Platelet count / spleen diameter ratio: can it predict the presence of varices in patients with cirrhosis of liver?

ABSTRACT

Ratio of platelet count and spleen diameter has recently been proposed as predictor of presence of esophageal varices in patients with cirrhosis. This study was carried out to evaluate predictive value of this ratio for presence of varices. One hundred and one patients with established cirrhosis and no history of variceal bleed were included. Data on physical examination, hematological, biochemical, abdominal ultrasound examination and esophagogastroduodenoscopy [EGD] was recorded for all patients. Presence of varices on EGD was correlated with platelet count/spleen diameter ratio. Esophageal varices were seen 1 in 65 patients while 36 patients had no varices. High grade varices were seen in 15 patients and 50 patients had low grade varices. Value of platelet count/spleen diameter ratio was not significantly different among patients with and without varices. Ratio of platelet count/spleen diameter can not be used to predict the presence of esophageal varices