Sinusoidal obstruction syndrome (SOS), also known as veno-occlusive disease (VOD), is a potentially life-threatening hepatic complication that occurs primarily following hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT). It is characterized by obstruction of hepatic sinusoids and venules due to accumulation of cellular debris and red blood cells, leading to impaired hepatic outflow. The incidence in pediatric patients can be as high as 40%, resulting from toxic injury or activation of liver sinusoidal endothelial cells (LSECs). Common etiologic factors include myeloablative conditioning regimens for HSCT, chemotherapeutic agents such as oxaliplatin, and total body irradiation. SOS/VOD is classified into acute (80%, within 21 days post-HSCT) and late-onset forms (20%, beyond 21 days). Histopathologically, late-phase SOS shows peri-sinusoidal fibrosis and hepatocyte atrophy in addition to sinusoidal obstruction. Clinically, the disease manifests with painful hepatomegaly, conjugated hyperbilirubinemia, and rapid weight gain or ascites. While the modified Seattle and Baltimore criteria are traditionally used for adults, the European Society for Blood and Marrow Transplantation (EBMT) 2019 criteria have been specifically developed for the pediatric population, incorporating both clinical and radiologic parameters. Ultrasonography remains the first-line imaging modality, including gray-scale, color Doppler, and spectral analysis. Ultrasound elastography can detect SOS as early as 2–12 days before clinical criteria are met by quantifying increased hepatic stiffness due to portal hypertension; a ≥ 30% rise in stiffness from baseline has demonstrated high sensitivity and specificity. Characteristic sonographic findings include hepatomegaly, gallbladder wall thickening, increased portal vein diameter, ascites, paraumbilical vein visualization with altered flow, reduced portal venous velocity, and elevated hepatic artery resistive index—imaging parameters that are incorporated into the newer Hok-US scoring system (maximum 14 points). Additionally, MR elastography and hepatobiliary MRI using Eovist have shown promise for early, noninvasive detection. Early diagnosis is critical, as severe SOS carries mortality rates up to 80%, and the only approved therapy remains defibrotide, emphasizing the need for vigilant imaging surveillance and prompt management. Read More

Meeting name: IPR 2026 Congress , 2026

Authors: Kumar Tushar, Elhussein Wala, Kim Helen Hr

Keywords: Abdominal Imaging, Venoocclusive Disease, Sinusoidal Obstruction Syndrome