Evaluation of Quality of Life and Risk Factors in Patients With Covert Hepatic Encephalopathy Including Those With Hepatocellular Carcinoma

Background/Aim: Covert hepatic encephalopathy (CHE) is associated with a decline in quality of life (QOL), requiring early detection and intervention. We aimed to determine CHE prevalence, QOL correlations, and risk factors in hospitalized patients with cirrhosis. This study evaluated neuropsychological test (NPT) results and QOL in these patients. Patients and Methods: This retrospective study included 56 patients with liver cirrhosis who were hospitalized at our institution from January to November 2024 and underwent simultaneous short form health survey (SF-36) testing and NPT. The NPT included the number connection (NCT)-A and Stroop tests. QOL was assessed using the SF-36, and risk factors evaluated using hematological data at admission. Results: =0.016]. Conclusion: Patients with CHE experienced reduced QOL RP and low Zn levels, suggesting that early Zn supplementation may improve CHE and enhance QOL.