[Psychometric hepatic encephalopathy score normalization data for the Portuguese population]

Area of Science:

• Neuropsychology
• Hepatology
• Psychometrics

Context:

• Minimal Hepatic Encephalopathy (MHE) impacts quality of life and prognosis.
• Early MHE detection is crucial for reducing adverse outcomes.
• The Psychometric Hepatic Encephalopathy Score (PHES) is an internationally recommended diagnostic tool.

Purpose:

• To normalize the PHES for the Portuguese population.
• To provide local normative data for MHE diagnosis and monitoring.
• To facilitate the early detection of MHE in Portuguese patients.

Summary:

• The PHES, comprising five cognitive tasks, was administered to 115 healthy Portuguese subjects.
• Age and education were identified as key factors influencing PHES performance.
• Linear regression was used to establish normality tables.

Impact:

• Enables objective MHE diagnosis in Portuguese patients using an established international method.
• Supports the International Society for Hepatic Encephalopathy and Nitrogen Metabolism guidelines.
• Aims to improve patient outcomes through timely and accurate MHE identification.