Imaging in Acute Hepatitis

In acute hepatitis, sonography classically reveals a "starry sky" pattern, characterized by decreased liver parenchymal echogenicity that makes the bright walls of the portal vein radicles stand out (increased periportal echogenicity).

On CECT, there will be periportal hypodense halo (periportal edema).

On MRI, high T2 signal is seen periportal region with mild diffuse parenchymal hyperintensity and gradual periportal enhancement.

Stratified, edematous gallbladder wall thickening is a frequent associated finding —often associated with transient ascites.