Non-invasive (and minimally invasive) diagnosis of oesophageal varices.

摘要: Current guidelines recommend screening all cirrhotic patients by endoscopy, to identify at risk of bleeding who should undergo prophylactic treatment. However, since the prevalence varices in is variable, universal would imply a large number unnecessary endoscopies and heavy burden for endoscopy units. In addition, compliance programs may be hampered perceived unpleasantness endoscopy. Predicting presence oesophageal non-invasive means might increase permit restrict performance those with high probability having varices. Over years, several studies have addressed this issue assessing potential biochemical, clinical ultrasound parameters, transient elastography, CT scanning video capsule The platelet count/spleen diameter ratio, shown promising characteristics, although none them equivalent EGD. These methods are as preferable thus adherence programs. Whether will compensate lower sensitivity these alternative techniques, ultimately improve outcomes if more screening, crucial question that answered future.