Accuracy of non-endoscopic predictors of oesophageal varices in liver cirrhosis using platelet count, splenic size and portal vein diameter.

Background: Endoscopy has been recommended for all patients with liver cirrhosis to detect varices, but it is expensive, invasive and uncomfortable. There is therefore, need to find non-endoscopic means to predict oesophageal varices.

Aim: To determine the sensitivity and specificity of platelet count, splenic size and portal vein diameter to predict oesophageal varices in patients with liver cirrhosis.