Publication:

Study of serum uric acid level in chronic liver disease and its association with Child-Turcotte-Pugh and model for end-stage liver disease score

Background Chronic liver disease (CLD) involves progressive hepatic injury, inflammation, and fibrosis, potentially leading to cirrhosis, liver failure, and increased mortality. Despite advancements, CLD remains a significant clinical challenge due to its varied nature and course. Serum uric acid (SUA), a by-product of purine metabolism, is emerging as a potential marker for CLD progression and prognosis. This study investigates the correlation between SUA levels and CLD severity, assessed by Child-Turcotte-Pugh (CTP) and model for end-stage liver disease (MELD) scores.

Methods This cross-sectional study at GSVM medical college, Kanpur, included 54 CLD patients over 18 years. Exclusions were pregnancy, known gout, diabetes mellitus, recent surgery/trauma, chronic kidney disease, hypothyroidism, specific medications, and malignancies on chemotherapy. Data were collected via interviews, medical records, and lab tests (SUA, liver function). Liver disease severity was assessed using CTP and MELD scores. Statistical analyses examined relationships between SUA levels, CTP and MELD scores.

Results SUA exhibit a positive correlation with the CTP score (r=0.51, p<0.05). Mean SUA levels were 4.20±0.45 mg/dL for CTP A, 6.46±2.18 mg/dl for CTP B, and 8.83±2.55 mg/dl for CTP C. An ANOVA test showed a significant association (F value: 11.78, p<0.05). A significant positive correlation was found between MELD scores and SUA levels (r=0.438, p<0.05).

Conclusions The significant associations between SUA levels and CTP and MELD scores indicate that SUA could be a valuable biomarker in managing CLD. Incorporating SUA measurements may enhance prognostic accuracy and support personalized treatments. Further research is needed to validate these findings across diverse populations and clinical settings, potentially identifying new therapeutic targets.