HYPONATREMIA

FREQUENCY AND OUTCOME IN PATIENTS WITH LIVER CIRRHOSIS

Abstract

Background objective: Hyponatremia is not uncommon complication of liver
cirrhosis and may affect hospital mortality. This study was aimed to determine frequency and
outcome of hyponatremia in liver cirrhosis patients. Patients and Methods: The cirrhotic subjects
were assessed for hyponatremia while outcome measured in relation to hyponatremia and its
severity. Data was analyzed in SPSS 16.0 and frequencies as well as percentages calculated
for hyponatremia. Results: Out of one hundred liver cirrhosis patients, 65% were males and
35% females. Mean age ±SD of overall cirrhotic subjects was 40.79±7.83. Hyponatremia was
identified in 72% (51% males and 21% females) patients. The mean ± SD for sodium level
in overall population was 129.73±8.35 while 119.92±3.61 in hyponatremic cirrhotic patients.
Conclusion: Dilutional hyponatremia is a frequent finding in liver cirrhosis patients.