Liver span--a comparative appraisal of various methods.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Alterations in the size and shape of liver occur in a wide variety of conditions. Liver span can be estimated by using clinical, radiological or radioisotopic methods. Chest dimensions may alter the liver span. METHOD: We evaluated the liver span in 51 healthy individuals by clinical, radiological and radioisotopic methods and its relation with chest dimensions. RESULTS: The liver span by clinical, radiological and radioisotopic methods was 10.8 +/- 1.1 cm, 12.6 +/- 1.5 cm and 13.6 +/- 1.7 cm, respectively. Liver span varied with clinical and radiological or radioisotopic method and it correlated with height of chest cage and subcostal angle in these individuals. CONCLUSION: The liver span varies with the method used and it is correlated with chest dimensions.