Role of Shear Wave Elastography in the Characterization of Focal Solid Hepatic Lesions

Authors

  • Dr. Supreeth N. P. Postgraduate, Department of Radiodiagnosis, Kempegowda Institute of Medical Sciences, Bangalore Author
  • Dr. Sanjay S. C. MD, Professor & Head, Department of Radiodiagnosis, Kempegowda Institute of Medical Sciences, Bangalore Author
  • Dr. Nirnay K. K. MD, Assistant Professor, Department of Radiodiagnosis, Kempegowda Institute of Medical Sciences, Bangalore Author

Keywords:

2D Shear Wave Elastography (SWE) Focal Liver Lesions (FLLs) Hepatic Lesion Characterization Ultrasound Elastography Tissue Stiffness Assessment

Abstract

Background: Differentiating benign from malignant focal liver lesions (FLLs) remains a diagnostic challenge. Shear Wave Elastography (SWE) is a non-invasive and quantitative imaging technique that measures tissue stiffness, aiding in lesion characterization.

Objective: To assess the diagnostic accuracy of 2D-SWE in characterizing focal solid hepatic lesions and to determine stiffness thresholds for distinguishing between benign and malignant lesions.

Methods: Forty-two patients with solid hepatic lesions underwent SWE. Stiffness measurements of both the lesion and adjacent liver parenchyma were recorded and compared with histopathology findings. Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) analysis was used to evaluate diagnostic performance.

Results: Malignant lesions exhibited significantly higher stiffness (mean: 37.55 kPa) compared to benign lesions (mean: 7.52 kPa; p < 0.0001). An SWE cutoff value of 20.0 kPa demonstrated 85% sensitivity and 80% specificity.

Conclusion: SWE substantially improves the diagnostic accuracy of conventional ultrasound in evaluating focal hepatic lesions. It serves as a valuable, non-invasive tool for clinical decision-making.

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Published

2025-08-04

Issue

Vol. 9 No. 1 (2025): Issue 1

Section

Articles