Computed Tomographic Assessment of Normal Splenic Length in Relation to Anthropometric Parameters: An Observational Cross-Sectional Study in Iraq

Abstract

Background: Clinical examination by palpation is often inaccurate. Consequently, imaging techniques have become vital for the accurate assessment of splenic size. Objectives: To evaluate the range of normal splenic length in the Iraqi population and correlate it with some anthropometric indices. Methods: The splenic lengths were measured by CT scan in 110 adults. Statistical analysis was performed according to age and sex and the correlation of splenic length with anthropometric indices like body weight, height, body mass index (BMI), and body surface area (BSA). Results: The mean length of the spleen was 9.7±1.9 cm for both genders: 10±2 for males and 9±1.4 for females. The mean splenic lengths in the Iraqi population were similar to those of the Sudanese and Turkish populations, less than those of the Jordanian and Iranian populations, and slightly more than those of the Indian and Nigerian populations. The mean splenic length is greater in males than in females. There was a modest positive correlation between splenic length and height and body surface area, but not weight or body mass index. Conclusion: Standard splenic length ranges in Iraqi adults using CT scan imaging can be easily used in clinical practice to calculate the splenic length depending on some anthropometric indices like height and BSA.