A Study Correlating Serum Magnesium and Child Pugh Score in Liver Cirrhosis

Abstract

Introduction: Liver cirrhosis, a chronic condition characterized by widespread hepatic fibrosis, is associated with significant morbidity and mortality. Magnesium, an essential mineral for numerous physiological processes, has been shown to decrease in patients with advanced liver disease. This study aimed to investigate the correlation between serum magnesium levels and the Child-Pugh score in patients with liver cirrhosis.

Objectives: To evaluate the relationship between serum magnesium levels and the severity of liver cirrhosis as measured by the Child-Pugh score.

Methods: A prospective study was conducted on 105 liver cirrhosis patients. Demographic, clinical, and biochemical data were collected. Serum magnesium levels were measured, and the severity of cirrhosis was assessed using the Child-Pugh score. Statistical analysis was performed to determine the correlation between magnesium levels and cirrhosis severity.

Results: The study included 105 patients with a mean age of 50.13 years, with 90.5% being male. Alcohol was the primary cause of cirrhosis in 86.7% of cases. Ascites was present in 90.5% of patients, and 27.6% experienced hepatic encephalopathy. Serum magnesium levels were found to decrease as the severity of cirrhosis increased, with a significant correlation observed between magnesium levels and the Child-Pugh score (p < 0.05).

Conclusion: This study demonstrated a significant correlation between serum magnesium levels and the severity of liver cirrhosis as assessed by the Child-Pugh score. Monitoring serum magnesium may provide additional insights into disease severity and progression in cirrhosis patients.