Analysis of methods for early diagnosis of oesophageal varices and its degree in cirrhosis patients

Objective To analyze clinical value of gastroscopy,B ultrasonography and biochemical parameters in the diagnosis of oesophageal varices(OV) in post hepatitis cirrhosis patients with or without portal hypertension.Methods All 148 patients were examined with gastroscipy,ultrasonographic measurement of portal vein and spleen and splenic vein diameter.Platelet count/spleen diameter ratio was also calculated for all patients.Results The prevalence rate of OV was 61%.The severer the degree of esophageal varices was the higher incidence of gastric varices was observed.The diameter of portal vein,spleen diameter,the diameter of splenic vein were different in different degrees of esophageal varices.Platelet count,spleen diameter,platelet count/spleen diameter radio,and Child-Pugh class were significantly different among patients with or without OV.By a multivariate analysis,the platelet count/spleen diameter radio was one independently parameter associated with the presence of OV.Conclusion Diameter of portal and splenic vein,spleen diameter by B ultrasonography can provide valuable suggestion in diagnosis of portal hypertention.But the diagnosis should be confirmed by gastroscopy detection.The platelet count/spleen diameter radio is one of the independently parameters associated with the presence of OV.