Prevalence and Patterns of Hyponatremia in Patients with Chronic Liver Disease

Background: Hyponatremia is the most frequent electrolyte disturbance in chronic liver disease (CLD), especially cirrhosis, and is associated with poor prognosis.¹,² Objectives: 1. To determine the prevalence of hyponatremia among CLD patients. 2. To describe clinical and biochemical patterns of hyponatremia. 3. To correlate severity of hyponatremia with disease stage and complications. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in the Department of Medicine, from July 2023 – June 2024. A total of 120 CLD patients were enrolled. Serum sodium was categorized as mild (130–134 mEq/L), moderate (125–129 mEq/L), and severe (<125 mEq/L).³ Disease severity was assessed using Child-Pugh and MELD scores.¹⁰⁻¹² Complications including ascites, hepatic encephalopathy, and spontaneous bacterial peritonitis (SBP) were documented. Results: Hyponatremia prevalence was 45% (54/120). Distribution: mild 22.5%, moderate 13.3%, severe 9.2%. Hyponatremia was significantly associated with Child-Pugh C (64%) and higher MELD scores (23.4 vs. 16.7; p < 0.01). Ascites (80% vs. 52%), hepatic encephalopathy (42% vs. 21%), and SBP (18% vs. 7%) were more common in hyponatremic patients. Conclusion: Hyponatremia is highly prevalent in CLD patients at hospital and correlates with advanced disease and complications. Regular sodium monitoring and early correction are essential.