Detecting Hepatic Steatosis Among Potential Liver Donors by Using Non-Invasive Methods

Objective: To evaluate the effectiveness of non-invasive methods in detecting hepatic steatosis among potential liver donors. Methodology: This cross-sectional descriptive study included 67 potential liver donors, recruited via consecutive non-probability sampling over a two-year period (2021-2023). Data collection involved a semi-structured questionnaire covering demographics and biochemical indicators like serum bilirubin, cholesterol levels, ALT, AST, platelets, INR, and GGT. Hepatic steatosis was assessed using Fasting Lipid Profile, Fibroscan/Shearwave ultrasonography, and Liver Attenuation Index (LAI) from CT scans. Descriptive statistics were applied, and gender-based variations in biochemical markers, CAP, and LSM were analyzed using independent t-tests. Chi-square tests evaluated gender differences in steatosis identified by pathology and CAP. A significance level of P < 0.05 was used. Results: Of the 67 donors, 49 were males, with a mean age of 30.1 ± 8.8 years. Pathology revealed mild steatosis in 35 and moderate steatosis in 5 donors. Ultrasound showed normal liver echotexture in 47 subjects, while 18 had fatty liver. CAP findings indicated mild steatosis in both genders, with females showing higher values (P = 0.02) and more advanced steatosis (P < 0.01). Mean LSM was 4.6 ± 1.53 kPa, indicating normal liver stiffness. LAI findings suggested 37 donors required further evaluation. Among overweight donors, 22% had advanced steatosis compared to 14% in the healthy-weight group. Conclusion: Ultrasound-directed CAP, LSM, and BMI are effective non-invasive tools for diagnosing hepatic steatosis in potential liver donors.