The Seattle Criteria is a diagnostic tool specifically designed for the diagnosis of Hepatic Veno-Occlusive Disease (VOD), also known as sinusoidal obstruction syndrome (SOS), in patients who have undergone hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT). This calculator is clinically useful in identifying patients who are at risk of developing this potentially life-threatening condition, which is characterized by occlusion of the small hepatic veins, leading to hepatomegaly, ascites, and jaundice.
The Seattle Criteria includes three main parameters: bilirubin level, weight gain due to fluid retention, and hepatomegaly or right upper quadrant pain of hepatic origin. A diagnosis of VOD is made if these symptoms occur within 20 days of transplantation.
There are no specific exclusion criteria for the use of the Seattle Criteria. However, it should be noted that this diagnostic tool may not be as effective in diagnosing VOD in patients who have received non-myeloablative conditioning regimens, as these patients may present with atypical symptoms. Additionally, other causes of liver dysfunction should be ruled out before a diagnosis of VOD is made using the Seattle Criteria.
Reference
Fiona L Dignan, Robert F Wynn, Nedim Hadzic et al. BCSH / BSBMT guideline: diagnosis and management of veno-occlusive disease (sinusoidal obstruction syndrome) following haematopoietic stem cell transplantation. Br J Haematol. 2013 Nov;163(4):444-57.
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