Periportal fibrosis refers to the accumulation of fibrous (scar) tissue around the portal tracts within the liver. The portal tracts are the bundles of vessels and bile ducts that travel together throughout the liver. On ultrasound, periportal fibrosis appears as increased echogenicity along the walls of the portal vein branches, sometimes described as a “starry sky” pattern when seen diffusely, or as thickened, bright portal tracts. Causes include schistosomiasis (a parasitic infection common in tropical regions), chronic hepatitis, primary sclerosing cholangitis, and other forms of chronic liver disease. The presence of periportal fibrosis on ultrasound can indicate significant liver disease and often prompts further evaluation of liver function.
Sonography Term