Abstract
Objective: To investigate the prevalence, clinical manifestations, and outcomes of alcoholic liver disease (ALD) and to assess the impact of alcohol consumption patterns and associated comorbid conditions on disease progression.Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted at a tertiary care hospital from January 2023 to December 2023. The study included 150 patients with a history of excessive alcohol consumption. Data were collected on demographics, alcohol consumption patterns, presence of comorbidities, and clinical outcomes. Biochemical markers (AST, ALT, GGT, and bilirubin) and imaging studies (ultrasound, CT, or MRI) were used to assess liver damage. Liver biopsy was performed for patients with suspected cirrhosis.
Results: The study population had a mean age of 54.2 years, predominantly male (63%). The average daily alcohol intake was 60.4 grams, with a mean duration of alcohol use of 12.6 years. The prevalence of different stages of ALD was as follows: 40% had fatty liver, 30% had alcoholic hepatitis, 20% had cirrhosis, and 10% had hepatocellular carcinoma. Significant positive correlations were found between the duration of alcohol use and daily alcohol intake with the severity of ALD (r = 0.52, p < 0.01 and r = 0.47, p < 0.01, respectively). Comorbid conditions such as hepatitis C and obesity were associated with more severe stages of ALD. Elevated liver enzymes (AST, ALT, GGT) and bilirubin levels were prevalent, indicating significant liver injury.
Conclusion: ALD is prevalent among individuals with heavy alcohol consumption, with severity correlated to alcohol intake and duration. Comorbidities such as hepatitis C and obesity exacerbate liver damage. Early detection through screening and comprehensive management, including alcohol cessation and treatment of comorbid conditions, is crucial for improving patient outcomes. These findings underscore the need for targeted interventions to address ALD effectively.
Keywords: Alcoholic liver disease, liver dysfunction, alcohol consumption, comorbidities, liver biopsy, clinical outcomes.