Pattern of liver disease admissions in a Nigerian tertiary hospital

OBJECTIVE: Liver disease is an important cause of morbidity and mortality globally. Its pattern varies in different geographical locations. This study aimed to determine the pattern and risk factors of liver disease in a Nigerian tertiary hospital. STUDY DESIGN: Retrospective Study Site: University of Nigeria teaching hospital Ituku/Ozalla, Enugu state, Nigeria. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Case notes of patients admitted with a diagnosis of liver disease were reviewed and information relating to demographics, risk factors for liver disease and results of relevant investigations extracted. RESULTS: Liver diseases accounted for 7.9% of medical admissions, with primary liver cancer and liver cirrhosis accounting for 44.3% and 20.4%, respectively. The main risk factors were alcohol consumption (52.1%), hepatitis B virus infection (49.4%), ingestion of herbs and roots (45.5%) and cigarette smoking (30.1%). CONCLUSION: Liver cirrhosis and primary liver cancer account for two thirds of liver disease in hospitalized patients in a Nigerian tertiary hospital. The major putative risk factors are alcohol consumption, hepatitis B virus infection, use of herbs and roots and smoking.