Liver volume measurement by ultrasonography in normal subjects and alcoholic patients.

Computer-assisted ultrasonic planimetry was used to determine hepatic volumes in normal subjects and patients with alcoholic liver disease. Normal subjects showed a diurnal variation in liver volume with a minimum between 12.00 and 14.00 h. Studies indicated that this was related to hydration and liver glycogen content. Using data obtained from nonfasted ambulant subjects correlations were found between liver volume and body weight, height and surface area, with body weight showing the closest correlation. The normal range for adults was 18.1 +/- 0.5 (SE) ml/kg body weight. Patients with alcoholic fatty liver showed increased hepatic volumes correlating with degree of fatty change as judged histologically. Patients who continued to abuse alcohol showed a persistent increase in hepatic volume. Those who moderated, and particularly those who abstained, showed a significant decrease in hepatic volume. Serial measurements of liver volume are useful in assessing hepatic changes in alcohol abusers.