Effect of Malnutrition on Liver and Spleen Stiffness in Children

This is a prospective observational study designed to investigate the effect of malnutrition on liver and spleen stiffness in children. The study will include two groups: children diagnosed with malnutrition according to WHO criteria, and age- and sex-matched healthy controls without any known chronic illness.

All participants will undergo shear wave elastography (SWE) to measure liver and spleen stiffness using standardized ultrasound protocols. Measurements will be performed by a pediatric radiologist blinded to the nutritional status of the participants.

The primary objective is to compare organ stiffness values between malnourished children and healthy controls. Secondary analyses will explore correlations between severity of malnutrition and stiffness values. The study aims to provide non-invasive insights into early organ-level changes associated with pediatric malnutrition.

Inclusion criteria

• Children aged 6 to 18 years.
• Diagnosis of malnutrition based on World Health Organization (WHO) criteria (for malnutrition group).
• Healthy children without any chronic illness (for control group).

Exclusion criteria

• Children with chronic diseases (e.g., liver disease, diabetes, immunocompromised conditions).
• Children who have previously undergone liver or spleen surgery.
• Children with inability to cooperate during elastography measurement.