Comparison of liver and brain stiffness in children with normal weight vs obesity using MR Elastography

Motivation: Obesity is associated with numerous debilitating diseases. Obesity-related conditions once only seen in adults are now being seen in children. Obesity affects numerous organs and may affect a child's ability to learn. Goal(s): Identify changes in liver and brain stiffness measurements in the pediatric population that may indicate signs of early-stage disease. Approach: MR elastography images of the liver and brain were obtained and compared to dual energy X-ray (DXA) metabolic measurements. Results: Significant correlations between obesity and stiffness changes in the thalamus and amygdala were identified. Impact: Preliminary results show that changes in liver and brain microstructure of the pediatric population can be seen in correlation to increased adiposity. MR elastography is a valuable tool in diagnosing those early changes.