Which Factors are Predictive for Mortality among Hospitalized Patients with Cirrhosis?

Cirrhotic patients admitted to the hospital have a high mortality rate. The aim of this study was to evaluate predictors of mortality in patients hospitalized for specific complications of cirrhosis.

All patients admitted to the gastroenterology service with cirrhosis during a 2-year period were retrospectively identified. We compared the clinical characteristics of patients who died and those who survived. Multivariable analysis was performed to determine predictors of mortality.

A total of 84 patients were included in the study. In hospital mortality rate was 35%. Hepatorenal syndrome development (41% vs 4%, p < 0.001), MELD score (17 vs 12, p = 0.003), Child Pugh score (11 vs 8, p < 0.001), serum creatinine (p < 0.001) and serum potassium values (p = 0.01) were significantly higher in patients who died. Stepwise logistic regression analysis revealed that the best model in prediction of death included serum potassium levels (OR = 2.182; 95% Cl: 1.189-4.006; p < 0.001) and Child Pugh score (OR = 2.140; 95% CI: 1.507-3,038; p = 0.012).

The mortality of cirrhotic patients admitted to hospital is significantly high. Prevention of acute kidney injury will be an appropriate approach for improving the survival in hospitalized patients with cirrhosis.