Imaging methods to measure liver fat in children

An Imaging-based Quantitative Biomarker Assay for Non-alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD) in Children: a Feasibility Study

Observational University of Wisconsin, Madison · NCT06354491

This study is testing new MRI and ultrasound methods to see how well they can measure liver fat in children, both those with obesity and those with a healthy weight.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment24 (estimated)
Ages10 Years to 14 Years
SexAll
SponsorUniversity of Wisconsin, Madison Academic / other
Locations1 site (Madison, Wisconsin)
Trial IDNCT06354491 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This observational study aims to validate new Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) and Ultrasound (US) techniques for quantifying liver fat in children with obesity and those with a healthy body mass index (BMI). It addresses the growing concern of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and its severe complications by focusing on the accuracy and reliability of these imaging methods. The study will assess the precision of MRI and US in measuring liver fat, comparing new techniques to established methods. By identifying effective biomarkers, the research seeks to enhance the evaluation of liver health in pediatric populations.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are children aged 10 to 14 years, either with obesity (BMI > 95th percentile) or within a healthy BMI range (5th ≤ BMI < 85th percentile).

Not a fit: Patients who may not benefit from this study include those with contraindications to MRI, those who cannot fast prior to the imaging, and pregnant children.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved diagnostic methods for liver conditions in children, facilitating earlier intervention and better health outcomes.

How similar studies have performed: While there is ongoing interest in imaging techniques for liver fat quantification, this specific approach using MRI and US in children is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

1. Age: 10 - 14years old
2. BMI: Case subjects: BMI\>95th percentile for age and sex Healthy BMI volunteers: 5th ≤ BMI \< 85th percentile for age and sex

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Children with contraindications to MRI.
2. Children who did not fast (verbally confirmed by children or guardian)
3. Pregnant

Where this trial is running

Madison, Wisconsin

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions NAFLDNASH
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.