Study of the Impact of Liver Cirrhosis on Health-Related Quality of Life in Chronic Hepatic Patients, Menoufia Governorate

Abstract

Background and study aim: cirrhosis is associated with morbidity and mortality and complications of cirrhosis. Health-related quality of life should be considered an important outcome measure in the treatment of cirrhotic patients. This study is designed to assess the impact of liver cirrhosis on a weighted score of health – related quality of life in those patients.  Patients and Methods:  This study was conducted on four groups of patients and control subjects. Group I included 50 Child A liver cirrhosis. Group II included 50 Child B cirrhosis. Group III included 50 Child C liver cirrhosis. Group IV as healthy control subjects. All patients and control subjects completed a Medical Outcomes Study Short Form 36 (SF-36) questionnaires used for measuring the health related quality of life. Results: There was a highly significant decrease in the short form-36 questionnaire score of health related quality of life with the Child score progression in comparison to other healthy persons, There was statistical significant positive correlation between The SF-36 scores (vitality (energy/fatigue) scale and physical functioning scale) and occupation and education level. Conclusions: cirrhosis reduced the quality of life of the patients; advanced Child score and development of complications have a negative effect in their quality of life.