OBJECTIVE: The typical histological features of
chronic hepatitis and
cirrhosis are variable degrees of hepatocellular
necrosis and
inflammation (activity or grade of disease),
fibrosis (stage of disease), and associated fat and
iron deposition. These features influence the liver's appearance and must be assessed separately by imaging
biomarkers in order to be clinically useful. Hepatic morphologic alterations and features of
portal hypertension identify most cases of established
cirrhosis. Nowadays, research is focused on developing ways to improve detection of early and intermediate stages of
fibrosis as well as hepatocyte dysfunction. Even more, most imaging-related measurements are subject to complex interactions and are influenced by different
pathologic processes, such as fatty infiltration,
edema,
necrosis and
iron accumulation. METHODS AND RESULTS: MR experience throughout the last 15 years at the Dr Peset University Hospital is reviewed. CONCLUSION: Nowadays, several
biomarkers have been developed to grade the liver status in
cirrhosis. This review will focus on these topics.