Normogram of Splenic Elasticity in Healthy Individuals Using Ultrasound 2d Shearwave Elastography

Background: The spleen plays a crucial role in hematological and immunological functions, and alterations in its mechanical properties are observed in several systemic and portal hypertensive disorders. Recent advances in ultrasound elastography have enabled noninvasive quantification of tissue stiffness. However, interpretation of splenic elastography findings is limited by the lack of established normative reference values in healthy individuals. This study was undertaken to generate a normogram of splenic elasticity using ultrasound two-dimensional shear wave elastography (2D-SWE).

Methods: A hospital-based cross-sectional observational study was conducted on 61 healthy volunteers across a wide age range. Subjects with any known hepatic, splenic, hematological, or systemic disease were excluded. Splenic evaluation was performed using a GE LOGIQ P10 ultrasound machine equipped with 2D shear wave elastography. Splenic length and stiffness were measured under standardized conditions, and elasticity values were expressed in kilopascals (kPa). Descriptive statistical analysis was performed to determine mean values and variability.

Results: The mean age of participants was 39.97 ± 20.39 years, with a near-equal gender distribution. The mean splenic length was 9.56 ± 1.44 cm, consistent with normal anatomical limits. Mean splenic stiffness was 4.55 ± 1.07 kPa, reflecting baseline elasticity of normal splenic parenchyma. Measurements showed low variability, indicating good reproducibility.

Conclusion: Ultrasound 2D shear wave elastography provides reliable quantitative assessment of splenic stiffness. The normative values established in this study serve as a useful reference for differentiating physiological from pathological splenic changes and enhance the clinical applicability of splenic elastography.