Solbiati Index (L to T Ratio) for the Sonographic Examination of a Lymph Node

 

Parameters:

(1) longitudinal length of the lymph node in mm (L)

(2) transverse diameter of the lymph node in mm (T)

 

Solbiati index = L/T ratio =

= (longitudinal length) / (transverse diameter)

 

Interpretation:

• A ratio >= 2.0 is usually associated with benign processes.

• A ratio < 2 is usually seen with malignant processes.

 

Performance:

• According to Vassallo et al, a lymph node with a diameter < 8 mm is associated with false positives.

• Micrometastases cannot be detected by any imaging system, although the level of detection is constantly improving..