Using Transient Elastography to Predict Varices in Children with Biliary Atresia
Author Information
Author(s): Chongsrisawat Voranush, Vejapipat Paisarn, Siripon Nipaporn, Poovorawan Yong
Primary Institution: Chulalongkorn University
Hypothesis
The study aims to evaluate the accuracy of transient elastography and clinical parameters in predicting the presence of esophageal/gastric varices in children with biliary atresia following portoenterostomy.
Conclusion
Transient elastography is a useful tool for predicting the presence of esophageal/gastric varices in children with biliary atresia.
Supporting Evidence
- The liver stiffness score of biliary atresia patients was significantly higher than that of normal controls.
- Transient elastography had a sensitivity of 84% for predicting esophageal/gastric varices.
- Splenomegaly had a sensitivity of 92% for predicting esophageal/gastric varices.
Takeaway
Doctors can use a special test called transient elastography to see if kids with a liver problem called biliary atresia have dangerous veins in their stomach or throat.
Methodology
Children with biliary atresia who had undergone portoenterostomy were evaluated using transient elastography and clinical parameters to predict the presence of esophageal/gastric varices.
Potential Biases
Potential bias in physical examination results due to subjective assessment.
Limitations
Transient elastography may be less reliable in obese patients and during acute liver damage.
Participant Demographics
73 biliary atresia patients (32 males, 41 females, average age 9.11 years) and 50 normal controls (19 males, 31 females, average age 11.00 years).
Statistical Information
P-Value
p < 0.001
Confidence Interval
95% CI 0.80 to 0.98
Statistical Significance
p < 0.001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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