Pattern of Chronic Liver Disease at a Tertiary Care Hospital in Nepal

Introduction: Chronic liver disease (CLD) represents a major cause of morbidity and mortality in Nepal. This study analyzed the etiology, clinical manifestations, and complications of CLD at NAMS Bir Hospital. Methods: Retrospective review of 250 patients diagnosed with CLD from 2011-2013. Results: Hepatitis B was the most common etiology (42.4%), followed by alcohol-related liver disease (28.8%) and Hepatitis C (12.8%). Cirrhosis with portal hypertension was the most common presentation (68%). Variceal bleeding occurred in 34.4% of cirrhotic patients. In-hospital mortality was 16.4%. Conclusions: Viral hepatitis, particularly HBV, is the predominant cause of CLD in Nepal. Universal hepatitis B vaccination programs and alcohol awareness campaigns are priorities.