[Evolution and prognosis in patients with liver cirrhosis. II. A multifactorial analysis using a stepped regression...

The multivariant approach offers best possibilities for assessment of liver function. The role of the different clinical, clinico-laboratory and combined clinical and clinicochemical indices in the prognosis of liver cirrhosis was studied in patient in ambulatory conditions. A step regressive mathematical model with the help of the program 2R of the statistical package BMDP was used. The regression of the clinical indices by 5 steps of the mathematical model showed that of greatest importance for the survival are the following indices: ascites, months since its onset, collaterals, anorexia and vascular nevi. By 4 steps of the regressive model of the clinico-chemical indices the following indices were chosen: prothrombin time, albumin, total bilirubin, cholesterol and alkaline phosphatase. The regression of the combined clinical and clinico-chemical indices pointed out as basic factors 3 clinical indices (ascites, months since its onset, collaterals) and 3 clinico-chemical indices related to the disturbed liver function (prothrombin time, total bilirubin, albumin).