Factors associated with liver complications assessed using non-invasive methods in a group of hepatitis C infected patients in Sisaket Hospital

Abstract

Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) infection is a cause of liver complications, including liver fibrosis, cirrhosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma. Liver biopsy is the gold standard method for assessing liver complications. However, it is an invasive procedure with risks. Non-invasive assessments, including biochemical indices such as the FIB-4 Index and APRI, as well as imaging techniques such as ultrasound, are used. The FIB-4 Index and APRI are indices that can be easily calculated from common laboratory test results. Objective: to study the relationship between FIB-4 Index and APRI values and liver ultrasound findings in Hepatitis C Virus patients at Sisaket Hospital. This was a retrospective study of individuals who tested positive for anti-HCV and had biochemical tests for aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), and platelet count, as well as liver ultrasound results, and who received treatment at Sisaket Hospital between October 1, 2023, and September 30, 2024.

 The study results showed that there were more male patients than female patients in all groups. Patients aged 56-65 years had the highest proportion of cirrhosis and liver cancer. There was a correlation between FIB-4 Index values and ultrasound findings (p < 0.05).          There was a correlation between APRI values and ultrasound findings (p < 0.05).

 In conclusion, higher APRI and FIB-4 Index values are associated with an increased risk of cirrhosis and liver cancer. APRI and FIB-4 have moderate sensitivity and specificity. APRI and FIB-4 Index should be used in conjunction with other clinical data and additional diagnostic tests for accurate assessment of liver complications.