The diagnostic accuracy of using a predictive equation for liver volume derived from simple sonographic measurements in the determination of hepatomegaly

Abstract

Introduction Ultrasound is a safe and inexpensive way to image the adult liver. Recently a valid and reliable equation was developed to determine the size of the adult liver using three simple ultrasound measurements. An upper limit of normal using this equation of 2223 cm3 has been reported. This study aimed to determine the sensitivity, specificity, and predictive values of this cut off to determine hepatomegaly. Methods A low‐risk and a high‐risk group participant group were recruited, each with 30 participants. Each participant had a liver ultrasound and liver volume calculated from the equation and an MRI where liver volume was calculated. The ultrasound volume equation using a hepatomegaly cut off 2223 cm3, was compared to the reference standard of MRI volume using a hepatomegaly cut off of 2185 cm3 as reported by Kromrey et al. Results The ultrasound demonstrated a sensitivity of 90.9% (CI 58.7–99.7), a specificity of 97.9% (CI 89.1–99.9), a positive predictive value of 90.9 (CI 58.7–98.6) and a negative predictive value of 97.9% (CI 88.1–99.7). Conclusion Liver volume calculated by using three linear ultrasound measurements in an equation, and an upper limit of 2223 cm3, has high diagnostic accuracy to determine hepatomegaly.