Greyscale and Portal Vein Doppler Ultrasound Findings in Adults With Hepatitis B: A Multicenter Observational Study in a Resource‐Limited Setting

Abstract

ABSTRACT Background Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is a major cause of chronic liver disease worldwide. Greyscale and portal vein Doppler ultrasound play a crucial role in the early detection of hepatic and portal hemodynamic abnormalities in affected patients. Objectives To evaluate hepatic greyscale ultrasound features and portal vein Doppler parameters in asymptomatic adults with HBV infection and to determine the association between greyscale and Doppler indices. Methods This multicentre observational study was conducted among asymptomatic adults with hepatitis B virus infection attending two tertiary hospitals in Kano, Nigeria. All participants underwent standardized greyscale and portal vein Doppler ultrasound examinations after an overnight fast. Liver morphology, echotexture, portal vein diameter, and portal vein Doppler indices were assessed using a uniform scanning protocol. Data were analysed using appropriate descriptive and inferential statistical methods. Results The mean age of participants was 36.3 ± 11.0 years, with a male predominance. Reduced liver size and hepatomegaly were observed in 21.4% and 10.7% of participants, respectively, while 8.6% had splenomegaly. The majority of participants (94.3%) demonstrated a normal portal vein diameter. Abnormal peak systolic velocity (PSV) and time‐averaged maximum velocity (Tmax) were identified in 5.0% and 15.0% of participants, respectively. A statistically significant association was found between liver and spleen size and Tmax. Conclusion Hepatic greyscale ultrasound findings show a significant association with portal vein Doppler indices in patients with HBV infection, suggesting that combined morphological and haemodynamic assessment may enhance the evaluation of hepatic involvement in these patients.