Chronic liver disease (CLD) is a global health challenge, often leading to severe complications and poor clinical outcomes. Among the complications of CLD, malnutrition is a significant and frequently overlooked factor that exacerbates liver dysfunction, increases morbidity, and worsens prognosis. This study aims to evaluate the prevalence and severity of malnutrition in patients with CLD and examine its relationship with two commonly used scoring systems for liver disease severity: the Child-Turcotte-Pugh (CTP) score and the Model for End-Stage Liver Disease (MELD) score.

Conducted at Mahatma Gandhi Hospital and Medical College, Sitapura, Jaipur, over a one-year period (September 2023 to September 2024), this study included 200 adult patients diagnosed with CLD based on clinical, biochemical, and radiological findings. Nutritional status was assessed using Subjective Global Assessment (SGA), anthropometric measurements (body mass index [BMI], mid-upper arm circumference [MUAC]), and biochemical markers, particularly serum albumin. The CTP and MELD scores were used to classify the severity of liver disease in all patients.

The results revealed that 72% of the patients were malnourished, with 42% moderately malnourished and 30% severely malnourished. The prevalence of malnutrition increased with the severity of liver disease, as reflected by higher CTP classes and MELD scores. Patients with CTP Class C had the highest percentage of severe malnutrition (75%), and patients with MELD scores ≥20 had a similarly high prevalence of severe malnutrition (70%). Furthermore, malnutrition was strongly correlated with decreased survival rates and higher hospital morbidity.

This study highlights the significant burden of malnutrition in CLD patients and its association with liver disease severity. The findings suggest that regular nutritional assessments and early interventions are crucial for improving patient outcomes, particularly in those with advanced liver disease. Nutritional therapy, including oral supplementation, dietary modifications, and enteral feeding, should be incorporated as part of a comprehensive treatment plan for patients with CLD. The study emphasizes the need for clinicians to prioritize nutritional care to enhance survival, quality of life, and recovery in this patient population