Ultrasonography and element analysis of human liver biopsy samples

Introduction: In a previous study ultrasonography (US) was correlated with the results of element analysis of human liver biopsy samples. Total reflexion X-ray fluorescence spectrometry (TXRF) was previously successfully used for this purpose. Nevertheless, those elements whose concentration was under 1µg/g could only be detected with less reliability, or even were under the detection limit.

The aim of this study was to apply also inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) simultaneously with the TXRF method and compare their effectivity concerning the detection of elements. The possible correlation between US diagnostics, liver pathology and concentration of microelements was also investigated.

Subjects and methods: Liver biopsy samples of 53 individuals with abdominal complaints suggestive of liver diseases were investigated. US was performed before biopsy made as part of the diagnostic procedure. Final diagnoses was established by clinical, laboratory and histological data. Element analysis of the biopsy samples was accomplished by TXRF and ICP-MS methods.

Results: US of the 53 cases were the followings: normal 14, bright liver 39, from this 22 DI, 17 DII types. Comparing the reliability of the TXRF and ICP-MS methods, it was proved, that at those elements, having higher concentration than 1µ g/g the two methods were equally reliable. Furthermore, ICP-MS method could also measure the concentrations of those elements, not detected by the TXRF analysis. The distribution of the elements was also uniform withon the liver – except Ni- by both methods. Concerning correlation with clinical data and element concentrations, it was found, that in some cases of cirrhosis the Fe, in some patients with alcoholic hepatitis the Cu and in some cases of steatosis the Ni concentration were elevated by the two methods similarly.

Conclusions: TXRF spectrometry and ICP-MS methods both are suitable for element analysis of human biopsy samples, nevertheless the ICP-MS method is more sensitive. ICP-MS measurements confirmed results gained previously by TXRF spectrometry concerning distribution of elements within the liver, as well as concerning trends of clinical correlations.