Liver stiffness dynamics in European populations (LiverScreen): a longitudinal, multicentre, prospective,...

Area of Science:

• Hepatology
• Public Health
• Epidemiology

Background:

• Liver stiffness measurement (LSM) is a recommended screening tool for liver fibrosis.
• Longitudinal LSM dynamics and risk factors for significant changes were examined in three European populations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the feasibility and outcomes of repeated liver stiffness measurement (LSM) screening in diverse European populations over the long term.
• To identify risk factors associated with clinically significant changes in liver stiffness.

Main Methods:

• A longitudinal, multicentre, prospective, population-based cohort study involving three European cohorts (Barcelona, Odense, Rotterdam).
• Participants (aged ≥18 years) underwent baseline and follow-up LSM using vibration-controlled transient elastography, with medical history and anthropometric data collection.
• Clinically significant LSM changes were defined as increases from <8.0 kPa to ≥8.0 kPa or decreases from ≥8.0 kPa to <8.0 kPa, both with ≥30% change.

Main Results:

• The final cohort comprised 4536 participants with a median follow-up of 4.3 years.
• A low incidence of clinically significant LSM increase was observed (2.6% among those with baseline LSM <8.0 kPa).
• A higher incidence of LSM decrease was noted (43.8% among those with baseline LSM ≥8.0 kPa).

Conclusions:

• Repeated LSM screening is feasible in community-dwelling European populations.
• Targeted screening is advised for high-risk individuals (obesity, alcohol use, type 2 diabetes, elevated ALT).
• The high incidence of LSM decreases suggests potential benefit from short-term confirmatory testing.