Fatty Liver Ultrasound Characteristics

Fatty liver disease can be effectively detected through ultrasound imaging, which reveals several distinct features. This non-invasive and cost-effective method is widely used for both initial diagnosis and ongoing monitoring of liver health.

Enhanced Liver Echogenicity

One of the most common ultrasound findings in fatty liver disease is increased liver brightness, also known as "bright liver." This occurs due to the accumulation of fat within liver cells, which reflects more ultrasound waves and appears whiter on the screen.

Increased Liver-Kidney Contrast

Normally, the liver and kidneys have a similar echogenic appearance on ultrasound. However, in cases of fatty liver, the liver becomes significantly brighter than the kidneys, creating a noticeable contrast between the two organs.

Blurred Intrahepatic Structures

As fat accumulates in the liver, it can obscure the visibility of internal structures such as the portal vein and hepatic veins. These blood vessels may appear less distinct or even partially invisible during ultrasound examination.

Changes in Liver Morphology

The liver may show mild to moderate enlargement with a smooth, taut capsule in patients with fatty liver disease. This morphological change is an important indicator for assessing disease progression.

Ultrasound imaging can detect fatty liver when fat content exceeds approximately 30% of liver tissue. When hepatic fat levels surpass 50%, the sensitivity of ultrasound for diagnosing fatty liver reaches over 90%. Due to its accessibility, low cost, and lack of invasiveness, ultrasound remains the preferred initial diagnostic tool for identifying and monitoring fatty liver disease.