Advancing Hepatology Through Research and Knowledge Sharing: LDDC at ANEMECON 2026

Dr. Pukar Thapa Presents on the Management of Hepatotoxicity and Utilization of Antitubercular Drugs in Chronic Liver Disease

At the Annual National Conference of Emergency Medicine and Clinical Networking (ANEMECON) 2026, held in Chitwan on 30–31 May 2026, healthcare professionals from across Nepal gathered to exchange knowledge, discuss emerging clinical challenges, and promote evidence-based medical practice.

Representing Liver and Digestive Disease Center (LDDC), Dr. Pukar Thapa delivered a presentation titled:

"Management of Hepatotoxicity and Utilization of Antitubercular Drugs in Chronic Liver Disease."

The presentation addressed one of the most challenging clinical scenarios faced by physicians—the treatment of tuberculosis in patients with underlying chronic liver disease while minimizing the risk of hepatotoxicity.

Understanding the Clinical Challenge

Tuberculosis (TB) remains a major public health concern in Nepal and many other developing countries. At the same time, the prevalence of chronic liver disease continues to rise due to viral hepatitis, alcohol-related liver disease, metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), and other hepatic conditions.

The coexistence of these diseases creates a significant therapeutic challenge.

Many of the first-line antitubercular medications used in TB treatment have the potential to cause liver injury. In patients with pre-existing liver disease, the risk of hepatotoxicity is substantially higher, making treatment decisions more complex and requiring careful clinical judgment.

Key Areas Discussed During the Presentation

Dr. Thapa's presentation focused on practical and evidence-based approaches for managing patients with both tuberculosis and chronic liver disease.

Topics discussed included:

• Mechanisms and risk factors of antitubercular drug-induced hepatotoxicity
• Assessment of liver function before initiating TB treatment
• Selection and modification of antitubercular regimens in patients with liver impairment
• Monitoring strategies for early detection of liver injury
• Management protocols when hepatotoxicity develops during treatment
• Balancing effective tuberculosis treatment with preservation of liver function

The session highlighted the importance of individualized treatment planning and close patient monitoring to achieve successful outcomes.

The Importance of Academic Engagement

Medical conferences play a vital role in advancing healthcare by providing opportunities for clinicians to share research findings, discuss complex cases, and learn from peers.

Participation in academic forums such as ANEMCON reflects LDDC's commitment to remaining at the forefront of hepatology and digestive healthcare in Nepal. By engaging in ongoing scientific dialogue, clinicians can incorporate the latest evidence into daily practice and contribute to improved patient care.

Strengthening Nepal's Hepatology Knowledge Base

As liver diseases become increasingly prevalent in Nepal, the need for specialized expertise, research, and clinical education continues to grow.

Through presentations such as this, LDDC aims to contribute to the development of evidence-based approaches to liver disease management while supporting the broader medical community's efforts to address complex clinical challenges.

The management of tuberculosis in patients with chronic liver disease remains an area where careful clinical decision-making can significantly impact patient outcomes. Sharing practical experience and emerging evidence is therefore essential for improving standards of care.

LDDC's Commitment to Research and Education

At Liver and Digestive Disease Center (LDDC), our mission extends beyond patient care. We are equally committed to:

• Advancing hepatology and gastroenterology research
• Supporting continuous medical education
• Promoting evidence-based clinical practice
• Contributing to national and international academic discussions
• Improving healthcare outcomes through knowledge sharing

The participation of Dr. Pukar Thapa at ANEMCON 2026 represents another step in LDDC's ongoing commitment to clinical excellence, research, and academic leadership in Nepal.

As we continue to serve patients across the country, we remain dedicated to fostering innovation, collaboration, and evidence-based care in the fields of liver and digestive health.