Non-invasive Predictors of Esophageal Varices
Author Information
Author(s): Cherian Jijo, V. Deepak Nandan, Ponnusamy Rajesh Prabhu, Somasundaram Aravindh Jayanthi
Primary Institution: Stanley Medical College Hospital, Chennai, India
Hypothesis
This study aimed to identify non-endoscopic parameters that could predict the presence and grades of esophageal varices in cirrhotic patients.
Conclusion
The presence and higher grades of varices can be predicted by a low platelet count, Child-Pugh class B/C, and spleen diameter.
Supporting Evidence
- 42.3% of patients had small varices and 35.4% had large varices.
- Low platelet count, Child Pugh class B/C, and spleen diameter were identified as independent predictors for varices.
- The study included patients with various causes of cirrhosis, predominantly alcohol-related.
Takeaway
Doctors can use simple tests to guess if patients with liver problems have serious vein issues in their esophagus, instead of doing a more complicated procedure.
Methodology
A prospective study involving 229 newly diagnosed patients with liver cirrhosis, assessing various clinical, biochemical, and imaging parameters.
Limitations
The study excluded patients with a history of variceal bleeding and those on beta-blockers, which may limit generalizability.
Participant Demographics
141 males; median age 42 years; range 17-73 years.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.001
Confidence Interval
95% CI, 1.2-14.9
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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