Alcoholic Liver Disease (ALD) is a prevalent consequence of chronic alcohol abuse, characterized by progressive liver damage that can culminate in cirrhosis and death. The mean corpuscular volume (MCV) is a routinely available hematological parameter that may reflect alcohol-induced macrocytosis and hepatic dysfunction. This study evaluates the relationship between MCV and the Child-Pugh score in predicting the severity and prognosis of ALD. Objective: The primary objective was to determine whether MCV correlates with the severity of liver dysfunction in ALD, as graded by the Child-Turcotte-Pugh (CTP) score, and to assess its potential as a prognostic marker. Materials and methods: This observational study included 83 patients diagnosed with ALD and admitted to the Medicine Dept of G.R. Medical College, Gwalior. Detailed clinical, biochemical, and hematological data were recorded. MCV and CTP scores were calculated and analyzed in relation to Child-Pugh classes (A, B, and C) and clinical outcomes. Results: A statistically significant increase in MCV values with advancing Child-Pugh class (p < 0.0001). The mean MCV was lowest in Class A (97.36 fL) and highest among Class C mortality cases (109.5 fL). A parallel rise in CTP scores was also observed, supporting the hypothesis that elevated MCV reflects worsening liver function and correlates with mortality risk. Conclusion: MCV is significantly associated with disease severity in ALD and may serve as a simple, cost-effective predictor of morbidity and mortality, especially in resource-limited settings.
Bhargava et al. (Wed,) studied this question.
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