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Multiple algorithms have been proposed to noninvasively screen for high-risk esophageal varices (EV) in patients with cirrhosis in order to avoid esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD). Recent consensus guidelines advocate use of transient elastography (TE) with platelet count as the preferred method. However, TE is not available in all clinical settings.
In the current retrospective study, researchers in Italy developed and validated an algorithm using common laboratory test results for ruling out the presence of medium or large EV in patients with cirrhosis, and thus the need to consider primary prophylaxis for variceal bleeding. Patients had hepatitis C virus–associated cirrhosis and had undergone an EGD and TE within 1 year of starting direct-…