[Clinical importance of echographic screening of the entire abdomen]

Unsuspected abnormalities are occasionally detected during real-time examinations. To determine the frequency of such findings detected during the standard ultrasound examination of the entire abdomen, the records of 765 consecutive patients were reviewed. A significant number of occult abnormalities were detected: approximately one-fourth of all abnormalities were found in the abdominal survey. The influence of the abdominal survey on the clinical management and improved radiological consultation are discussed.