Diagnosis of Proximal Biliary Strictures: Role of serum bilirubin, alkaline phosphatase and abdominal ultrasound

ABSTRACT

To determine the role of serum bilirubin, alkaline phosphatase and abdominal ultrasound in the diagnosis of proximal biliary strictures. Cross sectional Place and Duration Surgical Unit IV, Civil Hospital Karachi, from Jan 2007 to August 2008. A total of 407 patients with obstruction of the biliary tree on ultrasound and raised serum levels of alkaline phosphatase had ERCP performed on them. Serum bilirubin and alkaline phosphatase levels were recorded prior to the procedure. A total of 75 patients with strictures on ERCP were included in the study. Jaundice and abdominal pain were present in 68 [90.6%] and 41 [54.6%] of the total 75 patients respectively. A statistically significant difference was present in the mean bilirubin levels of different stricture groups [p=.024]]. Receiver Operator Curve analysis of serum bilirubin level of 19.2gm/dl showed a sensitivity of 43% and specificity of 77% with area under curve= 0.6. Abdominal ultrasound was found to be 31.8% sensitive and 79.2% specific in predicting the presence of proximal biliary strictures. Serum levels of total bilirubin and alkaline phosphatase and abdominal ultrasound have minor role in the diagnosis of proximal biliary strictures