Saudi Journal of Medical and Pharmaceutical Sciences (SJMPS)
Volume-10 | Issue-12 | 906-911
Original Research Article
A Study on Clinical Characteristics of Cirrhotic Patients in Bangladesh
Dr. Md. Shayedul Ashik, Dr. Irfat Yasmin, Professor Dr. Mamun Al Mahtab, Dr. Muhammad Rezaul Karim, Dr. Arifa Tasnim, Dr. Md. Arif Uddin Sumon
Published : Dec. 10, 2024
Abstract
Background: Cirrhosis is a chronic liver condition characterized by significant morbidity and mortality. Hepatic encephalopathy (HE), a neuropsychiatric complication of cirrhosis, is associated with vitamin D deficiency, which may exacerbate liver dysfunction. Understanding the clinical and laboratory characteristics of cirrhotic patients with and without HE is crucial for improving management strategies. Objective: To evaluate the clinical characteristics of cirrhotic patients and investigate the association between serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels and the severity of HE. Methods: This cross-sectional observational study was conducted at Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University (BSMMU), Dhaka, from December 2019 to August 2020. A total of 54 cirrhotic patients were divided into two groups: 27 with HE (cases) and 27 without HE (controls). Clinical history, physical examination, and laboratory parameters, including serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels, were assessed. Data analysis involved chi-square tests, t-tests, and ANOVA, with a significance level of p < 0.05. Results: The mean age of participants was 50.2 years, with a male predominance (63%). Serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels were significantly lower in patients with HE (6.6 ± 2.1 ng/ml) compared to controls (13.6 ± 4.2 ng/ml; p < 0.0001). Vitamin D levels decreased progressively with higher HE grades. Cases exhibited significantly higher serum bilirubin, prothrombin time, INR, Child-Pugh scores, and MELD scores than controls (p < 0.05). Conclusion: Vitamin D deficiency is strongly associated with the severity of HE in cirrhotic patients. Lower vitamin D levels correspond to higher grades of encephalopathy, emphasizing its potential role in HE pathophysiology. Future studies should explore the therapeutic implications of vitamin D supplementation in this population.