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Efremova I, Maslennikov R, Poluektova E, Vasilieva E, Zharikov Y, Suslov A, Letyagina Y, Kozlov E, Levshina A, Ivashkin V. Epidemiology of small intestinal bacterial overgrowth. World J Gastroenterol 2023; 29:3400-3421. [PMID: 37389240 PMCID: PMC10303511 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v29.i22.3400] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2023] [Revised: 03/31/2023] [Accepted: 05/11/2023] [Indexed: 06/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) is defined as an increase in the bacterial content of the small intestine above normal values. The presence of SIBO is detected in 33.8% of patients with gastroenterological complaints who underwent a breath test, and is significantly associated with smoking, bloating, abdominal pain, and anemia. Proton pump inhibitor therapy is a significant risk factor for SIBO. The risk of SIBO increases with age and does not depend on gender or race. SIBO complicates the course of a number of diseases and may be of pathogenetic significance in the development of their symptoms. SIBO is significantly associated with functional dyspepsia, irritable bowel syndrome, functional abdominal bloating, functional constipation, functional diarrhea, short bowel syndrome, chronic intestinal pseudo-obstruction, lactase deficiency, diverticular and celiac diseases, ulcerative colitis, Crohn’s disease, cirrhosis, metabolic-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD), primary biliary cholangitis, gastroparesis, pancreatitis, cystic fibrosis, gallstone disease, diabetes, hypothyroidism, hyperlipidemia, acromegaly, multiple sclerosis, autism, Parkinson’s disease, systemic sclerosis, spondylarthropathy, fibromyalgia, asthma, heart failure, and other diseases. The development of SIBO is often associated with a slowdown in orocecal transit time that decreases the normal clearance of bacteria from the small intestine. The slowdown of this transit may be due to motor dysfunction of the intestine in diseases of the gut, autonomic diabetic polyneuropathy, and portal hypertension, or a decrease in the motor-stimulating influence of thyroid hormones. In a number of diseases, including cirrhosis, MAFLD, diabetes, and pancreatitis, an association was found between disease severity and the presence of SIBO. Further work on the effect of SIBO eradication on the condition and prognosis of patients with various diseases is required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irina Efremova
- Department of Internal Medicine, Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Sechenov University, Moscow 119435, Russia
| | - Roman Maslennikov
- Department of Internal Medicine, Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Sechenov University, Moscow 119435, Russia
- The Scientific Community for Human Microbiome Research, Moscow 119435, Russia
| | - Elena Poluektova
- Department of Internal Medicine, Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Sechenov University, Moscow 119435, Russia
- The Scientific Community for Human Microbiome Research, Moscow 119435, Russia
| | - Ekaterina Vasilieva
- Department of Internal Medicine, Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Sechenov University, Moscow 119435, Russia
| | - Yury Zharikov
- Department of Human Anatomy and Histology, Sechenov University, Moscow 125009, Russia
| | - Andrey Suslov
- Department of Human Anatomy and Histology, Sechenov University, Moscow 125009, Russia
| | - Yana Letyagina
- N.V. Sklifosovsky Institute of Clinical Medicine, Sechenov University, Moscow 119991, Russia
| | - Evgenii Kozlov
- Department of Clinical Immunology and Allergy, Sechenov University, Moscow 119991, Russia
| | - Anna Levshina
- Department of Internal Medicine, Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Sechenov University, Moscow 119435, Russia
- Department of Clinical Immunology and Allergy, Sechenov University, Moscow 119991, Russia
| | - Vladimir Ivashkin
- Department of Internal Medicine, Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Sechenov University, Moscow 119435, Russia
- The Scientific Community for Human Microbiome Research, Moscow 119435, Russia
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Garbuzenko DV. Therapeutic possibilities of gut microbiota modulation in acute decompensation of liver cirrhosis. World J Hepatol 2023; 15:525-537. [PMID: 37206649 PMCID: PMC10190690 DOI: 10.4254/wjh.v15.i4.525] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2022] [Revised: 02/01/2023] [Accepted: 03/30/2023] [Indexed: 04/20/2023] Open
Abstract
The formation of liver cirrhosis (LC) is an unfavorable event in the natural history of chronic liver diseases and with the development of portal hypertension and/or impaired liver function can cause a fatal outcome. Decompensation of LC is considered the most important stratification variable for the risk of death. It is currently postulated that decompensation of LC occurs through an acute (including acute-on-chronic liver failure) and non-acute pathway. Acute decompensation of LC is accompanied by the development of life-threatening complications, characterized by an unfavorable prognosis and high mortality. Progress in understanding the underlying molecular mechanisms has led to the search for new interventions, drugs, and biological substances that can affect key links in the pathogenesis of acute decompensation in LC, for example the impaired gut-liver axis and associated systemic inflammation. Given that particular alterations in the composition and function of gut microbiota play a crucial role here, the study of the therapeutic possibilities of its modulation has emerged as one of the top concerns in modern hepatology. This review summarized the investigations that describe the theoretical foundations and therapeutic potential of gut microbiota modulation in acute decompensation of LC. Despite the encouraging preliminary data, the majority of the suggested strategies have only been tested in animal models or in preliminary clinical trials; additional multicenter randomized controlled trials must demonstrate their efficacy in larger patient populations.
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Efremova I, Maslennikov R, Alieva A, Poluektova E, Ivashkin V. Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth Is Associated with Poor Prognosis in Cirrhosis. Microorganisms 2023; 11:microorganisms11041017. [PMID: 37110440 PMCID: PMC10143588 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms11041017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2023] [Revised: 04/03/2023] [Accepted: 04/10/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) is associated with numerous manifestations of cirrhosis. To determine whether the presence of SIBO affects the prognosis in cirrhosis was the aim of the study. METHODS This prospective cohort study included 50 patients. All participants underwent a lactulose hydrogen breath test for SIBO. The follow-up period was 4 years. RESULTS SIBO was detected in 26 (52.0%) patients: in 10 (52.6%) patients with compensated cirrhosis and in 16 (51.6%) ones with decompensated cirrhosis. Twelve (46.2%) patients with SIBO and four (16.7%) patients without SIBO died within 4 years (p = 0.009). Among patients with decompensated cirrhosis, 8 (50.0%) patients with SIBO and 3 (20.0%) patients without SIBO died (p = 0.027). Among patients with compensated cirrhosis, four (40.0%) patients with SIBO and one (11.1%) patient without SIBO died (p = 0.045). Among patients with SIBO, there was no difference in mortality between patients with compensated and decompensated cirrhosis (p = 0.209). It was the same for patients without SIBO (p = 0.215). SIBO affects the prognosis only in the first year of follow-up in decompensated cirrhosis, and only in subsequent years in compensated cirrhosis. Presence of SIBO (p = 0.028; HR = 4.2(1.2-14.9)) and serum albumin level (p = 0.027) were significant independent risk factors for death in cirrhosis. CONCLUSIONS SIBO is associated with poor prognosis in cirrhosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irina Efremova
- Department of Internal Medicine, Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Sechenov University, 119121 Moscow, Russia
| | - Roman Maslennikov
- Department of Internal Medicine, Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Sechenov University, 119121 Moscow, Russia
- The Interregional Public Organization "Scientific Community for the Promotion of the Clinical Study of the Human Microbiome", 119121 Moscow, Russia
| | - Aliya Alieva
- Department of Internal Medicine, Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Sechenov University, 119121 Moscow, Russia
| | - Elena Poluektova
- Department of Internal Medicine, Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Sechenov University, 119121 Moscow, Russia
- The Interregional Public Organization "Scientific Community for the Promotion of the Clinical Study of the Human Microbiome", 119121 Moscow, Russia
| | - Vladimir Ivashkin
- Department of Internal Medicine, Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Sechenov University, 119121 Moscow, Russia
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Hepatic Encephalopathy in Cirrhotic Patients and Risk of Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2022; 2022:2469513. [PMID: 36303585 PMCID: PMC9596239 DOI: 10.1155/2022/2469513] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2022] [Revised: 10/04/2022] [Accepted: 10/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Background Hepatic encephalopathy (HE) is a neurological and psychiatric syndrome. Recent evidence suggests that HE is not only a disease of the liver and brain but is also related to the gut. Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) is well known to be associated with cirrhosis, but the relationship between SIBO and HE is unclear. We conducted this comprehensive systematic review and meta-analysis to determine the association between SIBO and HE in cirrhotic patients. Methods We conducted a comprehensive literature search of all studies on the association of SIBO and HE in cirrhotic patients using the PubMed and Embase electronic databases. Studies were screened, and relevant data were extracted and analysed. We calculated the number of cases of SIBO in patients with HE and controls. We then compared the prevalence of SIBO between the two groups to calculate the odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Funnel plots were constructed to identify potential publication bias. Results Six studies with 414 participants (219 HE patients and 195 controls) met the inclusion criteria. The prevalence of SIBO in cirrhotic patients with HE was significantly higher than that in those without HE. The combined OR was 4.43 (95% CI 1.73-11.32, P = 0.002). The heterogeneity was moderate (I2 = 66%), and the funnel plot suggested no significant publication bias. Subgroup analysis showed that the OR was 1.95 (95% CI 0.63–6.09) in studies using the lactulose breath test (LBT) and 7.60 (95% CI 3.50–16.50) in studies using the glucose breath test (GBT). The prevalence of SIBO in cirrhotic patients was also related to the severity of liver disease. Conclusions Our meta-analysis identified a strong association between SIBO and HE, and the risk of SIBO was 4.43 times higher among cirrhotic patients with HE than among those without HE. SIBO could be a predisposing factor for the development of HE in cirrhotic patients. Therefore, the importance of SIBO should be emphasized in patients with HE.
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Maslennikov R, Ivashkin V, Efremova I, Poluektova E, Kudryavtseva A, Krasnov G. Gut dysbiosis and small intestinal bacterial overgrowth as independent forms of gut microbiota disorders in cirrhosis. World J Gastroenterol 2022; 28:1067-1077. [PMID: 35431497 PMCID: PMC8968519 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v28.i10.1067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2021] [Revised: 06/29/2021] [Accepted: 02/10/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Gut dysbiosis and small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) are commonly observed in patients with cirrhosis. Despite the substantial number of articles describing the relations between disorders of gut microbiota and various manifestations of cirrhosis, dysbiosis and SIBO were always studied separately.
AIM To study the relationship of gut dysbiosis and SIBO in cirrhosis.
METHODS This observational study included 47 in-patients with cirrhosis. Stool microbiome was assessed using 16S rRNA gene sequencing. SIBO was assessed using the lactulose hydrogen breath test.
RESULTS SIBO was found in 24/47 (51.1%) patients. Patients with SIBO had a higher abundance of Firmicutes (P = 0.017) and Fusobacteria (P = 0.011), and a lower abundance of Bacteroidetes (P = 0.013) than patients without SIBO. This increase in the abundance of Firmicutes occurred mainly due to an increase in the abundance of bacteria from the genus Blautia (P = 0.020) of the Lachnospiraceae family (P = 0.047), while the abundance of other major families of this phylum [Ruminococcaceae (P = 0.856), Peptostreptococcaceae (P = 0.066), Clostridiaceae (P = 0.463), Eubacteriaceae (P = 0.463), Lactobacillaceae (P = 0.413), and Veillonellaceae (P = 0.632)] did not differ significantly between the patients with and without SIBO. Reduced level of Bacteroidetes in samples from patients with SIBO was a result of the decrease in bacterial numbers from all the major families of this phylum [Bacteroidaceae (P = 0.014), Porphyromonadaceae (P = 0.002), and Rikenellaceae (P = 0.047)], with the exception of Prevotellaceae (P = 0.941). There were no significant differences in the abundance of taxa that were the main biomarkers of cirrhosis-associated gut dysbiosis [Proteobacteria (P = 0.790), Bacilli (P = 0.573), Enterobacteriaceae (P = 0.632), Streptococcaceae (P = 0.170), Staphylococcaceae (P = 0.450), and Enterococcaceae (P = 0.873)] between patients with and without SIBO.
CONCLUSION Despite the differences observed in the gut microbiome between patients with and without SIBO, gut dysbiosis and SIBO are most likely independent disorders of gut microbiota in cirrhosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roman Maslennikov
- Department of Internal Medicine, Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Sechenov University, Moscow 119435, Russia
- Scientific Community for Human Microbiome Research, Moscow 119435, Russia
- Department of Internal Medicine 1, Сonsultative and Diagnostic Center 2 of the Moscow City Health Department, Moscow 107564, Russia
| | - Vladimir Ivashkin
- Department of Internal Medicine, Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Sechenov University, Moscow 119435, Russia
- Scientific Community for Human Microbiome Research, Moscow 119435, Russia
| | - Irina Efremova
- Department of Internal Medicine, Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Sechenov University, Moscow 119435, Russia
| | - Elena Poluektova
- Department of Internal Medicine, Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Sechenov University, Moscow 119435, Russia
- Scientific Community for Human Microbiome Research, Moscow 119435, Russia
| | - Anna Kudryavtseva
- Scientific Community for Human Microbiome Research, Moscow 119435, Russia
- Laboratory of Postgenomic Research, Engelhardt Institute of Molecular Biology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow 119991, Russia
| | - George Krasnov
- Laboratory of Postgenomic Research, Engelhardt Institute of Molecular Biology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow 119991, Russia
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Hansen MKG, Kjærgaard K, Eriksen LL, Grønkjær LL, Mikkelsen ACD, Sandahl TD, Vilstrup H, Thomsen KL, Lauridsen MME. Psychometric methods for diagnosing and monitoring minimal hepatic encephalopathy -current validation level and practical use. Metab Brain Dis 2022; 37:589-605. [PMID: 35102491 DOI: 10.1007/s11011-022-00913-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2021] [Accepted: 01/14/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Hepatic encephalopathy (HE) is cerebral dysfunction caused by liver failure and inflicts 30-40% of patients with liver cirrhosis during their disease course. Clinically manifest HE is often preceded by minimal HE (MHE) - a clinically undetectable cognitive disturbance closely associated with loss of quality of life. Accordingly, detecting and treating MHE improve the patients' daily functioning and prevent HE-related hospital admissions. The scope of this review article is to create an overview of the validation level and usage of psychometric tests used to detect MHE: Portosystemic hepatic encephalopathy test, continuous reaction time test, Stroop EncephalApp, animal naming test, critical flicker frequency test, and inhibitory control test. Our work is aimed at the clinician or scientist who is about to decide on which psychometric test would fit best in their clinic, cohort, or study. First, we outline psychometric test validation obstacles and requirements. Then, we systematically approach the literature on each test and select well-conducted studies to answer the following questions:• Which percentage of patients with cirrhosis does the test deem as having MHE?• Is the test able to predict clinically manifest HE?• Is there a well-known test-retest variation and inter-observer variation?• Is the test able to detect a treatment response?• Is the test result affected by age, educational level, gender, or comorbidities?
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Affiliation(s)
- Mads Kingo Guldberg Hansen
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University Hospital South Denmark, Finsensgade 35, 6700, Esbjerg, Denmark.
| | - Kristoffer Kjærgaard
- Department of Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Aarhus University Hospital, Palle Juul-Jensens Boulevard 99, 8200, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Lotte Lindgreen Eriksen
- Department of Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Aarhus University Hospital, Palle Juul-Jensens Boulevard 99, 8200, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Lea Ladegaard Grønkjær
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University Hospital South Denmark, Finsensgade 35, 6700, Esbjerg, Denmark
| | - Anne Catrine Daugaard Mikkelsen
- Department of Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Aarhus University Hospital, Palle Juul-Jensens Boulevard 99, 8200, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Thomas Damgaard Sandahl
- Department of Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Aarhus University Hospital, Palle Juul-Jensens Boulevard 99, 8200, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Hendrik Vilstrup
- Department of Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Aarhus University Hospital, Palle Juul-Jensens Boulevard 99, 8200, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Karen Louise Thomsen
- Department of Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Aarhus University Hospital, Palle Juul-Jensens Boulevard 99, 8200, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Mette Munk Enok Lauridsen
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University Hospital South Denmark, Finsensgade 35, 6700, Esbjerg, Denmark
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Ghoshal UC, Sachdeva S, Ghoshal U, Misra A, Puri AS, Pratap N, Shah A, Rahman MM, Gwee KA, Tan VPY, Ahmed T, Lee YY, Ramakrishna BS, Talukdar R, Rana SV, Sinha SK, Chen M, Kim N, Holtmann G. Asian-Pacific consensus on small intestinal bacterial overgrowth in gastrointestinal disorders: An initiative of the Indian Neurogastroenterology and Motility Association. Indian J Gastroenterol 2022; 41:483-507. [PMID: 36214973 PMCID: PMC9549446 DOI: 10.1007/s12664-022-01292-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2022] [Accepted: 08/02/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
In the clinical setting, small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) is a frequent, but under-diagnosed entity. SIBO is linked to various gastrointestinal (GI) and non-GI disorders with potentially significant morbidity. The optimal management of SIBO is undefined while there is a lack of published consensus guidelines. Against this background, under the auspices of the Indian Neurogastroenterology and Motility Association (INMA), formerly known as the Indian Motility and Functional Diseases Association (IMFDA), experts from the Asian-Pacific region with extensive research and clinical experience in the field of gut dysbiosis including SIBO developed this evidence-based practice guideline for the management of SIBO utilizing a modified Delphi process based upon 37 consensus statements, involving an electronic voting process as well as face-to-face meetings and review of relevant supporting literature. These statements include 6 statements on definition and epidemiology; 11 on etiopathogenesis and pathophysiology; 5 on clinical manifestations, differential diagnosis, and predictors; and 15 on investigations and treatment. When the proportion of those who voted either to accept completely or with minor reservations was 80% or higher, the statement was regarded as accepted. The members of the consensus team consider that this guideline would be valuable to inform clinical practice, teaching, and research on SIBO in the Asian-Pacific region as well as in other countries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Uday C. Ghoshal
- Department of Gastroenterology, Sanjay Gandhi Postgraduate Institute of Medical Sciences, Lucknow, 226 014 India
| | - Sanjeev Sachdeva
- Department of Gastroenterology, G B Pant Hospital, New Delhi, 110 002 India
| | - Ujjala Ghoshal
- Department of Microbiology, Sanjay Gandhi Postgraduate Institute of Medical Sciences, Lucknow, 226 014 India
| | - Asha Misra
- Department of Gastroenterology, Sanjay Gandhi Postgraduate Institute of Medical Sciences, Lucknow, 226 014 India
| | | | | | - Ayesha Shah
- University of Queensland, Faculty of Medicine, and Princess Alexandra Hospital, Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - M. Masudur Rahman
- Sheikh Russel National Gastroliver Institute and Hospital, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Kok Ann Gwee
- Department of Medicine, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore ,Stomach, Liver and Bowel Centre, Gleneagles Hospital, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Victoria P Y Tan
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Hong Kong, Pok Fu Lam, Hong Kong
| | - Tahmeed Ahmed
- International Centre for Diarrhoeal Disease Research, Bangladesh, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Yeong Yeh Lee
- School of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kota Bharu, Malaysia ,GI Function and Motility Unit, Hospital Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kota Bharu, Malaysia
| | - B S Ramakrishna
- SIMS Institute of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Transplantation, SRM Institutes for Medical Science, Chennai, 600 026 India
| | - Rupjyoti Talukdar
- Department of Gastroenterology, Asian Institute of Gastroenterology, Hyderabad, 500 082 India
| | - S V Rana
- Department of Biochemistry, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Rishikesh, 249 203 India
| | - Saroj K Sinha
- Department of Gastroenterology, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, 160 012 India
| | - Minhu Chen
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Nayoung Kim
- Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Gerald Holtmann
- University of Queensland, Faculty of Medicine, and Princess Alexandra Hospital, Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
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Ohtani N, Hara E. Gut-liver axis-mediated mechanism of liver cancer: A special focus on the role of gut microbiota. Cancer Sci 2021; 112:4433-4443. [PMID: 34533882 PMCID: PMC8586687 DOI: 10.1111/cas.15142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2021] [Revised: 09/10/2021] [Accepted: 09/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Gut microbiota and the mammalian host share a symbiotic relationship, in which the host provides a suitable ecosystem for the gut bacteria to digest indigestible nutrients and produce useful metabolites. Although gut microbiota primarily reside in and influence the intestine, they also regulate liver function via absorption and subsequent transfer of microbial components and metabolites through the portal vein to the liver. Due to this transfer, the liver may be continuously exposed to gut‐derived metabolites and components. For example, short‐chain fatty acids (SCFA) produced by gut microbiota, through the fermentation of dietary fiber, can suppress inflammation via regulatory T cell induction through SCFA‐induced epigenetic mechanisms. Additionally, secondary bile acids (BA), such as deoxycholic acid, produced by gut bacteria through the 7α‐dehydroxylation of primary BAs, are thought to induce DNA damage and contribute to the remodeling of tumor microenvironments. Other substances that are also thought to influence liver function include lipopolysaccharides (components of the outer membrane of gram‐negative bacteria) and lipoteichoic acid (cell wall component of Gram‐positive bacteria), which are ligands of innate immune receptors, Toll‐like receptor‐4, and Toll‐like receptor‐2, respectively, through which inflammatory signaling is elicited. In this review, we focus on the role of gut microbiota in the liver microenvironment, describing the anatomy of the gut‐liver axis, the role of gut microbial metabolites, and the relationships that exist between gut microbiota and liver diseases, including liver cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naoko Ohtani
- Department of Pathophysiology, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka City University, Osaka, Japan.,AMED-CREST, AMED, Japan Agency for Medical Research and Development, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Eiji Hara
- Research Institute for Microbial Diseases, Osaka University, Suita, Japan.,Immunology Frontier Research Center (IFReC), Osaka University, Suita, Japan.,Center for Infectious Disease Education and Research (CiDER), Osaka University, Suita, Japan
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Moran S, López-Sánchez M, Milke-García MDP, Rodríguez-Leal G. Current approach to treatment of minimal hepatic encephalopathy in patients with liver cirrhosis. World J Gastroenterol 2021; 27:3050-3063. [PMID: 34168407 PMCID: PMC8192295 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v27.i22.3050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2021] [Revised: 04/01/2021] [Accepted: 04/21/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Minimal hepatic encephalopathy (MHE) corresponds to the earliest stage of hepatic encephalopathy (HE). MHE does not present clinically detectable neurological-psychiatric abnormalities but is characterized by imperceptible neurocognitive alterations detected during routine clinical examination via neuropsychological or psychometrical tests. MHE may affect daily activities and reduce job performance and quality of life. MHE can increase the risk of accidents and may develop into overt encephalopathy, worsening the prognosis of patients with liver cirrhosis. Despite a lack of consensus on the therapeutic indication, interest in finding novel strategies for prevention or reversion has led to numerous clinical trials; their results are the main objective of this review. Many studies address the treatment of MHE, which is mainly based on the strategies and previous management of overt HE. Current alternatives for the management of MHE include measures to maintain nutritional status while avoiding sarcopenia, and manipulation of intestinal microbiota with non-absorbable disaccharides such as lactulose, antibiotics such as rifaximin, and administration of different probiotics. This review analyzes the results of clinical studies that evaluated the effects of different treatments for MHE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Segundo Moran
- Laboratory of Hepatology Research, Centro Médico Nacional, Siglo XXI, Mexican Institute of Social Security, Mexico City 06720, Mexico
| | - Marlene López-Sánchez
- Laboratory of Hepatology Research, Centro Médico Nacional, Siglo XXI, Mexican Institute of Social Security, Mexico City 06720, Mexico
| | | | - Gustavo Rodríguez-Leal
- Laboratory of Hepatology Research, Centro Médico Nacional, Siglo XXI, Mexican Institute of Social Security, Mexico City 06720, Mexico
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10
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Hassouneh R, Bajaj JS. Gut Microbiota Modulation and Fecal Transplantation: An Overview on Innovative Strategies for Hepatic Encephalopathy Treatment. J Clin Med 2021; 10:330. [PMID: 33477417 PMCID: PMC7830387 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10020330] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2020] [Revised: 01/07/2021] [Accepted: 01/09/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatic encephalopathy (HE) is a major complication of cirrhosis, which is associated with gut microbial composition and functional alterations. Current treatments largely focus on gut microbiota using lactulose, rifaximin and other agents. However, despite these treatments, patients with HE have a high rate of readmission, morbidity and cognitive impairment. Fecal microbiota transplant (FMT) involves introduction of a donor microbiota into a recipient and is currently mainly used for recurrent C. difficile infection (rCDI). The role of FMT in cirrhosis and HE is evolving. There have been two randomized clinical trials (RCT) and several case reports/series in cirrhosis. Both RCTs were safety-focused phase 1 trials. One involved pre-FMT antibiotics and FMT enema versus standard of care, while the other involved 15 FMT capsules versus placebo without pre-FMT antibiotics. There was evidence of safety in both trials and the FMT group demonstrated reduction in hospitalizations compared to the non-FMT group. Changes in microbial function centered around short-chain fatty acids, bile acids and brain function showed improvement in the FMT groups. Long-term follow-up demonstrated continued safety and reduction in the antibiotic-resistance gene carriage. However, larger trials of FMT in HE are needed that can refine the dose, duration and route of FMT administration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ramzi Hassouneh
- Department of Internal Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University Medical Center, Richmond, VA 23298, USA;
| | - Jasmohan S. Bajaj
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition Virginia Commonwealth University and Central Virginia Veterans Healthcare System, 1201 Broad Rock Blvd, Richmond, VA 23249, USA
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Short-Term Proton Pump Inhibitor Use and Hepatic Encephalopathy Risk in Patients with Decompensated Cirrhosis. J Clin Med 2019; 8:jcm8081108. [PMID: 31349746 PMCID: PMC6723586 DOI: 10.3390/jcm8081108] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2019] [Revised: 07/19/2019] [Accepted: 07/23/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective: A window period of approximately 3–6 months is usually adopted in studies that evaluate hepatic encephalopathy (HE) risk in proton pump inhibitor (PPI) users. However, HE risk after short-term PPI exposure remains unclear. We explored the effect of short-term PPI exposure using a case-crossover study design. Design: Records of patients with decompensated cirrhosis who had received an HE diagnosis were retrieved from the National Health Insurance Research Database. PPI use rates were compared for case and control with window periods of 7, 14, and 28 days. The adjusted self-matched odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) from a conditional logistic regression model were used to determine the association between PPI use and HE risk. Results: Overall, 13 195 patients were analyzed. The adjusted OR for HE risk after PPI exposure was 3.13 (95% CI = 2.33–4.20) for the 7-day window, 4.77 (95% CI = 3.81–5.98) for the 14-day window, and 5.60 (95% CI = 4.63–6.78) for the 28-day window. All PPI categories, except omeprazole and pantoprazole, were associated with an increased HE risk. Irrespective of other precipitating factors, such as recent gastrointestinal bleeding or infection, PPI significantly increased HE risk. Conclusion: Short-term PPI use is significantly associated with HE in patients with decompensated cirrhosis. Physicians should use PPI in these patients for appropriate indications, and carefully monitor signs of HE even after short-term exposure. Owing to the limitations of retrospective design in the current study, further study is warranted to confirm our findings.
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Campion D, Giovo I, Ponzo P, Saracco GM, Balzola F, Alessandria C. Dietary approach and gut microbiota modulation for chronic hepatic encephalopathy in cirrhosis. World J Hepatol 2019; 11:489-512. [PMID: 31293718 PMCID: PMC6603507 DOI: 10.4254/wjh.v11.i6.489] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2019] [Revised: 05/16/2019] [Accepted: 05/21/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatic encephalopathy (HE) is a common and serious neuropsychiatric complication of cirrhosis, acute liver failure, and porto-systemic shunting. HE largely contributes to the morbidity of patients with liver disease, severely affecting the quality of life of both patients and their relatives and being associated with poor prognosis. Its presentation is largely variable, manifesting with a broad spectrum of cognitive abnormalities ranging from subtle cognitive impairment to coma. The pathogenesis of HE is complex and has historically been linked with hyperammonemia. However, in the last years, it has become evident that the interplay of multiple actors, such as intestinal dysbiosis, gut hyperpermeability, and neuroinflammation, is of crucial importance in its genesis. Therefore, HE can be considered a result of a dysregulated gut-liver-brain axis function, where cognitive impairment can be reversed or prevented by the beneficial effects induced by “gut-centric” therapies, such as non-absorbable disaccharides, non-absorbable antibiotics, probiotics, prebiotics, and fecal microbiota transplantation. In this context dietary modifications, by modulating the intestinal milieu, can also provide significant benefit to cirrhotic patients with HE. This review will provide a comprehensive insight into the mechanisms responsible for gut-liver-brain axis dysregulation leading to HE in cirrhosis. Furthermore, it will explore the currently available therapies and the most promising future treatments for the management of patients with HE, with a special focus on the dietary approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniela Campion
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Città della Salute e della Scienza di Torino Hospital, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy
| | - Ilaria Giovo
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Città della Salute e della Scienza di Torino Hospital, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy
| | - Paola Ponzo
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Città della Salute e della Scienza di Torino Hospital, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy
| | - Giorgio M Saracco
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Città della Salute e della Scienza di Torino Hospital, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy
| | - Federico Balzola
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Città della Salute e della Scienza di Torino Hospital, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy
| | - Carlo Alessandria
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Città della Salute e della Scienza di Torino Hospital, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy
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Ghosh G, Jesudian AB. Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth in Patients With Cirrhosis. J Clin Exp Hepatol 2019; 9:257-267. [PMID: 31024208 PMCID: PMC6477138 DOI: 10.1016/j.jceh.2018.08.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2018] [Accepted: 08/19/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) is defined by increased density and/or abnormal composition of microbiota in the small bowel. SIBO is often encountered in patients with cirrhosis as a result of impaired intestinal motility and delayed transit time, both of which are exacerbated by more severe liver disease. Additional risk factors for SIBO commonly encountered in cirrhotic patients include coexisting diabetes, autonomic neuropathy, and/or alcoholic use. Diagnosis of SIBO is performed by breath testing or jejunal aspiration, the gold standard. In cirrhotic patients, the presence of SIBO can lead to profound clinical consequences. Increased intestinal permeability in these patients predisposes to bacterial translocation into the systemic circulation. As a result, SIBO is implicated as a significant risk factor in the pathogenesis of both spontaneous bacterial peritonitis and hepatic encephalopathy in cirrhotics. Antibiotics, especially rifaximin, are the best studied and most effective treatment options for SIBO. However, prokinetics, probiotics, nonselective beta-blockers, and treatment of underlying liver-related pathophysiology with transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt placement or liver transplantation are also being investigated. This review will discuss the risk factors, diagnosis, manifestations in cirrhosis, and treatment options of SIBO.
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Key Words
- 51Cr-EDTA, 51Cr-Ethylenediaminetetraacetic Acid
- CFUs, Colony-Forming Units
- CP, Child-Pugh Score
- FODMAPS, Fermentable Oligosaccharides, Disaccharides, Monosaccharides, and Polyols
- GI, Gastrointestinal
- HBV, Hepatitis B Virus
- HE, Hepatic Encephalopathy
- IBS, Irritable Bowel Syndrome
- MHE, Minimal Hepatic Encephalopathy
- MMC, Migrating Motor Complex
- OCTT, Orocecal Transit Time
- PH, Portal Hypertension
- PPI, Proton Pump Inhibitor
- SBP, Spontaneous Bacterial Peritonitis
- SBRT, Small Bowel Residence Time
- SBTT, Small Bowel Transit Time
- SIBO, Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth
- TIPS, Transjugular Intrahepatic Portosystemic Shunt
- bacterial translocation
- cirrhosis
- liver disease
- mL, Milliliter
- ppm, Parts Per Million
- small intestinal bacterial overgrowth
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Affiliation(s)
- Gaurav Ghosh
- Department of Medicine, NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital/Weill Cornell Medicine, 525 E. 68th Street, M-532, New York, NY, 10065, USA
| | - Arun B. Jesudian
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital/Weill Cornell Medicine, 1305 York Avenue, 4th Floor, New York, NY, 10065, USA,Address for correspondence: Arun B. Jesudian, 1305 York Avenue, 4th Floor, New York, NY, 10065, USA
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Maslennikov R, Pavlov C, Ivashkin V. Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth in cirrhosis: systematic review and meta-analysis. Hepatol Int 2018; 12:567-576. [PMID: 30284684 DOI: 10.1007/s12072-018-9898-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2018] [Accepted: 09/19/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) was detected in cirrhosis in many studies. The aim is to perform a systematic review and meta-analysis on the prevalence of SIBO in cirrhosis and on the relationship of SIBO with features of cirrhosis. METHODS PUBMED search (until 14 January 2018) was performed. Specific search terms were: '(cirrhosis) AND (SIBO OR bacterial overgrowth)'. Studies not relating to cirrhosis or SIBO, animal studies, and non-original articles were excluded. A meta-analysis of all studies was performed using a random-effects model. RESULTS 117 references were identified by the PUBMED search. 3 references were added after handsearching the reference lists of all the articles. 99 references were excluded. 21 studies (included in total 1264 cirrhotics and 306 controls) remained for qualitative analysis and quantitative synthesis. Prevalence of SIBO for cirrhosis was 40.8% (95% CI 34.8-47.1), while the prevalence of SIBO for controls was 10.7% (95% CI 5.7-19.0). OR 6.83 (95% CI 4.16-11.21; p < 0.001). Prevalence of SIBO for decompensated cirrhosis was higher than prevalence of SIBO for compensated cirrhosis (50.5% vs. 31.2%; p < 0.001). SIBO in cirrhosis was associated with ascites (p < 0.001), minimal hepatic encephalopathy (p = 0.001), bacterial translocation (p = 0.026), spontaneous bacterial peritonitis (p = 0.008), prolonged orocecal transit time (p < 0.001), and was not associated with hypocoagulation. Further studies are required to clarify the relationship of SIBO with hyperbilirubinemia, hypoalbuminemia, overt hepatic encephalopathy in past, esophageal varices and systemic inflammation. CONCLUSION Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth is more often detected in cirrhosis than in healthy persons and is associated with some features of cirrhosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roman Maslennikov
- Sechenov University, Pogodinskaya Str., 1, bld. 1, 119435, Moscow, Russian Federation.
| | - Chavdar Pavlov
- Sechenov University, Pogodinskaya Str., 1, bld. 1, 119435, Moscow, Russian Federation
| | - Vladimir Ivashkin
- Sechenov University, Pogodinskaya Str., 1, bld. 1, 119435, Moscow, Russian Federation
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Sharma BC, Singh J. Probiotics in management of hepatic encephalopathy. Metab Brain Dis 2016; 31:1295-1301. [PMID: 27121846 DOI: 10.1007/s11011-016-9826-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2015] [Accepted: 04/19/2016] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Gut microflora leads to production of ammonia and endotoxins which play important role in the pathogenesis of hepatic encephalopathy (HE). There is relationship between HE and absorption of nitrogenous substances from the intestines. Probiotics play a role in treatment of HE by causing alterations in gut flora by decreasing the counts of pathogen bacteria, intestinal mucosal acidification, decrease in production and absorption of ammonia, alterations in permeability of gut, decreased endotoxin levels and changes in production of short chain fatty acids. Role of gut microbiota using prebiotics, probiotics and synbiotics have been evaluated in the management of minimal hepatic encephalopathy (MHE), overt HE and prevention of HE. Many studies have shown efficacy of probiotics in reduction of blood ammonia levels, treatment of MHE and prevention of HE. However these trials have problems like inclusion of small number of patients, short treatment durations, variability in HE/MHE related outcomes utilized and high bias risk, errors of systematic and random types. Systematic reviews also have shown different results with one systematic review showing clinical benefits whereas another concluded that probiotics do not have any role in treatment of MHE or HE. Also practical questions on optimal dose, ideal combination of organisms, and duration of treatment and persistence of benefits on long term follow-up are still to be clarified. At present, there are no recommendations for use of probiotics in patients with HE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barjesh Chander Sharma
- Department of Gastroenterology, GB Pant Institute of Postgraduate Medical Education and Research, Room No. 203, Academic Block, New Delhi, 110002, India.
| | - Jatinderpal Singh
- Department of Gastroenterology, GB Pant Institute of Postgraduate Medical Education and Research, Room No. 203, Academic Block, New Delhi, 110002, India
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Rai R, Saraswat VA, Dhiman RK. Gut microbiota: its role in hepatic encephalopathy. J Clin Exp Hepatol 2015; 5:S29-36. [PMID: 26041954 PMCID: PMC4442863 DOI: 10.1016/j.jceh.2014.12.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 107] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2014] [Accepted: 12/09/2014] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Ammonia, a key factor in the pathogenesis of hepatic encephalopathy (HE), is predominantly derived from urea breakdown by urease producing large intestinal bacteria and from small intestine and kidneys, where the enzyme glutaminases releases ammonia from circulating glutamine. Non-culture techniques like pyrosequencing of bacterial 16S ribosomal ribonucleic acid are used to characterize fecal microbiota. Fecal microbiota in patients with cirrhosis have been shown to alter with increasing Child-Turcotte-Pugh (CTP) and Model for End stage Liver Disease (MELD) scores, and with development of covert or overt HE. Cirrhosis dysbiosis ratio (CDR), the ratio of autochthonous/good bacteria (e.g. Lachnospiraceae, Ruminococcaceae and Clostridiales) to non-autochthonous/pathogenic bacteria (e.g. Enterobacteriaceae and Streptococcaceae), is significantly higher in controls and patients with compensated cirrhosis than patients with decompensated cirrhosis. Although their stool microbiota do not differ, sigmoid colonic mucosal microbiota in liver cirrhosis patients with and without HE, are different. Linkage of pathogenic colonic mucosal bacteria with poor cognition and inflammation suggests that important processes at the mucosal interface, such as bacterial translocation and immune dysfunction, are involved in the pathogenesis of HE. Fecal microbiome composition does not change significantly when HE is treated with lactulose or when HE recurs after lactulose withdrawal. Despite improving cognition and endotoxemia as well as shifting positive correlation of pathogenic bacteria with metabolites, linked to ammonia, aromatic amino acids and oxidative stress, to a negative correlation, rifaximin changes gut microbiome composition only modestly. These observations suggest that the beneficial effects of lactulose and rifaximin could be associated with a change in microbial metabolic function as well as an improvement in dysbiosis.
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Key Words
- CDR, cirrhosis dysbiosis ratio
- HE, hepatic encephalopathy
- IL, interleukin
- LGG, Lactobacillus GG strain
- LPO, left parietal operculum
- MELD, model for end stage liver disease
- MHE, minimal hepatic encephalopathy
- MRS, magnetic resonance spectroscopy
- PAMPs, pathogen-associated molecular patterns
- PCR, polymerase chain reaction
- RCT, randomized controlled trial
- RNA, ribonucleic acid
- SBP, spontaneous bacterial peritonitis
- SIBO, small intestinal bacterial overgrowth
- SIRS, systemic inflammatory response syndrome
- TNF, tumor necrosis factor
- cirrhosis
- dysbiosis
- fMRI, functional MRI
- gut microbiome
- inflammation
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Affiliation(s)
- Rahul Rai
- Department of Hepatology, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh 160012, India
| | - Vivek A. Saraswat
- Department of Gastroenterology, Sanjay Gandhi Postgraduate Institute of Medical Sciences, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh 226014, India
| | - Radha K. Dhiman
- Department of Hepatology, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh 160012, India,Address for correspondence: Radha K. Dhiman, Tel.: +91 9914209337; fax: +91 1722744401.
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Lunia MK, Sharma BC, Sharma P, Sachdeva S, Srivastava S. Probiotics prevent hepatic encephalopathy in patients with cirrhosis: a randomized controlled trial. Clin Gastroenterol Hepatol 2014; 12:1003-8.e1. [PMID: 24246768 DOI: 10.1016/j.cgh.2013.11.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 125] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2013] [Revised: 10/10/2013] [Accepted: 11/06/2013] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Hepatic encephalopathy (HE) is associated with a poor prognosis in patients with advanced liver disease. Probiotics alter the intestinal microbiota with non-urease-producing organisms that reduce production of ammonia. We investigated the efficacy of probiotics for the primary prophylaxis of HE. METHODS We conducted a prospective trial at a tertiary care referral institute in New Delhi, India, from January 2012 through March 2013, of patients with cirrhosis without overt HE (age, 48.6 ± 11.1 y; 96 men and 64 women); 25 were Child-Turcotte-Pugh (CTP) class A, 51 were CTP class B, and 84 were CTP class C. Subjects were assigned randomly to groups given probiotics (1 × 10(8) colony-forming units, 3 times daily; n = 86, 42 with minimal HE) or no test article (control, n = 74; 33 with minimal HE). All subjects underwent psychometric analyses, critical flicker fusion (CFF) threshold assessments, glucose hydrogen breath tests to identify small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO), and lactulose hydrogen breath tests to measure orocecal transit time (OCTT). The primary end point was the development of overt HE. RESULTS At baseline, subjects in each group had comparable CTP score, model for end-stage liver disease scores, CFF assessments, psychometric hepatic encephalopathy scores, and OCTT. After a mean follow-up period of 38.6 ± 8.80 weeks for patients given probiotics and 40.3 ± 9.8 weeks for controls, 6 patients given probiotics and 7 controls died (P = .81). Three months of probiotic administration significantly reduced levels of arterial ammonia, SIBO, and OCTT; increased psychometric hepatic encephalopathy scores; and increased CFF thresholds, compared with baseline. Seven subjects in the probiotic group and 14 controls developed overt HE (P < .05; hazard ratio for controls vs probiotic group, 2.1; 95% confidence interval, 1.31-6.53). Psychometric hepatic encephalopathy scores, CTP scores, and SIBO correlated with the development of overt HE. CONCLUSIONS In a prospective, randomized controlled trial, probiotics were found to be effective in preventing HE in patients with cirrhosis. Trial registration No: CTRI/2012/07/002807.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Praveen Sharma
- Department of Gastroenterology, G B Pant Hospital, New Delhi, India
| | - Sanjeev Sachdeva
- Department of Gastroenterology, G B Pant Hospital, New Delhi, India
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Ghoshal UC, Srivastava D. Irritable bowel syndrome and small intestinal bacterial overgrowth: Meaningful association or unnecessary hype. World J Gastroenterol 2014; 20:2482-2491. [PMID: 24627585 PMCID: PMC3949258 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v20.i10.2482] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2013] [Revised: 01/07/2014] [Accepted: 02/20/2014] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common condition characterized by abdominal pain or discomfort, bloating, and altered stool form and passage. Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) is a condition in which there is overgrowth of bacteria in small bowel in excess of 105 colony forming units per milliliter on culture of the upper gut aspirate. Frequency of SIBO varied from 4%-78% among patients with IBS and from 1%-40% among controls. Higher frequency in some studies might be due to fallacious criteria [post-lactulose breath-hydrogen rise 20 PPM above basal within 90 min (early-peak)]. Glucose hydrogen breath test (GHBT) has a low sensitivity to diagnose SIBO. Hence, studies based on GHBT might have under-estimated frequency of SIBO. Therefore, it is important to analyze these studies carefully to evaluate whether the reported association between IBS and SIBO is over or under-projected. This review evaluates studies on association between SIBO and IBS, discordance between different studies, their strength and weakness including methodological issues and evidence on therapeutic manipulation of gut flora on symptoms of IBS.
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Sharma BC, Sharma P, Lunia MK, Srivastava S, Goyal R, Sarin SK. A randomized, double-blind, controlled trial comparing rifaximin plus lactulose with lactulose alone in treatment of overt hepatic encephalopathy. Am J Gastroenterol 2013; 108:1458-63. [PMID: 23877348 DOI: 10.1038/ajg.2013.219] [Citation(s) in RCA: 202] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2013] [Accepted: 05/06/2013] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Hepatic encephalopathy (HE) is associated with poor prognosis in cirrhosis. Drugs used in the treatment of HE are primarily directed at the reduction of the blood ammonia levels. Rifaximin and lactulose have shown to be effective in HE. We evaluated the efficacy and safety of rifaximin plus lactulose vs. lactulose alone for treatment of overt HE. METHODS In this prospective double-blind randomized controlled trial, 120 patients with overt HE were randomized into two groups: (group A lactulose plus rifaximin 1,200 mg/day; n=63) and group B (lactulose (n=57) plus placebo). The primary end point was complete reversal of HE and the secondary end points were mortality and hospital stay. RESULTS A total of 120 patients (mean age 39.4±9.6 years; male/female ratio 89:31) were included in the study. 37 (30.8%) patients were in Child-Turcotte-Pugh (CTP) class B and 83 (69.2%) were in CTP class C. Mean CTP score was 9.7±2.8 and the MELD (model for end-stage liver disease) score was 24.6±4.2. At the time of admission, 22 patients (18.3%) had grade 2, 40 (33.3%) had grade 3, and 58 (48.3%) had grade 4 HE. Of the patients, 48 (76%) in group A compared with 29 (50.8%) in group B had complete reversal of HE (P<0.004). There was a significant decrease in mortality after treatment with lactulose plus rifaximin vs. lactulose and placebo (23.8% vs. 49.1%, P<0.05). There were significantly more deaths in group B because of sepsis (group A vs. group B: 7:17, P=0.01), whereas there were no differences because of gastrointestinal bleed (group A vs. group B: 4:4, P=nonsignificant (NS)) and hepatorenal syndrome (group A vs. group B: 4:7, P=NS). Patients in the lactulose plus rifaximin group had shorter hospital stay (5.8±3.4 vs. 8.2±4.6 days, P=0.001). CONCLUSION Combination of lactulose plus rifaximin is more effective than lactulose alone in the treatment of overt HE.
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