Grisolia et al reported a simple score for identifying a parasitic hepatic cyst based on ultrasound findings. The authors are from the University of Pavia.
Patient selection: hepatic cyst detectable on ultrasonography
Parameters:
(1) double layer sign
(2) regular borders
(3) regular shape (oval or round)
(4) calcifications
(5) sex of the patient
(6) stable appearance on follow-up ultrasound
(7) number of septae
(8) appearance of septae
Parameter
Finding
Points
double layer sign
no
3
yes
0
regular borders
no
2
yes
1
regular shape
no
1
yes
0
calcifications
no
1
yes
0
sex
female
1
male
0
stable on follow-up
no
1
yes
2
number of septae
none
0
1
2
2 or more
1
appearance of septae
none
0
regular
1
irregular
3
total score =
= SUM(points for all of the parameters)
Interpretation:
• minimum score: 2
• maximum score: 15
A cyst is nonparasitic if:
(1) a unilocular cyst and total score >= 6
(2) a septated cyst and total score >= 10.
Routine serology can provide supplemental information.
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