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Oesophageal Varices And Associated Factors In Cirrhotic Patients With Hepatitis C

Saira Muhammad Ali1, Syed Zea Ul Islam Farrukh1, Syed Afzal Ul Haq Haqqi1

  • 1Patel Hospital Karachi, Civil Hospital Karachi, Pakistan.

Journal of Ayub Medical College, Abbottabad : JAMC
|December 25, 2022
PubMed

Insights

Hepatitis C virus infection leads to liver cirrhosis and a high frequency of oesophageal varices. Thrombocytopenia, ascites, and advanced Child-Pugh class C are key factors contributing to this complication.

Area of Science:

  • Hepatology
  • Gastroenterology
  • Viral Hepatitis Research

Background:

  • Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection affects millions globally, often leading to liver cirrhosis.
  • Liver cirrhosis significantly increases the risk of developing oesophageal varices, a serious complication.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To determine the frequency of oesophageal varices in patients with HCV-related liver cirrhosis.
  • To identify associated factors contributing to the development of oesophageal varices in this patient population.

Main Methods:

  • A cross-sectional study was conducted in Karachi, Pakistan, involving 167 patients with HCV-related liver cirrhosis.
  • Data collected included demographics, Child-Pugh scores, laboratory results (Hb, platelets, albumin, etc.), and presence of ascites and oesophageal varices.
  • Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS to identify significant associations.

Main Results:

  • Oesophageal varices were present in a high proportion (84.4%) of the 167 patients studied.
  • Thrombocytopenia (77.8%) and ascites were common findings.
  • A significant association was found between oesophageal varices and thrombocytopenia (p<0.001), ascites (p=0.024), and Child-Pugh class C (p=0.012).

Conclusions:

  • Oesophageal varices are a frequent complication in patients with HCV-related liver cirrhosis.
  • Thrombocytopenia, ascites, and advanced Child-Pugh class C are significant contributing factors to the presence of oesophageal varices.
Abstract

Keywords:
Child-Pugh score; Hepatitis C; Liver cirrhosisOesophageal varices; Thrombocytopenia

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