Factors Precipitating Hepatic Encephalopathy in Cirrhosis Liver

Abstract

We surveyed 50 patients admitted with clinical diagnosis of hepatic encephalopathy, for one or more facotrs responsible of encephalopathy. The commonest preceipitating factors were, hypokalaemia 68%, Haematemesis 56%, Constipation 52%, High Protein intake 52%, Hyponatraemia 28%, diarrhoea 22%, Infections including spontaneous bacterial peritonitis and septicaemia 28%, Benzodiazepine intake 2% surgical procedure 2%. Oesophageal varices were present in 60%. Hypokatlaemia and Electrolytes Imbalance must be considered as an important precipitating factor in cuasation of encephalopathy in cirrhotics.