AbstractBackground: Chronic liver disease (CLD) is associated with a broad spectrum of hematological and biochemical abnormalities that reflect hepatic decompensation and predict clinical outcomes. Evaluating these parameters can aid in early risk stratification and disease staging.
Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional observational study was conducted over one year (February 2015 to January 2016) at MNR Medical College, Telangana. A total of 100 patients with clinically and radiologically confirmed CLD were enrolled. Hematological and biochemical parameters—including hemoglobin, platelet count, liver transaminases, serum albumin, bilirubin, and prothrombin time—were assessed. Correlation analyses and subgroup comparisons across Child-Pugh classes were performed using SPSS v21.
Results: Mean age of patients was 48.6±10.2 years, with 76% males. Alcoholic liver disease was the leading etiology (58%). Anemia (mean Hb: 10.2±1.8 g/dL) and thrombocytopenia (mean platelet count: 110000±45000/mm³) were common findings. Biochemically, elevated AST (102±33 U/L), hypoalbuminemia (2.8±0.6 g/dL), and prolonged INR (1.6±0.3) were evident. Significant correlations were observed between platelet count and INR (r = -0.52, p<0.01), and between albumin and bilirubin (r = -0.44, p<0.05). Hematological and biochemical parameters worsened significantly with advancing Child-Pugh class (p<0.001).
Conclusion: Hematological and biochemical derangements in CLD patients exhibit consistent, stage-dependent patterns. Routine monitoring of these markers provides valuable insights into disease severity and prognosis. Integration of these indices into routine clinical evaluation may enhance early intervention strategies, particularly in resource-constrained settings.
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