Could a simple ultrasound replace MRI for fatty liver in kids?
NCT ID NCT04800094
First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time
Summary
This study tested a new ultrasound software that measures liver fat in children and teens aged 5 to 21 with or at risk for fatty liver disease. Researchers compared the ultrasound results to standard MRI scans to see if the ultrasound could accurately detect liver fat. If it works, this could offer a quicker, cheaper way to diagnose and monitor the condition without the need for MRI.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.
- Active substance
- Investigational Liver Fat Quantification Software (ultrasound device)
- What this could lead to
- If successful, this could provide a faster, cheaper, and radiation-free way to diagnose and monitor fatty liver disease in children using ultrasound instead of MRI.
- What could go wrong
- This is a small pilot study with only 30 participants, so results may not apply to everyone. The ultrasound method is still experimental and needs more testing before it can replace MRI.
This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.
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Conditions
The condition(s) this trial relates to.
As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
Contacts and locations
Locations
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Phoenix Children's Hospital
Phoenix, Arizona, 85016, United States
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