CLINICAL STUDY OF PATIENTS PRESENTING WITH HEPATIC ENCEPHALOPATHY WITH SPECIAL REFERENCE TO OUTCOME AND ETIOLOGY.

Dr. Mohan D. Kashinkunti*, Dr. Hemamalini G.** and Dr. Kareti Sanjana***

ABSTRACT

Introduction: Hepatic encephalopathy is a complex ,potentially reversible neuropsychiatric abnormality resulting from acute or chronic liver failure. It is characterized by change in personality , consciousness, behavior and neuromuscular function. It is a disease with poor outcome and is associated with high morbidity and mortality. Methods: Prospective and observational study of 120 patients with age > 14 years presenting with clinical symptoms and signs of hepatic encephalopathy . Necessary laboratory investigations were done. Patients were followed during hospital stay and outcome and associated etiology was noted. Results: Most common age group affected was 41-60 years with male to female ratio of 9:1. Most common presenting symptoms were altered sensorium and yellowish discoloration of sclera followed by abdominal distension, hematemesis and malena. Majority of the patients had cirrhosis and alcohol was the most common etiology associated. Mean duration of stay was between 1-2 weeks.

Keywords: HEPATIC ENCEPHALOPATHY, CIRRHOSIS.