From the Journals

Zinc: Missing Link in HE Management?

Study reveals stark survival contrast: cirrhotic patients with normal zinc levels showed 86% survival rate versus significantly poorer outcomes in zinc-deficient patients (35.56 ± 11.65 mcg/dL, P<.0001), suggesting a potentially modifiable risk factor in hepatic encephalopathy management.

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A cross-sectional observational study conducted in Jharkhand, India, revealed a significant correlation between serum zinc levels and the severity of hepatic encephalopathy in cirrhotic patients. Lower serum zinc levels were associated with higher grades of encephalopathy and more advanced cirrhosis, suggesting zinc deficiency may serve as both a marker for disease progression and a potential therapeutic target. Patients with zinc deficiency were found to have higher mortality rates, and zinc level screening was recommended for all cirrhotic patients with hepatic encephalopathy.

Original Source(s)

Zinc: Missing Link in HE Management?

Study reveals stark survival contrast: cirrhotic patients with normal zinc levels showed 86% survival rate versus significantly poorer outcomes in zinc-deficient patients (35.56 ± 11.65 mcg/dL, P<.0001), suggesting a potentially modifiable risk factor in hepatic encephalopathy management.

  • by Kerri Miller

  • November 7, 2024

  • 3 min

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