PATTERN OF SERUM ELECTROLYTES (SODIUM & POTASSIUM) IN PATIENT WITH HEPATIC ENCEPHALOPATHY ADMITTED IN A TERTIARY LEVEL HOSPITAL

Background: Hepatic encephalopathy is an important complication of liver disease causing significant morbidity and mortality. Analysis of the course and variation in the biochemical parameters during the disease process is needful for better understanding and management of disease. Aim of the study was to find out the electrolyte status of a hepatic encephalopathy patient. Methods: This hospital based cross-sectional observational study was conducted at the Department of Medicine in Dhaka Medical College Hospital, for a period from July 2019 to December 2019. All patients of hepatic encephalopathy were approached for participation of the study and included in this study according to selection criteria. Following informed written consent, detailed history, physical examination and necessary investigations were performed. Data had been collected by interview using a structured questionnaire. Collected data had been analyzed by the SPSS 21. Results: Total 50 subjects were studied with prime clinical features were altered consciousness (100%), Jaundice (100%), ascites (80%), splenomegaly (78%), flapping tremor (62%). Most common precipitating factors were Upper GI bleeding (64%), infections (36%) and constipation (12%). Of all, 38% of study population had grade III Hepatic encephalopathy, 30% had grade IV, 18% had grade II and 14% grade I. They had significant Hyponatremia with a mean serum Na+ level of 130.97±4.57 mmol/L & serum K+ of 4.24±0.79 mmol/L. Conclusion: In this study both sodium and potassium level altered in Hepatic Encephalopathy patients. However, further study with larger sample size is recommended.