HEPATIC ENCEPHALOPATHY IN ELDERLY CIRRHOSIS PATIENTS

Abstract

Hepatic encephalopathy remains a significant complication of cirrhosis, especially as the population ages, leading to an increasing number of older individuals with chronic liver disease. However, a lack of awareness among clinicians regarding this demographic shift often results in many older patients with chronic liver disease going undiagnosed. Cognitive impairment is prevalent among the elderly and can mimic symptoms of hepatic encephalopathy, further complicating diagnosis, particularly in cases of undiagnosed liver disease. Moreover, the elderly present unique challenges in treating hepatic encephalopathy due to factors such as comorbidities, polypharmacy, malnutrition, social isolation, and functional limitations. This review explores the pathophysiology, clinical presentation, diagnosis, and treatment of hepatic encephalopathy, with a particular focus on addressing the complexities posed by advanced age.

Keywords: hepatic encephalopathy; cirrhosis; malnutrition