Late stage liver disease - mental confusion?

[PortalQueen]

My father(81 years old) appears to have approached late-stage liver disease.  He was diagnosed with crytogenic cirrhosis approximately 7-8 years ago.  He has had one varisceal banding procedure, and most recently took diuretics for ascites build-up.  This past week he experienced some mental confusion and is now in the hospital receiving lactoluse (?) for this , as well as other good care.  IT sounds like he may be able to go home in a few days which will be good.  
Considering his age, and what appears to be a later stage in his cirrhosis, can you give an estimate as to how long he might have to live?    Would like to help in his care planning with my Mother and any information would be helpful.

[Kevin Pho, MD]

Hepatic encephalopathy resulting in mental status changes can occur with end-stage liver disease.  Lactulose is the standard treatment for this.  

Without knowing the case, I cannot predict what his survival rate is.

However, liver disease can be categorized based on severity (the Child class) - and survival can be calculated based on this.  It is based on the presence of ascites, encephalopathy, and the bilirubin/albumin/PT level.

This option can be discussed with your personal physician.

Followup with your personal physician is essential.

This answer is not intended as and does not substitute for medical advice - the information presented is for patient education only. Please see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.

Kevin, M.D.
kevinmd_

[oggy]

A related discussion, liver desease was started.