Establishment of Z score reference of liver, spleen, and kidney parameters for Egyptian children and adolescents: a cross-sectional randomized study

Abstract

Abstract Background Among various growth parameters, liver and spleen size is an important parameter used for the evaluation of patients with certain disorders and abnormalities in these organs. Aim To determine the normal dimensions for the liver, spleen, and kidney in Egyptian infants, children, and adolescents from birth to 18 years. Methods This cross-sectional randomized study was conducted on 1861 Egyptian infants, children, and adolescents from birth to 18 years for the establishment of Z score reference of liver, spleen, and kidney parameters. Results Egyptian children of both sexes (51.5% boys and 48.5% girls) from birth to 18 years old were studied. Then Z scores reference for liver, spleen, and kidney parameters for both sexes were represented in detailed tables and graphs. There was no statistically significant difference between both sexes, so we used unisex tables and graphs ( P > 0.05). Conclusions Determination of pathologic changes in the size of the liver, spleen, and kidney necessitates knowing the normal range of dimensions for these organs. So, our study established a Z score chart for normal values of liver, spleen, and kidney size for children and adolescents from birth to 18 years.