Review for 10.1186/s12876-018-0852-5 (2018)

Reviewer’s report
Title:  Gall bladder wall thickening as non-invasive screening parameter for esophageal varices – a
comparative endoscopic - sonographic study
Version: 0 Date: 24 Mar 2018
Reviewer: Hitoshi Maruyama
Reviewer's report:
General comments
Obviously, there may be a certain relationship between a presence of ascites and GBWT, and high
specificity of GBWT to detect EV may be related to this logic.
The author need to examine whether GBWT is an independent factor by using multivariate analysis.
Secondly, because of the nature of ultrasound, the measurement data should be based on the multi-
operator assessment.
The data shown in this retrospective study appear less valuable. Also, there should be deeper discussion
regarding the GBWT and a presence of EV, instead of other topics. 
Results
Please add the time difference between Endoscopy and Ultrasound.
Please examine the relationship between the degree of EV and GBWT.
Page 3
Ultrasonography findings
"non-inflammatory GBWT of ≥ 4mm"
Please explain how to define "non-inflammatory" in the Method section.
Discussion
Please add deeper discussion regarding the GBWT and a presence of EV.
Are the methods appropriate and well described?
If not, please specify what is required in your comments to the authors.
No
Does the work include the necessary controls?
If not, please specify which controls are required in your comments to the authors.
No
Are the conclusions drawn adequately supported by the data shown?
If not, please explain in your comments to the authors.
No
Are you able to assess any statistics in the manuscript or would you recommend an additional 
statistical review?
If an additional statistical review is recommended, please specify what aspects require further 
assessment in your comments to the editors.
I recommend additional statistical review
Quality of written English
Please indicate the quality of language in the manuscript:
Needs some language corrections before being published
Declaration of competing interests
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your reply is yes to any, please give details below.
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