macrophages are key players in liver inflammation and cirrhosis and the development of portal hypertension Aim: to investigate the role of sCD163 as a predictor of varices and variceal bleeding Methods: 70 cirrhotic patients were enrolled in the study. Blood samples were taken and sCD163 serum levels were assessed by ELISA (enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay). A modified Child-Pugh score was calculated. Endoscopic examination of the upper gastrointestinal tract was performed to all patients. The collected data were tabulated and analyzed using the computer program SPSS (Statistical package for social science) version 20 . Results: high sCD163 levels were associated with larger varices and higher incidence of variceal bleeding Conclusion: The sCD163 serum level is a new noninvasive predictor for variceal bleeding in cirrhotic patients.