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Study: Liver stiffness predicts portal hypertension

Liver stiffness was as effective as hepatic venous pressure gradient in predicting portal hypertension and clinical decompensation in patients with chronic liver disease, according to a study.

Investigators measured liver stiffness and hepatic venous pressure gradient in 100 patients with chronic liver disease. After 2 years of follow-up, 41 patients developed at least one liver disease-related complication, but no statistical difference was found between liver stiffness and hepatic venous pressure gradient for predicting these complications.

“[Liver stiffness] could be a valuable clinical tool to avoid invasive procedures,” the researchers wrote.

Disclosure: The researchers report no relevant financial disclosures.