Table 4 Summarized imaging techniques with their limitations
From: A brief review on molecular, genetic and imaging techniques for HCV fibrosis evaluation
| Method | Technique | Limitations |
|---|---|---|
| Ultrasonography | Identification of portal hypertension | Limited capability to measure mild or moderate fibrosis and cirrhosis, contradictory results |
| Elastography | Liver stiffness | Vulnerable measurements due to narrow intercostals spaces, ascites or obesity |
| Doppler Analysis | Measures velocity of blood flow, hemodynamic variations | Limited data, lack of reproducibility, contradictory results |
| Magnetic Resonance Imaging | Observe changes in hepatic parenchyma | High cost, lack of research support |
| Computed Tomography | Identifies micro vascular permeability changes | Recent technique, not much literature is available, can not performed in renal failure and contrast agent allergic patients |