Correlation of thermal burn hepatic dysfunction with outcomes

Organ dysfunction and failure increase the morbidity and mortality following major burn. Alteration of liver morphology and function is common following major burns; however, it has not received much attention. In this study we have assessed the impact of thermal burn on liver in relation with mortality.

55 patients (33 female and 22 males) with TBSA 10-90% and age ranged from 18 to 75 years were included. A bed side serial ultrasonography to assess the volume of liver and liver function tests was done on the 2^nd, 9th and 16th day following burn. Baseline demographic and clinical information such as age, gender, burn size and outcome of patient were also collected.

8 patients died during 2nd week following burn and 47 survived. The mean TBSA for survivors was 37% and for non survivors 80%. Mean liver volume in survivors steadily decreased from 1693.70 cm³ to 1631.31 cm³ over 3 weeks. Mean liver volume in non- survivors steadily increased from 1855.88 cm³ to 2028.50 cm³ over 2 weeks. Liver function test in survivors steadily improved while in non survivors it deteriorated over 2 weeks.

There is a correlation between altered liver morphology and function with mortality among severely burnt patients however liver volume did not show statistical significance. A decreasing trend of liver dysfunction parameters and hepatomegaly following burn is associated with good prognosis.