Ultrasound attenuation imaging: a reproducible alternative for the noninvasive quantitative assessment of hepatic steatosis in children.

Background: Pediatric hepatic steatosis is a global public health concern, as an increasing number of children are affected by this condition. Liver biopsy is the gold standard diagnostic method; however, this procedure is invasive. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)-derived proton density fat fraction has been accepted as an alternative to biopsy.