Effect of hepatic steatosis on the diffusion parameters in diffusion-weighted imaging by Monte Carlo simulations

Motivation: Quantitative diffusion MRI has potential for the evaluation of liver fibrosis. However, diffusion parameters such as \(ADC\) may be confounded by the presence of hepatic steatosis. The biophysical mechanisms and quantitative impact of steatosis on diffusion parameters remains poorly understood. Goal(s): To calibrate the effect of hepatic steatosis on diffusion parameters at 1.5T and 3.0T. Approach: Monte Carlo simulations. Results: Strong linear negative correlations were demonstrated between both \(ADC\) predictions of monoexponential DWI and \(D\) predictions of IVIM-DWI and fat fraction for different proton diffusivities at 1.5T and 3.0T. Impact: Monte Carlo simulations provide a novel means to predict diffusion parameters for various degrees of hepatic steatosis, and have the potential to correct the effect of fat on the diffusion parameters when diagnosing liver fibrosis by diffusion-weighted imaging.