Key result
MRI proton density fat fraction mapping clarifies the pathophysiology of NAFPD and metabolic disease.
Non-invasive quantitative imaging of pancreatic fat using MRI offers potential for robust biomarkers in metabolic disease, though methodological standardization and validation challenges remain.
May support pancreatic fat as metabolic biomarker endpoint; leaves open standardization and validation before clinical use.
The association between pancreatic fat, obesity and metabolic disease is well-documented, and although a potentially exciting target for novel therapies, remains poorly understood. Non-invasive quantitative imaging-derived biomarkers can provide insights into pathophysiology and potentially provide robust trial endpoints for development of new treatments. In this review, we provide an overview of the pathophysiology of non-alcoholic fatty pancreas disease and associations with metabolic factors, obesity and diabetes. We then explore approaches to pancreatic fat quantification using ultrasound, CT and MRI, reviewing the strengths, limitations and current published evidence in the assessment of pancreatic fat. Finally, we explore the broader challenges of pancreatic fat quantification as we move toward translating these methods into the clinical setting.
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Sakai et al. (2018) conducted a review in Non-alcoholic fatty pancreas disease (NAFPD). Quantitative imaging of pancreatic fat (Ultrasound, CT, MRI) was evaluated. Non-invasive quantitative imaging, particularly MRI proton density fat fraction mapping, provides valuable insights into the pathophysiology of non-alcoholic fatty pancreas disease and metabolic disease.
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