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Chen T, Chen G, Wang G, Treeprasertsuk S, Lesmana CRA, Lin HC, Al-Mahtab M, Chawla YK, Tan SS, Kao JH, Yuen MF, Lee GH, Alcantara-Payawal D, Nakayama N, Abbas Z, Jafri W, Kim DJ, Choudhury A, Mahiwall R, Hou J, Hamid S, Jia J, Bajaj JS, Wang F, Sarin SK, Ning Q. Expert consensus on the diagnosis and treatment of end-stage liver disease complicated by infections. Hepatol Int 2024; 18:817-832. [PMID: 38460060 DOI: 10.1007/s12072-023-10637-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2023] [Accepted: 12/22/2023] [Indexed: 03/11/2024]
Abstract
End-stage liver disease (ESLD) is a life-threatening clinical syndrome and when complicated with infection the mortality is markedly increased. In patients with ESLD, bacterial or fungal infection can induce or aggravate the occurrence or progression of liver decompensation. Consequently, infections are among the most common complications of disease deterioration. There is an overwhelming need for standardized protocols for early diagnosis and appropriate management for patients with ESLD complicated by infections. Asia Pacific region has the largest number of ESLD patients, due to hepatitis B and the growing population of alcohol and NAFLD. Concomitant infections not only add to organ failure and high mortality but also to financial and healthcare burdens. This consensus document assembled up-to-date knowledge and experience from colleagues across the Asia-Pacific region, providing data on the principles as well as evidence-based current working protocols and practices for the diagnosis and treatment of patients with ESLD complicated by infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tao Chen
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Severe Zoonotic Infectious Diseases, Department and Institute of Infectious Disease, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 1095, Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, 430030, P.R. China
| | - Guang Chen
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Severe Zoonotic Infectious Diseases, Department and Institute of Infectious Disease, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 1095, Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, 430030, P.R. China
| | - Guiqiang Wang
- Department of Infectious Disease, Center for Liver Disease, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Sombat Treeprasertsuk
- Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, and Thai Red Cross, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Cosmas Rinaldi Adithya Lesmana
- Internal Medicine, Hepatobiliary Division, Dr. Captor Mangunkusumo National General Hospital, Universitas Indonesia, Jakarta, DKI, Indonesia
| | - Han-Chieh Lin
- Faculty of Medicine, School of Medicine, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Mamun Al-Mahtab
- Department of Hepatology, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Yogesh K Chawla
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Kalinga Institute of Medical Sciences, Bhubaneswar, India
| | - Soek-Siam Tan
- Department of Hepatology, Hospital Selayang, Selangor Darul Ehsan, Malaysia
| | - Jia-Horng Kao
- Graduate Institute of Clinical Medicine and Hepatitis Research Center, National Taiwan University College of Medicine and Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Man-Fung Yuen
- Department of Medicine, School of Clinical Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong
| | - Guan-Huei Lee
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, National University Hospital, Singapore, Singapore
| | | | - Nobuaki Nakayama
- Department of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, Saitama Medical University, Saitama, Japan
| | - Zaigham Abbas
- Department of Medicine, Ziauddin University Hospital, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Wasim Jafri
- Department of Medicine, Aga Khan University Hospital, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Dong-Joon Kim
- Department of Internal Medicine, Chuncheon Sacred Heart Hospital of Hallym University Medical Center, Chuncheon, Korea
| | - Ashok Choudhury
- Department of Hepatology, Institute of Liver and Biliary Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Rakhi Mahiwall
- Department of Hepatology, Institute of Liver and Biliary Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Jinlin Hou
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Viral Hepatitis Research, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Viral Hepatitis, Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases Research in South China, Ministry of Education, Department of Infectious Diseases, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Saeed Hamid
- Department of Medicine, Aga Khan University Hospital, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Jidong Jia
- Liver Research Center, Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - J S Bajaj
- Department of Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University and Central Virginia Veterans Healthcare System, Richmond, VA, USA
| | - Fusheng Wang
- Senior Department of Infectious Diseases, The Fifth Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, Beijing, China
| | - Shiv K Sarin
- Department of Hepatology, Institute of Liver and Biliary Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Qin Ning
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Severe Zoonotic Infectious Diseases, Department and Institute of Infectious Disease, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 1095, Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, 430030, P.R. China.
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Trebicka J, Hernaez R, Shawcross DL, Gerbes AL. Recent advances in the prevention and treatment of decompensated cirrhosis and acute-on-chronic liver failure (ACLF) and the role of biomarkers. Gut 2024; 73:1015-1024. [PMID: 38527788 PMCID: PMC11103292 DOI: 10.1136/gutjnl-2023-330584] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2024] [Accepted: 03/12/2024] [Indexed: 03/27/2024]
Abstract
The progression of cirrhosis with clinically significant portal hypertension towards decompensated cirrhosis remains clinically challenging and the evolution towards acute-on-chronic liver failure (ACLF), with one or more extrahepatic organ failures, is associated with very high mortality. In the last decade, significant progress has been made in the understanding of the mechanisms leading to decompensation and ACLF. As portal hypertension advances, bacterial translocation across an impaired gut barrier culminates in endotoxaemia, systemic inflammation and cirrhosis-associated immune dysfunction (CAID). Gut-derived systemic inflammation and CAID have become the logical targets for innovative therapies that prevent hepatic decompensation episodes and the progression to ACLF.Furthermore, classification of disease and biomarker discovery to personalise care have advanced in the field. This review discusses progress in biomarker discovery and personalisation of treatment in decompensated cirrhosis and ACLF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonel Trebicka
- Department of Internal Medicine B, University of Münster, Munster, Germany
- European Foundation for the Study of Chronic Liver Failure, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Ruben Hernaez
- Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Michael E. DeBakey Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Houston, Texas, USA
- VA HSR&D Center for Innovations in Quality, Effectiveness and Safety, Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center, Houston, Texas, USA
- Gastroenterology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
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Balazs I, Stadlbauer V. Circulating neutrophil anti-pathogen dysfunction in cirrhosis. JHEP Rep 2023; 5:100871. [PMID: 37822786 PMCID: PMC10562928 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhepr.2023.100871] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2023] [Revised: 07/16/2023] [Accepted: 07/22/2023] [Indexed: 10/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Neutrophils are the largest population of leucocytes and are among the first cells of the innate immune system to fight against intruding pathogens. In patients with cirrhosis, neutrophils exhibit altered functionality, including changes in phagocytic ability, bacterial killing, chemotaxis, degranulation, reactive oxygen species production and NET (neutrophil extracellular trap) formation. This results in their inability to mount an adequate antibacterial response and protect the individual from infection. Prognosis and survival in patients with cirrhosis are greatly influenced by the development of infectious complications. Multidrug-resistant bacterial infections in patients with cirrhosis are currently a growing problem worldwide; therefore, alternative methods for the prevention and treatment of bacterial infections in cirrhosis are urgently needed. The prevention and treatment of neutrophil dysfunction could be a potential way to protect patients from bacterial infections. However, the reasons for changes in neutrophil function in cirrhosis are still not completely understood, which limits the development of efficient therapeutic strategies. Both cellular and serum factors have been proposed to contribute to the functional impairment of neutrophils. Herein, we review the current knowledge on features and proposed causes of neutrophil dysfunction in cirrhosis, with a focus on current knowledge gaps and limitations, as well as opportunities for future investigations in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irina Balazs
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
- Center for Biomarker Research in Medicine (CBmed), Graz, Austria
| | - Vanessa Stadlbauer
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
- Center for Biomarker Research in Medicine (CBmed), Graz, Austria
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Di Martino V, Questiaux J, Lemagoarou T, Weil D, Vendeville S, Engelmann C, Hu J, Singh V, Newsome PN, Lal SB, Sarin SK, Berg T, Thevenot T. Granulocyte colony stimulating factor in decompensated cirrhosis, acute alcoholic hepatitis, and acute-on-chronic liver failure: A comprehensive meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Clin Res Hepatol Gastroenterol 2023; 47:102207. [PMID: 37716522 DOI: 10.1016/j.clinre.2023.102207] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2023] [Revised: 08/08/2023] [Accepted: 09/08/2023] [Indexed: 09/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND GCSF may improve the prognosis of severe liver disease by promoting liver regeneration and immune restoration. Our Aim was to investigate its controversial efficacy in decompensated cirrhosis, acute alcoholic hepatitis (AAH), or acute-on-chronic liver failure (ACLF) through meta-analysis. METHODS Meta-analysis of proportions (random effect model) including 19 RCTs (1287 patients from 16 Asian and 3 European studies including 487 ACLF, 231 AAH and 569 cirrhotic patients) evaluating survival at day-28, day-90, 6 months, one year, and/or occurrence of sepsis as major outcomes. RESULTS In patients with decompensated cirrhosis, G-CSF administration was associated with a reduction in the weight-adjusted risk of mortality of 9% at day-90 (OR=0.33; 95%CI: 0.18-0.58; p = 0.0002), 16% at 6 months (OR=0.31; 95%CI: 0.15-0.62; p = 0.0009), 26% at one year (OR=0.21; 95%CI:0.12-0.38, p<0.0001) and a weight-adjusted 28% risk reduction for sepsis (OR=0.28; 95%CI: 0.16-0.49; p<0.0001). Only Asian studies were positive. In AAH, G-CSF was associated with an 18% reduction in weight-adjusted mortality risk at day-28 (OR=0.31; 95%CI:0.11-0.83, p = 0.021), 32% at day-90 (OR=0.20; 95%CI:0.09-0.46, p<0.0001) and a weight-adjusted 42% risk reduction for sepsis (OR=0.17; 95%CI: 0.08-0.38; p<0.0001). Only Asian studies, in which corticosteroids were not given systematically in case of severe AAH, were positive. In patients with ACLF, the results on mortality at day-28 were heterogeneous, and GCSF had no beneficial effect on sepsis or survival at day-90. CONCLUSION G-CSF may be effective in patients with decompensated cirrhosis or AAH by reducing the occurrence of sepsis and mortality. Further meta-analyses of individual data, or new, powerful and methodologically flawless therapeutic trials, are warranted to confirm these results, which harbor wide divergences between Asian and European RCTs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vincent Di Martino
- Service d'Hépatologie, CHU Jean Minjoz, Besançon, France; Laboratoire EPILAB EA4266, Université de Franche Comté, Besançon, France.
| | | | - Tristan Lemagoarou
- Département d'information Médicale et de Santé Publique, GHPSO CREIL, Creil, France
| | - Delphine Weil
- Service d'Hépatologie, CHU Jean Minjoz, Besançon, France; Laboratoire EPILAB EA4266, Université de Franche Comté, Besançon, France
| | | | - Cornelius Engelmann
- Department of Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany; Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany; Institute for Liver and Digestive Health, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Jinhua Hu
- Department of Hepatology, the Fifth Medical Center of PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Virendra Singh
- Department of Hepatology, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India
| | - Philip N Newsome
- Institute of Immunology and Immunotherapy, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Sadhna B Lal
- Division of Paediatric Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India
| | - Shiv K Sarin
- Institute of Liver and Biliary Sciences (ILBS), New Delhi, India
| | - Thomas Berg
- Division of Hepatology Department of Medicine II, Leipzig University Medical Center, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Thierry Thevenot
- Service d'Hépatologie, CHU Jean Minjoz, Besançon, France; Laboratoire EPILAB EA4266, Université de Franche Comté, Besançon, France
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Rajpurohit S, Musunuri B, Basthi Mohan P, Bhat G, Shetty S. Role of granulocyte colony stimulating factor in the treatment of cirrhosis of liver: a systematic review. J Int Med Res 2023; 51:3000605231207064. [PMID: 37946367 PMCID: PMC10637184 DOI: 10.1177/03000605231207064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2023] [Accepted: 09/21/2023] [Indexed: 11/12/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE We performed a systematic review to analyze the benefits of and risk factors associated with granulocyte colony stimulating factor (GCSF) in patients with liver cirrhosis. METHODS PubMed, Scopus, and Embase were searched for randomized controlled trials and case-control studies that compared the use of GCSF with another treatment or control group. The Jadad and Newcastle-Ottawa scales were used to assess the risk of bias in the included studies. The primary outcome studied was mortality; and the secondary outcomes were the disease severity score, liver transplantation criteria, complications, CD34+ cell count, adverse events, and health-related quality of life (HRQOL). PROSPERO registration number CRD42023416014. RESULTS The initial search yielded 2,235 studies, of which seven studies of 670 patients with liver cirrhosis were included. Multiple cycles of GCSF significantly improved the survival rate, disease severity score, CD34+ cell count, and HRQOL; and significantly reduced the incidences of liver transplantation, ascites, infection, and hepatic encephalopathy. Fatigue and backache were the most commonly reported adverse events. CONCLUSION GCSF significantly improves the survival rate and disease severity scores, and reduces the incidence of complications in patients with liver cirrhosis. The administration of GCSF is likely to be effective in patients awaiting liver transplantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siddheesh Rajpurohit
- Department of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, India
| | - Balaji Musunuri
- Department of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, India
| | - Pooja Basthi Mohan
- Department of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, India
| | - Ganesh Bhat
- Department of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, India
| | - Shiran Shetty
- Department of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, India
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Butt MF, Jalan R. Review article: Emerging and current management of acute-on-chronic liver failure. Aliment Pharmacol Ther 2023; 58:774-794. [PMID: 37589507 DOI: 10.1111/apt.17659] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2023] [Revised: 05/02/2023] [Accepted: 07/24/2023] [Indexed: 08/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Acute-on-chronic liver failure (ACLF) is a clinically and pathophysiologically distinct condition from acutely decompensated cirrhosis and is characterised by systemic inflammation, extrahepatic organ failure, and high short-term mortality. AIMS To provide a narrative review of the diagnostic criteria, prognosis, epidemiology, and general management principles of ACLF. Four specific interventions that are explored in detail are intravenous albumin, extracorporeal liver assist devices, granulocyte-colony stimulating factor, and liver transplantation. METHODS We searched PubMed and Cochrane databases for articles published up to July 2023. RESULTS Approximately 35% of hospital inpatients with decompensated cirrhosis have ACLF. There is significant heterogeneity in the criteria used to diagnose ACLF; different definitions identify different phenotypes with varying mortality. Criteria established by the European Association for the Study of the Liver were developed in prospective patient cohorts and are, to-date, the most well validated internationally. Systemic haemodynamic instability, renal dysfunction, coagulopathy, neurological dysfunction, and respiratory failure are key considerations when managing ACLF in the intensive care unit. Apart from liver transplantation, there are no accepted evidence-based treatments for ACLF, but several different approaches are under investigation. CONCLUSION The recognition of ACLF as a distinct entity from acutely decompensated cirrhosis has allowed for better patient stratification in clinical settings, facilitating earlier engagement with the intensive care unit and liver transplantation teams. Research priorities over the next decade should focus on exploring novel treatment strategies with a particular focus on which, when, and how patients with ACLF should be treated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohsin F Butt
- Centre for Neuroscience, Trauma and Surgery, Wingate Institute of Neurogastroenterology, The Blizard Institute, Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
- Liver Failure Group, University College London Medical School, Royal Free Hospital Campus, London, UK
- National Institute for Health Research, Nottingham Biomedical Research Centre, Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust, University of Nottingham, Nottinghamshire, UK
| | - Rajiv Jalan
- Liver Failure Group, University College London Medical School, Royal Free Hospital Campus, London, UK
- European Association for the Study of the Liver-Chronic Liver Failure (EASL-CLIF) Consortium, Barcelona, Spain
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Colli A, Fraquelli M, Prati D, Casazza G. Granulocyte colony-stimulating factor with or without stem or progenitor cell or growth factors infusion for people with compensated or decompensated advanced chronic liver disease. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2023; 6:CD013532. [PMID: 37278488 PMCID: PMC10243114 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd013532.pub2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Advanced chronic liver disease is characterised by a long compensated phase followed by a rapidly progressive 'decompensated' phase, which is marked by the development of complications of portal hypertension and liver dysfunction. Advanced chronic liver disease is considered responsible for more than one million deaths annually worldwide. No treatment is available to specifically target fibrosis and cirrhosis; liver transplantation remains the only curative option. Researchers are investigating strategies to restore liver functionality to avoid or slow progression towards end-stage liver disease. Cytokine mobilisation of stem cells from the bone marrow to the liver could improve liver function. Granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF) is a 175-amino-acid protein currently available for mobilisation of haematopoietic stem cells from the bone marrow. Multiple courses of G-CSF, with or without stem or progenitor cell or growth factors (erythropoietin or growth hormone) infusion, might be associated with accelerated hepatic regeneration, improved liver function, and survival. OBJECTIVES To evaluate the benefits and harms of G-CSF with or without stem or progenitor cell or growth factors (erythropoietin or growth hormone) infusion, compared with no intervention or placebo in people with compensated or decompensated advanced chronic liver disease. SEARCH METHODS We searched the Cochrane Hepato-Biliary Group Controlled Trials Register, CENTRAL, MEDLINE, Embase, three other databases, and two trial registers (October 2022) together with reference-checking and web-searching to identify additional studies. We applied no restrictions on language and document type. SELECTION CRITERIA We only included randomised clinical trials comparing G-CSF, independent of the schedule of administration, as a single treatment or combined with stem or progenitor cell infusion, or with other medical co-interventions, with no intervention or placebo, in adults with chronic compensated or decompensated advanced chronic liver disease or acute-on-chronic liver failure. We included trials irrespective of publication type, publication status, outcomes reported, or language. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS We followed standard Cochrane procedures. All-cause mortality, serious adverse events, and health-related quality of life were our primary outcomes, and liver disease-related morbidity, non-serious adverse events, and no improvement of liver function scores were our secondary outcomes. We undertook meta-analyses, based on intention-to-treat, and presented results using risk ratios (RR) for dichotomous outcomes and the mean difference (MD) for continuous outcomes, with 95% confidence intervals (CI) and I2 statistic values as a marker of heterogeneity. We assessed all outcomes at maximum follow-up. We determined the certainty of evidence using GRADE, evaluated the risk of small-study effects in regression analyses, and conducted subgroup and sensitivity analyses. MAIN RESULTS We included 20 trials (1419 participants; sample size ranged from 28 to 259), which lasted between 11 and 57 months. Nineteen trials included only participants with decompensated cirrhosis; in one trial, 30% had compensated cirrhosis. The included trials were conducted in Asia (15), Europe (four), and the USA (one). Not all trials provided data for our outcomes. All trials reported data allowing intention-to-treat analyses. The experimental intervention consisted of G-CSF alone or G-CSF plus any of the following: growth hormone, erythropoietin, N-acetyl cysteine, infusion of CD133-positive haemopoietic stem cells, or infusion of autologous bone marrow mononuclear cells. The control group consisted of no intervention in 15 trials and placebo (normal saline) in five trials. Standard medical therapy (antivirals, alcohol abstinence, nutrition, diuretics, β-blockers, selective intestinal decontamination, pentoxifylline, prednisolone, and other supportive measures depending on the clinical status and requirement) was administered equally to the trial groups. Very low-certainty evidence suggested a decrease in mortality with G-CSF, administered alone or in combination with any of the above, versus placebo (RR 0.53, 95% CI 0.38 to 0.72; I2 = 75%; 1419 participants; 20 trials). Very low-certainty evidence suggested no difference in serious adverse events (G-CSF alone or in combination versus placebo: RR 1.03, 95% CI 0.66 to 1.61; I2 = 66%; 315 participants; three trials). Eight trials, with 518 participants, reported no serious adverse events. Two trials, with 165 participants, used two components of the quality of life score for assessment, with ranges from 0 to 100, where higher scores indicate better quality of life, with a mean increase from baseline of the physical component summary of 20.7 (95% CI 17.4 to 24.0; very low-certainty evidence) and a mean increase from baseline of the mental component summary of 27.8 (95% CI 12.3 to 43.3; very low-certainty evidence). G-CSF, alone or in combination, suggested a beneficial effect on the proportion of participants who developed one or more liver disease-related complications (RR 0.40, 95% CI 0.17 to 0.92; I2 = 62%; 195 participants; four trials; very low-certainty evidence). When we analysed the occurrences of single complications, there was no suggestion of a difference between G-CSF, alone or in combination, versus control, in participants in need of liver transplantation (RR 0.85, 95% CI 0.39 to 1.85; 692 participants; five trials), in the development of hepatorenal syndrome (RR 0.65, 95% CI 0.33 to 1.30; 520 participants; six trials), in the occurrence of variceal bleeding (RR 0.68, 95% CI 0.37 to 1.23; 614 participants; eight trials), and in the development of encephalopathy (RR 0.56, 95% CI 0.31 to 1.01; 605 participants; seven trials) (very low-certainty evidence). The same comparison suggested that G-CSF reduces the development of infections (including sepsis) (RR 0.50, 95% CI 0.29 to 0.84; 583 participants; eight trials) and does not improve liver function scores (RR 0.67, 95% CI 0.53 to 0.86; 319 participants; two trials) (very low-certainty evidence). AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS G-CSF, alone or in combination, seems to decrease mortality in people with decompensated advanced chronic liver disease of whatever aetiology and with or without acute-on-chronic liver failure, but the certainty of evidence is very low because of high risk of bias, inconsistency, and imprecision. The results of trials conducted in Asia and Europe were discrepant; this could not be explained by differences in participant selection, intervention, and outcome measurement. Data on serious adverse events and health-related quality of life were few and inconsistently reported. The evidence is also very uncertain regarding the occurrence of one or more liver disease-related complications. We lack high-quality, global randomised clinical trials assessing the effect of G-CSF on clinically relevant outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agostino Colli
- Department of Transfusion Medicine and Haematology, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Mirella Fraquelli
- Gastroenterology and Endoscopy Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Daniele Prati
- Department of Transfusion Medicine and Haematology, Ospedale Alessandro Manzoni, Lecco, Italy
| | - Giovanni Casazza
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
- Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
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Kaur A, Verma N, Singh B, Kumar A, Kumari S, De A, Sharma RR, Singh V. Quantitative liver SPECT/CT is a novel tool to assess liver function, prognosis, and response to treatment in cirrhosis. Front Med (Lausanne) 2023; 10:1118531. [PMID: 37035316 PMCID: PMC10073445 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2023.1118531] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2022] [Accepted: 03/03/2023] [Indexed: 04/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Functional liver reserve is an important determinant of survival in cirrhosis. The traditional indocyanine green test (ICG) is cumbersome. Hence, we developed and validated a novel liver imaging, a hybrid of SPECT and CT (Q-SPECT/CT), for evaluating disease severity, outcomes, and response to treatment in decompensated cirrhosis (DC). Methods We recruited a cohort of DC patients at a tertiary institute between 2016-2019. First, we standardized the Q-SPECT/CT across a predefined range of volumes through phantom experiments. Then we performed clinical and laboratory evaluations, ICG test (retention at 15 min), and Q-SPECT/CT at baseline and 12 months of granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF) and standard medical treatment (SMT). Results In 109 DC patients, 87.1% males, aged 51 ± 10 years, MELD: 14 (7-21), the percent quantitative liver uptake (%QLU) on Q-SPECT/CT exhibited a strong correlation with CTP (r = -0.728, p < 0.001), MELD (r = -0.743; p < 0.001) and ICG-R-15 (r = -0.720, p < 0.001) at baseline. %QLU had the maximum discrimination (AUC: 0.890-0.920), sensitivity (88.9-90.3%), specificity (81.2-90.7%), and accuracy (85.8-89.4%) than liver volumes on Q-SPECT/CT or ICG test for classifying patients in CTP/MELD based prognostic categories. A significant increase in %QLU (26.09 ± 10.06 to 31.2 ± 12.19, p = 0.001) and improvement in CTP/MELD correlated with better survival of G-CSF treated DC patients (p < 0.05). SMT did not show any improvement in Q-SPECT/CT or clinical severity scores (p > 0.05). %QLU > 25 (adj.H.R.: 0.234, p = 0.003) and G-CSF treatment (adj.H.R.: 0.414, p = 0.009) were independent predictors of better 12-months survival in DC. Conclusion Q-SPECT/CT (%QLU) is a novel non-invasive, diagnostic, prognostic, and theragnostic marker of liver reserve and its functions in cirrhosis patients. Clinical trial registration Clinicaltrials.gov, NCT02451033 and NCT03415698.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amritjyot Kaur
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India
| | - Nipun Verma
- Department of Hepatology, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India
- *Correspondence: Nipun Verma,
| | - Baljinder Singh
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India
- Baljinder Singh,
| | - Ajay Kumar
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India
| | - Sunita Kumari
- Department of Hepatology, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India
| | - Arka De
- Department of Hepatology, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India
| | - Ratti Ram Sharma
- Department of Transfusion Medicine, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India
| | - Virendra Singh
- Department of Hepatology, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India
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9
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G-CSF treatment in decompensated liver disease: a double-edged sword? Hepatol Int 2022; 16:979-982. [PMID: 36053413 PMCID: PMC9525346 DOI: 10.1007/s12072-022-10379-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2022] [Accepted: 06/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
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10
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Virovic-Jukic L, Ljubas D, Stojsavljevic-Shapeski S, Ljubičić N, Filipec Kanizaj T, Mikolasevic I, Grgurevic I. Liver regeneration as treatment target for severe alcoholic hepatitis. World J Gastroenterol 2022; 28:4557-4573. [PMID: 36157937 PMCID: PMC9476880 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v28.i32.4557] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2022] [Revised: 05/30/2022] [Accepted: 06/16/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Severe alcoholic hepatitis (AH) is a distinct entity in the spectrum of alcohol-related liver disease, with limited treatment options and high mortality. Supportive medical care with corticosteroids in selected patients is the only currently available treatment option, often with poor outcomes. Based on the insights into the pathogenetic mechanisms of AH, which are mostly obtained from animal studies, several new treatment options are being explored. Studies have implicated impaired and deranged liver regeneration processes as one of the culprit mechanisms and a potential therapeutic target. Acknowledging evidence for the beneficial effects of granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF) on liver regeneration and immunomodulation in animal models, several human studies investigated its role in the treatment of advanced alcohol-related liver disease and AH. Contrary to the previously published studies suggesting benefits of G-CSF in the outcomes of patients with severe AH, these effects were not confirmed by a recently published multicenter randomized trial, suggesting that other options should rather be pursued. Stem cell transplantation represents another option for improving liver regeneration, but evidence for its efficacy in patients with severe AH and advanced alcohol-related liver disease is still very scarce and unconvincing, with established lack of efficacy in patients with compensated cirrhosis. In this review, we summarize the current knowledge on the pathogenesis and experimental therapies targeting liver regeneration. The lack of high-quality studies and evidence is a major obstacle in further treatment development. New insights into the pathogenesis of not only liver injury, but also liver regeneration processes are mandatory for the development of new treatment options. A reliable experimental model of the pathogenesis of AH and processes involved in liver recovery is still missing, and data obtained from animal studies are essential for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucija Virovic-Jukic
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Sisters of Charity University Hospital Center, Zagreb 10000, Croatia
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Zagreb School of Medicine, Zagreb 10000, Croatia
| | - Dominik Ljubas
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Zagreb School of Medicine, Zagreb 10000, Croatia
| | - Sanja Stojsavljevic-Shapeski
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Sisters of Charity University Hospital Center, Zagreb 10000, Croatia
| | - Neven Ljubičić
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Sisters of Charity University Hospital Center, Zagreb 10000, Croatia
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Zagreb School of Medicine, Zagreb 10000, Croatia
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Zagreb School of Dental Medicine, Zagreb 10000, Croatia
| | - Tajana Filipec Kanizaj
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Zagreb School of Medicine, Zagreb 10000, Croatia
- Department of Gastroenterology, Merkur University Hospital, Zagreb 10000, Croatia
| | - Ivana Mikolasevic
- Department of Gastroenterology, Rijeka University Hospital Center, Rijeka 51000, Croatia
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Rijeka School of Medicine, Rijeka 10000, Croatia
| | - Ivica Grgurevic
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Zagreb School of Medicine, Zagreb 10000, Croatia
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Clinical Nutrition, Dubrava University Hospital, Zagreb 10000, Croatia
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11
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Nevens F, van der Merwe S. Mesenchymal Stem Cell Transplantation in Liver Diseases. Semin Liver Dis 2022; 42:283-292. [PMID: 36049782 DOI: 10.1055/s-0042-1755328] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
Promising preclinical data suggested that bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (BM-MSC) can reduce hepatic fibrosis and stimulate liver regeneration. Preclinical studies moreover suggested that the immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory functions of MSCs may reduce hepatic inflammation, improve liver function, and decrease infection incidences which are deemed especially important in the case of acute-on-chronic liver failure (ACLF). Studies in patients with decompensated cirrhosis demonstrated that injection of BM-MSC resulted in an improvement of biochemical tests and led to a survival benefit in ACLF. Most of these studies were performed in hepatitis B virus infected patients. However, two adequately powered studies performed in Europe could not confirm these data. A possible alternative to mobilize BM-MSC into the liver is the use of granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF) which has proregenerative and immunomodulatory effects. In Indian studies, the use of G-CSF was associated with improvement of survival, although this finding could not be confirmed in European studies. Human allogeneic liver-derived progenitor cell therapy represents a potential treatment for ACLF, of which the main action is paracrine. These human liver-derived MSC can perform various functions, including the downregulation of proinflammatory responses. The clinical beneficial effect of these cells is further explored in patients with alcoholic cirrhosis and ACLF in Europe.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frederik Nevens
- Department of Chronic Diseases, Laboratory of Hepatology, Metabolism and Aging (CHROMETA), University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.,Division of Hepatology, Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University Hospital KU Leuven, Belgium
| | - Schalk van der Merwe
- Department of Chronic Diseases, Laboratory of Hepatology, Metabolism and Aging (CHROMETA), University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.,Division of Hepatology, Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University Hospital KU Leuven, Belgium
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12
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Kulkarni AV, Premkumar M, Arab JP, Kumar K, Sharma M, Reddy ND, Padaki NR, Reddy RK. Early Diagnosis and Prevention of Infections in Cirrhosis. Semin Liver Dis 2022; 42:293-312. [PMID: 35672014 DOI: 10.1055/a-1869-7607] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Strategies to prevent infection and improve outcomes in patients with cirrhosis. HAV, hepatitis A virus; HBV, hepatitis B virus; COVID-19, novel coronavirus disease 2019; NSBB, nonselective β-blocker; PPI, proton pump inhibitors.Cirrhosis is a risk factor for infections. Majority of hospital admissions in patients with cirrhosis are due to infections. Sepsis is an immunological response to an infectious process that leads to end-organ dysfunction and death. Preventing infections may avoid the downstream complications, and early diagnosis of infections may improve the outcomes. In this review, we discuss the pathogenesis, diagnosis, and biomarkers of infection; the incremental preventive strategies for infections and sepsi; and the consequent organ failures in cirrhosis. Strategies for primary prevention include reducing gut translocation by selective intestinal decontamination, avoiding unnecessary proton pump inhibitors' use, appropriate use of β-blockers, and vaccinations for viral diseases including novel coronavirus disease 2019. Secondary prevention includes early diagnosis and a timely and judicious use of antibiotics to prevent organ dysfunction. Organ failure support constitutes tertiary intervention in cirrhosis. In conclusion, infections in cirrhosis are potentially preventable with appropriate care strategies to then enable improved outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anand V Kulkarni
- Department of Hepatology, Asian Institute of Gastroenterology, Hyderabad, Telangana, India
| | - Madhumita Premkumar
- Department of Hepatology, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India
| | - Juan P Arab
- Departamento de Gastroenterologia, Escuela de Medicina, Pontificia Universidad Catolica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Karan Kumar
- Department of Hepatology, Mahatma Gandhi Medical College and Hospital, Jaipur, Rajasthan, India
| | - Mithun Sharma
- Department of Hepatology, Asian Institute of Gastroenterology, Hyderabad, Telangana, India
| | - Nageshwar D Reddy
- Department of Hepatology, Asian Institute of Gastroenterology, Hyderabad, Telangana, India
| | - Nagaraja R Padaki
- Department of Hepatology, Asian Institute of Gastroenterology, Hyderabad, Telangana, India
| | - Rajender K Reddy
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
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13
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Geng A, Flint E, Bernsmeier C. Plasticity of monocytes and macrophages in cirrhosis of the liver. FRONTIERS IN NETWORK PHYSIOLOGY 2022; 2:937739. [PMID: 36926073 PMCID: PMC10013015 DOI: 10.3389/fnetp.2022.937739] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2022] [Accepted: 06/27/2022] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Cirrhosis of the liver is a systemic condition with raising prevalence worldwide. Patients with cirrhosis are highly susceptible to develop bacterial infections leading to acute decompensation and acute-on-chronic liver failure both associated with a high morbidity and mortality and sparse therapeutic options other than transplantation. Mononuclear phagocytes play a central role in innate immune responses and represent a first line of defence against pathogens. Their function includes phagocytosis, killing of bacteria, antigen presentation, cytokine production as well as recruitment and activation of immune effector cells. Liver injury and development of cirrhosis induces activation of liver resident Kupffer cells and recruitment of monocytes to the liver. Damage- and pathogen-associated molecular patterns promote systemic inflammation which involves multiple compartments besides the liver, such as the circulation, gut, peritoneal cavity and others. The function of circulating monocytes and tissue macrophages is severely impaired and worsens along with cirrhosis progression. The underlying mechanisms are complex and incompletely understood. Recent 'omics' technologies help to transform our understanding of cellular diversity and function in health and disease. In this review we point out the current state of knowledge on phenotypical and functional changes of monocytes and macrophages during cirrhosis evolution in different compartments and their role in disease progression. We also discuss the value of potential prognostic markers for cirrhosis-associated immuneparesis, and future immunotherapeutic strategies that may reduce the need for transplantation and death.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne Geng
- Translational Hepatology, Department of Biomedicine, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
- Department of Biomedicine, University of Basel and University Centre for Gastrointestinal and Liver Diseases, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Emilio Flint
- Translational Hepatology, Department of Biomedicine, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
- Department of Biomedicine, University of Basel and University Centre for Gastrointestinal and Liver Diseases, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Christine Bernsmeier
- Translational Hepatology, Department of Biomedicine, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
- Department of Biomedicine, University of Basel and University Centre for Gastrointestinal and Liver Diseases, Basel, Switzerland
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14
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Hasa E, Hartmann P, Schnabl B. Liver cirrhosis and immune dysfunction. Int Immunol 2022; 34:455-466. [PMID: 35792761 PMCID: PMC9447994 DOI: 10.1093/intimm/dxac030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2022] [Accepted: 06/27/2022] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Cirrhosis is end-stage liver disease resulting from various etiologies and is a common cause of death worldwide. The progression from compensated to decompensated cirrhosis to acute-on-chronic liver failure (ACLF) is due to multiple factors, including continuation of alcohol use or continued exposure to other toxins, an imbalance of the gut microbiota (dysbiosis), increased gut permeability and a disrupted immune response. This disrupted immune response is also named cirrhosis-associated immune dysfunction, which is characterized by worsening systemic inflammation with concomitant immune paralysis, as liver disease deteriorates. This review highlights central immunologic events during the exacerbation of cirrhosis and characterizes the different immune cell populations involved therein.
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15
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Abbas N, Rajoriya N, Elsharkawy AM, Chauhan A. Acute-on-chronic liver failure (ACLF) in 2022: have novel treatment paradigms already arrived? Expert Rev Gastroenterol Hepatol 2022; 16:639-652. [PMID: 35786130 DOI: 10.1080/17474124.2022.2097070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Acute-on-chronic failure (ACLF) is a recognized syndrome in patients with chronic liver disease and is characterized by acute decompensation, organ failure(s), and a high short-term mortality. ACLF is often triggered by ongoing alcohol consumption, gastrointestinal bleeding and/or infections, and is pathophysiologically characterized by uncontrolled systemic inflammation coupled with paradoxical immunoparesis. Patients with ACLF require prompt and early recognition. Management requires extensive utilization of clinical resources often including escalation to intensive care. AREAS COVERED Currently, there are no specific targeted treatments for established ACLF, and management revolves around treating underlying precipitants and providing organ support. In this article, we review the epidemiology and pathophysiology of ACLF and summarize recent advances in management strategies of this syndrome, focusing specifically on novel emerging therapies. EXPERT COMMENTARY ACLF is a challenging condition with rapid clinical course, high short-term mortality and varying clinical phenotypes. Management of ACLF is broadly focused on supportive care often in an intensive care setting with liver transplantation proving to be an increasingly relevant and effective rescue therapy. This disease has clear pathogenesis and epidemiological burden, thus distinguishing it from decompensated cirrhosis; there is clear clinical need for the development of specific and nuanced therapies to treat this condition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nadir Abbas
- Liver Unit, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Birmingham, UK.,Centre for Liver Research, Institute of Immunology and Inflammation, and National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Birmingham Biomedical Research Centre, the Medical School, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK.,National Institute for Health Research Biomedical Research Centre, University Hospitals Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Neil Rajoriya
- Liver Unit, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Birmingham, UK.,Centre for Liver Research, Institute of Immunology and Inflammation, and National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Birmingham Biomedical Research Centre, the Medical School, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Ahmed M Elsharkawy
- Liver Unit, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Birmingham, UK.,Centre for Liver Research, Institute of Immunology and Inflammation, and National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Birmingham Biomedical Research Centre, the Medical School, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK.,National Institute for Health Research Biomedical Research Centre, University Hospitals Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Abhishek Chauhan
- Liver Unit, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Birmingham, UK.,Centre for Liver Research, Institute of Immunology and Inflammation, and National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Birmingham Biomedical Research Centre, the Medical School, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
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16
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Sun X, Guo S. Effectiveness of cell- and colony stimulating factor-based therapy for liver cirrhosis: a network meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Cytotherapy 2022; 24:516-525. [PMID: 35227600 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcyt.2021.11.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2021] [Revised: 11/01/2021] [Accepted: 11/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AIMS Cirrhosis is the 11th leading cause of death worldwide. Because of the limitations of liver transplantation, cell- and granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF)-based therapies are considered potential treatment methods. This work analyzes the effectiveness of cell- and G-CSF-based therapies by network meta-analysis. METHODS A literature search was performed in four databases from inception to September 10, 2021. Registered randomized controlled trials (RCTs) evaluating cell-based therapies and/or G-CSF-based therapies for cirrhosis patients were included. Traditional and network meta-analyses were analyzed in terms of survival, model for end-stage liver disease (MELD) score, Child-Turcotte-Pugh (CTP) score, alanine aminotransferase levels and aspartate aminotransferase levels. RESULTS Twenty-four studies were included in this analysis. The results showed that G-CSF-based therapies (odds ratio [OR], 2.38, 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.49-3.79, P < 0.01) and cell-based therapies (OR, 1.54, 95% CI, 1.00-2.40, P = 0.048) improved the transplantation-free survival rate compared with standard medical treatment. Network analysis results showed that G-CSF combined with erythropoietin (EPO) and growth hormone (GH) had a therapeutic advantage, and cell-based therapy with mononuclear cell (MNC) hepatic artery injection and intravenous mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) combined with G-CSF also had a relative advantage in terms of survival outcome. For the MELD score, G-CSF plus GH and MSC portal vein injection had relative advantages. G-CSF plus GH and G-CSF plus EPO had advantages in terms of CTP scores. The included strategies demonstrated no obvious improvement in liver injury indicators. CONCLUSIONS Cell-based therapy has potential therapeutic effects for liver cirrhosis. Among cell-based therapies, intravenous MSCs and hepatic artery injection of MNCs have advantageous therapeutic effects. The use of G-CSF was also noted in regimens that improved survival outcomes. However, more well-designed, large-scale RCTs are needed to confirm this conclusion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaojun Sun
- Inpatients Department, Nanjing Qi-xia Xi-gang Community Health Service Centers, Nanjing, China
| | - Shilei Guo
- Research and Development Department, Nanjing Regenerative Medicine Engineering and Technology Research Center, Nanjing, China.
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17
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Tranah TH, Kronsten VT, Shawcross DL. Implications and Management of Cirrhosis-Associated Immune Dysfunction Before and After Liver Transplantation. Liver Transpl 2022; 28:700-716. [PMID: 34738724 DOI: 10.1002/lt.26353] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2021] [Revised: 10/18/2021] [Accepted: 10/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Cirrhosis-associated immune dysfunction (CAID) describes a panacea of innate and adaptive deficits that result from the sequelae of cirrhotic portal hypertension that is similar in its manifestations regardless of etiology of chronic liver injury. CAID is associated with synchronous observations of dysregulated priming of innate immune effector cells that demonstrate a proinflammatory phenotype but are functionally impaired and unable to adequately prevent invading pathogens. CAID is mainly driven by gut-barrier dysfunction and is associated with deficits of microbial compartmentalization and homeostasis that lead to tonic activation, systemic inflammation, and exhaustion of innate-immune cells. CAID leads to a high frequency of bacterial and fungal infections in patients with cirrhosis that are often associated with acute decompensation of chronic liver disease and acute-on-chronic liver failure and carry a high mortality rate. Understanding the deficits of mucosal and systemic immunity in the context of chronic liver disease is essential to improving care for patients with cirrhosis, preventing precipitants of acute decompensation of cirrhosis, and improving morbidity and survival. In this review, we summarize the detailed dynamic immunological perturbations associated with advanced chronic liver disease and highlight the importance of recognizing immune dysregulation as a sequela of cirrhosis. Furthermore, we address the role of screening, prevention, and early treatment of infections in cirrhosis in improving patient outcomes in transplant and nontransplant settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas H Tranah
- Institute of Liver Studies, School of Immunology and Microbial Sciences, Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, King's College London, London, UK.,Institute of Liver Studies, King's College Hospital National Health Service Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Victoria T Kronsten
- Institute of Liver Studies, School of Immunology and Microbial Sciences, Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, King's College London, London, UK.,Institute of Liver Studies, King's College Hospital National Health Service Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Debbie L Shawcross
- Institute of Liver Studies, School of Immunology and Microbial Sciences, Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, King's College London, London, UK.,Institute of Liver Studies, King's College Hospital National Health Service Foundation Trust, London, UK
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18
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Venkitaraman A, De A, Verma N, Kumari S, Leishangthem B, Sharma RR, Kalra N, Grover S, Singh V. Multiple cycles of granulocyte colony-stimulating factor in decompensated cirrhosis: a double-blind RCT. Hepatol Int 2022; 16:1127-1136. [PMID: 35322373 PMCID: PMC8942063 DOI: 10.1007/s12072-022-10314-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2021] [Accepted: 02/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Liver transplant, the definitive treatment of decompensated cirrhosis (DC), is constrained by donor shortage and long-term complications. Granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF) has been explored as an alternative option in open-label studies. This double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial was designed to elucidate the efficacy of G-CSF in DC. METHODS Seventy patients were randomized to either G-CSF plus standard medical therapy (group A, n = 35) or placebo plus standard medical therapy (group B, n = 35). Primary outcome was 12-month overall survival in patients who received at least one cycle of intervention. Secondary outcomes were mobilization of CD34+ cells at day 6, improvement in Child-Turcotte-Pugh (CTP), and model for end-stage liver disease (MELD), liver stiffness measurement, quality of life, nutrition, hepatic decompensation, infection, hospitalization, and acute kidney injury. RESULTS Survival in group A was higher than that in Group B although the difference was not statistically significant (87.9% vs 66.7%; p = 0.053). CD34+ cells at day 6 were significantly higher in group A as compared to baseline (p < 0.001). Ascites control (p = 0.03) and CTP score improvement (p = 0.02) were better in group A at 12-months. Encephalopathy episodes (p = 0.005), infections (p = 0.005) were fewer in group A than group B at 12 months. Other secondary outcomes did not improve post-therapy. There were no treatment-related discontinuations or severe adverse events. CONCLUSIONS G-CSF therapy is safe. The improvement in survival at 12 months is not statistically significant. Better control of ascites, improvement of CTP score, fewer encephalopathy episodes and decreased rate of infections were observed with G-CSF therapy (NCT03911037). Trials Registration NCT03911037.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aswath Venkitaraman
- Department of Hepatology, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India
| | - Arka De
- Department of Hepatology, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India
| | - Nipun Verma
- Department of Hepatology, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India
| | - Sunita Kumari
- Department of Hepatology, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India
| | - Bidyalaxmi Leishangthem
- Department of Hepatology, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India
| | - Ratti Ram Sharma
- Department of Transfusion Medicine, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India
| | - Naveen Kalra
- Department of Radiodiagnosis and Imaging, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India
| | - Sandeep Grover
- Department of Psychiatry, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India
| | - Virendra Singh
- Department of Hepatology, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India
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19
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Albillos A, Martin-Mateos R, Van der Merwe S, Wiest R, Jalan R, Álvarez-Mon M. Cirrhosis-associated immune dysfunction. Nat Rev Gastroenterol Hepatol 2022; 19:112-134. [PMID: 34703031 DOI: 10.1038/s41575-021-00520-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 112] [Impact Index Per Article: 56.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/02/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
The term cirrhosis-associated immune dysfunction (CAID) comprises the distinctive spectrum of immune alterations associated with the course of end-stage liver disease. Systemic inflammation and immune deficiency are the key components of CAID. Their severity is highly dynamic and progressive, paralleling cirrhosis stage. CAID involves two different immune phenotypes: the low-grade systemic inflammatory phenotype and the high-grade systemic inflammatory phenotype. The low-grade systemic inflammatory phenotype can be found in patients with compensated disease or clinical decompensation with no organ failure. In this phenotype, there is an exaggerated immune activation but the effector response is not markedly compromised. The high-grade systemic inflammatory phenotype is present in patients with acute-on-chronic liver failure, a clinical situation characterized by decompensation, organ failure and high short-term mortality. Along with high-grade inflammation, this CAID phenotype includes intense immune paralysis that critically increases the risk of infections and worsens prognosis. The intensity of CAID has important consequences on cirrhosis progression and correlates with the severity of liver insufficiency, bacterial translocation and organ failure. Therapies targeting the modulation of the dysfunctional immune response are currently being evaluated in preclinical and clinical studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agustín Albillos
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Hospital Universitario Ramón y Cajal, Instituto Ramón y Cajal de Investigación Sanitaria (IRYCIS), Madrid, Spain. .,Departamento de Medicina y Especialidades Médicas, Universidad de Alcalá, Alcalá de Henares, Madrid, Spain. .,Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBEREHD), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain.
| | - Rosa Martin-Mateos
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Hospital Universitario Ramón y Cajal, Instituto Ramón y Cajal de Investigación Sanitaria (IRYCIS), Madrid, Spain.,Departamento de Medicina y Especialidades Médicas, Universidad de Alcalá, Alcalá de Henares, Madrid, Spain.,Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBEREHD), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Schalk Van der Merwe
- Laboratory of Hepatology, Department of Chronic Diseases, Metabolism and Aging (CHROMETA), University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.,Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University Hospital Gasthuisberg, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Reiner Wiest
- Department of Visceral Surgery and Medicine, University Inselspital, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Rajiv Jalan
- Liver Failure Group, UCL Institute for Liver and Digestive Health, UCL Medical School, Royal Free Hospital, London, UK.,European Foundation for the Study of Chronic Liver Failure, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Melchor Álvarez-Mon
- Departamento de Medicina y Especialidades Médicas, Universidad de Alcalá, Alcalá de Henares, Madrid, Spain.,Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBEREHD), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain.,Department of Internal Medicine, Hospital Universitario Príncipe de Asturias, Alcalá de Henares, Madrid, Spain
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20
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Hou X, Li Y, Yuan H, Cai J, Liu R, Li J, Zhu C. Therapeutic Effect and Safety of Granulocyte Colony-Stimulating Factor Therapy for Acute-On-Chronic Liver Failure: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials. Front Med (Lausanne) 2021; 8:784240. [PMID: 34869505 PMCID: PMC8635095 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2021.784240] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2021] [Accepted: 10/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and Aims: Granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF) has been proposed as a therapeutic option for patients with acute-on-chronic liver failure (ACLF). However, its clinical efficacy remains debatable. This study aimed to synthesize available evidence on the efficacy of G-CSF in ALCF. Methods: The Cochrane Library, CNKI, MEDLINE, EMBASE, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), and ClinicalTrials.gov were searched from inception until September 2021. After qualitative evaluation of the included literature, the included studies were analyzed. Results: Seven studies were included in this meta-analysis. Overall, G-CSF therapy was not associated with a reduced risk of death (30-day survival, OR = 1.55, 95% CI: 1.00, 2.38, P = 0.05; 60-day survival, OR = 1.50, 95% CI: 0.95, 2.36, P = 0.08; 90-day survival, OR = 1.61, 95% CI: 0.99, 2.62, P = 0.05) or complication including occurrence of infections infection (OR = 0.66, 95% CI: 0.41, 1.05, P = 0.08), bleeding (OR = 1.50, 95% CI: 0.58, 3.89, P = 0.41), and hepatorenal syndrome (OR = 0.56, 95% CI: 0.25, 1.24, P = 0.15). Moreover, it had no obvious beneficial effects on the model of end-stage liver disease score (30-day SMD = −3.31, 95%CI: −7.42, 0.81, P = 0.12; 60-day SMD = −1.23, 95% CI: −5.21, 2.75, P = 0.54; 90-day SMD = −2.29, 95%CI: −4.94, 0.37, P = 0.09). Sensitivity analyses showed that patients in Asia had improved survival (30-day OR = 2.76, 95%CI: 1.43, 5.35, P = 0.003; 60-day OR = 2.83, 95% CI: 1.39, 5.73, P = 0.004; 90-day OR = 2.92, 95% CI: 1.34, 6.36, P = 0.007). Conclusions: Our findings suggest that, currently, G-CSF cannot be recommended for the treatment of ACLF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoxue Hou
- Department of Infectious Disease, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yuwen Li
- Department of Pediatrics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Hui Yuan
- Department of Infectious Disease, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Jinyuan Cai
- Department of Infectious Disease, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Rui Liu
- Department of Tropical Diseases, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University, Haikou, China
| | - Jun Li
- Department of Infectious Disease, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Chuanlong Zhu
- Department of Tropical Diseases, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University, Haikou, China.,Laboratory of Infectious Disease, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
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21
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Rathi S, Hussaini T, Yoshida EM. Granulocyte colony stimulating factor: A potential therapeutic rescue in severe alcoholic hepatitis and decompensated cirrhosis. Ann Hepatol 2021; 20:100211. [PMID: 32533952 DOI: 10.1016/j.aohep.2020.04.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2020] [Revised: 04/29/2020] [Accepted: 04/29/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Liver cirrhosis accounts for over 2 million deaths annually worldwide. A subset of these patients - those with alcoholic hepatitis and decompensated cirrhosis, have abysmal short-term survival. Liver transplant is the only intervention of proven survival benefit; however organ availability is a major limitation. It is thus imperative to assess potential benefit of experimental therapies as a bridge to transplant. Stem cell therapies have shown some promise in patients with end-stage liver disease. Of these, bone-marrow derived hematopoietic stem cells have generated the most interest. Animal as well as human data suggest biological plausibility of stem cell translocation from bone marrow to liver, giving credence to cytokine therapies based on bone marrow stimulation. Granulocyte colony stimulating factor has been the most frequently used cytokine for this purpose. This intervention has shown encouraging results in terms of safety as well as survival benefits in small clinical trials. The evidence, however, is sparse and heterogeneous. In this review we describe the biological plausibility, mechanisms of action, and clinical evidence of the use of cytokine based stem cell therapy in patients with end-stage liver disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sahaj Rathi
- Division of Gastroenterology, University of British Columbia and Vancouver General Hospital, Canada
| | - Trana Hussaini
- Division of Gastroenterology, University of British Columbia and Vancouver General Hospital, Canada
| | - Eric M Yoshida
- Division of Gastroenterology, University of British Columbia and Vancouver General Hospital, Canada.
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22
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Zaccherini G, Tufoni M, Bernardi M, Caraceni P. Prevention of Cirrhosis Complications: Looking for Potential Disease Modifying Agents. J Clin Med 2021; 10:4590. [PMID: 34640608 PMCID: PMC8509683 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10194590] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2021] [Revised: 09/29/2021] [Accepted: 10/04/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The current therapeutic strategies for the management of patients with cirrhosis rely on the prevention or treatment of specific complications. The removal of the causative agents (i.e., viruses or alcohol) prevents decompensation in the vast majority of patients with compensated cirrhosis. In contrast, even when etiological treatment has been effective, a significant proportion of patients with decompensated cirrhosis remains at risk of further disease progression. Therefore, therapies targeting specific key points in the complex pathophysiological cascade of decompensated cirrhosis could represent a new approach for the management of these severely ill patients. Some of the interventions currently employed for treating or preventing specific complications of cirrhosis or used in other diseases (i.e., poorly absorbable oral antibiotics, statins, albumin) have been proposed as potential disease-modifying agents in cirrhosis (DMAC) since clinical studies have shown their capacity of improving survival. Additional multicenter, large randomized clinical trials are awaited to confirm these promising results. Finally, new drugs able to antagonize key pathophysiological mechanisms are under pre-clinical development or at the initial stages of clinical assessment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giacomo Zaccherini
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy; (G.Z.); (M.B.)
| | - Manuel Tufoni
- IRCCS AOU di Bologna—Policlinico di S. Orsola, 40138 Bologna, Italy;
| | - Mauro Bernardi
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy; (G.Z.); (M.B.)
| | - Paolo Caraceni
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy; (G.Z.); (M.B.)
- IRCCS AOU di Bologna—Policlinico di S. Orsola, 40138 Bologna, Italy;
- Center for Biomedical Applied Research, University of Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy
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23
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Lin SN, Mao R, Qian C, Bettenworth D, Wang J, Li J, Bruining D, Jairath V, Feagan B, Chen M, Rieder F. Development of Anti-fibrotic Therapy in Stricturing Crohn's Disease: Lessons from Randomized Trials in Other Fibrotic Diseases. Physiol Rev 2021; 102:605-652. [PMID: 34569264 DOI: 10.1152/physrev.00005.2021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Intestinal fibrosis is considered an inevitable complication of Crohn's disease (CD) that results in symptoms of obstruction and stricture formation. Endoscopic or surgical treatment is required to treat the majority of patients. Progress in the management of stricturing CD is hampered by the lack of effective anti-fibrotic therapy; however, this situation is likely to change because of recent advances in other fibrotic diseases of the lung, liver and skin. In this review, we summarized data from randomized controlled trials (RCT) of anti-fibrotic therapies in these conditions. Multiple compounds have been tested for the anti-fibrotic effects in other organs. According to their mechanisms, they were categorized into growth factor modulators, inflammation modulators, 5-hydroxy-3-methylgultaryl-coenzyme A (HMG-CoA) reductase inhibitors, intracellular enzymes and kinases, renin-angiotensin system (RAS) modulators and others. From our review of the results from the clinical trials and discussion of their implications in the gastrointestinal tract, we have identified several molecular candidates that could serve as potential therapies for intestinal fibrosis in CD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Si-Nan Lin
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.,Department of Inflammation and Immunity, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio, United States.,Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Digestive Disease Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio, United States
| | - Ren Mao
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.,Department of Inflammation and Immunity, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio, United States.,Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Digestive Disease Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio, United States
| | - Chenchen Qian
- Department of Internal Medicine, UPMC Pinnacle, Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, United States
| | - Dominik Bettenworth
- Department of Medicine B, Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University Hospital Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Jie Wang
- Department of Inflammation and Immunity, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio, United States.,Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Digestive Disease Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio, United States.,Henan Key Laboratory of Immunology and Targeted Drug, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan Province, China
| | - Jiannan Li
- Department of Inflammation and Immunity, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio, United States.,Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Digestive Disease Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio, United States
| | - David Bruining
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Rochester, Minnesota, United States
| | - Vipul Jairath
- Alimentiv Inc., London, ON, Canada.,Department of Medicine, Western University, London, ON, Canada.,Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, Western University, London, ON, Canada
| | - Brian Feagan
- Alimentiv Inc., London, ON, Canada.,Department of Medicine, Western University, London, ON, Canada.,Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, Western University, London, ON, Canada
| | - Minhu Chen
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | | | - Florian Rieder
- Department of Inflammation and Immunity, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio, United States.,Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Digestive Disease Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio, United States
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24
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Engelmann C, Martino VD, Kerbert AJC, Weil-Verhoeven D, Aehling NF, Herber A, Thévenot T, Berg T. The Current Status of Granulocyte-Colony Stimulating Factor to Treat Acute-on-Chronic Liver Failure. Semin Liver Dis 2021; 41:298-307. [PMID: 33992029 DOI: 10.1055/s-0041-1723034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
Patients with acute-on-chronic liver failure (ACLF) have a devastating prognosis and therapeutic options are limited. Granulocyte-colony stimulating factor (G-CSF) mobilizes immune and stem cells and possess immune-modulatory and proregenerative capacities. In this review, we aim to define the current evidence for the treatment with G-CSF in end-stage liver disease. Several smaller clinical trials in patients with different severity grades of end-stage liver disease have shown that G-CSF improves survival and reduces the rate of complications. Adequately powered multicenter European trials could not confirm these beneficial effects. In mouse models of ACLF, G-CSF increased the toll-like receptor (TLR)-mediated inflammatory response which led to an increase in mortality. Adding a TLR4 signaling inhibitor allowed G-CSF to unfold its proregenerative properties in these ACLF models. These data suggest that G-CSF requires a noninflammatory environment to exert its protective properties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cornelius Engelmann
- Liver Failure Group, Institute for Liver and Digestive Health, University College London, Royal Free Campus, London, United Kingdom.,Division of Hepatology, Department of Medicine II, Leipzig University Medical Center, Leipzig, Germany.,Division of Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Department of Medical, Campus Virchow-Klinikum, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Vincent Di Martino
- Service d'Hépatologie et de Soins Intensifs Digestifs, Hôpital Jean Minjoz, 25000 Besançon, France
| | - Annarein J C Kerbert
- Liver Failure Group, Institute for Liver and Digestive Health, University College London, Royal Free Campus, London, United Kingdom
| | - Delphine Weil-Verhoeven
- Service d'Hépatologie et de Soins Intensifs Digestifs, Hôpital Jean Minjoz, 25000 Besançon, France
| | - Niklas Friedemann Aehling
- Division of Hepatology, Department of Medicine II, Leipzig University Medical Center, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Adam Herber
- Division of Hepatology, Department of Medicine II, Leipzig University Medical Center, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Thierry Thévenot
- Service d'Hépatologie et de Soins Intensifs Digestifs, Hôpital Jean Minjoz, 25000 Besançon, France
| | - Thomas Berg
- Division of Hepatology, Department of Medicine II, Leipzig University Medical Center, Leipzig, Germany
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25
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Holterman A, Nguyen HPA, Nadler E, Vu GH, Mohan P, Vu M, Trinh TT, Bui HTT, Nguyen BT, Quynh AT, Pham HD. Granulocyte-colony stimulating factor GCSF mobilizes hematopoietic stem cells in Kasai patients with biliary atresia in a phase 1 study and improves short term outcome. J Pediatr Surg 2021; 56:1179-1185. [PMID: 33965236 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpedsurg.2021.03.038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2021] [Accepted: 03/12/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
AIMS In RCT of adults with decompensated cirrhosis, GCSF mobilizes hematopoietic stem cells HSC and improves short-term outcome. An FDA-IND for sequential Kasai-GCSF treatment in biliary atresia BA was approved. This phase 1 study examines GCSF safety in Kasai subjects. Preliminary short-term outcome was evaluated. METHODS GCSF (Neupogen) at 5 or 10 μg/kg (n = 3/group) was given in 3 daily doses starting on day 3 of Kasai surgery (NCT03395028). Serum CD34+ HSC cell counts, and 1-month of GCSF-related adverse events were monitored. The 6-months Phase 1 clinical outcome was compared against 10 subsequent post Phase 1 Kasai patients who did not receive GCSF. RESULTS With GCSF, WBC and platelet count transiently increased, LFT and serum creatinine remained stable. Reversible splenic enlargement (by 8.5-20%) occurred in 5/6 subjects. HSC count increased 12-fold and 17.5-fold for the 5 μg/kg and10 ug/kg dose respectively; with respective median total bilirubin levels for GCSF vs no-GCSF groups of 55 vs 91 μM at 1 month, p = 0.05; 15 vs 37 μM at 3 months, p = 0.24); and the 6-months cholangitis frequency of 40% vs 90%, p = 0.077. CONCLUSIONS GCSF safely mobilizes HSC in Kasai infants and may improve short-term biliary drainage and cholangitis. Phase 2 efficacy outcome of GCSF adjunct therapy for sequential Kasai and GCSF is pending.
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Affiliation(s)
- AiXuan Holterman
- Department of Surgery and Pediatrics, University of Illinois College of Medicine, Chicago, IL, United States.
| | | | - Evan Nadler
- Children's National Hospital, Washington, D.C, United States
| | - Giap H Vu
- University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, NY, United States
| | - Parvathi Mohan
- Children's National Hospital, Washington, D.C, United States
| | - Megan Vu
- Baylor College of Medicine Department of Surgery, Houston, TX, United States
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26
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Caraceni P, Abraldes JG, Ginès P, Newsome PN, Sarin SK. The search for disease-modifying agents in decompensated cirrhosis: From drug repurposing to drug discovery. J Hepatol 2021; 75 Suppl 1:S118-S134. [PMID: 34039483 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2021.01.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2020] [Revised: 01/14/2021] [Accepted: 01/15/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Patients with decompensated cirrhosis are currently managed through targeted strategies aimed at preventing or treating specific complications. In contrast, a disease-modifying agent should, by definition, be aimed at globally addressing 'decompensated cirrhosis'. To be defined as a disease-modifying agent in decompensated cirrhosis, interventions need to demonstrate an unequivocal benefit on the course of disease in well-designed and adequately powered randomised clinical trials with hard endpoints (i.e. patient survival). These trials also need to define the target population, dosage and timing of administration, factors guiding treatment, temporary or permanent stopping rules, transferability to daily clinical practice, cost-effectiveness, and global treatment access. By eliminating the underlying cause of cirrhosis, aetiologic treatments can still influence the course of decompensated disease by halting or slowing down disease progression or even inducing reversion to the compensated state. In contrast, there remains an unmet clinical need for disease-modifying agents which can antagonise key pathophysiological mechanisms of decompensated cirrhosis, such as portal hypertension, gut translocation, circulatory dysfunction, systemic inflammation, and immunological dysfunction. However, in the last few years, the repurposing of "old drugs" that have already been prescribed for more limited indications in hepatology or for other diseases has provided a few candidates, including human albumin, statins, and poorly absorbable oral antibiotics, which are under further evaluation in large-scale randomised clinical trials. New disease-modifying agents are also expected to be identified in the next decade through the systematic repurposing of existing drugs and the development of novel molecules which are currently undergoing pre-clinical or early clinical testing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paolo Caraceni
- Division of Medical Semeiotics, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Italy; Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences and Center for Biomedical Applied Research, Alma Mater Studiorum University of Bologna, Italy.
| | - Juan G Abraldes
- Liver Unit, Division of Gastroenterology, University of Alberta, Canada
| | - Pere Ginès
- Hospital Clinic of Barcelona, University of Barcelona, IDIBAPS, CIBEReHD, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
| | - Phil N Newsome
- National Institute for Health Research Biomedical Research Centre at University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust and the University of Birmingham, UK; Centre for Liver and Gastrointestinal Research, Institute of Immunology and Immunotherapy, University of Birmingham, UK; Liver Unit, University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham, UK
| | - Shiv K Sarin
- Hepatology, Institute of Liver and Biliary Sciences (ILBS), New Delhi, India
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27
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Bernal W, Karvellas C, Saliba F, Saner FH, Meersseman P. Intensive care management of acute-on-chronic liver failure. J Hepatol 2021; 75 Suppl 1:S163-S177. [PMID: 34039487 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2020.10.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2020] [Revised: 10/20/2020] [Accepted: 10/21/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The syndrome of acute-on-chronic liver failure combines deterioration of liver function in a patient with chronic liver disease, with the development of extrahepatic organ failure and high short-term mortality. Its successful management demands a rapid and coherent response to the development of dysfunction and failure of multiple organ systems in an intensive care unit setting. This response recognises the features that distinguish it from other critical illness and addresses the complex interplay between the precipitating insult, the many organ systems involved and the disordered physiology of underlying chronic liver disease. An evidence base is building to support the approaches currently adopted and outcomes for patients with this condition are improving, but mortality remains unacceptably high. Herein, we review practical considerations in critical care management, as well as discussing key knowledge gaps and areas of controversy that require further focussed research.
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Affiliation(s)
- William Bernal
- Liver Intensive Therapy Unit, Institute of Liver Studies, Kings College Hospital, Denmark Hill, London SE5 9RS, United Kingdom.
| | - Constantine Karvellas
- Division of Gastroenterology (Liver Unit), Department of Critical Care Medicine, University of Alberta, 1-40 Zeidler Ledcor Building, Edmonton, Alberta T6G-2X8, Canada
| | - Faouzi Saliba
- AP-HP Hôpital Paul Brousse, Centre Hépato-Biliaire, Université Paris SACLAY, INSERM Unit 1193, Villejuif, France
| | - Fuat H Saner
- Klinik für Allgemein-, Viszeral- und Transplantationschirurgie Universitätsklinikum Essen Hufelandstr. 55 45 147, Essen, Germany
| | - Philippe Meersseman
- Medical Intensive Care Unit, Department of General Internal Medicine, University Hospitals Leuven, Herestraat 49, B-3000, Leuven, Belgium
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28
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Van der Merwe S, Chokshi S, Bernsmeier C, Albillos A. The multifactorial mechanisms of bacterial infection in decompensated cirrhosis. J Hepatol 2021; 75 Suppl 1:S82-S100. [PMID: 34039494 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2020.11.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2020] [Revised: 11/17/2020] [Accepted: 11/20/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Infections, due to a dysfunctional immune response, pose a great risk to patients with decompensated cirrhosis and herald the beginning of the terminal phase of this disease. Infections typically result from breaches in innate immune barriers and inadequate clearance by immune cells. This leads to bacterial and bacterial product translocation to the systemic circulation, which is already primed by ongoing hepatic inflammation in patients with cirrhosis, who are particularly prone to developing organ failure in the presence of an infection. Early identification of bacterial infection, along with the prompt use of appropriate antibiotics, have reduced the mortality associated with certain infections in patients with decompensated cirrhosis. Judicious use of antibiotic therapy remains imperative given the emergence of multidrug-resistant infections in the cirrhotic population. Important research over the last few years has identified molecular targets on immune cells that may enhance their function, and theoretically prevent infections. Clinical trials are ongoing to delineate the beneficial effects of targeted molecules from their off-target effects. Herein, we review the mechanisms that predispose patients with cirrhosis to bacterial infections, the clinical implications of infections and potential targets for the prevention or treatment of infections in this vulnerable population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Schalk Van der Merwe
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University hospital, Leuven, Belgium; Laboratory of Hepatology, University of Leuven, Belgium.
| | - Shilpa Chokshi
- Institute of Hepatology, Foundation for Liver Research, London, UK; Division of Transplantation, Immunology and Mucosal Biology, Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, King's College, London, United Kingdom
| | - Christine Bernsmeier
- Department of Biomedicine, University of Basel, Switzerland; University Centre for Gastrointestinal and Liver Diseases, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Agustin Albillos
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Hospital Universitario Ramón y Cajal, Instituto Ramón y Cajal de Investigación Sanitaria (IRYCIS), CIBEREHD, Universidad de Alcalá, Madrid, Spain
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29
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Knooihuizen SAI, Alexander NJ, Hopke A, Barros N, Viens A, Scherer A, Atallah NJ, Dagher Z, Irimia D, Chung RT, Mansour MK. Loss of Coordinated Neutrophil Responses to the Human Fungal Pathogen, Candida albicans, in Patients With Cirrhosis. Hepatol Commun 2021; 5:502-515. [PMID: 33681682 PMCID: PMC7917271 DOI: 10.1002/hep4.1645] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2020] [Revised: 10/02/2020] [Accepted: 10/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Neutrophils are the most abundant white blood cell in the body and are key participants in the defense against fungal infections. Fungal infections occur often in patients with cirrhosis and are associated with increased 30-day and 90-day mortality. Previous studies have shown that specific neutrophil functions are abnormal in patients with cirrhosis, although the extent of neutrophil dysfunction is not well understood. We tested the ability of neutrophils from 21 hospitalized patients with cirrhosis and 23 healthy control patients to kill Candida albicans, a common fungal pathogen in patients with cirrhosis. Using an assay, we also measured the ability of neutrophils to coordinate multicellular, synchronized control of C. albicans hyphae through a process known as swarming. We found that neutrophils from patients with cirrhosis have significantly decreased fungicidal capacity compared with healthy control neutrophils (53% vs. 74%, P < 0.0001) and diminished ability to control hyphal growth normalized as a ratio to healthy control (0.22 vs. 0.65, P < 0.0001). Moreover, serum from patients with cirrhosis decreases the ability of healthy control neutrophils to kill C. albicans (from 60% to 41%, P < 0.003). Circulating concentration of the inflammatory cytokines tumor necrosis factor α, interleukin-6, and interleukin-8 were found to be significantly elevated in patients with cirrhosis compared to healthy controls. Following pretreatment with granulocyte-colony stimulating factor and granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor, neutrophil function was restored to almost that of healthy controls. Conclusion: Our data establish profound neutrophil dysfunction against, and altered swarming to, C. albicans in patients with cirrhosis. This dysfunction can be partially reversed with cytokine augmentation ex vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sally A I Knooihuizen
- Department of MedicineMassachusetts General HospitalBostonMAUSA.,Harvard Medical SchoolBostonMAUSA
| | | | - Alex Hopke
- Harvard Medical SchoolBostonMAUSA.,Department of SurgeryCenter for Engineering in MedicineMassachusetts General HospitalBostonMAUSA.,Shriners Burns HospitalBostonMAUSA
| | - Nicolas Barros
- Department of MedicineMassachusetts General HospitalBostonMAUSA.,Harvard Medical SchoolBostonMAUSA.,Division of Infectious DiseasesMassachusetts General HospitalBostonMAUSA
| | - Adam Viens
- Division of Infectious DiseasesMassachusetts General HospitalBostonMAUSA
| | - Allison Scherer
- Department of MedicineMassachusetts General HospitalBostonMAUSA.,Harvard Medical SchoolBostonMAUSA.,Division of Infectious DiseasesMassachusetts General HospitalBostonMAUSA
| | - Natalie J Atallah
- Department of MedicineMassachusetts General HospitalBostonMAUSA.,Harvard Medical SchoolBostonMAUSA.,Division of Infectious DiseasesMassachusetts General HospitalBostonMAUSA
| | - Zeina Dagher
- Department of MedicineMassachusetts General HospitalBostonMAUSA.,Harvard Medical SchoolBostonMAUSA.,Division of Infectious DiseasesMassachusetts General HospitalBostonMAUSA
| | - Daniel Irimia
- Harvard Medical SchoolBostonMAUSA.,Department of SurgeryCenter for Engineering in MedicineMassachusetts General HospitalBostonMAUSA.,Shriners Burns HospitalBostonMAUSA
| | - Raymond T Chung
- Department of MedicineMassachusetts General HospitalBostonMAUSA.,Harvard Medical SchoolBostonMAUSA.,Liver Center and Gastrointestinal DivisionMassachusetts General HospitalBostonMAUSA
| | - Michael K Mansour
- Department of MedicineMassachusetts General HospitalBostonMAUSA.,Harvard Medical SchoolBostonMAUSA.,Division of Infectious DiseasesMassachusetts General HospitalBostonMAUSA
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30
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De A, Kumari S, Singh A, Kaur A, Sharma R, Bhalla A, Sharma N, Kalra N, Singh V. Multiple Cycles of Granulocyte Colony-Stimulating Factor Increase Survival Times of Patients With Decompensated Cirrhosis in a Randomized Trial. Clin Gastroenterol Hepatol 2021; 19:375-383.e5. [PMID: 32088302 DOI: 10.1016/j.cgh.2020.02.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2019] [Revised: 02/01/2020] [Accepted: 02/07/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS There is controversy regarding the inclusion of granulocyte colony stimulating factor (G-CSF) in the treatment of decompensated cirrhosis. Previous studies tested only a single cycle of G-CSF administration or were underpowered to detect changes in survival time. We performed an adequately powered study to determine whether multiple cycles of G-CSF increased the survival of patients 1 year after the start of therapy. METHODS We conducted an open-label trial of 100 patients with decompensated cirrhosis without acute-on-chronic liver failure at a tertiary center from July 2016 through June 2018. The patients were assigned randomly to a group given 5 days of G-CSF every 3 months, with standard medical therapy, in 4 cycles (group A, n = 50), or standard medical therapy alone (group B, n = 50). The primary outcome was survival for 12 months after treatment began. Secondary outcomes were an increase in the number of CD34+ cells at day 6 compared with day 0, along with reductions in Child-Turcotte-Pugh and model for end-stage liver disease scores, increased control of ascites, reduced decompensation and episodes of infection, fewer hospitalizations, lower liver stiffness measurements, increased quality of life and nutrition, fulfilment of liver transplant criteria, and fewer adverse events at 12 months after the start of treatment. RESULTS Groups A and B were comparable at baseline. Survival at 12 months after initiation of treatment was significantly higher in group A (74%) than in group B (42%) (P < .001). Blood samples from patients in group A had significantly more CD34+ cells on day 6 than on day 0 (P < .001); there was no significant change in group B. Compared with patients in group B, patients in group A had significant reductions in Child-Turcotte-Pugh and model for end-stage liver disease scores, increased ascites control, fewer infections and hospitalizations, lower liver stiffness measurements, an increased quality of life, and a lower number fulfilled the liver transplant criteria (P < .05). There was no improvement in nutrition in either group compared with baseline. G-CSF was safe and well tolerated. CONCLUSIONS Administration of multiple cycles of G-CSF increases the numbers of hematopoietic stem cells and survival of patients with decompensated cirrhosis receiving standard medical treatment. The addition of G-CSF to medical treatment might provide a bridge to liver transplantation for these patients. ClincialTrials.gov no: NCT03415698.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arka De
- Department of Hepatology, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India
| | - Sunita Kumari
- Department of Hepatology, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India
| | - Akash Singh
- Department of Hepatology, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India
| | - Amritjyot Kaur
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India
| | - Rattiram Sharma
- Department of Transfusion Medicine, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India
| | - Ashish Bhalla
- Department of Internal Medicine, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India
| | - Navneet Sharma
- Department of Internal Medicine, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India
| | - Naveen Kalra
- Department of Radiodiagnosis and Imaging, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India
| | - Virendra Singh
- Department of Hepatology, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India.
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Variceal Bleed and Portal Hypertensive Gastropathy in a Noncirrhotic Patient with Isolated Splenomegaly. Case Reports Hepatol 2021; 2020:8893713. [PMID: 33381333 PMCID: PMC7762672 DOI: 10.1155/2020/8893713] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2020] [Revised: 11/06/2020] [Accepted: 12/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Portal hypertension caused by cirrhosis is the most common etiology of esophageal varices. However, abnormalities of the splenoportal axis in the absence of liver disease may also cause portal hypertension resulting in varices. We report a rare case of esophageal variceal bleed in a noncirrhotic patient with isolated splenomegaly secondary to chronic granulocyte colony stimulating factor (G-CSF) therapy. The patient is a 26-year-old male with Cohen syndrome who required long-term G-CSF treatment for chronic neutropenia. He presented with large volume hematemesis and pancytopenia in the setting of known splenomegaly with no evidence of cirrhosis. An urgent EGD revealed active variceal bleeding and portal hypertensive gastropathy. The patient was appropriately resuscitated and underwent a successful transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt and CT-guided coil placement for the bleeding varices. We are the first to report variceal bleed as a complication of long-term G-CSF use, a life-threatening consequence that requires urgent intervention.
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Abstract
Cirrhosis is a multisystemic disease wherein inflammatory responses originating from advanced liver disease and its sequelae affect distant compartments. Patients with cirrhosis are susceptible to bacterial infections, which may precipitate acute decompensation and acute-on-chronic liver failure, both of which are associated with high short-term mortality. Innate immune cells are an essential first line of defence against pathogens. Activation of liver macrophages (Kupffer cells) and resident mastocytes generate proinflammatory and vaso-permeating mediators that induce accumulation of neutrophils, lymphocytes, eosinophils and monocytes in the liver, and promote tissue damage. During cirrhosis progression, damage- and pathogen-associated molecular patterns activate immune cells and promote development of systemic inflammatory responses which may involve different tissues and compartments. The antibacterial function of circulating neutrophils and monocytes is gradually and severely impaired as cirrhosis worsens, contributing to disease progression. The mechanisms underlying impaired antimicrobial responses are complex and incompletely understood. This review focuses on the continuous and distinct perturbations arising in innate immune cells during cirrhosis, including their impact on disease progression, as well as reviewing potential therapeutic targets.
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Marot A, Singal AK, Moreno C, Deltenre P. Granulocyte colony-stimulating factor for alcoholic hepatitis: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials. JHEP Rep 2020; 2:100139. [PMID: 32775975 PMCID: PMC7396826 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhepr.2020.100139] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2020] [Revised: 06/06/2020] [Accepted: 06/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Background & Aims Granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF) treatment has been proposed as a therapeutic option for patients with severe alcoholic hepatitis (AH). The aim of this study was to synthesise available evidence on the efficacy of G-CSF in AH. Methods This is a meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials evaluating the risk of death at 90 days and the risk of infection. Results Seven studies were included. Of a total of 396 patients, 336 had AH, 197 patients were treated with G-CSF, and 199 received placebo or pentoxifylline. In overall meta-analysis, G-CSF therapy was associated with a reduced risk of death at 90 days (odds ratio [OR] 0.28; 95% CI 0.09–0.88; p = 0.03). There was high heterogeneity between studies (p <0.001; I2 = 80%). Five studies were performed in Asia and 2 in Europe. In the subgroup analysis of studies performed in Asia, G-CSF was associated with a reduced risk of death (OR 0.15; 95% CI 0.08–0.28; p <0.001; heterogeneity: p = 0.5, I2 = 0%). In European studies, G-CSF tended to increase mortality compared with controls, although the difference was not significant (OR 1.89; 95% CI 0.90–3.98; p = 0.09; heterogeneity: p = 0.8, I2 = 0%). In Asian studies, occurrence of infection was less frequent in G-CSF patients than in controls (OR 0.12; 95% CI 0.06–0.23; p <0.001; heterogeneity: p = 0.7, I2 = 0%), whilst in European studies, this occurrence was not statistically different (OR 0.92; 95% CI 0.50–1.68; p = 0.78; heterogeneity: p = 0.5, I2 = 0%). In sensitivity analyses, excluding studies that included patients with acute-on-chronic liver failure (ACLF) other than AH, patients with less severe AH, or patients with non-response to corticosteroids, results were similar to those of overall analyses, both for mortality and occurrence of infection. Conclusions Granulocyte colony-stimulating factor therapy may improve the prognosis of patients with severe AH. However, owing to the high heterogeneity observed in the overall analysis caused by conflicting results between the Asian and European studies, G-CSF cannot currently be recommended for AH, particularly in Europe. Whether these differences can be explained by ethnic differences or disparities in patient selection and disease severity remains unclear. Lay summary The main finding of this meta-analysis is that the use of granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF) is associated with a mortality reduction of more than 70% at 3 months amongst patients with alcoholic hepatitis (AH) compared with controls who did not receive this therapy. However, owing to the high heterogeneity observed in the overall analysis caused by conflicting results between the Asian and European studies, G-CSF cannot currently be recommended for patients with AH, particularly in Europe. Whether these differences can be explained by ethnic differences or disparities in patient selection and disease severity remains unclear. This meta-analysis reports pooled data from 7 studies on the use of G-CSF in patients with alcoholic hepatitis. The favourable effect of G-CSF was only encountered in Asian not European studies. Additional data are needed to clarify the usefulness of G-CSF in severe alcoholic hepatitis, particularly in Europe.
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Affiliation(s)
- Astrid Marot
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, CHU UCL Namur, Université Catholique de Louvain, Yvoir, Belgium
- Corresponding author. Address: Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, CHU UCL Namur, Université Catholique de Louvain, avenue Gaston Thérasse, 1, 5530 Yvoir, Belgium. Tel.: +32 81 42 32 72; fax: +32 81 42 32 54.
| | - Ashwani K. Singal
- Division of Transplant Hepatology, Avera Transplant Institute and Department of Medicine, University of South Dakota Sanford School of Medicine, Sioux Falls, SD, USA
| | - Christophe Moreno
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatopancreatology and Digestive Oncology, CUB Hôpital Erasme, Université Libre de Bruxelles, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Pierre Deltenre
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatopancreatology and Digestive Oncology, CUB Hôpital Erasme, Université Libre de Bruxelles, Brussels, Belgium
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Clinique St Luc, Bouge, Belgium
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Makkar K, Tomer S, Verma N, Rathi S, Arora SK, Taneja S, Duseja A, Chawla YK, Dhiman RK. Neutrophil dysfunction predicts 90-day survival in patients with acute on chronic liver failure: A longitudinal case-control study. JGH OPEN 2020; 4:595-602. [PMID: 32782944 PMCID: PMC7411642 DOI: 10.1002/jgh3.12344] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2019] [Revised: 12/27/2019] [Accepted: 12/30/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Background and Aim Innate immune disarray is a key component in the development and progression of acute on chronic liver failure (ACLF) and predisposition to infections. We evaluated the neutrophil dysfunction and its impact on outcomes in patients with ACLF. Methods Forty patients with acute decompensation of cirrhosis (10 each of grades 0, 1, 2, and 3 ACLF) and 10 healthy controls were prospectively evaluated for neutrophil immunophenotype (NP), neutrophil phagocytic capacity (NPC), and oxidative burst (OB) in both resting and stimulated conditions. The patients were followed up for 90 days or until death or transplant, whichever was earlier. Results NP was normal (in %) and NPC (in mean fluorescence intensity [MFI]) was better in controls compared to patients with ACLF (83.74 ± 12.38 vs 63.84 ± 22.98; P = 0.007 and 98.33 ± 130.60 vs 18.73 ± 17.88, P = 0.001, respectively). Resting OB was higher in patients with ACLF compared to controls (97 ± 4.9% vs 91 ± 9%; P = 0.034), but it failed to increase further after stimulation, suggesting an immune exhaustion. NP was normal (in %) and NPC (in MFI) was better in 90‐day survivors compared to nonsurvivors (78 ± 11.9 vs 62.2 ± 24.11, P = 0.02 and 33.3 ± 22.7 vs 16.36 ± 13.3; P = 0.004, respectively). Phenotypically normal neutrophils >71.7% had 78.6% sensitivity and 65.4% specificity with an area under receiver operating curve (AUROC) of 0.70 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.55–0.90); P = 0.017, and NPC >17.32. MFI had 71.4% sensitivity and 69.6% specificity with an AUROC of 0.73 (95% CI: 0.54–0.86), P = 0.035, in predicting 90‐day survival. Conclusion Neutrophils have impaired bactericidal function in patients with ACLF compared to healthy adults. Neutrophil phenotype and phagocytic capacity may be used to predict 90‐day survival in patients with ACLF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kunaal Makkar
- Department of Internal Medicine Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research Chandigarh India
| | - Shallu Tomer
- Department of Immunopathology Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research Chandigarh India
| | - Nipun Verma
- Department of Hepatology Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research Chandigarh India
| | - Sahaj Rathi
- Department of Hepatology Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research Chandigarh India
| | - Sunil K Arora
- Department of Immunopathology Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research Chandigarh India
| | - Sunil Taneja
- Department of Hepatology Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research Chandigarh India
| | - Ajay Duseja
- Department of Hepatology Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research Chandigarh India
| | - Yogesh K Chawla
- Department of Hepatology Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research Chandigarh India
| | - Radha K Dhiman
- Department of Hepatology Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research Chandigarh India
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Philips CA, Augustine P, Rajesh S, Ahamed R, George T, Padsalgi G, Paramaguru R, Valiathan G, John SK. Granulocyte Colony-Stimulating Factor Use in Decompensated Cirrhosis: Lack of Survival Benefit. J Clin Exp Hepatol 2020; 10:124-134. [PMID: 32189927 PMCID: PMC7067994 DOI: 10.1016/j.jceh.2019.05.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2019] [Accepted: 05/22/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (GCSF) has been utilized in decompensated cirrhosis (DC) for improving transplant-free survival (TFS). Data from multiple centers are conflicting with regard to patient outcomes. In this retrospective study, we present our 'real-world experience' of GCSF use in a large group of DC. METHODS From September 2016 to September 2018, 1231 patients with cirrhosis were screened, of which 754 were found to have decompensation(s). Seventy-three patients with active ascites, jaundice, or both completed GCSF treatment (10 mcg/kg per day for 5 days, followed by 5 mcg/kg/day once every third day for total 12 doses). Per-protocol analysis (n = 56) was performed to study clinical events, liver disease severity, and outcomes at 3, 6, and 12 months after treatment. Modified intention-to-treat (mITT, n = 100) analysis was performed to study overall survival at 180 days. Outcomes were compared with a matched historical control (HC) group (n = 24). RESULTS Nine (16%, n = 56), 24 (43%, n = 56), and 36 (75%, n = 48) patients died at 3, 6, and 12-month follow-up after GCSF. The commonest cause of death was sepsis (53%) followed by progressive liver failure (33%). Nine percent of patients developed hepatocellular carcinoma on follow-up at the end of 1 year. Acute variceal bleeds, overt hepatic encephalopathy, intensive unit admissions, and liver disease severity scores were higher after treatment at the end of 1 year. The Child-Pugh score >11 and model for end-stage liver disease-sodium score >25 and > 20 predicted worse outcomes at all time points and at 6 and 12 months after GCSF, respectively. Compared to a matched HC group, patients receiving GCSF had higher mortality (75% vs 46%, P = 0.04) at one year. mITT analysis revealed poor overall survival at 6 months compared to HCs (48% vs 75%, P = 0.04). CONCLUSION Survival in DC was shorter than what was expected in the natural history of the disease after GCSF use.
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Key Words
- AKI, acute kidney injury
- AUC, area under the receiver operating curve
- AVB, acute variceal bleeding
- BMSCs, Bone marrow–derived stem cells
- CTP score, Child–Pugh score
- DC, decompensated cirrhosis
- DP, darbepoetin
- GCSF, granulocyte colony-stimulating factor
- HC, historical control
- HCC
- HCC, hepatocellular carcinoma
- HE, hepatic encephalopathy
- ICU, intensive care unit
- INR, international normalized ratio
- LT, liver transplantation
- MELD-Na, model for end-stage liver disease-sodium
- NASH, nonalcoholic steatohepatitis
- RCT, randomized controlled trial
- SBP, spontaneous bacterial peritonitis
- SMT, standard medical treatment
- TFS, transplant free survival
- encephalopathy
- erythropoietin
- growth factor
- hyponatremia
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Affiliation(s)
- Cyriac A. Philips
- The Liver Unit, Cochin Gastroenterology Group, Ernakulam Medical Center, Kochi, Kerala
| | - Philip Augustine
- Gastroenterology, Cochin Gastroenterology Group, Ernakulam Medical Center, Kochi, Kerala
| | - Sasidharan Rajesh
- Interventional Radiology, Cochin Gastroenterology Group, Ernakulam Medical Center, Kochi, Kerala
| | - Rizwan Ahamed
- Gastroenterology, Cochin Gastroenterology Group, Ernakulam Medical Center, Kochi, Kerala
| | - Tom George
- Interventional Radiology, Cochin Gastroenterology Group, Ernakulam Medical Center, Kochi, Kerala
| | - Guruprasad Padsalgi
- Gastroenterology, Cochin Gastroenterology Group, Ernakulam Medical Center, Kochi, Kerala
| | | | - Gopakumar Valiathan
- Gastrointestinal and Hepatobiliary Surgery, Cochin Gastroenterology Group, Ernakulam Medical Center, Kochi, Kerala
| | - Solomon K. John
- Hepatobiliary and Transplant Surgery, Cochin Gastroenterology Group, Ernakulam Medical Center, Kochi, Kerala
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Colli A, Prati D, Fraquelli M, Casazza G. Granulocyte colony-stimulating factor with or without stem or progenitor cell infusion for people with compensated or decompensated advanced chronic liver disease. Hippokratia 2020. [DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd013532] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Agostino Colli
- A Manzoni Hospital ASST Lecco; Department of Internal Medicine; Via dell'Eremo, 9/11 Lecco Italy 23900
| | - Daniele Prati
- Ospedale Alessandro Manzoni; Department of Transfusion Medicine and Haematology; Lecco Italy
| | - Mirella Fraquelli
- Fondazione IRCCS Ca´ Granda - Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation, Università degli Studi di Milano; Gastroenterology and Endoscopy Unit; Via F. Sforza, 35 Milan Italy 20122
| | - Giovanni Casazza
- Università degli Studi di Milano; Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche e Cliniche "L. Sacco"; via GB Grassi 74 Milan Italy 20157
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Philips CA, Augustine P, Ahamed R, Rajesh S, George T, Valiathan GC, John SK. Role of Granulocyte Colony-stimulating Factor Therapy in Cirrhosis, 'Inside Any Deep Asking Is the Answering'. J Clin Transl Hepatol 2019; 7:371-383. [PMID: 31915607 PMCID: PMC6943215 DOI: 10.14218/jcth.2019.00034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2019] [Revised: 09/20/2019] [Accepted: 10/05/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Liver cirrhosis progresses through multiple clinical stages which culminate in either death or liver transplantation. Availability of organs, timely listing and prompt receipt of donor-livers pose difficulties in improving transplant-listed and transplant outcomes. In this regard, regenerative therapies, particularly with granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (GCSF), has become a lucrative option for improving transplant-free survival. However, the literature is confusing with regards to patient selection and real outcomes. In this exhaustive review, we describe the basics of liver fibrosis and cirrhosis through novel insights from a therapeutic point of view, discuss preclinical studies on GCSF in advanced liver disease to improve on clinical utility, shed light on the pertinent literature of GCSF in advanced cirrhosis, and provide astute inputs on growth factor therapy in decompensated cirrhosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cyriac Abby Philips
- The Liver Unit and Monarch Liver Lab, Cochin Gastroenterology Group, Ernakulam Medical Centre, Kochi, Kerala, India
| | - Philip Augustine
- Department of Gastroenterology, Cochin Gastroenterology Group, Ernakulam Medical Centre, Kochi, Kerala, India
| | - Rizwan Ahamed
- Department of Gastroenterology, Cochin Gastroenterology Group, Ernakulam Medical Centre, Kochi, Kerala, India
| | - Sasidharan Rajesh
- Interventional Radiology, Hepatobiliary Division, Cochin Gastroenterology Group, Ernakulam Medical Centre, Kochi, Kerala, India
| | - Tom George
- Interventional Radiology, Hepatobiliary Division, Cochin Gastroenterology Group, Ernakulam Medical Centre, Kochi, Kerala, India
| | - Gopakumar C. Valiathan
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Transplant Surgery, Cochin Gastroenterology Group, Ernakulam Medical Centre, Kochi, Kerala, India
| | - Solomon K. John
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Transplant Surgery, Cochin Gastroenterology Group, Ernakulam Medical Centre, Kochi, Kerala, India
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Sung JH, Uojima H, Hidaka H, Tanaka Y, Wada N, Kubota K, Nakazawa T, Shibuya A, Fujikawa T, Yamanoue H, Kako M, Koizumi W. Risk factors for loss of skeletal muscle mass in patients with cirrhosis. Hepatol Res 2019; 49:550-558. [PMID: 30623996 DOI: 10.1111/hepr.13308] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2018] [Revised: 12/11/2018] [Accepted: 12/31/2018] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
AIM The present study aimed to assess the correlation between loss of skeletal muscle mass (LSMM) and the clinical characteristics of patients with liver cirrhosis. METHODS This multicenter, prospective study was undertaken at five locations in Japan and involved a 12-month observation period. After baseline assessment, the change in the skeletal muscle index per year (ΔSMI/y) was evaluated in the enrolled patients; LSMM was defined as ΔSMI/y < 0. We evaluated the relationships between LSMM and baseline clinical characteristics in patients with liver cirrhosis. RESULTS A total of 166 patients with cirrhosis were enrolled and, of these, 123 patients (74.1%) showed LSMM. Multivariate analysis confirmed that hepatic encephalopathy, Wisteria floribunda agglutinin-positive Mac-2 binding protein (WFA+ -M2BP) (≥1.86), age (≥60 years), and grip strength (<18 kg for women and <26 kg for men) were independent predictors of skeletal muscle decline (P = 0.042, odds ratio [OR] 8.997, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.083-74.71; P = 0.023, OR 3.970, 95% CI 1.468-6.177; P = 0.037, OR 2.526, 95% CI 1.056-6.045; and P = 0.002, OR 3.970, 95% CI 1.691-9.322, respectively). CONCLUSIONS Advanced age, low grip strength, hepatic encephalopathy, and high WFA+ -M2BP might be risk factors for LSMM in liver cirrhosis patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ji Hyun Sung
- Department of Gastroenterology, Internal Medicine, Kitasato University School of Medicine, Sagamihara, Japan.,Department of Gastroenterology, Shonan Kamakura General Hospital, Kamakura, Japan
| | - Haruki Uojima
- Department of Gastroenterology, Internal Medicine, Kitasato University School of Medicine, Sagamihara, Japan.,Department of Gastroenterology, Shonan Kamakura General Hospital, Kamakura, Japan
| | - Hisashi Hidaka
- Department of Gastroenterology, Internal Medicine, Kitasato University School of Medicine, Sagamihara, Japan
| | - Yoshiaki Tanaka
- Department of Gastroenterology, Internal Medicine, Kitasato University School of Medicine, Sagamihara, Japan
| | - Naohisa Wada
- Department of Gastroenterology, Internal Medicine, Kitasato University School of Medicine, Sagamihara, Japan
| | - Kousuke Kubota
- Department of Gastroenterology, Internal Medicine, Kitasato University School of Medicine, Sagamihara, Japan
| | - Takahide Nakazawa
- Department of Gastroenterology, Internal Medicine, Kitasato University School of Medicine, Sagamihara, Japan
| | - Akitaka Shibuya
- Department of Gastroenterology, Internal Medicine, Kitasato University School of Medicine, Sagamihara, Japan
| | - Tomoaki Fujikawa
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shonan Fujisawa Tokushukai Hospital, Fujisawa, Japan
| | - Hiroki Yamanoue
- Department of General Internal Medicine, Shizuoka Tokushukai Hospital, Suruga, Japan
| | - Makoto Kako
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shonan Kamakura General Hospital, Kamakura, Japan
| | - Wasaburo Koizumi
- Department of Gastroenterology, Internal Medicine, Kitasato University School of Medicine, Sagamihara, Japan
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Irvine KM, Ratnasekera I, Powell EE, Hume DA. Causes and Consequences of Innate Immune Dysfunction in Cirrhosis. Front Immunol 2019; 10:293. [PMID: 30873165 PMCID: PMC6401613 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2019.00293] [Citation(s) in RCA: 97] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2018] [Accepted: 02/05/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Liver cirrhosis is an increasing health burden and public health concern. Regardless of etiology, patients with cirrhosis are at risk of a range of life-threatening complications, including the development of infections, which are associated with high morbidity and mortality and frequent hospital admissions. The term Cirrhosis-Associated Immune Dysfunction (CAID) refers to a dynamic spectrum of immunological perturbations that develop in patients with cirrhosis, which are intimately linked to the underlying liver disease, and negatively correlated with prognosis. At the two extremes of the CAID spectrum are systemic inflammation, which can exacerbate clinical manifestations of cirrhosis such as hemodynamic derangement and kidney injury; and immunodeficiency, which contributes to the high rate of infection in patients with decompensated cirrhosis. Innate immune cells, in particular monocytes/macrophages and neutrophils, are pivotal effector and target cells in CAID. This review focuses on the pathophysiological mechanisms leading to impaired innate immune function in cirrhosis. Knowledge of the phenotypic manifestation and pathophysiological mechanisms of cirrhosis associated immunosuppression may lead to immune targeted therapies to reduce susceptibility to infection in patients with cirrhosis, and better biomarkers for risk stratification, and assessment of efficacy of novel immunotherapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katharine Margaret Irvine
- Mater Research Institute, Translational Research Institute, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Isanka Ratnasekera
- Mater Research Institute, Translational Research Institute, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Elizabeth E Powell
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Princess Alexandra Hospital, Brisbane, QLD, Australia.,Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - David Arthur Hume
- Mater Research Institute, Translational Research Institute, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
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40
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Bernardi M, Caraceni P. Novel perspectives in the management of decompensated cirrhosis. Nat Rev Gastroenterol Hepatol 2018; 15:753-764. [PMID: 30026556 DOI: 10.1038/s41575-018-0045-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The current approaches to the management of patients with decompensated cirrhosis are based on targeted strategies aimed at preventing or treating specific complications of the disease. The improved knowledge of the pathophysiological background of advanced cirrhosis, represented by a sustained systemic inflammation strictly linked to a circulatory dysfunction, provides a novel paradigm for the management of these patients, with the ambitious target of modifying the course of the disease by preventing the onset of complications and multiorgan failure; these interventions will eventually improve patients' quality of life, prolong survival and reduce health-care costs. Besides aetiological treatments, these goals could be achieved by persistently antagonizing key pathophysiological events, such as portal hypertension, abnormal bacterial translocation from the gut, liver damage, systemic inflammation, circulatory dysfunction and altered immunological responses. Interestingly, in addition to strategies based on new therapeutic agents, these targets can be tackled by employing drugs that are already used in patients with cirrhosis for different indications or in other clinical settings, including non-absorbable oral antibiotics, non-selective β-blockers, human albumin and statins. The scope of the present Review includes reporting updated information on the treatments that promise to influence the course of advanced cirrhosis and thus act as disease-modifying agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mauro Bernardi
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum - University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy.
| | - Paolo Caraceni
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum - University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
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Philips CA, Augustine P, Mathew S, Valiathan GC, John SK. Growth factor therapy for decompensated cirrhosis: Much ado about nothing? Hepatology 2018; 68:387-388. [PMID: 29500913 DOI: 10.1002/hep.29866] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2018] [Revised: 01/29/2018] [Accepted: 01/31/2018] [Indexed: 12/07/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Cyriac Abby Philips
- The Liver Unit, Cochin Gastroenterology Group, Ernakulam Medical Centre, Cochin, India
| | - Philip Augustine
- The Liver Unit, Cochin Gastroenterology Group, Ernakulam Medical Centre, Cochin, India
| | - Sunil Mathew
- The Liver Unit, Cochin Gastroenterology Group, Ernakulam Medical Centre, Cochin, India
| | - Gopakumar C Valiathan
- Hepatobiliary Surgery and Liver Transplant, Cochin Gastroenterology Group, Ernakulam Medical Centre, Cochin, India
| | - Solomon K John
- Hepatobiliary Surgery and Liver Transplant, Cochin Gastroenterology Group, Ernakulam Medical Centre, Cochin, India
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