Department of Population Health, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Betty Raman
- Oxford University Hospitals Foundation Trust, Oxford, United Kingdom; Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Radcliffe Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Celeste McCracken
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Radcliffe Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Steffen E Petersen
- William Harvey Research Institute, NIHR Barts Biomedical Research Centre, Queen Mary University London, Charterhouse Square, London, United Kingdom; Barts Heart Centre, St Bartholomew's Hospital, Barts Health NHS Trust, West Smithfield, London, UK; Health Data Research UK, London, UK; Alan Turing Institute, London, UK
| | - Ntobeko Ab Ntusi
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, University of Cape Town and Groote Schuur, J46, Old Main Building, Main Road, Observatory, Cape Town, 7925, South Africa
| | - Daniel J Cuthbertson
- Department of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Medicine, Institute of Life Course and Medical Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK; Liverpool University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Liverpool, UK
| | - Michele Lai
- Department of Medicine, Liver Centre, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Centre, Harvard Medical School, 110 Francis Street, Suite 4A, Boston, USA
| | | | - Amitava Banerjee
- University College London Hospitals National Health Service Trust, London, United Kingdom; Institute of Health Informatics, University College London, London, United Kingdom; Barts Health National Health Service Trust, The Royal London Hospital, London, United Kingdom.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Gomes NBN, Torres US, Silva GSE, Mamone POS, Ferraz MLCG, D’ippolito G. Magnetic resonance imaging findings in autoimmune hepatitis: how frequent and reproducible are they? Radiol Bras 2023; 56:308-316. [PMID: 38504809 PMCID: PMC10948163 DOI: 10.1590/0100-3984.2023.0044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2023] [Revised: 06/19/2023] [Accepted: 09/11/2023] [Indexed: 03/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Objective To determine the frequency and interobserver reproducibility of the magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) features considered diagnostic for autoimmune hepatitis. Materials and Methods Two abdominal radiologists, blinded to pathology data, reviewed the MRI examinations of 20 patients with autoimmune hepatitis, looking for liver enhancement, lymphadenopathy, portal hypertension, and chronic liver disease. The pattern of liver fibrosis was categorized as reticular, confluent, or mixed. Interobserver agreement was assessed by calculating intraclass correlation coefficients and kappa statistics. Results The most common abnormal finding on MRI was surface nodularity (in 85%), followed by liver fibrosis with a reticular pattern (in 80%)-categorized as mild (in 25.0%), moderate (in 43.8%), or severe (in 31.2%)-; heterogeneous liver enhancement (in 65%); splenomegaly (in 60%); caudate lobe enlargement (in 50%); and lymphadenopathy (in 40%). The interobserver agreement was almost perfect for surface nodularity (0.83), ascites (0.89), and liver volume (0.95), whereas it was just slight and fair for the degree of fibrosis and for heterogeneous liver enhancement (0.12 and 0.25, respectively). It was also slight and fair for expanded gallbladder fossa and enlarged preportal space (0.14 and 0.36, respectively), both of which are indicative of chronic liver disease. Conclusion The interobserver agreement was satisfactory for surface nodularity (the most prevalent abnormal MRI finding), ascites, liver volume, and splenomegaly. Conversely, it was only slight or fair for common but less objective criteria.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Natália Borges Nunes Gomes
- Escola Paulista de Medicina da Universidade Federal de São
Paulo (EPM-Unifesp), São Paulo, SP, Brazil
- Grupo Fleury, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Ulysses S. Torres
- Escola Paulista de Medicina da Universidade Federal de São
Paulo (EPM-Unifesp), São Paulo, SP, Brazil
- Grupo Fleury, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Gabriella Souza e Silva
- Escola Paulista de Medicina da Universidade Federal de São
Paulo (EPM-Unifesp), São Paulo, SP, Brazil
- Grupo Fleury, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | | | | | - Giuseppe D’ippolito
- Escola Paulista de Medicina da Universidade Federal de São
Paulo (EPM-Unifesp), São Paulo, SP, Brazil
- Grupo Fleury, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Tan HC, Shumbayawonda E, Beyer C, Cheng LTE, Low A, Lim CH, Eng A, Chan WH, Lee PC, Tay MF, Kin S, Chang JPE, Bee YM, Goh GBB. Multiparametric Magnetic Resonance Imaging and Magnetic Resonance Elastography to Evaluate the Early Effects of Bariatric Surgery on Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease. Int J Biomed Imaging 2023; 2023:4228321. [PMID: 37521027 PMCID: PMC10372298 DOI: 10.1155/2023/4228321] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2023] [Revised: 07/05/2023] [Accepted: 07/08/2023] [Indexed: 08/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Bariatric surgery is the most effective treatment for morbid obesity and reduces the severity of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) in the long term. Less is known about the effects of bariatric surgery on liver fat, inflammation, and fibrosis during the early stages following bariatric surgery. Aims This exploratory study utilises advanced imaging methods to investigate NAFLD and fibrosis changes during the early metabolic transitional period following bariatric surgery. Methods Nine participants with morbid obesity underwent sleeve gastrectomy. Multiparametric MRI (mpMRI) and magnetic resonance elastography (MRE) were performed at baseline, during the immediate (1 month), and late (6 months) postsurgery period. Liver fat was measured using proton density fat fraction (PDFF), disease activity using iron-correct T1 (cT1), and liver stiffness using MRE. Repeated measured ANOVA was used to assess longitudinal changes and Dunnett's method for multiple comparisons. Results All participants (Age 45.1 ± 9.0 years, BMI 39.7 ± 5.3 kg/m2) had elevated hepatic steatosis at baseline (PDFF >5%). In the immediate postsurgery period, PDFF decreased significantly from 14.1 ± 7.4% to 8.9 ± 4.4% (p = 0.016) and cT1 from 826.9 ± 80.6 ms to 768.4 ± 50.9 ms (p = 0.047). These improvements continued to the later postsurgery period. Bariatric surgery did not reduce liver stiffness measurements. Conclusion Our findings support using MRI as a noninvasive tool to monitor NAFLD in patient with morbid obesity during the early stages following bariatric surgery.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Alvin Eng
- Singapore General Hospital, Singapore
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
11
|
Mahalingam N, Trout AT, Zhang B, Castro-Rojas C, Miethke AG, Dillman JR. Longitudinal changes in quantitative magnetic resonance imaging metrics in children and young adults with autoimmune liver disease. ABDOMINAL RADIOLOGY (NEW YORK) 2023; 48:1933-1944. [PMID: 36799997 DOI: 10.1007/s00261-022-03733-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2022] [Revised: 10/25/2022] [Accepted: 10/26/2022] [Indexed: 02/18/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE To assess longitudinal changes in quantitative MRI metrics in pediatric and young adult patients with autoimmune liver disease (AILD). METHODS This prospective, IRB-approved study included 20 children and young adults (median age = 15 years) with primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC)/autoimmune sclerosing cholangitis (ASC) and 19 (median age = 17 years) with autoimmune hepatitis (AIH). At a field strength of 1.5-T, T2*-corrected T1 mapping (cT1), 3D fast spin-echo MRCP, and 2D gradient recalled echo MR elastography (MRE) were performed at baseline, one year, and two years. cT1 and quantitative MRCP were processed using LiverMultiScan and MRCP + , respectively (Perspectum Ltd, Oxford, UK). Linear mixed models were used to assess longitudinal changes in quantitative MRI metrics. Spearman rank-order correlation was used to assess relationships between changes in quantitative MRI metrics. RESULTS Changes in quantitative MRI metrics greater than established repeatability coefficients were measured in six (cT1) and five (MRE) patients with PSC/ASC as well as in six patients (cT1 and MRE) with AIH, although linear mixed models identified no significant changes for the subgroups as a whole. For PSC/ASC, there were positive correlations between change in liver stiffness and changes in bile duct strictures (ρ = 0.68; p = 0.005) and bile duct dilations (ρ = 0.70; p = 0.004) between baseline and Year 2. CONCLUSION On average, there were no significant changes in quantitative MRI metrics over a two-year period in children and young adults with AILD. However, worsening cholangiopathy was associated with increasing liver stiffness by MRE in patients with PSC/ASC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Neeraja Mahalingam
- Department of Radiology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, 250 Albert Sabin Way, Cincinnati, OH, 45229, USA.
| | - Andrew T Trout
- Department of Radiology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, 250 Albert Sabin Way, Cincinnati, OH, 45229, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, USA
- Department of Radiology, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Bin Zhang
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, USA
- Division of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Cyd Castro-Rojas
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Alexander G Miethke
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, USA
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Jonathan R Dillman
- Department of Radiology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, 250 Albert Sabin Way, Cincinnati, OH, 45229, USA
- Department of Radiology, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Abstract
Autoimmune hepatitis is an inflammatory disease of the liver of unknown cause that may progress to liver cirrhosis and end stage liver failure if diagnosis is overlooked and treatment delayed. The clinical presentation is often that of acute hepatitis, sometimes very severe; less frequently, it can be insidious or completely asymptomatic. The disease can affect people of any age and is more common in women; its incidence and prevalence seem to be on the rise worldwide. An abnormal immune response targeting liver autoantigens and inducing persistent and self-perpetuating liver inflammation is the pathogenic mechanism of the disease. A specific set of autoantibodies, increased IgG concentrations, and histological demonstration of interface hepatitis and periportal necrosis are the diagnostic hallmarks of autoimmune hepatitis. Prompt response to treatment with corticosteroids and other immunomodulatory drugs is almost universal and supports the diagnosis. The aims of treatment are to induce and maintain long term remission of liver inflammation. Treatment can often even reverse liver fibrosis, thus preventing progression to advanced cirrhosis and its complications. Most patients need lifelong maintenance therapy, and repeated follow-up in experienced hands improves the quality of care and quality of life for affected patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Luigi Muratori
- DIMEC, Università di Bologna and IRCCS Policlinico di Sant'Orsola, Bologna, Italy
- European Reference Network for Hepatological Diseases (ERN RARE-LIVER)
| | - Ansgar W Lohse
- Department of Medicine, University Medical Centre Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
- European Reference Network for Hepatological Diseases (ERN RARE-LIVER)
| | - Marco Lenzi
- DIMEC, Università di Bologna and IRCCS Policlinico di Sant'Orsola, Bologna, Italy
- European Reference Network for Hepatological Diseases (ERN RARE-LIVER)
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
The progression of chronicity and autoimmune hepatitis in recurrent drug-induced liver injury. Clin Res Hepatol Gastroenterol 2022; 46:102009. [PMID: 35977662 DOI: 10.1016/j.clinre.2022.102009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2022] [Revised: 08/02/2022] [Accepted: 08/10/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Recurrent drug-induced liver injury (DILI) is not well documented. We retrospectively analysed the characteristics of patients who had a history of two separate DILI episodes due to different drugs. METHODS We collected data from 57 patients with recurrent DILI from 9582 confirmed DILI cases. Demographic, laboratory, and clinical data from both episodes were collected and analysed to determine the relationship between recurrent DILI, chronic DILI, and autoimmune hepatitis (AIH). RESULTS The incidence rate of recurrent DILI in our cohort was 0.59%. Most of the 57 patients with recurrent DILI were female (73.68%). The latency period of the initial episode was 30 days, whereas that of the second episode was 13 days (P = 0.003). The pattern of liver injury was not significantly different between episodes (P = 0.52). Laboratory indicators, such as alanine aminotransferase, aspartate transaminase, alkaline phosphatase, and total bilirubin, were significantly lower in the second episode than in the initial episode (P < 0.05). The incidence of chronic DILI was 43.86% during the initial episode and increased to 63.16% during the second episode. After the initial episode, 15 patients developed AIH during the second episode. CONCLUSIONS The latency period of recurrent DILI was gradually shortened. The clinical indices of liver injury tended to be less elevated during the second episode. Female post-menopausal patients with abnormal serum immunoglobulin G levels may be predisposed to AIH. The second DILI episode was more likely to have features of AIH.
Collapse
|
14
|
Gerussi A, Scaravaglio M, Cristoferi L, Verda D, Milani C, De Bernardi E, Ippolito D, Asselta R, Invernizzi P, Kather JN, Carbone M. Artificial intelligence for precision medicine in autoimmune liver disease. Front Immunol 2022; 13:966329. [PMID: 36439097 PMCID: PMC9691668 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.966329] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2022] [Accepted: 10/13/2022] [Indexed: 09/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Autoimmune liver diseases (AiLDs) are rare autoimmune conditions of the liver and the biliary tree with unknown etiology and limited treatment options. AiLDs are inherently characterized by a high degree of complexity, which poses great challenges in understanding their etiopathogenesis, developing novel biomarkers and risk-stratification tools, and, eventually, generating new drugs. Artificial intelligence (AI) is considered one of the best candidates to support researchers and clinicians in making sense of biological complexity. In this review, we offer a primer on AI and machine learning for clinicians, and discuss recent available literature on its applications in medicine and more specifically how it can help to tackle major unmet needs in AiLDs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alessio Gerussi
- Division of Gastroenterology, Center for Autoimmune Liver Diseases, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, Monza, Italy
- European Reference Network on Hepatological Diseases (ERN RARE-LIVER), San Gerardo Hospital, Monza, Italy
| | - Miki Scaravaglio
- Division of Gastroenterology, Center for Autoimmune Liver Diseases, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, Monza, Italy
- European Reference Network on Hepatological Diseases (ERN RARE-LIVER), San Gerardo Hospital, Monza, Italy
| | - Laura Cristoferi
- Division of Gastroenterology, Center for Autoimmune Liver Diseases, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, Monza, Italy
- European Reference Network on Hepatological Diseases (ERN RARE-LIVER), San Gerardo Hospital, Monza, Italy
- Bicocca Bioinformatics Biostatistics and Bioimaging Centre - B4, School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, Monza, Italy
| | | | - Chiara Milani
- Division of Gastroenterology, Center for Autoimmune Liver Diseases, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, Monza, Italy
- European Reference Network on Hepatological Diseases (ERN RARE-LIVER), San Gerardo Hospital, Monza, Italy
| | - Elisabetta De Bernardi
- Department of Medicine and Surgery and Tecnomed Foundation, University of Milano - Bicocca, Monza, Italy
| | | | - Rosanna Asselta
- Humanitas Clinical and Research Center, Rozzano, Milan, Italy
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Pieve Emanuele, Milan, Italy
| | - Pietro Invernizzi
- Division of Gastroenterology, Center for Autoimmune Liver Diseases, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, Monza, Italy
- European Reference Network on Hepatological Diseases (ERN RARE-LIVER), San Gerardo Hospital, Monza, Italy
| | - Jakob Nikolas Kather
- Department of Medicine III, University Hospital RWTH Aachen, Aachen, Germany
- Else Kroener Fresenius Center for Digital Health, Medical Faculty Carl Gustav Carus, Technical University Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Marco Carbone
- Division of Gastroenterology, Center for Autoimmune Liver Diseases, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, Monza, Italy
- European Reference Network on Hepatological Diseases (ERN RARE-LIVER), San Gerardo Hospital, Monza, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Bajre M, Moawad M, Shumbayawonda E, Carolan JE, Hart J, Culver E, Heneghan M. LiverMultiScan as an alternative to liver biopsy to monitor autoimmune hepatitis in the National Health Service in England: an economic evaluation. BMJ Open 2022; 12:e058999. [PMID: 36691214 PMCID: PMC9462097 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2021-058999] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2021] [Accepted: 08/21/2022] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) is a rare chronic progressive liver disease, managed with corticosteroids and immunosuppressants and monitored using a combination of liver biochemistry and histology. Liver biopsy (gold standard) is invasive, costly and has risk of complications. Non-invasive imaging using multiparametric magnetic resonance (mpMR) can detect the presence and extent of hepatic fibroinflammation in a risk-free manner. OBJECTIVE To conduct early economic modelling to assess the affordability of using mpMR as an alternative to liver biopsy. METHODS Medical test costs associated with following 100 patients over a 5-year time horizon were assessed from a National Health Service payor perspective using tariff costs and average biopsy-related adverse events costs. Sensitivity analyses modelling the cost consequences of increasing the frequency of mpMR monitoring within the fixed cost of liver biopsy were performed. RESULTS Per 100 moderate/severe AIH patients receiving an annual mpMR scan (in place of biopsy), early economic modelling showed minimum cost savings of £232 333. Per 100 mild/moderate AIH patients receiving three mpMR scans over 5 years estimated minimum cost savings were £139 400. One-way sensitivity analyses showed increasing the frequency of mpMR scans from 5 to 10 over 5 years in moderate/severe AIH patients results in a cost saving of £121 926.20. In patients with mild/moderate AIH, an increase from 3 to 6 mpMR scans over 5 years could save £73 155.72. In a minimalistic approach, the use of 5 mpMR scans was still cost saving (£5770.48) if they were to replace two biopsies over the 5-year period for all patients with moderate/severe or mild/moderate AIH. CONCLUSIONS Integration of mpMR scans in AIH patient pathways leads to significant cost savings when liver biopsy frequency is either reduced or eliminated, in addition to improved patient experience and clinician acceptability as well as providing detailed phenotyping to improve patient outcomes. TRIAL REGISTRATION NCT03979053.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mamta Bajre
- Oxford Academic Health Science Network, Oxford, UK
| | - Mina Moawad
- Oxford Academic Health Science Network, Oxford, UK
| | | | | | - Julie Hart
- Oxford Academic Health Science Network, Oxford, UK
| | - Emma Culver
- John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, UK
| | | |
Collapse
|
16
|
Quantitative MR in Paediatric Patients with Wilson Disease: A Case Series Review. CHILDREN 2022; 9:children9050613. [PMID: 35626790 PMCID: PMC9139168 DOI: 10.3390/children9050613] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2022] [Revised: 04/01/2022] [Accepted: 04/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Wilson disease (WD) is a liver disorder characterized by improper copper metabolism. Although non-invasive tools are currently used to support diagnosis and management, this is still an area of unmet need, as patients present with a wide range of symptoms. Our aim was to investigate the potential utility of multiparametric magnetic resonance imaging (mpMRI) and quantitative magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography (MRCP+) to support patient management. MRI examinations of 7 children and young adults aged 8–16 years (six at diagnosis) were performed alongside a standard of care clinical and histological examination. Images were quantitatively analyzed to derive metrics of liver (corrected T1 (cT1; fibro-inflammation), MR liver fat (proton density fat fraction; PDFF)), and biliary health (MRCP+). MRI–PDFF provided a more dynamic characterization of fat compared with that provided by ultrasound. Those with elevated histological scores of fibrosis, inflammation, and steatosis had elevated mpMRI values. MRCP+ managed to identify dilatations in the biliary tree which were not observed during the standard of care examination. mpMRI and MRCP+ metrics show early promise as markers to assess both liver and biliary health in Wilson disease. Investigations to understand and explore the utility of these markers are warranted and should be performed.
Collapse
|
17
|
Heneghan MA, Shumbayawonda E, Dennis A, Ahmed RZ, Rahim MN, Ney M, Smith L, Kelly M, Banerjee R, Culver EL. Quantitative magnetic resonance imaging to aid clinical decision making in autoimmune hepatitis. EClinicalMedicine 2022; 46:101325. [PMID: 35340625 PMCID: PMC8943410 DOI: 10.1016/j.eclinm.2022.101325] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2021] [Revised: 01/14/2022] [Accepted: 02/11/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In autoimmune hepatitis (AIH), clinical practice and treatment guidelines frequently diverge as a reflection of disease heterogeneity and challenges in achieving standardised care. We sought to explore the utility of multiparametric (mp) MR in patients with AIH, and the impact of this technology on physicians' decision making and intended patient management. METHODS 82 AIH patients, recruited from two sites between June and November 2019 as part of an observational cohort study, underwent non-contrast MRI alongside their standard clinical investigations. Correlations between iron-corrected T1 (cT1) and other markers of disease were investigated alongside the utility of imaging markers to risk stratify patients in biochemical remission. The impact of mpMR on clinical decision making was evaluated using pairwise t-tests. The discriminatory ability of the imaging markers was assessed using area under the receiver operating characteristic curves (AUCs). FINDINGS cT1 had a significant impact on clinician intended patient management (p<0.0001). cT1 correlated with ALT (p = 0.0005), AST (p<0.001), IgG (p = 0.0005), and liver stiffness (p<0.0001). Patients in deep biochemical remission (N = 11; AST/ALT <50% upper limit of normal [ULN] and IgG <12 g/L) had low cT1, while 7/34 in normal biochemical remission (AST/ALT between 50 and 100% of ULN) had high cT1 and were at risk of disease flare. cT1 measures of disease heterogeneity, ALP and bilirubin made the best predictor of those not in biochemical remission (AUC:0.85). INTERPRETATION This study investigates the impact of mpMR results on intended clinical management in a real world setting. Findings showed that mpMR demonstrated a significant impact on clinical management of AIH and has the potential to inform patient risk stratification. FUNDING This paper presents independent research supported by the Innovate UK grant (104,915).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michael A. Heneghan
- Institute of Liver Studies, King's College Hospital, NHS Foundation Trust, Denmark Hill, London, United Kingdom
- Corresponding author.
| | | | | | - Refah Z. Ahmed
- Institute of Liver Studies, King's College Hospital, NHS Foundation Trust, Denmark Hill, London, United Kingdom
| | - Mussarat N. Rahim
- Institute of Liver Studies, King's College Hospital, NHS Foundation Trust, Denmark Hill, London, United Kingdom
| | - Michael Ney
- Institute of Liver Studies, King's College Hospital, NHS Foundation Trust, Denmark Hill, London, United Kingdom
| | - Loren Smith
- John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | | | | | - Emma L. Culver
- John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Torres US, D'Ippolito G. Multiparametric magnetic resonance imaging of the liver: bridging the gap between theory and practice - a bridge too far? Radiol Bras 2021; 54:V-VI. [PMID: 34602673 PMCID: PMC8475174 DOI: 10.1590/0100-3984.2021.54.5e1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Ulysses S Torres
- Grupo Fleury, São Paulo, SP, Brazil.,Department of Diagnostic Imaging, Escola Paulista de Medicina da Universidade Federal de São Paulo (EPM-Unifesp), São Paulo, SP, Brazil.
| | - Giuseppe D'Ippolito
- Grupo Fleury, São Paulo, SP, Brazil.,Department of Diagnostic Imaging, Escola Paulista de Medicina da Universidade Federal de São Paulo (EPM-Unifesp), São Paulo, SP, Brazil.
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
McKay A, Pantoja C, Hall R, Matthews S, Spalding P, Banerjee R. Patient understanding and experience of non-invasive imaging diagnostic techniques and the liver patient pathway. J Patient Rep Outcomes 2021; 5:89. [PMID: 34508298 PMCID: PMC8433277 DOI: 10.1186/s41687-021-00363-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2020] [Accepted: 08/31/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Clinical and patient-reported outcomes are positively affected when efforts to increase patient understanding of underlying diseases and foster patient participation are part of care pathways. The prevalence of liver diseases is increasing globally, and successful communication of results from liver diagnostic tests will be important for physicians to ensure patient engagement and encourage adherence to lifestyle changes and therapy. Here, we aimed to explore the impact of non-invasive liver tests on patient experience and patient comprehension of liver disease in chronic liver disease diagnostic pathways typically managed with liver biopsies. Results 101 participants diagnosed with a range of liver disease aetiologies (90 patients, 11 caregivers) underwent a multiparametric magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) test. A subset of 33 participants was subjected to transient elastography (TE) with FibroScan® in addition to multiparametric MRI. MRI results were analysed using LiverMultiScan™. Participants received results on their liver-health status followed by a semi-structured interview to assess the scan procedure experience, comprehension of the results, and experiences of liver disease. A subset of participants (N = 5) was also engaged in the design, execution, and thematic analysis of the interview transcripts of the study. Analysis of semi-structured interviews revealed: (1) Presentation and discussion of the LiverMultiScan visual report by a physician was an effective contributor to better patient experience and increased comprehension of liver disease. (2) Patients demonstrated preference for non-invasive tests over biopsy for management of liver disease. (3) Patients reported positive experiences with the MRI test during the path for liver disease management. Conclusions Patients presented with visual reports of liver test results developed increased understanding of liver disease care which may have contributed to an overall more positive experience. Patients reported that clinical information obtained through non-invasive methods and transmitted through visual reports contributed to clarity, understanding and overall increased satisfaction. We conclude that a shift toward non-invasive testing and visual reporting of clinical information (e.g. picture of liver with visual scale) when possible are likely to contribute to improved physician engagement with patients and lead to better outcomes in the management of chronic liver diseases. Plain English summary Evidence suggests that patient experience and understanding can affect several aspects of clinical care and patient well-being. In this study, 101 patients and patient caregivers affected by liver diseases were recruited to determine how patient experiences of liver disease were affected with the introduction of non-invasive evaluation of the liver with an MRI or ultrasound-based elastography. All 101 participants received an MRI followed by a LiverMultiScan report. 33 participants received an additional FibroScan and report. Following the reports, participants were interviewed and asked to reflect on factors which affected their experience of the procedure and the understanding of their results. We focused on factors related to the layout of the standardised report and the delivery of its results. The interviews were transcribed and analysed for common themes and patterns. Patients and patient advocacy groups were involved in the design and conduct of the study, and analysis of the interview transcripts. Here, we report the perception of patients and patient caregivers on the quality of care and diagnostic experience. Trial registration ClinicalTrials.gov identifier—NCT02877602. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s41687-021-00363-5.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Richard Hall
- Liver4Life, (UK Registered Charity: 1152618), London, UK
| | - Sarah Matthews
- Liver4Life, (UK Registered Charity: 1152618), London, UK
| | - Phil Spalding
- Liver4Life, (UK Registered Charity: 1152618), London, UK
| | | |
Collapse
|
20
|
Quantitative multiparametric MRI as a non-invasive stratification tool in children and adolescents with autoimmune liver disease. Sci Rep 2021; 11:15261. [PMID: 34315985 PMCID: PMC8316432 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-94754-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2021] [Accepted: 07/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) and autoimmune sclerosing cholangitis (ASC) are two very closely related autoimmune liver diseases with overlapping clinical features and similar management strategies. The purpose of this study was to assess the utility of quantitative imaging markers to distinguish ASC from AIH in paediatrics. 66 participants (N = 52 AIH, N = 14 ASC) aged 14.4 ± 3.3 years scheduled to undergo routine biopsy and baseline serum liver biochemistry testing were invited to undergo MRI (non-contrast abdominal MRI and 3D fast spin-echo MRCP). Multiparametric MRI was used to measure fibro-inflammation with corrected T1 (cT1), while the biliary tree was modelled using quantitative MRCP (MRCP +). Mann–Whitney U tests were performed to compare liver function tests with imaging markers between patient groups (ASC vs AIH). Receiver operating characteristic curves and stepwise logistic regressions were used to identify the best combination of markers to discriminate between ASC and AIH. Correlations between liver function tests and imaging markers were performed using Spearman’s rank correlation. cT1 was significantly correlated with liver function tests (range 0.33 ≤ R ≤ 56, p < 0.05), as well as with fibrosis, lobular and portal inflammation (range 0.31 ≤ R ≤ 42, p < 0.05). 19 MRCP + metrics correlated significantly with liver function tests (range 0.29 ≤ R ≤ 0.43, p < 0.05). GGT and MRCP + metrics were significantly higher in ASC compared to those with AIH. The best multivariable model for distinguishing ASC from AIH included total number of ducts and the sum of relative severity of both strictures and dilatations AUC: 0.91 (95% CI 0.78–1). Quantitative MRCP metrics are a good discriminator of ASC from AIH.
Collapse
|