Abstract

Background & Methods: The aim of the study is to validate the platelet count/spleen diameter ratio in predicting large esophageal varices. All the patients in the study will be subjected to biochemical tests like liver function tests, CBC, renal function tests, prothrombin time, INR and ultrasonographic examination of abdomen to confirm the presence of chronic liver disease and to record spleen diameter, portal vein diameter and ascites. Screening for esophageal varices will be done by upper GI endoscopy. Results: In endoscopy 47.9% of CLD patients were detected with large esophageal varices and 22.3% with small esophageal varices. On the basis of platelet/spleen ratio, 100% sensitivity and 98% specificity were achieved to detect esophageal varices with a cutoff limit of 850. Conclusion: Applying the “platelet count/spleen diameter ratio” for the detection of esophageal varices seems to be more cost effective than the “scope all strategy”. It may permit institution of prophylactic measures like beta-adrenergic antagonists for preventing primary variceal bleeding in patients with chronic liver disease, without the need of costly and invasive investigations like upper GI endoscopy.

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