Cytopenias in Compensated Versus Decompensated Liver Function: Is There a Difference?

Background/Objectives: Patients with liver cirrhosis (LC) present hematological abnormalities with multiple etiologies. As liver function deteriorates, these abnormalities become more evident, conferring a higher risk of morbidity and mortality. The objective of this study was to determine the hematological alterations present in patients with compensated vs. decompensated liver cirrhosis. Methods: This study is a prospective study conducted in a tertiary hospital with patients diagnosed with compensated liver cirrhosis monitored by the Gastroenterology Department, in addition to patients hospitalized for decompensated liver cirrhosis. Serum samples were taken after an informed consent form was signed, and clinical and biochemical data were recorded. Results: Seventy-three percent of patients with decompensated liver cirrhosis (DLC) suffered from anemia and thrombocytopenia at the start of the study. Patients with LC are at greater risk of developing leukopenia/lymphopenia if they are in a more advanced stage of the disease, and the erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) and C-reactive protein levels are higher in this group than in patients with compensated LC. Twenty-eight percent (4/14) of patients with DLC were admitted due to evidence of acute gastrointestinal bleeding; the remaining 18 patients suffering from CLC and DLC were recorded as having an average hemoglobin level of 11 g/dL with no evidence of bleeding. Conclusions: Hematological abnormalities are common in patients with LC, particularly in the advanced stages of the disease, and these abnormalities increase the risk of morbidity and mortality. The authors have read the CONSORT 2010 Statement, and the manuscript was prepared and revised in accordance.