Variceal index: scoring system for prediction of esophageal varices using non-invasive parameters

Background: Endoscopic examination is the gold standard for diagnosing esophageal varices (EV). However, endoscopy is invasive, painful and costly.The aim of this study was to find a noninvasive method to predict the presence of varices. Methods: The study included 50 cirrhotic subjects. Clinical, laboratory, ultrasonographic, endoscopic data were obtained. A new noninvasive scoring system was postulated and a novel index included 7parameters namely platelet count, serum albumin, prothrombin concentration, right lobe of the liver diameter, portal vein diameter, splenic diameter and ascites was obtained. The scoring system was obtained by giving points to each variable. Results: The relationship between the presence of esophageal varices and the parameters representing the variceal index was established. It was detected that at the cutoff value (score 12) specificity was 100% and sensitivity was 70% in prediction of esophageal varices. Conclusion: The proposed variceal index could be a reliable tool to predict the presence of varices instead of a single parameter.