Challenges of the methodological approaches to the measurement and the evaluation of liver size
Abstract
Liver size varies widely according to age and different body types. Palpation and percussion are standard techniques to measure liver size, but are not accurate enough to detect a small increase. Accurate measurement of the liver by sonography is particularly relevant when a patient is suspected to have hepatitis. According to a number of validated sources, liver length varies greatly depending on the modalities and techniques used by the ultrasound specialist. Ultrasound liver size measurement has not become a routine procedure since a reliable and reproducible ultrasound method has not been established so far. The article describes the results of different methods of liver size measurement and as well as variations in the normal size depending on the age of the patient and his/her body type.