Using ultrasound to diagnose fatty liver disease in children.

Quantitative Ultrasound To Diagnose Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease in Children.

NIH-funded research University of California, San Diego · NIH-11124834

This study is working to help kids with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease by creating better ultrasound tools to spot liver fat early, so they can get the care they need sooner.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of California, San Diego NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (La Jolla, United States)
Project IDNIH-11124834 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research aims to improve the health of children suffering from nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) by developing better tools for detecting and monitoring liver fat. With over 5 million American children affected by NAFLD, the study focuses on creating accurate and accessible ultrasound technology to diagnose this condition early. The research will address current limitations in ultrasound methods, ensuring that more children can receive timely and effective care. By enhancing the diagnostic process, the study seeks to facilitate early intervention and management of NAFLD in pediatric patients.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are children aged 9 to 17 years who are overweight or obese and at risk for nonalcoholic fatty liver disease.

Not a fit: Patients who do not fall within the specified age range or who do not have risk factors for NAFLD may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to earlier diagnosis and better management of fatty liver disease in children, potentially reducing the risk of serious health complications.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using ultrasound technology for diagnosing liver conditions, but this specific approach to pediatric NAFLD is innovative and addresses significant gaps in current diagnostic methods.

Where this research is happening

La Jolla, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions adult onset diabetesAdult-Onset Diabetes Mellitus
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.