ROLE OF NON-CONTRAST COMPUTED TOMOGRAPHY (NCCT) IN THE DETECTION OF HEPATOMEGALY

  • Unique Paper ID: 177596
  • Volume: 11
  • Issue: 12
  • PageNo: 996-1004
  • Abstract:
  • Introduction: Hepatomegaly, or liver enlargement, is a clinical sign linked to various hepatic and systemic conditions, including infections, metabolic disorders, congestive heart failure, and malignancies. Early detection is vital for effective management. While ultrasound is commonly used for liver size assessment, it has limitations such as operator dependence and poor visibility in patients with obesity or excessive bowel gas. Non-Contrast Computed Tomography (NCCT) offers an alternative method for evaluating liver size and morphology, especially in cases where contrast media cannot be used due to renal insufficiency, allergies, or other contraindications. Aim: This study aims to evaluate the accuracy and clinical relevance of NCCT in detecting hepatomegaly, particularly in patients who cannot receive contrast agents. Objectives: To determine the sensitivity and specificity of NCCT in detecting hepatomegaly. To compare NCCT findings with clinical and ultrasound-based diagnoses. To assess the utility of NCCT in patients with contraindications to contrast administration. Materials and Methods: A prospective observational study was conducted on 100 adult patients who underwent abdominal NCCT for non-hepatic conditions. Inclusion criteria included adults over 18 years with abdominal CT scans without contrast media, while excluding patients with prior liver surgery or contrast-enhanced CT studies. Liver size was measured on axial NCCT images in the midclavicular line and craniocaudal axis. NCCT findings were compared with clinical and ultrasound diagnoses. Statistical analysis included sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV), and negative predictive value (NPV). Results: NCCT identified hepatomegaly in 32 patients, with sensitivity of 93.3%, specificity of 96.5%, PPV of 90.6%, and NPV of 97.5%. The agreement between NCCT and ultrasound was 92%. NCCT detected hepatomegaly in 4 cases missed by clinical examination and 2 missed by ultrasound. Conclusion: NCCT is a reliable, non-invasive tool for detecting hepatomegaly, especially when contrast administration is contraindicated. It provides consistent liver size measurements and serves as a valuable alternative to other imaging modalities in specific patient populations.

Cite This Article

  • ISSN: 2349-6002
  • Volume: 11
  • Issue: 12
  • PageNo: 996-1004

ROLE OF NON-CONTRAST COMPUTED TOMOGRAPHY (NCCT) IN THE DETECTION OF HEPATOMEGALY

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