FREQUENCY OF GASTRO ESOPHAGEAL VARICES IN CIRRHOTIC PATIENTS WITH SPLENOMEGALY
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Keywords
Cirrhosis, Splenomegaly, Gastroesophageal Varices, Endoscopy, Liver Disease, Upper Gastrointestinal Bleeding
Abstract
Background: Cirrhosis of the liver, particularly in the presence of splenomegaly, is a known risk factor for the development of gastroesophageal varices (GEVs), which are one of the major causes of upper gastrointestinal bleeding. Understanding the frequency of GEVs in cirrhotic patients with splenomegaly can help prioritize screening and management strategies.
Methods: A total of 225 cirrhotic patients with confirmed splenomegaly were included in this retrospective study. Endoscopic examination was performed to assess the presence and severity of GEVs. The study analyzed patient demographics, clinical characteristics, liver function tests, and splenic size measurements. The relationship between splenomegaly and the frequency of GEVs was evaluated using statistical methods.
Results: Of the 225 patients, 68% had gastroesophageal varices, with 20% presenting with large varices, associated with higher risks of bleeding. A significant correlation was observed between the size of the spleen and the presence of GEVs (p < 0.05). Additionally, patients with advanced cirrhosis (Child-Pugh class C) had a higher prevalence of varices (80%), compared to those with compensated cirrhosis (56%, p < 0.01).
Conclusion: This study confirms a high frequency of gastroesophageal varices in cirrhotic patients with splenomegaly, particularly those with advanced liver disease. The findings highlight the importance of screening for GEVs in these patients to prevent complications such as bleeding and rupture.
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Dr Habibullah Jan
Assistant Professor Gastroenterology/Hepatology DHQ Teaching Hospital, Swabi.
Dr Mustafa Kamal
Assistant Professor Gastroenterology/Hepatology DHQ Teaching Hospital, Swabi
Dr Muhammad Naeem
Assistant Professor Internal Medicine DHQ Teaching Hospital, Swabi
Nadin Salheya
Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara
Shivang Arvind Patel
First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
Talmeez Zeb Shah
Associate Professor Biochemistry, Amna Inayat Medical College, Sheikhupura
Fahmida Khatoon
Professor, Biochemistry department, United Medical and Dental College, Jinnah University, Pakistan