Elastographic Histogram Analysis as a Non-Invasive Tool for Detecting Early Intestinal Remodeling in Experimental IBD
Rareș Crăciun1,2, Marcel Tanțău1,2, Cristian Tefas1,2
1Department of Internal Medicine, "Iuliu Hațieganu" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 400008 Cluj-Napoca, Romania.
Journal of Clinical Medicine
|June 13, 2025
Summary
Elastography with pixel histogram analysis can non-invasively detect early fibrosis in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) models. This technique shows promise for assessing bowel wall changes in IBD patients.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Medical Imaging
- Fibrosis Research
Background:
- Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) involves inflammation and fibrosis, posing diagnostic challenges.
- Distinguishing early inflammatory from fibrotic bowel changes is difficult with current imaging.
- A non-invasive method is needed to assess IBD-related bowel wall alterations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate elastography, specifically pixel histogram analysis, for identifying acute inflammatory changes.
- To assess its utility in a rat model of 2,4,6-trinitrobenzenesulfonic (TNBS)-induced colitis.
- To correlate elastographic findings with histological assessments of inflammation and fibrosis.
Main Methods:
- Rats were induced with TNBS colitis or served as controls.
- Ultrasonographic and strain elastography were performed on day 7.
- Histogram analysis of elastographic pixels was compared to histological grading.
Main Results:
- TNBS-induced colitis rats showed weight loss and increased bowel wall thickness.
- Elastography revealed elevated pixel intensity in colitis models.
- A strong positive correlation was observed between elastographic histograms and fibrosis scores (r=0.86).
Conclusions:
- Elastographic pixel histogram analysis is a reproducible, non-invasive method.
- It can differentiate acute inflammation and early fibrosis in experimental colitis.
- This technique may aid in early IBD assessment and monitoring of bowel wall changes.
