Introduction RLS affects 10% of the general population, affecting the quality of life (QOL). Exact aetiology is still unknown. Iron deficiency, small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) have clear association with RLS. Decompensated cirrhosis with portal hypertension has multi-organ involvement causing minimal and overt encephalopathy with sleep: dysnomia, parasomnia, and stupor which has clear association with Sub acute bacterial Peritonitis (SBP ) which has precipitating clinical state with SIBO, This clinical study evaluates the association of RLS in HE amongst decompensated cirrhotics.

Methods One hundred eight (n = 108) patients were recruited. Group A (n = 36) decompensated cirrhotic (mean MELD 16, OHE 20/36(55%), MHE 16/36(44%), esophageal varices grade II 24/36(67%). Group B (n = 36) chronic liver disease- Alcohol 9/36(25%) NASH 12/36(33%) HCV 12/36(33%) HBV 1/36(3%) AIH 2/36(6%) with mean MELD 6).without cirrhosis Group C (n = 36) healthy controls. Initially all received Xifaxan 550mg orally twice daily for 10 days to eradicate co-existing SIBO. All underwent Methane breath test for SIBO. Baseline labs: Serum levels for renal function, ferritin, iron studies, haemoglobin/hematocrit, ammonia, celiac, and IBD serology, stool lactoferrin & calprotectin and urine for toxicology screening. Groups A and B underwent neuro-psychometric and flicker testing for MHE and OHE and sleep testing for RLS (with Mayo RLS questionnaire). Exclusion: Chronic iron deficiency, Celiac, IBD, major depression, IBS, benzodiazepines, narcotics, alcohol, anti-psychotics and illicit drugs.

Results Group A 24/36(67%) had RLS: [OHE 16/20 (80%), MHE 8/16 (50%), esophageal varices 8/10(80%), alcoholic cirrhotic 10/14(71%), CHC 3/6(50%), NASH 3/6 (50%) and SIBO 14/36 (39%)]. Group B 1/36(3%) RLS and SIBO 7/36(19%). Group C 2/36(6%) RLS and SIBO 3/36(8%). All confirmed by sleep study and RLS questionnaire. Serum ammonia has no impact on RLS.

Conclusion This clinical trial postulates decompensated cirrhotics have high evidence of RLS with portal hypertension. Larger trials will validate.

Disclosure of Interest None Declared.