New ultrasound test could spot fatty liver in kids without needles or scary scans

NCT ID NCT06706856

Recruiting now Diagnosis Sponsor: University of California, San Diego Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 24, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study is testing whether advanced ultrasound techniques can accurately detect fatty liver disease (MASLD) in children aged 9 to 18. Researchers will compare ultrasound results to MRI scans and blood tests in 120 children with risk factors for the condition. If the ultrasound method works well, it could offer a cheaper, portable, and needle-free way to diagnose liver disease in kids.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

What this could lead to: If successful, this could lead to a simple, non-invasive ultrasound method to diagnose fatty liver disease in children without the need for MRI or biopsy.
What could go wrong: This is an early-stage study with only 120 children, focused on developing and testing the technique. It may not prove accurate enough for widespread use, and results may not apply to all children.

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.

fatty liver disease metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

MASLD MASLD - METABOLIC DYSFUNCTION-ASSOCIATED STEATOTIC LIVER DISEASE

Contacts and locations

Locations

University of California San Diego
RECRUITING

La Jolla, California, 92037, United States

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