EVALUATE AND COMPARE ABDOMINAL SONOGRAPHIC FINDINGS IN INDIVIDUALS WITH THALASSEMIA AND HEALTHY INDIVIDUALS

Abstract

Background: This study evaluates organs involvement pattern, liver size or echotexture, splenomegaly, ascites, gall bladder abnormalities, cortical echogenicity and renal alterations in thalassemia patients.

Objective: To evaluate and compare abdominal sonographic findings in individuals with thalassemia and healthy individuals.

Methodology: This study employs a cross-sectional comparative design, conducted at the Ruqayya Medical Centre and Fatimid Foundation, Lahore, utilizing a Toshiba Nemio XG ultrasound machine, to assess the prevalence and characteristics of abdominal organs among thalassemia and healthy individuals. A total sample size of 150 participants. The sampling technique adopted was convenient sampling, ensuring the inclusion of eligible participants during the study period.

Results:  The study considered various demographic, clinical, and different abdominal organs-related variables to assess the prevalence and severity of thalassemia. Gender distribution included 81 females (54.0%) and 69 males (46.0%), with age groups divided into <12 years (33.3%), 13-18 years (58.7%), and above 30 years (8.0%). Liver size included homogeneous (12.0%), Heterogenous (82.0%), and Coarse (6.0%), Splenomegaly was reported by (67.6%), Gall bladder wall thickness status showed moderate (3.3%), severe (48.0%) and (28.0%) exhibited Sludge and (8.7%) had Calculi, Ascites in (31.3%). while (30.0%) experienced Mildly increased cortical echogenicity. In right Kidney group (36.0%) reported small, (33.3%) exhibited large right kidney, while left kidney group (42.0%) reported small left kidney, (32.0%) exhibited large left kidney.

Conclusions This study emphasizes the importance of routine abdominal ultrasound in early detection and management of organ complication in thalassemia. Regular monitoring may help to control diseases progression and improve patient’s outcomes.