Correlation of Grade of Esophageal Varices with Thrombocytopenia in Patients with Liver Cirrhosis

BACKGROUND: Esophageal varices (EVs) are a major consequence of portal hypertension in patients with liver cirrhosis and are associated with substantial morbidity and mortality due to the risk of variceal hemorrhage. Early recognition of patients at increased risk for advanced varices is essential for preventing life-threatening bleeding. Thrombocytopenia is commonly observed in cirrhosis and has been investigated as a potential noninvasive marker for predicting the presence and severity of EVs. OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study was to determine the correlation between platelet count and the grade of EVs in patients with liver cirrhosis. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted in the Department of Medicine at Guru Gobind Singh Medical College and Hospital, Faridkot, after obtaining approval from the Institutional Research and Ethics Committee. A total of 100 patients with confirmed liver cirrhosis were enrolled. All participants underwent detailed clinical evaluation, laboratory investigations including platelet count, and upper gastrointestinal endoscopy for grading of EVs. Statistical analysis was performed using appropriate tests, and a P < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. RESULTS: The mean age of the study population was 49.8 ± 12.6 years. EVs were identified in 71% of patients. Mean platelet counts declined progressively with increasing variceal grade, from 148.6 ± 26.3 × 1099/L in patients without varices to 54.9 ± 16.2 × 1099/L in Grade III varices (P < 0.001). CONCLUSION: Platelet count demonstrates a significant inverse correlation with the grade of EVs. Thrombocytopenia may serve as a simple, noninvasive, and cost-effective predictor for identifying cirrhotic patients at higher risk of advanced varices, facilitating timely screening and management.