Study on prevalence of hyponatremia in hepatic cirrhosis and its correlation with complications and severity of cirrhosis

Aims and Objective: Hyponatremia is the most common electrolyte disorder seen in advanced cirrhosis. The aim of the present study is to study the prevalence of hyponatremia in cirrhosis and evaluate the association between serum sodium level and complications with severity of cirrhosis. Materials and Method: Study was an observational study conducted at RIMS, Ranchi from October 2014 to October 2015. The patients were evaluated with detailed history, physical examination and relevant investigations. Results: The mean age of the patients was 44.89 ±10.27 years there was a significant association between hyponatremia and hepatic encephalopathy, hepatorenal syndrome and portal hypertension. There was also a significant association between degree of hyponatremia and severity of cirrhosis as judged by modified Child-Pugh score and MELD score. Conclusion: Hyponatremia is a common finding in cirrhotic patients. Thus early treatment and early detection can prevent complications and improve the quality of life.