Risk Factors of Abnormal Testosterone Levels in Liver Cirrhosis

Abstract

Background and aim: Liver diseases are associated with low testosterone. However, little is known about risk factors of changes in testosterone. This study determined testosterone levels in liver cirrhosis and associated risk factors with the abnormal testosterone levels. Methods: In this descriptive hospital-based study, 50 patients with evidence of liver cirrhosis diagnosed on history, imaging and investigations were included for a period of 12 months. Testosterone levels were measured by enzyme chemiluminescence immunoassay (ECLIA)and value less than 249 ng/dl was taken as cut-off for decreased levels. Results: 84% of the patients had abnormal testosterone levels. Age, SGOT, SGPT, serum albumin, PT, and INR were not significantly associated with abnormal testosterone levels. Testosterone levels were decreased in majority of the patients but testosterone levels in CTP class B and C were higher, signifying that testosterone levels are related with severity of liver disease. Conclusion: There is a significantly higher prevalence of abnormal testosterone levels in liver cirrhotic patients in this region.