1
|
Sepehrinezhad A, Moghaddam NG, Shayan N, Sahab Negah S. Correlation of ammonia and blood laboratory parameters with hepatic encephalopathy: A systematic review and meta-analysis. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0307899. [PMID: 39226259 PMCID: PMC11371226 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0307899] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2024] [Accepted: 07/12/2024] [Indexed: 09/05/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES Emerging research suggests that hyperammonemia may enhance the probability of hepatic encephalopathy (HE), a condition associated with elevated levels of circulating ammonia in patients with cirrhosis. However, some studies indicate that blood ammonia levels may not consistently correlate with the severity of HE, highlighting the complex pathophysiology of this condition. METHODS A systematic review and meta-analysis through PubMed, Scopus, Embase, Web of Science, and Virtual Health Library were conducted to address this complexity, analyzing and comparing published data on various laboratory parameters, including circulating ammonia, blood creatinine, albumin, sodium, and inflammation markers in cirrhotic patients, both with and without HE. RESULTS This comprehensive review, which included 81 studies from five reputable databases until June 2024, revealed a significant increase in circulating ammonia levels in cirrhotic patients with HE, particularly those with overt HE. Notably, significant alterations were observed in the circulating creatinine, albumin, sodium, interleukin-6 (IL-6), and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNFα) in HE patients. CONCLUSIONS These findings suggest an association between ammonia and HE and underscore the importance of considering other blood parameters such as creatinine, albumin, sodium, and pro-inflammatory cytokines when devising new treatment strategies for HE.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ali Sepehrinezhad
- Neuroscience Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
- Department of Neuroscience, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | | | - Navidreza Shayan
- Neuroscience Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Sajad Sahab Negah
- Neuroscience Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
- Department of Neuroscience, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
- Shefa Neuroscience Research Center, Khatam Alanbia Hospital, Tehran, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Kalo E, Read S, Baig A, Marshall K, Ma WS, Crowther H, Gofton C, Lynch KD, Sood S, Holmes J, Lubel J, Wigg A, McCaughan G, Roberts SK, Caraceni P, Ahlenstiel G, Majumdar A. Efficacy of albumin use in decompensated cirrhosis and real-world adoption in Australia. JGH Open 2024; 8:e70029. [PMID: 39301299 PMCID: PMC11410680 DOI: 10.1002/jgh3.70029] [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: 05/01/2024] [Revised: 08/26/2024] [Accepted: 09/03/2024] [Indexed: 09/22/2024]
Abstract
The current treatment approach to patients with liver cirrhosis relies on the individual management of complications. Consequently, there is an unmet need for an overall therapeutic strategy for primary and secondary prevention of complications. The clinical potential of long-term albumin infusions supported by recent clinical trials has expanded its indications and holds promise to transform the management and secondary prevention of cirrhosis-related complications. This renewed interest in albumin comes with inherent controversies, compounding challenges and pressing need for rigorous evaluation of its clinical potential to capitalize on its therapeutic breakthroughs. Australia is among a few countries worldwide to adopt outpatient human albumin infusion. Here, we summarize currently available evidence of the potential benefits of human albumin for the management of multiple liver cirrhosis-related complications and discuss key challenges for wide application of long-term albumin administration strategy in Australian clinical practice. Australian Gastroenterological week (AGW), organised by the Gastroenterological Society of Australia (GESA), was held between 9-11 September 2022. A panel of hepatologists, advanced liver nurses and one haematologist, were invited to a roundtable meeting to discuss the use of long-term albumin infusions for liver cirrhosis. management in Australia. In this review, we summarise the proceedings of this meeting in context of the current literature.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Eric Kalo
- Blacktown Clinical School and Research Centre, School of Medicine Western Sydney University Blacktown New South Wales Australia
- Blacktown Hospital, Western Sydney Local Health District Blacktown New South Wales Australia
| | - Scott Read
- Blacktown Clinical School and Research Centre, School of Medicine Western Sydney University Blacktown New South Wales Australia
- Blacktown Hospital, Western Sydney Local Health District Blacktown New South Wales Australia
- Storr Liver Centre, The Westmead Institute for Medical Research University of Sydney Westmead New South Wales Australia
| | - Asma Baig
- Blacktown Hospital, Western Sydney Local Health District Blacktown New South Wales Australia
| | - Kate Marshall
- Royal Prince Alfred Hospital Sydney New South Wales Australia
| | - Wai-See Ma
- Blacktown Hospital, Western Sydney Local Health District Blacktown New South Wales Australia
| | - Helen Crowther
- Blacktown Hospital, Western Sydney Local Health District Blacktown New South Wales Australia
| | - Cameron Gofton
- Storr Liver Centre, The Westmead Institute for Medical Research University of Sydney Westmead New South Wales Australia
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology Royal North Shore Hospital St Leonards New South Wales Australia
| | - Kate D Lynch
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology Royal Adelaide Hospital, Central Adelaide Local Health Network Adelaide South Australia Australia
- Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences University of Adelaide Adelaide South Australia Australia
| | - Siddharth Sood
- Department of Gastroenterology Northern Health Melbourne Victoria Australia
- Department of Medicine The University of Melbourne Parkville Victoria Australia
| | - Jacinta Holmes
- Department of Medicine The University of Melbourne Parkville Victoria Australia
- Department of Gastroenterology St Vincent's Hospital Fitzroy Victoria Australia
| | - John Lubel
- Department of Gastroenterology Alfred Health Melbourne Victoria Australia
- Central Clinical School Monash University Melbourne Victoria Australia
| | - Alan Wigg
- Hepatology and Liver Transplant Medicine Unit Southern Adelaide Local Health Network Adelaide South Australia Australia
- Flinders University of South Australia Adelaide South Australia Australia
| | - Geoff McCaughan
- A.W. Morrow Gastroenterology and Liver Centre Centenary Research Institute for Cancer Research and Cell Biology Camperdown New South Wales Australia
- Australian National Liver Transplant Unit Royal Prince Alfred Hospital Sydney New South Wales Australia
- Faculty of Medicine and Health University of Sydney Sydney New South Wales Australia
| | - Stuart K Roberts
- Department of Gastroenterology Alfred Health Melbourne Victoria Australia
- Central Clinical School Monash University Melbourne Victoria Australia
| | - Paolo Caraceni
- Unit of Semeiotics, Liver and Alcohol-Related Diseases IRCCS Azienda-Ospedaliera Universitaria di Bologna, EMR Bologna Italy
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences University of Bologna, EMR Bologna Italy
| | - Golo Ahlenstiel
- Blacktown Clinical School and Research Centre, School of Medicine Western Sydney University Blacktown New South Wales Australia
- Blacktown Hospital, Western Sydney Local Health District Blacktown New South Wales Australia
- Storr Liver Centre, The Westmead Institute for Medical Research University of Sydney Westmead New South Wales Australia
| | - Avik Majumdar
- Department of Medicine The University of Melbourne Parkville Victoria Australia
- Victorian Liver transplant Unit Austin Health Heidelberg Victoria Australia
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Abedi F, Zarei B, Elyasi S. Albumin: a comprehensive review and practical guideline for clinical use. Eur J Clin Pharmacol 2024; 80:1151-1169. [PMID: 38607390 DOI: 10.1007/s00228-024-03664-y] [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: 07/25/2023] [Accepted: 03/04/2024] [Indexed: 04/13/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE Nowadays, it is largely accepted that albumin should not be used in hypoalbuminemia or for nutritional purpose. The most discussed indication of albumin at present is the resuscitation in shock states, especially distributive shocks such as septic shock. The main evidence-based indication is also liver disease. In this review, we provided updated evidence-based instruction for definite and potential indications of albumin administration in clinical practice, with appropriate dosing and duration. METHODS Data collection was carried out until November 2023 by search of electronic databases including PubMed, Google Scholar, Scopus, and Web of Science. GRADE system has been used to determine the quality of evidence and strength of recommendations for each albumin indication. RESULTS A total of 165 relevant studies were included in this review. Fluid replacement in plasmapheresis and liver diseases, including hepatorenal syndrome, spontaneous bacterial peritonitis, and large-volume paracentesis, have a moderate to high quality of evidence and a strong recommendation for administering albumin. Moreover, albumin is used as a second-line and adjunctive to crystalloids for fluid resuscitation in hypovolemic shock, sepsis and septic shock, severe burns, toxic epidermal necrolysis, intradialytic hypotension, ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome, major surgery, non-traumatic brain injury, extracorporeal membrane oxygenation, acute respiratory distress syndrome, and severe and refractory edema with hypoalbuminemia has a low to moderate quality of evidence and weak recommendation to use. Also, in modest volume paracentesis, severe hyponatremia in cirrhosis has a low to moderate quality of evidence and a weak recommendation. CONCLUSION Albumin administration is most indicated in management of cirrhosis complications. Fluid resuscitation or treatment of severe and refractory edema, especially in patients with hypoalbuminemia and not responding to other treatments, is another rational use for albumin. Implementation of evidence-based guidelines in hospitals can be an effective measure to reduce inappropriate uses of albumin.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Farshad Abedi
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, P.O. Box, Mashhad, 91775-1365, Iran
| | - Batool Zarei
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, P.O. Box, Mashhad, 91775-1365, Iran.
| | - Sepideh Elyasi
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, P.O. Box, Mashhad, 91775-1365, Iran.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Callum J, Skubas NJ, Bathla A, Keshavarz H, Clark EG, Rochwerg B, Fergusson D, Arbous S, Bauer SR, China L, Fung M, Jug R, Neill M, Paine C, Pavenski K, Shah PS, Robinson S, Shan H, Szczepiorkowski ZM, Thevenot T, Wu B, Stanworth S, Shehata N. Use of Intravenous Albumin: A Guideline From the International Collaboration for Transfusion Medicine Guidelines. Chest 2024; 166:321-338. [PMID: 38447639 PMCID: PMC11317816 DOI: 10.1016/j.chest.2024.02.049] [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: 11/21/2023] [Revised: 02/23/2024] [Accepted: 02/27/2024] [Indexed: 03/08/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Albumin is used commonly across a wide range of clinical settings to improve hemodynamics, to facilitate fluid removal, and to manage complications of cirrhosis. The International Collaboration for Transfusion Medicine Guidelines developed guidelines for the use of albumin in patients requiring critical care, undergoing cardiovascular surgery, undergoing kidney replacement therapy, or experiencing complications of cirrhosis. STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS Cochairs oversaw the guideline development process and the panel included researchers, clinicians, methodologists, and a patient representative. The evidence informing this guideline arises from a systematic review of randomized clinical trials and systematic reviews, in which multiple databases were searched (inception through November 23, 2022). The panel reviewed the data and formulated the guideline recommendations using Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation methodology. The guidelines were revised after public consultation. RESULTS The panel made 14 recommendations on albumin use in adult critical care (three recommendations), pediatric critical care (one recommendation), neonatal critical care (two recommendations), cardiovascular surgery (two recommendations), kidney replacement therapy (one recommendation), and complications of cirrhosis (five recommendations). Of the 14 recommendations, two recommendations had moderate certainty of evidence, five recommendations had low certainty of evidence, and seven recommendations had very low certainty of evidence. Two of the 14 recommendations suggested conditional use of albumin for patients with cirrhosis undergoing large-volume paracentesis or with spontaneous bacterial peritonitis. Twelve of 14 recommendations did not suggest albumin use in a wide variety of clinical situations where albumin commonly is transfused. INTERPRETATION Currently, few evidence-based indications support the routine use of albumin in clinical practice to improve patient outcomes. These guidelines provide clinicians with actionable recommendations on the use of albumin.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jeannie Callum
- Department of Pathology and Molecular Medicine, Queen's University and Kingston Health Sciences Centre, Kingston, ON, Canada.
| | - Nikolaos J Skubas
- Department of Cardiothoracic Anesthesiology, Anesthesiology Institute, Cleveland Clinic Lerner College of Medicine of Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH
| | | | | | - Edward G Clark
- Division of Nephrology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Bram Rochwerg
- Department of Medicine and Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence and Impact, Faculty of Health Sciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Dean Fergusson
- Department of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Sesmu Arbous
- Department of Critical Care, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Seth R Bauer
- Department of Pharmacy, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH
| | - Louise China
- Department of Hepatology and Institute for Liver and Digestive Health, The Royal Free NHS Trust and University College London, London, England
| | - Mark Fung
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Vermont Medical Center, Burlington, VT
| | - Rachel Jug
- University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH
| | | | - Cary Paine
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA
| | - Katerina Pavenski
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, Mount Sinai Hospital, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Prakesh S Shah
- Institute of Health Policy, Management, and Evaluation, Mount Sinai Hospital, Toronto, ON, Canada; Department of Pediatrics, Mount Sinai Hospital, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Susan Robinson
- Department of Clinical Haematology, Guy's and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust, London, England
| | - Hua Shan
- Department of Pathology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, CA
| | | | - Thierry Thevenot
- Service d'Hépatologie, Centre Hospitalier Régional et Universitaire de Besançon, Besançon, France
| | - Bovey Wu
- Department of Internal Medicine, Graduate Medical Education, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, CA
| | - Simon Stanworth
- NHS Blood and Transplant, Oxford, England; Radcliffe Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, England; John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, England
| | - Nadine Shehata
- Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Mount Sinai Hospital, Toronto, ON, Canada; Transfusion Medicine Laboratory, Mount Sinai Hospital, Toronto, ON, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Karvellas CJ, Bajaj JS, Kamath PS, Napolitano L, O'Leary JG, Solà E, Subramanian R, Wong F, Asrani SK. AASLD Practice Guidance on Acute-on-chronic liver failure and the management of critically ill patients with cirrhosis. Hepatology 2024; 79:1463-1502. [PMID: 37939273 DOI: 10.1097/hep.0000000000000671] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2023] [Accepted: 11/01/2023] [Indexed: 11/10/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Constantine J Karvellas
- Division of Gastroenterology (Liver Unit), Department of Critical Care Medicine, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
| | - Jasmohan S Bajaj
- Virginia Commonwealth University, Central Virginia Veterans Healthcare System, Richmond, Virginia, USA
| | - Patrick S Kamath
- Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | | | - Jacqueline G O'Leary
- Department of Medicine, Dallas Veterans Medical Center, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center Dallas, Texas, USA
| | - Elsa Solà
- Institute for Immunity, Transplantation and Infection, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California, USA
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
6
|
Arabi YM, Belley-Cote E, Carsetti A, De Backer D, Donadello K, Juffermans NP, Hammond N, Laake JH, Liu D, Maitland K, Messina A, Møller MH, Poole D, Mac Sweeney R, Vincent JL, Zampieri FG, AlShamsi F. European Society of Intensive Care Medicine clinical practice guideline on fluid therapy in adult critically ill patients. Part 1: the choice of resuscitation fluids. Intensive Care Med 2024; 50:813-831. [PMID: 38771364 DOI: 10.1007/s00134-024-07369-9] [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: 11/13/2023] [Accepted: 02/20/2024] [Indexed: 05/22/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE This is the first of three parts of the clinical practice guideline from the European Society of Intensive Care Medicine (ESICM) on resuscitation fluids in adult critically ill patients. This part addresses fluid choice and the other two will separately address fluid amount and fluid removal. METHODS This guideline was formulated by an international panel of clinical experts and methodologists. The Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) methodology was applied to evaluate the certainty of evidence and to move from evidence to decision. RESULTS For volume expansion, the guideline provides conditional recommendations for using crystalloids rather than albumin in critically ill patients in general (moderate certainty of evidence), in patients with sepsis (moderate certainty of evidence), in patients with acute respiratory failure (very low certainty of evidence) and in patients in the perioperative period and patients at risk for bleeding (very low certainty of evidence). There is a conditional recommendation for using isotonic saline rather than albumin in patients with traumatic brain injury (very low certainty of evidence). There is a conditional recommendation for using albumin rather than crystalloids in patients with cirrhosis (very low certainty of evidence). The guideline provides conditional recommendations for using balanced crystalloids rather than isotonic saline in critically ill patients in general (low certainty of evidence), in patients with sepsis (low certainty of evidence) and in patients with kidney injury (very low certainty of evidence). There is a conditional recommendation for using isotonic saline rather than balanced crystalloids in patients with traumatic brain injury (very low certainty of evidence). There is a conditional recommendation for using isotonic crystalloids rather than small-volume hypertonic crystalloids in critically ill patients in general (very low certainty of evidence). CONCLUSIONS This guideline provides eleven recommendations to inform clinicians on resuscitation fluid choice in critically ill patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yaseen M Arabi
- Intensive Care Department, King Abdulaziz Medical City, Ministry of National Guard-Health Affairs, King Abdullah International Medical Research Center, College of Medicine, King Saud Bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Emilie Belley-Cote
- Divisions of Cardiology and Critical Care, McMaster University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Andrea Carsetti
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Public Health, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - Daniel De Backer
- Department of Intensive Care, CHIREC Hospitals, Université Libre de Bruxelles, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Katia Donadello
- Department of Surgery, Dentistry, Gynaecology and Paediatrics, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
- Anaesthesia and Intensive Care B Unit, AOUI-University Hospital Integrated Trust of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Nicole P Juffermans
- Department of Intensive Care, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Naomi Hammond
- Critical Care Program, The George Institute for Global Health and UNSW, Sydney, Australia
- Malcolm Fisher Department of Intensive Care, Royal North Shore Hospital, Sydney, Australia
| | - Jon Henrik Laake
- Department of Anaesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine, Division of Emergencies and Critical Care, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Dawei Liu
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Kathryn Maitland
- Institute of Global Health and Innovation, Division of Medicine, Imperial College, London, UK
| | - Antonio Messina
- IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Department of Anesthesia and Intensive Care Medicine, Rozzano, Italy
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Pieve Emanuele, Milan, Italy
| | - Morten Hylander Møller
- Department of Intensive Care, Copenhagen University Hospital-Rigshospitalet, København, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Daniele Poole
- Operative Unit of Anesthesia and Intensive Care, S. Martino Hospital, Belluno, Italy
| | - Rob Mac Sweeney
- Regional Intensive Care Unit, Royal Victoria Hospital, Belfast, Northern Ireland
| | - Jean-Louis Vincent
- Department of Intensive Care, Erasme Hospital, Université libre de Bruxelles, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Fernando G Zampieri
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
| | - Fayez AlShamsi
- Department of Internal Medicine, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Murtaza F, Mathew M, Fagbamila O, Subramani S, Nimal S, Nyshita VN, Priya V, Sany AT, Kumar Y, Cicani L, Ehsan M, Kandel K. Efficacy and safety of albumin for the treatment of hepatic encephalopathy: an updated systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Ann Med Surg (Lond) 2024; 86:3416-3422. [PMID: 38846811 PMCID: PMC11152777 DOI: 10.1097/ms9.0000000000002039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2023] [Accepted: 03/30/2024] [Indexed: 06/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Albumin acts as a scavenger of reactive oxygen species and an inhibitor of inflammatory processes that underlie hepatic encephalopathy (HE). However, the role of albumin in hepatic encephalopathy is not well-established. The authors performed this meta-analysis to evaluate the efficacy and safety of albumin in the management of hepatic encephalopathy. Methods The authors carried out an extensive search across multiple databases, including MEDLINE (via PubMed), Embase, CENTRAL, and various trial registries, to identify randomized controlled trials (RCTs) evaluating the impact of albumin administration in HE. The authors used a random-effects model for analyses and presented dichotomous outcomes and continuous outcomes as relative risk and mean difference, along with corresponding 95% CIs, respectively. Heterogeneity was assessed using both the I2 index and χ2 test. Results Our meta-analysis included 4 RCTs involving 306 patients. Our primary outcomes, mortality, and persistence of HE were reported by all four studies. Albumin was found to significantly decrease mortality in patients with HE [risk ratio (RR) 0.52, 95% CI 0.32-0.83; I2 =0%]. Persistence of HE was found to be comparable between the two groups (RR 0.83, 95% CI 0.68-1.00; I2 =24%). There was no significant difference between the albumin and control groups regarding length of hospital stay (MD -1.55, 95% CI -3.5 to 0.14; I2 =41%), adverse events (RR 1.00, 95% CI 0.87-1.16; I2 =0%), and severe adverse events (RR 0.89, 95% CI 0.59-1.35). Conclusion Albumin administration in patients with hepatic encephalopathy decreases mortality but does not significantly impact the persistence of HE. Further high-quality, large-scale randomized controlled trials are needed to provide conclusive evidence.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Midhun Mathew
- Department of Medicine, Pennsylvania Hospital, Philadelphia, PA
| | | | - Sachin Subramani
- Department of Medicine, ESIC Medical College and Hospital, Gulbarga
| | - Simran Nimal
- Department of Medicine, BJ Medical College, Pune
| | | | - Vishnu Priya
- Department of Medicine, Government Kilpauk Medical College, Chennai, India
| | - Abu Talha Sany
- Department of Medicine, Brahmanbaria Medical College & Hospital, Brahmanbaria, Bangladesh
| | - Yamanth Kumar
- Department of Medicine, Government Kilpauk Medical College, Chennai, India
| | - Laura Cicani
- Department of Medicine, International University of Health Sciences, Las Vegas, NV
| | - Muhammad Ehsan
- Department of Medicine, King Edward Medical University, Lahore, Pakistan
| | | |
Collapse
|
8
|
Khalessi A, Pyrsopoulos NT. Pharmacologic Management of Hepatic Encephalopathy. Clin Liver Dis 2024; 28:287-296. [PMID: 38548440 DOI: 10.1016/j.cld.2024.01.006] [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] [Indexed: 04/02/2024]
Abstract
Hepatic encephalopathy is a common cause of morbidity and mortality among patients with decompensated liver cirrhosis. In this article, we review the history, mechanism, and evidence for first-line pharmacologic therapies for hepatic encephalopathy including nonabsorbable disaccharides, antibiotics, and electrolyte management. We also review newer, second-line therapies including polyethylene glycol, albumin, branched-chain amino acids, probiotics and fecal microbiota transplant, zinc, and l-ornithine-l-aspartate.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ali Khalessi
- Rutgers New Jersey School of Medicine, 185 South Orange Avenue, MSB H-538, Newark, NJ 07103, USA
| | - Nikolaos T Pyrsopoulos
- Rutgers New Jersey School of Medicine, 185 South Orange Avenue, MSB H-538, Newark, NJ 07103, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Buckholz AP, Brown RS. Future Therapies of Hepatic Encephalopathy. Clin Liver Dis 2024; 28:331-344. [PMID: 38548443 PMCID: PMC10987054 DOI: 10.1016/j.cld.2024.02.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/02/2024]
Abstract
Hepatic encephalopathy, either covert or overt, affects more than half of patients with cirrhosis and has lasting effects even after portal hypertension is corrected. Unfortunately, the current therapeutic options still result in high rates of relapse and progression, in part owing to cost barriers and side effects, leading to poor adherence. This review summarizes emerging treatment options, which could take advantage of alternative disease pathways to improve future care of those with hepatic encephalopathy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Adam P Buckholz
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, New York/Presbyterian-Weill Cornell Medical College, 1305 York Avenue, 4th Floor, New York, NY 10021, USA
| | - Robert S Brown
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, New York/Presbyterian-Weill Cornell Medical College, 1305 York Avenue, 4th Floor, New York, NY 10021, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Pompili E, Zaccherini G, Caraceni P. Albumin in hospitalized patients with complications of cirrhosis: Not a suit for all seasons. Indian J Gastroenterol 2024; 43:288-291. [PMID: 38087187 DOI: 10.1007/s12664-023-01487-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/28/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Enrico Pompili
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
- Unit of Semeiotics, Liver and Alcohol-Related Diseases, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Di Bologna, Via Albertoni 15, 40138, Bologna, Italy
| | - Giacomo Zaccherini
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
- Unit of Semeiotics, Liver and Alcohol-Related Diseases, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Di Bologna, Via Albertoni 15, 40138, Bologna, Italy
| | - Paolo Caraceni
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy.
- Unit of Semeiotics, Liver and Alcohol-Related Diseases, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Di Bologna, Via Albertoni 15, 40138, Bologna, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Khanna D, Kar P, Sahu P. Efficacy of long-term albumin therapy in the treatment of decompensated cirrhosis. Indian J Gastroenterol 2024; 43:494-504. [PMID: 38722510 DOI: 10.1007/s12664-024-01566-6] [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: 09/18/2023] [Accepted: 03/04/2024] [Indexed: 05/28/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Decompensated liver cirrhosis has a poor prognosis, with a median overall survival of two to four years, which is worse than for many oncological disorders. These patients are highly susceptible to infections due to increased systemic inflammation leading to kidney failure and death. The aim was to study the efficacy of albumin in reducing episodes of decompensation, preventing bacterial infection, kidney dysfunction and mortality. METHOD Study involved patients with Child B or C cirrhosis with an albumin level below 3.0 g/dL, who were administered 20% human albumin weekly with standard medical treatment (SMT) for three months or till serum albumin levels were 4.0 g/dL (whichever is earlier) and compared with age and sex-matched controls who received only SMT. The primary end-point was six-month mortality and the secondary end-points were reduction in infections, kidney dysfunction, ascites recurrence, hepatic encephalopathy (HE), gastrointestinal (GI) bleed and complications of cirrhosis. RESULTS From September 2021 to January 2023, 88 cases and 86 controls were taken and followed up for six months. Overall, six-month survival was not statistically significant between groups (95.1% vs. 91.9%; p = 0·330). The incidence of recurrence of ascites (34.09% vs. 59.3%, p < 0.001), kidney dysfunction (6.8% vs. 24.4%, p < 0.001), HE (15.9% vs, 37.2%, p = 0.015), spontaneous bacterial peritonitis (SBP) (3.4% vs 17.4%, p = 0.002) and non-SBP infections (7.9% vs. 18.6%, p = 0.038) were significantly less in cases as compared with controls; however, GI bleed (14.8% vs. 17.4%, p = 0.632) was not statistically significant. CONCLUSION Long-term human albumin acts as a disease-modifying treatment in patients with decompensated cirrhosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Deepanshu Khanna
- Department of Gastroenterology, Max Superspeciality Hospital, Vaishali, 201 012, India
| | - Premashis Kar
- Department of Gastroenterology, Max Superspeciality Hospital, Vaishali, 201 012, India.
| | - Pabitra Sahu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Max Superspeciality Hospital, Vaishali, 201 012, India
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Heybe MA, Mehta KJ. Role of albumin infusion in cirrhosis-associated complications. Clin Exp Med 2024; 24:58. [PMID: 38551716 PMCID: PMC10980629 DOI: 10.1007/s10238-024-01315-1] [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: 01/26/2024] [Accepted: 02/29/2024] [Indexed: 04/01/2024]
Abstract
Cirrhosis is an advanced-stage liver disease that occurs due to persistent physiological insults such as excessive alcohol consumption, infections, or toxicity. It is characterised by scar tissue formation, portal hypertension, and ascites (accumulation of fluid in the abdominal cavity) in decompensated cirrhosis. This review evaluates how albumin infusion ameliorates cirrhosis-associated complications. Since albumin is an oncotic plasma protein, albumin infusion allows movement of water into the intravascular space, aids with fluid resuscitation, and thereby contributes to resolving cirrhosis-induced hypovolemia (loss of extracellular fluid) seen in ascites. Thus, albumin infusion helps prevent paracentesis-induced circulatory dysfunction, a complication that occurs when treating ascites. When cirrhosis advances, other complications such as spontaneous bacterial peritonitis and hepatorenal syndrome can manifest. Infused albumin helps mitigate these by exhibiting plasma expansion, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory functions. In hepatic encephalopathy, albumin infusion is thought to improve cognitive function by reducing ammonia concentration in blood and thereby tackle cirrhosis-induced hepatocyte malfunction in ammonia clearance. Infused albumin can also exhibit protective effects by binding to the cirrhosis-induced proinflammatory cytokines TNFα and IL6. While albumin administration has shown to prolong overall survival of cirrhotic patients with ascites in the ANSWER trial, the ATTIRE and MACHT trials have shown either no effect or limitations such as development of pulmonary oedema and multiorgan failure. Thus, albumin infusion is not a generic treatment option for all cirrhosis patients. Interestingly, cirrhosis-induced structural alterations in native albumin (which lead to formation of different albumin isoforms) can be used as prognostic biomarkers because specific albumin isoforms indicate certain complications of decompensated cirrhosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed A Heybe
- GKT School of Medical Education, Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Kosha J Mehta
- Centre for Education, Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, King's College London, London, UK.
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Pompili E, Zaccherini G, Baldassarre M, Iannone G, Caraceni P. Albumin administration in internal medicine: A journey between effectiveness and futility. Eur J Intern Med 2023; 117:28-37. [PMID: 37423819 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejim.2023.07.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2023] [Revised: 06/30/2023] [Accepted: 07/03/2023] [Indexed: 07/11/2023]
Abstract
Albumin is the most abundant circulating protein and provides about 70% of the plasma oncotic power. The molecule also carries many other biological functions (binding, transport and detoxification of endogenous and exogenous compounds, antioxidation, and modulation of inflammatory and immune responses). Hypoalbuminemia is a frequent finding in many diseases, representing usually only a biomarker of poor prognosis rather than a primary pathophysiological event. Despite that, albumin is prescribed in many conditions based on the assumption that correction of hypoalbuminemia would lead to clinical benefits for the patients. Unfortunately, many of these indications are not supported by scientific evidence (or have been even disproved), so that a large part of albumin use is nowadays still inappropriate. Decompensated cirrhosis is the clinical area where albumin administration has been extensively studied and solid recommendations can be made. Besides prevention and treatment of acute complications, long-term albumin administration in patients with ascites has emerged in the last decade has a potential new disease-modifying treatment. In non-hepatological settings, albumin is widely used for fluid resuscitation in sepsis and critical illnesses, with no clear superiority over crystalloids. In many other conditions, scientific evidence supporting albumin prescription is weak or even absent. Thus, given its high cost and limited availability, action is needed to avoid the use of albumin for inappropriate and futile indications to ensure its availability in those conditions for which albumin has been demonstrated to have a real effectiveness and an advantage for the patient.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Enrico Pompili
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum University of Bologna, Italy; Unit of Semeiotics, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Italy
| | - Giacomo Zaccherini
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum University of Bologna, Italy; Unit of Semeiotics, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Italy
| | - Maurizio Baldassarre
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum University of Bologna, Italy; Centre for Applied Biomedical Research (CRBA), Alma Mater Studiorum of Bologna, Italy
| | - Giulia Iannone
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum University of Bologna, Italy; Unit of Semeiotics, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Italy
| | - Paolo Caraceni
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum University of Bologna, Italy; Unit of Semeiotics, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Gagliardi R, Zeni N, Piano S. Intravenous albumin in cirrhosis: Updated clinical uses and novel perspectives. Ann Hepatol 2023; 28:101150. [PMID: 37659473 DOI: 10.1016/j.aohep.2023.101150] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2023] [Accepted: 08/08/2023] [Indexed: 09/04/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Roberta Gagliardi
- Department of Medicine (DIMED), Unit of Internal Medicine and Hepatology (UIMH), University and Hospital of Padova, Italy
| | - Nicola Zeni
- Department of Medicine (DIMED), Unit of Internal Medicine and Hepatology (UIMH), University and Hospital of Padova, Italy
| | - Salvatore Piano
- Department of Medicine (DIMED), Unit of Internal Medicine and Hepatology (UIMH), University and Hospital of Padova, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Trebicka J, Garcia-Tsao G. Controversies regarding albumin therapy in cirrhosis. Hepatology 2023:01515467-990000000-00524. [PMID: 37540192 DOI: 10.1097/hep.0000000000000521] [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] [Received: 02/16/2023] [Accepted: 05/26/2023] [Indexed: 08/05/2023]
Abstract
Albumin is the most abundant protein in the human body and is synthetized exclusively by the liver. Therefore, serum albumin levels are reduced in acute and/or chronic liver disease. In cirrhosis, low levels of albumin predict the outcome. In advanced cirrhosis, the quality of albumin is decreased due to high oxidative stress and a proinflammatory state. Therefore, the administration of i.v. albumin would seem to be of pathophysiological relevance and benefit. Yet, the questions that remain are who, when, how much, and how often. While albumin infusion is recommended after large-volume paracentesis, at diagnosis of spontaneous bacterial peritonitis, in acute kidney injury, and in hepatorenal syndrome, the amount and schedule of albumin to be administered require refinement, particularly given complications related to volume overload that have become increasingly apparent. Other indications for albumin such as infections other than spontaneous bacterial peritonitis, hyponatremia, HE, prevention of poor outcomes in hospitalized, and in outpatients with cirrhosis are still debated. The results of studies in these settings are either negative, controversial, or inconclusive. This sheds some doubts regarding the use of albumin as a "one size fits all" strategy. The indication and patient selection are crucial and not always intuitive. The amount and frequency also seem to play a role in the success or failure of albumin. This review will critically discuss the evidence and underline areas where there are indications for albumin use and others where evidence is still insufficient and will have to await the development/results of randomized controlled trials.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jonel Trebicka
- Department of Internal Medicine B, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
- European Foundation for Study of Chronic Liver Failure, EASL-CLIF-Consortium, Barcelona, Spain
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | - Guadalupe Garcia-Tsao
- Digestive Diseases Section, Department of Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
- Digestive Diseases Section, Department of Medicine, VA-CT Healthcare System, West Haven, Connecticut, USA
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Bai Z, Méndez-Sánchez N, Romeiro FG, Mancuso A, Philips CA, Tacke F, Basaranoglu M, Primignani M, Ibrahim M, Wong YJ, Nery FG, Teschke R, Ferreira CN, Muñoz AE, Pinyopornpanish K, Thevenot T, Singh SP, Mohanty A, Satapathy SK, Ridola L, Maruyama H, Cholongitas E, Levi Sandri GB, Yang L, Shalimar, Yang Y, Villa E, Krag A, Wong F, Jalan R, O’Brien A, Bernardi M, Qi X. Use of albumin infusion for cirrhosis-related complications: An international position statement. JHEP Rep 2023; 5:100785. [PMID: 37456673 PMCID: PMC10339261 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhepr.2023.100785] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2023] [Revised: 04/06/2023] [Accepted: 04/18/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Background & Aims Numerous studies have evaluated the role of human albumin (HA) in managing various liver cirrhosis-related complications. However, their conclusions remain partially controversial, probably because HA was evaluated in different settings, including indications, patient characteristics, and dosage and duration of therapy. Methods Thirty-three investigators from 19 countries with expertise in the management of liver cirrhosis-related complications were invited to organise an International Special Interest Group. A three-round Delphi consensus process was conducted to complete the international position statement on the use of HA for treatment of liver cirrhosis-related complications. Results Twelve clinically significant position statements were proposed. Short-term infusion of HA should be recommended for the management of hepatorenal syndrome, large volume paracentesis, and spontaneous bacterial peritonitis in liver cirrhosis. Its effects on the prevention or treatment of other liver cirrhosis-related complications should be further elucidated. Long-term HA administration can be considered in specific settings. Pulmonary oedema should be closely monitored as a potential adverse effect in cirrhotic patients receiving HA infusion. Conclusions Based on the currently available evidence, the international position statement suggests the potential benefits of HA for the management of multiple liver cirrhosis-related complications and summarises its safety profile. However, its optimal timing and infusion strategy remain to be further elucidated. Impact and implications Thirty-three investigators from 19 countries proposed 12 position statements on the use of human albumin (HA) infusion in liver cirrhosis-related complications. Based on current evidence, short-term HA infusion should be recommended for the management of HRS, LVP, and SBP; whereas, long-term HA administration can be considered in the setting where budget and logistical issues can be resolved. However, pulmonary oedema should be closely monitored in cirrhotic patients who receive HA infusion.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhaohui Bai
- Department of Gastroenterology, General Hospital of Northern Theater Command, Shenyang, China
- Department of Life Sciences and Biopharmaceutics, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Nahum Méndez-Sánchez
- Liver Research Unit, Medica Sur Clinic and Foundation, National Autonomous University of Mexico, Mexico City, Mexico
| | | | - Andrea Mancuso
- Medicina Interna 1, Azienda di Rilievo Nazionale ad Alta Specializzazione Civico-Di Cristina-Benfratelli, Palermo, Italy
| | - Cyriac Abby Philips
- Clinical and Translational Hepatology, The Liver Institute, Center of Excellence in GI Sciences, Rajagiri Hospital, Aluva, India
| | - Frank Tacke
- Department of Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Metin Basaranoglu
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Bezmialem Vakif University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Massimo Primignani
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Foundation IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Mostafa Ibrahim
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Theodor Bilharz Research Institute, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Yu Jun Wong
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Changi General Hospital, Singapore
| | - Filipe Gaio Nery
- Serviço de Cuidados Intensivos, Unidade de Cuidados Intermédios Médico-Cirúrgica, Centro Hospitalar Universitário do Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Rolf Teschke
- Department of Internal Medicine II, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Klinikum Hanau, Germany
| | - Carlos Noronha Ferreira
- Serviço de Gastrenterologia e Hepatologia, Hospital de Santa Maria-Centro Hospitalar Universitário Lisboa Norte, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Alberto E. Muñoz
- Sección Hepatología, Hospital Dr. Carlos B. Udaondo. Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Kanokwan Pinyopornpanish
- Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
| | - Thierry Thevenot
- Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Besançon, Hôpital Jean Minjoz, Service d’Hépatologie et de Soins Intensifs Digestifs, Besançon, France
| | | | - Arpan Mohanty
- Section of Gastroenterology, Boston Medical Center, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Sanjaya K. Satapathy
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Hepatology, Sandra Atlas Bass Center for Liver Diseases & Transplantation, Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine for Hofstra/Northwell Health, Manhasset, New York, USA
| | - Lorenzo Ridola
- Department of Translational and Precision Medicine, “Sapienza” University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Hitoshi Maruyama
- Department of Gastroenterology, Juntendo University, Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Evangelos Cholongitas
- First Department of Internal Medicine, Laiko General Hospital, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | | | - Li Yang
- Sichuan University-University of Oxford Huaxi Joint Centre for Gastrointestinal Cancer, Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Shalimar
- Department of Gastroenterology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Yongping Yang
- Senior Department of Hepatology, Fifth Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Erica Villa
- Department of Gastroenterology, University of Modena & Reggio Emilia and Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Modena, Italy
| | - Aleksander Krag
- Institute of Clinical Research, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | - Florence Wong
- Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Rajiv Jalan
- Liver Failure Group, UCL Institute for Liver and Digestive Health, The Royal Free Hospital, University College London, London, UK
| | | | - Mauro Bernardi
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Xingshun Qi
- Department of Gastroenterology, General Hospital of Northern Theater Command, Shenyang, China
- Department of Life Sciences and Biopharmaceutics, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, China
| | - the Liver Cirrhosis-related Complications (LCC)-International Special Interest Group
- Department of Gastroenterology, General Hospital of Northern Theater Command, Shenyang, China
- Department of Life Sciences and Biopharmaceutics, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, China
- Liver Research Unit, Medica Sur Clinic and Foundation, National Autonomous University of Mexico, Mexico City, Mexico
- Internal Medicine Department, Botucatu Medical School, São Paulo, Brazil
- Medicina Interna 1, Azienda di Rilievo Nazionale ad Alta Specializzazione Civico-Di Cristina-Benfratelli, Palermo, Italy
- Clinical and Translational Hepatology, The Liver Institute, Center of Excellence in GI Sciences, Rajagiri Hospital, Aluva, India
- Department of Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Bezmialem Vakif University, Istanbul, Turkey
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Foundation IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Theodor Bilharz Research Institute, Cairo, Egypt
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Changi General Hospital, Singapore
- Serviço de Cuidados Intensivos, Unidade de Cuidados Intermédios Médico-Cirúrgica, Centro Hospitalar Universitário do Porto, Porto, Portugal
- Department of Internal Medicine II, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Klinikum Hanau, Germany
- Serviço de Gastrenterologia e Hepatologia, Hospital de Santa Maria-Centro Hospitalar Universitário Lisboa Norte, Lisboa, Portugal
- Sección Hepatología, Hospital Dr. Carlos B. Udaondo. Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
- Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Besançon, Hôpital Jean Minjoz, Service d’Hépatologie et de Soins Intensifs Digestifs, Besançon, France
- Kalinga Gastroenterology Foundation, Odisha, India
- Section of Gastroenterology, Boston Medical Center, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Hepatology, Sandra Atlas Bass Center for Liver Diseases & Transplantation, Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine for Hofstra/Northwell Health, Manhasset, New York, USA
- Department of Translational and Precision Medicine, “Sapienza” University of Rome, Rome, Italy
- Department of Gastroenterology, Juntendo University, Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, Japan
- First Department of Internal Medicine, Laiko General Hospital, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
- Division of General Surgery and Liver Transplantation, San Camillo Hospital, Rome, Italy
- Sichuan University-University of Oxford Huaxi Joint Centre for Gastrointestinal Cancer, Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- Department of Gastroenterology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
- Senior Department of Hepatology, Fifth Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
- Department of Gastroenterology, University of Modena & Reggio Emilia and Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Modena, Italy
- Institute of Clinical Research, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
- Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Liver Failure Group, UCL Institute for Liver and Digestive Health, The Royal Free Hospital, University College London, London, UK
- Division of Medicine, Royal Free Campus, London, UK
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Guimarães L, Piedade J, Duarte J, Baldin C, Victor L, Costa B, Veiga Z, Alcântara C, Fernandes F, Pereira G. Hepatic Encephalopathy in Cirrhotic Patients With Bacterial Infections: Frequency, Clinical Characteristics, and Prognostic Relevance. J Clin Exp Hepatol 2023; 13:559-567. [PMID: 37440943 PMCID: PMC10333941 DOI: 10.1016/j.jceh.2023.01.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2022] [Accepted: 01/06/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Background/Objectives Bacterial infections (BIs) are well-recognized precipitants of hepatic encephalopathy (HE). Nevertheless, there is a paucity of data in patients with HE associated with BI. Our aim was to describe clinical characteristics, recurrence, and prognosis of HE in patients with BI. Methods A prospective study with inclusion of hospitalized cirrhotic patients with BI, followed until discharge, death, or liver transplantation. Results 172 patients (age 57 ± 13, model of end-stage liver disease [MELD]-sodium 22 ± 8) were included. Infections were more commonly due to spontaneous bacterial peritonitis and cellulitis (22% and 23%), non-nosocomial (70%), and associated with systemic inflammatory response syndrome and septic shock in 40% and 9%, respectively. HE was diagnosed in 66 patients (grade ≥2 in 58%). In multivariate analysis, MELD-sodium, albumin, and prior HE were associated with HE at diagnosis of BI. Recurrence of HE was diagnosed in 30 patients (median 13 [interquartile range 5-22] days), more commonly manifested as overt HE (90% vs. 60% at first episode, P = 0.012) and more frequently in patients with hyponatremia (54% vs. 27% for patients without, P < 0.001). In-hospital mortality was 34% and was more common for patients with HE (51% vs. 22%, P < 0.001), irrespective of grade, and for those with recurrence (63% vs. 42%, P < 0.001). In multivariate analysis, HE at diagnosis of infection and MELD-sodium were predictors of mortality. Conclusions HE is frequent in cirrhotic patients with BI and is associated with severity of liver disease, but not with infection. These patients are at increased risk of short-term HE recurrence, especially those with hyponatremia. The presence and recurrence of HE, independent of severity, are associated with in-hospital mortality.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lívia Guimarães
- Gastroenterology and Hepatology Unit, Bonsucesso Federal Hospital (Ministry of Health), Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Juliana Piedade
- Gastroenterology and Hepatology Unit, Bonsucesso Federal Hospital (Ministry of Health), Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Joana Duarte
- Gastroenterology and Hepatology Unit, Bonsucesso Federal Hospital (Ministry of Health), Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Caroline Baldin
- Gastroenterology and Hepatology Unit, Bonsucesso Federal Hospital (Ministry of Health), Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Lívia Victor
- Gastroenterology and Hepatology Unit, Bonsucesso Federal Hospital (Ministry of Health), Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Barbara Costa
- Gastroenterology and Hepatology Unit, Bonsucesso Federal Hospital (Ministry of Health), Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Zulane Veiga
- Gastroenterology and Hepatology Unit, Bonsucesso Federal Hospital (Ministry of Health), Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Camila Alcântara
- Gastroenterology and Hepatology Unit, Bonsucesso Federal Hospital (Ministry of Health), Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Flávia Fernandes
- Gastroenterology and Hepatology Unit, Bonsucesso Federal Hospital (Ministry of Health), Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
- Estácio de Sá University, School of Medicine (IDOMED), Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Gustavo Pereira
- Gastroenterology and Hepatology Unit, Bonsucesso Federal Hospital (Ministry of Health), Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
- Estácio de Sá University, School of Medicine (IDOMED), Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Karvellas CJ, Gustot T, Fernandez J. Management of the acute on chronic liver failure in the intensive care unit. Liver Int 2023. [PMID: 37365997 DOI: 10.1111/liv.15659] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2023] [Revised: 06/01/2023] [Accepted: 06/15/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023]
Abstract
Acute on chronic liver failure (ACLF) reflects the development of organ failure(s) in a patient with cirrhosis and is associated with high short-term mortality. Given that ACLF has many different 'phenotypes', medical management needs to take into account the relationship between precipitating insult, organ systems involved and underlying physiology of chronic liver disease/cirrhosis. The goals of intensive care management of patients suffering ACLF are to rapidly recognize and treat inciting events (e.g. infection, severe alcoholic hepatitis and bleeding) and to aggressively support failing organ systems to ensure that patients may successfully undergo liver transplantation or recovery. Management of these patients is complex since they are prone to develop new organ failures and infectious or bleeding complications. ICU therapy parallels that applied in the general ICU population in some complications but differs in others. Given that liver transplantation in ACLF is an emerging and evolving field, multidisciplinary teams with expertise in critical care and transplant medicine best accomplish management of the critically ill ACLF patient. The focus of this review is to identify the common complications of ACLF and to describe the proper management in critically ill patients awaiting liver transplantation in our centres, including organ support, prognostic assessment and how to assess when recovery is unlikely.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Constantine J Karvellas
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
- Division of Gastroenterology (Liver Unit), University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
| | - Thierry Gustot
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepato-Pancreatology and Digestive Oncology, H.U.B., CUB Hôpital Erasme, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Javier Fernandez
- Liver ICU, Liver Unit, Hospital Clinic, University of Barcelona, IDIBAPS and CIBERehd, Barcelona, Spain
- EF CLIF, EASL-CLIF Consortium, Barcelona, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Fagan A, Gavis EA, Gallagher ML, Mousel T, Davis B, Puri P, Sterling RK, Luketic VA, Lee H, Matherly SC, Sanyal AJ, Stravitz RT, Patel V, Siddiqui MS, Asgharpour A, Fuchs M, Thacker L, Bajaj JS. A double-blind randomized placebo-controlled trial of albumin in outpatients with hepatic encephalopathy: HEAL study. J Hepatol 2023; 78:312-321. [PMID: 36152764 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2022.09.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2022] [Revised: 08/26/2022] [Accepted: 09/13/2022] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Even after recovery from overt hepatic encephalopathy (HE), minimal HE (MHE), which impairs quality of life (QoL), can persist. A double-blind, placebo-controlled randomized clinical trial was performed to determine the impact of albumin vs. saline on MHE and QoL in individuals with prior HE already on standard of care. METHODS Outpatients with cirrhosis and prior HE, MHE and hypoalbuminemia already on treatment for HE were included. Patients on regular IV albumin infusions were excluded. Participants were randomized 1:1 to receive either weekly infusions of 25% IV albumin 1.5 g/kg or saline over 5 weeks. MHE was defined using either psychometric hepatic encephalopathy score (PHES), Stroop or critical clicker frequency. MHE, QoL (based on sickness impact profile [SIP] total, physical, psychosocial domain) and serum markers (inflammation, endothelial dysfunction, and ischemia-modified albumin) were compared between baseline, the final infusion visit (end-of-drug [EOD]) and 1-week post final infusion (end-of-study [EOS]). RESULTS Forty-eight (24/group) participants were randomized and balanced (including by HE medication use) at baseline. Adverse events were similar, with MELD and ammonia remaining stable between/within groups. Albumin levels increased and ischemia-modified albumin decreased only in the albumin group at EOD and EOS vs. baseline. PHES and Stroop MHE reversal and improvement were greater in the albumin group at EOD and persisted at EOS. SIP total and psychosocial, but not physical, domain improved only in the albumin group at EOD and EOS vs. baseline. A significant reduction in IL-1β and endothelial dysfunction markers was also observed in the albumin group. CONCLUSION In a double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of outpatients with cirrhosis, prior HE and current MHE, albumin infusions were associated with improved cognitive function and psychosocial QoL, likely due to amelioration of endothelial dysfunction. CLINICAL TRIALS REGISTRATION www. CLINICALTRIALS gov NCT03585257. IMPACT AND IMPLICATIONS Even after recovery from overt hepatic encephalopathy (HE), minimal HE (MHE), which impairs quality of life, can persist. We found that intravenous albumin infusions were associated with improved cognitive function and psychosocial quality of life, likely owing to amelioration of endothelial dysfunction, compared to placebo in outpatients with prior HE and current MHE. In patients who continue to demonstrate cognitive dysfunction and impaired quality of life despite standard of care therapy for HE, albumin infusions could be considered if these results are validated.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Andrew Fagan
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Richmond, Virginia, USA
| | - Edith A Gavis
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Richmond, Virginia, USA
| | | | - Travis Mousel
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Richmond, Virginia, USA
| | - Brian Davis
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Richmond, Virginia, USA
| | - Puneet Puri
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Richmond, Virginia, USA
| | - Richard K Sterling
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Richmond, Virginia, USA
| | - Velimir A Luketic
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Richmond, Virginia, USA
| | - Hannah Lee
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Richmond, Virginia, USA
| | - Scott C Matherly
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Richmond, Virginia, USA
| | - Arun J Sanyal
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Richmond, Virginia, USA
| | - R Todd Stravitz
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Richmond, Virginia, USA
| | - Vaishali Patel
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Richmond, Virginia, USA
| | - Mohammad S Siddiqui
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Richmond, Virginia, USA
| | - Amon Asgharpour
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Richmond, Virginia, USA
| | - Michael Fuchs
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Richmond, Virginia, USA
| | - Leroy Thacker
- Department of Biostatistics, Virginia Commonwealth University and Central Virginia Veterans Healthcare System, Richmond, Virginia, USA
| | - Jasmohan S Bajaj
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Richmond, Virginia, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Can albumin reduce the mortality of patients with cirrhosis and ascites? A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Eur J Gastroenterol Hepatol 2023; 35:80-88. [PMID: 36165067 DOI: 10.1097/meg.0000000000002447] [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: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Albumin therapy in patients with decompensated liver cirrhosis has always been a controversial issue. This study aimed to investigate the efficacy and safety of albumin in reducing mortality and controlling complications in patients with liver cirrhosis and provide a reference for relevant decision-making. METHODS Databases such as PubMed, EMBASE, and Web of Science were searched to collect eligible articles published before January 2022, which were analyzed by Revman 5.3. RESULTS A total of 10 randomized controlled trials (2040 patients) were included. Based on the meta-analysis results, no significant difference in mortality was shown between the albumin administration group and the control group (HR = 1.01; 95% CI, 0.97-1.05; P = 0.62). Subgroup analysis showed that albumin administration had no significant short-term or long-term survival benefits in patients with decompensated liver cirrhosis and increased the risk of pulmonary edema adverse reactions (RR = 3.14; 95% CI, 1.48-6.65; P = 0.003). Subgroup analysis based on albumin administration time showed that short-term (HR = 0.93; 95% CI, 0.76-1.13; P = 0.47) or long-term (HR = 0.97; 95% CI: 0.87-1.08; P = 0.58) administration of albumin could not significantly reduce the mortality of patients with decompensated liver cirrhosis. In contrast, albumin administration could significantly reduce the recurrence rate of ascites (RR = 0.56; 95% CI, 0.46-0.68; P = 0.000). CONCLUSION Short-term(<1 month) or long-term (>1 month) administration of albumin can not significantly reduce the mortality of patients with decompensated liver cirrhosis, and a large amount of albumin infusion will increase the risk of pulmonary edema.
Collapse
|
21
|
Vidal-Cevallos P, Chávez-Tapia NC, Uribe M. Current approaches to hepatic encephalopathy. Ann Hepatol 2022; 27:100757. [PMID: 36115576 DOI: 10.1016/j.aohep.2022.100757] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2022] [Accepted: 09/07/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Hepatic encephalopathy (HE) is a brain dysfunction caused by liver insufficiency and/or portosystemic shunts. Between 30%-40% of patients with cirrhosis will present overt HE during their lifetime. While the pathophysiology of HE is not entirely understood, three critical factors have been identified: hyperammonaemia, systemic inflammation and oxidative stress by glutaminase gene alterations. Minimal HE is defined by the presence of signs of cognitive abnormalities in a patient without asterixis or disorientation; it can only be diagnosed with neuropsychological or psychometric tests. The diagnosis of overt HE is based on clinical examination with clinical scales. Currently, only overt HE should be routinely treated. The aims of treatment in an acute episode should be to improve the mental status, identify and treat the precipitating factor, reduce duration and limit consequences. Treatment strategies are targeted at reducing ammonia production and/or increasing its elimination. Even though minimal HE has negative effects on the patient's quality of life and effects on prognosis, indications for treatment are still controversial. There are still many unanswered questions regarding the pathophysiology and management of HE. We should also endeavor to develop more accurate and objective diagnostic methods for overt HE that would permit early detection and help improve outcomes on quality of life and economic burden.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Paulina Vidal-Cevallos
- Obesity and Digestive Disease Unit, Medica Sur Clinic and Foundation, Puente de Piedra 150, col. Toriello Guerra, C.P. 14050, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Norberto C Chávez-Tapia
- Obesity and Digestive Disease Unit, Medica Sur Clinic and Foundation, Puente de Piedra 150, col. Toriello Guerra, C.P. 14050, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Misael Uribe
- Obesity and Digestive Disease Unit, Medica Sur Clinic and Foundation, Puente de Piedra 150, col. Toriello Guerra, C.P. 14050, Mexico City, Mexico.
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Mallet M, Desplats V, Bouzbib C, Sultanik P, Alioua I, Marika Rudler MS, Weiss N, Thabut D. Blood ammonia in patients with chronic liver diseases: A better defined role in clinical practice. Anal Biochem 2022; 657:114873. [PMID: 36108794 DOI: 10.1016/j.ab.2022.114873] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2021] [Revised: 07/26/2022] [Accepted: 08/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Ammonia is one of the main players in the pathogenesis of hepatic encephalopathy (HE) in patients with chronic liver diseases. The usefulness of measuring ammonemia has been debated since many years. New data reveal that besides helping in the differential diagnosis of HE, ammonemia could be a prognostic marker not only in patients with HE, but also in patients without any neurological symptoms, suggesting a potential toxic role of ammonia beyond the brain. Finally, targeting ammonemia while monitoring therapeutic response could be a way to improve outcomes in patients with HE.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maxime Mallet
- Sorbonne Université, AP-HP.Sorbonne Université, Hôpital de la Pitié-Salpêtrière, Service D'hépato-gastroentérologie, Unité de soins intensifs D'hépatologie, Paris, France & Brain Liver Pitié-Salpêtrière (BLIPS) Study Group, INSERM UMR_S 938, Centre de Recherche Saint-Antoine, Maladies Métaboliques, Biliaires et fibro-inflammatoire du Foie, Institute of Cardiometabolism and Nutrition (ICAN), Paris, France
| | - Victor Desplats
- Sorbonne Université, AP-HP.Sorbonne Université, Hôpital de la Pitié-Salpêtrière, Service D'hépato-gastroentérologie, Unité de soins intensifs D'hépatologie, Paris, France & Brain Liver Pitié-Salpêtrière (BLIPS) Study Group, INSERM UMR_S 938, Centre de Recherche Saint-Antoine, Maladies Métaboliques, Biliaires et fibro-inflammatoire du Foie, Institute of Cardiometabolism and Nutrition (ICAN), Paris, France
| | - Charlotte Bouzbib
- Sorbonne Université, AP-HP.Sorbonne Université, Hôpital de la Pitié-Salpêtrière, Service D'hépato-gastroentérologie, Unité de soins intensifs D'hépatologie, Paris, France & Brain Liver Pitié-Salpêtrière (BLIPS) Study Group, INSERM UMR_S 938, Centre de Recherche Saint-Antoine, Maladies Métaboliques, Biliaires et fibro-inflammatoire du Foie, Institute of Cardiometabolism and Nutrition (ICAN), Paris, France
| | - Philippe Sultanik
- Sorbonne Université, AP-HP.Sorbonne Université, Hôpital de la Pitié-Salpêtrière, Service D'hépato-gastroentérologie, Unité de soins intensifs D'hépatologie, Paris, France & Brain Liver Pitié-Salpêtrière (BLIPS) Study Group, INSERM UMR_S 938, Centre de Recherche Saint-Antoine, Maladies Métaboliques, Biliaires et fibro-inflammatoire du Foie, Institute of Cardiometabolism and Nutrition (ICAN), Paris, France
| | - Imen Alioua
- Sorbonne Université, AP-HP.Sorbonne Université, Hôpital de la Pitié-Salpêtrière, Service D'hépato-gastroentérologie, Unité de soins intensifs D'hépatologie, Paris, France & Brain Liver Pitié-Salpêtrière (BLIPS) Study Group, INSERM UMR_S 938, Centre de Recherche Saint-Antoine, Maladies Métaboliques, Biliaires et fibro-inflammatoire du Foie, Institute of Cardiometabolism and Nutrition (ICAN), Paris, France; Université Paris-Saclay, CEA, INRAE, Département Médicaments et Technologies pour la Santé (MTS), MetaboHUB, F-91191, Gif sur Yvette, France
| | - M S Marika Rudler
- Sorbonne Université, AP-HP.Sorbonne Université, Hôpital de la Pitié-Salpêtrière, Service D'hépato-gastroentérologie, Unité de soins intensifs D'hépatologie, Paris, France & Brain Liver Pitié-Salpêtrière (BLIPS) Study Group, INSERM UMR_S 938, Centre de Recherche Saint-Antoine, Maladies Métaboliques, Biliaires et fibro-inflammatoire du Foie, Institute of Cardiometabolism and Nutrition (ICAN), Paris, France
| | - Nicolas Weiss
- Sorbonne Université, AP-HP.Sorbonne Université, Hôpital de la Pitié-Salpêtrière, Département de Neurologie, Unité de Médecine Intensive Réanimation à orientation Neurologique, Paris, France & Brain Liver Pitié-Salpêtrière (BLIPS) Study Group, INSERM UMR_S 938, Centre de Recherche Saint-Antoine, Maladies Métaboliques, Biliaires et fibro-inflammatoire du foie, Institute of Cardiometabolism and Nutrition (ICAN), Paris, France & Groupe de Recherche Clinique en REanimation et Soins intensifs du Patient en Insuffisance Respiratoire aiguE (GRC-RESPIRE) Sorbonne Université, France
| | - Dominique Thabut
- Sorbonne Université, AP-HP.Sorbonne Université, Hôpital de la Pitié-Salpêtrière, Service D'hépato-gastroentérologie, Unité de soins intensifs D'hépatologie, Paris, France & Brain Liver Pitié-Salpêtrière (BLIPS) Study Group, INSERM UMR_S 938, Centre de Recherche Saint-Antoine, Maladies Métaboliques, Biliaires et fibro-inflammatoire du Foie, Institute of Cardiometabolism and Nutrition (ICAN), Paris, France.
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
de Mattos ÂZ, Simonetto DA, Terra C, Farias AQ, Bittencourt PL, Pase THS, Toazza MR, de Mattos AA. Albumin administration in patients with cirrhosis: Current role and novel perspectives. World J Gastroenterol 2022; 28:4773-4786. [PMID: 36156923 PMCID: PMC9476855 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v28.i33.4773] [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: 03/27/2022] [Revised: 06/05/2022] [Accepted: 07/06/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Mortality in cirrhosis is mostly associated with the development of clinical decompensation, characterized by ascites, hepatic encephalopathy, variceal bleeding, or jaundice. Therefore, it is important to prevent and manage such complications. Traditionally, the pathophysiology of decompensated cirrhosis was explained by the peripheral arterial vasodilation hypothesis, but it is currently understood that decompensation might also be driven by a systemic inflammatory state (the systemic inflammation hypothesis). Considering its oncotic and nononcotic properties, albumin has been thoroughly evaluated in the prevention and management of several of these decompensating events. There are formal evidence-based recommendations from international medical societies proposing that albumin be administered in individuals with cirrhosis undergoing large-volume paracentesis, patients with spontaneous bacterial peritonitis, those with acute kidney injury (even before the etiological diagnosis), and those with hepatorenal syndrome. Moreover, there are a few randomized controlled trials and meta-analyses suggesting a possible role for albumin infusion in patients with cirrhosis and ascites (long-term albumin administration), individuals with hepatic encephalopathy, and those with acute-on-chronic liver failure undergoing modest-volume paracentesis. Further studies are necessary to elucidate whether albumin administration also benefits patients with cirrhosis and other complications, such as individuals with extraperitoneal infections, those hospitalized with decompensated cirrhosis and hypoalbuminemia, and patients with hyponatremia.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ângelo Zambam de Mattos
- Graduate Program in Medicine: Hepatology, Federal University of Health Sciences of Porto Alegre, Porto Alegre 90050-170, Brazil
| | - Douglas Alano Simonetto
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55902, United States
| | - Carlos Terra
- Department of Gastroenterology, State University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro 20550-170, Brazil
| | | | | | - Tales Henrique Soares Pase
- Internal Medicine Unit, Irmandade Santa Casa de Misericórdia de Porto Alegre, Porto Alegre 90020-090, Brazil
| | - Marlon Rubini Toazza
- Gastroenterology and Hepatology Unit, Irmandade Santa Casa de Misericórdia de Porto Alegre, Porto Alegre 90020-090, Brazil
| | - Angelo Alves de Mattos
- Graduate Program in Medicine: Hepatology, Federal University of Health Sciences of Porto Alegre, Porto Alegre 90050-170, Brazil
| | | |
Collapse
|
24
|
Use of human albumin infusion in cirrhotic patients: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Hepatol Int 2022; 16:1468-1483. [PMID: 36048318 DOI: 10.1007/s12072-022-10374-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2022] [Accepted: 06/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Human albumin infusion is effective for controlling systemic inflammation, thereby probably managing some liver cirrhosis-related complications, such as spontaneous bacterial peritonitis (SBP), hepatic encephalopathy (HE), and hepatorenal syndrome. However, its clinical benefits remain controversial. METHODS EMBASE, PubMed, and Cochrane Library databases were searched. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) regarding use of human albumin infusion in cirrhotic patients were eligible. Mortality and incidence of liver cirrhosis-related complications were pooled. Effect of human albumin infusion on mortality was also evaluated by subgroup analyses primarily according to target population and duration of human albumin infusion treatment. Odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated. RESULTS Forty-two RCTs were finally included. Meta-analysis showed that human albumin infusion could significantly decrease the mortality of cirrhotic patients (OR = 0.81, 95% CI = 0.67-0.98, p = 0.03). Subgroup analyses showed that human albumin infusion could significantly decrease the mortality of cirrhotic patients with SBP (OR = 0.36, 95% CI = 0.20-0.64, p = 0.0005) and HE (OR = 0.43, 95% CI = 0.22-0.85, p = 0.02), but not those with ascites or non-SBP infections or undergoing large-volume paracentesis. Short-term human albumin infusion treatment could significantly decrease short-term mortality (OR = 0.67, 95% CI = 0.50-0.89, p = 0.005), but not long-term mortality. Long-term human albumin infusion treatment could not significantly decrease long-term mortality (OR = 0.72, 95% CI = 0.48-1.08, p = 0.11). In addition, human albumin infusion could significantly decrease the incidence of renal impairment (OR = 0.63, 95% CI = 0.45-0.88, p = 0.007) and ascites (OR = 0.45, 95% CI = 0.25-0.81, p = 0.007), but not infections or gastrointestinal bleeding. CONCLUSIONS Human albumin infusion may improve the outcomes of cirrhotic patients. However, its indications for different complications and infusion strategy in liver cirrhosis should be further explored.
Collapse
|
25
|
Hepatic Encephalopathy: Current and Emerging Treatment Modalities. Clin Gastroenterol Hepatol 2022; 20:S9-S19. [PMID: 35940731 DOI: 10.1016/j.cgh.2022.04.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2022] [Revised: 04/13/2022] [Accepted: 04/13/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Hepatic encephalopathy (HE) is a potentially reversible neurocognitive complication of cirrhosis. It has been reported in at least 30% of patients with cirrhosis and imposes a significant economic burden on caregivers and the healthcare system. Ammonia has been recognized as the culprit in HE development, and all the currently approved treatments mostly act on this toxin to help with HE resolution. After a brief overview of HE characteristics and pathophysiology, this review explores the current accepted treatments for this debilitating complication of cirrhosis. This is followed by an overview of the novel available therapies and a brief focus on future treatment modalities for HE.
Collapse
|
26
|
Castro-Narro G, Moctezuma-Velázquez C, Male-Velázquez R, Trejo-Estrada R, Bosques FJ, Moreno-Alcántar R, Rodríguez-Hernández H, Bautista-Santos A, Córtez-Hernández C, Cerda-Reyes E, Pérez-Escobar J, Aldana-Ledesma JM, Aguirre-Valadez J, Ruiz-Velasco JAV, Contreras-Omaña R, Miranda-Zazueta G, Reyes-Bastidas MDR, Meza-Cardona JM, Chávez-Tapia N, Fernández-Pérez NJ, García-Jiménez ES, Torre A. Position statement on the use of albumin in liver cirrhosis. Ann Hepatol 2022; 27:100708. [PMID: 35550187 DOI: 10.1016/j.aohep.2022.100708] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2022] [Accepted: 02/15/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Cirrhosis is characterised by a prolonged asymptomatic period in which the inflammation persists, increasing as the disease progresses. Characteristic of this is the increase in pro-inflammatory cytokines and pro-oxidant molecules which are determining factors in the development of multiple organ dysfunction. In the early development of cirrhosis, splanchnic arterial vasodilation, activation of vasoconstrictor systems (renin-angiotensin-aldosterone) and the sympathetic nervous system (noradrenaline) bring about bacterial translocation and systemic dissemination via portal circulation of bacterial products, and molecular patterns associated with damage, which exacerbate the systemic inflammation present in the patient with cirrhosis. Albumin is a molecule that undergoes structural and functional changes as liver damage progresses, affecting its antioxidant, immunomodulatory, oncotic and endothelial stabilising properties. Our knowledge of the properties of albumin reveals a molecule with multiple treatment options in patients with cirrhosis, from the compensated then decompensated phases to multiple organ dysfunction. Its recognised uses in spontaneous bacterial peritonitis, post-paracentesis circulatory dysfunction, acute kidney injury and hepatorenal syndrome are fully validated, and a treatment option has opened up in decompensated cirrhosis and in acute-on-chronic liver disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Graciela Castro-Narro
- Gastroenterology Department, Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Médicas y Nutrición "Salvador Zubirán" ["Salvador Zubirán" National Institute of Medical Sciences and Nutrition], Mexico City, Mexico; Gastroenterology Unit, Hospital Médica Sur, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Carlos Moctezuma-Velázquez
- Gastroenterology Department, Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Médicas y Nutrición "Salvador Zubirán" ["Salvador Zubirán" National Institute of Medical Sciences and Nutrition], Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Rene Male-Velázquez
- Instituto de la Salud Digestiva y Hepática [Institute of Gastrointestinal and Liver Health], Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico
| | | | | | - Rosalba Moreno-Alcántar
- Centro Médico de Alta Especialidad Siglo XXI [21st Century High Speciality Medical Centre], Mexico City, Mexico
| | | | - Aleida Bautista-Santos
- Gastroenterology Department, Centro Médico Nacional 20 de Noviembre ["20 November" National Medical Centre], Mexico City, Mexico
| | | | - Eira Cerda-Reyes
- Hospital Central Militar, Mexico City, Mexico; Escuela Militar de Graduados de Sanidad, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Juanita Pérez-Escobar
- Gastroenterology Department, Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Médicas y Nutrición "Salvador Zubirán" ["Salvador Zubirán" National Institute of Medical Sciences and Nutrition], Mexico City, Mexico
| | | | | | | | - Raúl Contreras-Omaña
- Centro de Estudio e Investigación en Enfermedades Hepáticas y Toxicológicas (CEIHET) [Centre for Study and Research in Hepatic and Toxicological Diseases], Pachuca de Soto, Hidalgo, Mexico
| | - Godolfino Miranda-Zazueta
- Gastroenterology Department, Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Médicas y Nutrición "Salvador Zubirán" ["Salvador Zubirán" National Institute of Medical Sciences and Nutrition], Mexico City, Mexico
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Aldo Torre
- Metabolic Unit, Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Médicas y Nutrición "Salvador Zubirán" ["Salvador Zubirán" National Institute of Medical Sciences and Nutrition], Mexico City, Mexico.
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Rajpurohit S, Musunuri B, Shailesh, Basthi Mohan P, Shetty S. Novel Drugs for the Management of Hepatic Encephalopathy: Still a Long Journey to Travel. J Clin Exp Hepatol 2022; 12:1200-1214. [PMID: 35814520 PMCID: PMC9257922 DOI: 10.1016/j.jceh.2022.01.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2021] [Accepted: 01/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatic encephalopathy (HE) is one of the reversible complications of chronic liver disease, associated with a higher mortality rate. In current clinical practice, treatment with rifaximin and lactulose/lactitol is the first line of treatment in HE. With the advance in pathophysiology, a new class of ammonia lowering drugs has been revealed to overcome the hurdle and disease burden. The mechanism of the novel agents differs significantly and includes the alteration in intestinal microbiota, intestinal endothelial integrity, oxidative stress, inflammatory markers, and modulation of neurotoxins. Most of the trials have reported promising results in the treatment and prevention of HE with fecal microbiota transplantation, albumin, probiotics, flumazenil, polyethylene glycol, AST-120, glycerol phenylbutyrate, nitazoxanide, branched-chain amino acid, naloxone, and acetyl-l-carnitine. However, their clinical use is limited due to the presence of major drawbacks in their study design, sample size, safety profile, bias, and heterogenicity. This study will discuss the novel therapeutic targets for HE in liver cirrhosis patients with supporting clinical trial data.
Collapse
Key Words
- ALC, acetyl-L-carnitine
- BCAA, branched-chain amino acid
- BD, twice a day
- BDI, Beck Depression Inventory
- BUN, blood urea nitrogen
- CHESS, Clinical Hepatic Encephalopathy Staging Scale
- CLDQ, Chronic Liver Disease Questionnaire
- ECT, estimated completion time
- EEG, electroencephalogram
- FMT, fecal microbiota transplantation
- GPB, glycerol phenylbutyrate
- HESA, Hepatic Encephalopathy Scoring Algorithm
- HRQOL, health-related quality of life
- IV, intravenous
- MED, Modified Encephalopathy Scale
- MELD, Model for End-stage Liver Disease
- MMSE, Mini-Mental State Examination
- NTZ, nitazoxanide
- Nal, naloxone
- OD, once a day
- ORT, object recognition test
- PEG, polyethylene glycol
- QID, four times a day
- QOL, quality of life
- RBNS, Repeatable Battery for the Assessment of Neuropsychological Status
- RCT, randomized control trial
- RT-qPCR, real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction
- TID, three times a day
- VSL#3, high concentration probiotic preparations
- hepatic encephalopathy
- liver cirrhosis
- novel drugs
- treatment outcome
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Siddheesh Rajpurohit
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal 576104, Karnataka, India
| | - Balaji Musunuri
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal 576104, Karnataka, India
| | - Shailesh
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal 576104, Karnataka, India
| | - Pooja Basthi Mohan
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal 576104, Karnataka, India
| | - Shiran Shetty
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal 576104, Karnataka, India
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Häussinger D, Dhiman RK, Felipo V, Görg B, Jalan R, Kircheis G, Merli M, Montagnese S, Romero-Gomez M, Schnitzler A, Taylor-Robinson SD, Vilstrup H. Hepatic encephalopathy. Nat Rev Dis Primers 2022; 8:43. [PMID: 35739133 DOI: 10.1038/s41572-022-00366-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 27.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/12/2022] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
Hepatic encephalopathy (HE) is a prognostically relevant neuropsychiatric syndrome that occurs in the course of acute or chronic liver disease. Besides ascites and variceal bleeding, it is the most serious complication of decompensated liver cirrhosis. Ammonia and inflammation are major triggers for the appearance of HE, which in patients with liver cirrhosis involves pathophysiologically low-grade cerebral oedema with oxidative/nitrosative stress, inflammation and disturbances of oscillatory networks in the brain. Severity classification and diagnostic approaches regarding mild forms of HE are still a matter of debate. Current medical treatment predominantly involves lactulose and rifaximin following rigorous treatment of so-called known HE precipitating factors. New treatments based on an improved pathophysiological understanding are emerging.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dieter Häussinger
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Infectious Diseases, Medical Faculty and University Hospital Düsseldorf, Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany.
| | - Radha K Dhiman
- Department of Hepatology, Sanjay Gandhi Postgraduate Institute of Medical Sciences, Lucknow, (Uttar Pradesh), India
| | - Vicente Felipo
- Laboratory of Neurobiology, Centro de Investigación Principe Felipe, Valencia, Spain
| | - Boris Görg
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Infectious Diseases, Medical Faculty and University Hospital Düsseldorf, Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Rajiv Jalan
- Liver Failure Group ILDH, Division of Medicine, UCL Medical School, Royal Free Campus, London, UK.,European Foundation for the Study of Chronic Liver Failure, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Gerald Kircheis
- Department of Gastroenterology, Diabetology and Hepatology, University Hospital Brandenburg an der Havel, Brandenburg Medical School, Brandenburg an der Havel, Germany
| | - Manuela Merli
- Department of Translational and Precision Medicine, Universita' degli Studi di Roma - Sapienza, Roma, Italy
| | | | - Manuel Romero-Gomez
- UCM Digestive Diseases, Virgen del Rocío University Hospital, Institute of Biomedicine of Seville (HUVR/CSIC/US), University of Seville, Seville, Spain
| | - Alfons Schnitzler
- Institute of Clinical Neuroscience and Medical Psychology, Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Simon D Taylor-Robinson
- Department of Surgery and Cancer, St. Mary's Hospital Campus, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Hendrik Vilstrup
- Department of Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Wong YJ, Loo JH. Albumin therapy for hepatic encephalopathy: current evidence and controversies. Metab Brain Dis 2022; 38:1759-1763. [PMID: 35616800 DOI: 10.1007/s11011-022-01002-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2022] [Accepted: 05/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
Hepatic encephalopathy (HE) is a common complication that occurs in 16-21% of end-stage cirrhosis patients. Emerging evidence suggests that systemic inflammation and oxidative stress may play a role in the development of HE. Recent understanding on the anti-inflammatory properties of human albumin has led to growing interest of using human albumin for the treatment and prevention of HE among decompensated patients. In this review, we aim to discuss the current evidence and controversies of using human albumin for the treatment and prevention of HE in advanced cirrhosis patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yu Jun Wong
- Department of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, Changi General Hospital, Singapore, Singapore.
- Duke-NUS Medicine Academic Clinical Program, SingHealth, Singapore, Singapore.
| | - Jing Hong Loo
- Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Queenstown, Singapore
- Department of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, Changi General Hospital, Singapore, Singapore
- Duke-NUS Medicine Academic Clinical Program, SingHealth, Singapore, Singapore
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Is B, Bombassaro IZ, Tovo CV, de Mattos ÂZ, Ahlert M, Chiesa T, de Mattos AA. Albumin in the management of hepatic encephalopathy: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Ann Hepatol 2021; 26:100541. [PMID: 34600143 DOI: 10.1016/j.aohep.2021.100541] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2021] [Revised: 03/26/2021] [Accepted: 03/26/2021] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Introduction and objectives It has been suggested that albumin administration could alter the natural history of cirrhosis, and also, that long-term treatment with albumin might be associated with improvement in survival, control of ascites, reduction in the incidence bacterial infections, renal dysfunction, hepatic encephalopathy (HE) and hyponatremia, as well as reduction in length of hospitalization in patients with cirrhosis and ascites. The objective of the present study is to evaluate the role of albumin in the management of HE. Materiales and methods:: This is a systematic review of randomized controlled trials that evaluated the use of albumin in adult patients with cirrhosis and HE. The search for eligible studies was performed in MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Cochrane CENTRAL databases until June 2020. The outcomes of interest were the complete reversal of HE and mortality. Meta-analysis was performed using the random effects model, through the Mantel-Haenszel method. Results: This systematic review was registered at the PROSPERO platform (CRD42020194181). The search strategy retrieved 1,118 articles. After reviewing titles and abstracts, 24 studies were considered potentially eligible, but 22 were excluded after full-text analysis. Finally, 2 studies were included. In the meta-analysis, albumin was associated to significant lower risks of persistent HE (risk ratio - RR = 0.60; 95% confidence interval - CI = 0.38-0.95, p = 0.03) and mortality (RR = 0.54; 95% CI = 0.33-0.90, p = 0.02). Conclusion: Albumin administration improves HE and reduces mortality in patients with cirrhosis and HE.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bombassaro Is
- Universidade Federal de Ciências da Saúde de Porto Alegre (UFCSPA), Rua Sarmento Leite 245, Porto Alegre, RS 90050-170, Brazil
| | - Isadora Z Bombassaro
- Universidade Federal de Ciências da Saúde de Porto Alegre (UFCSPA), Rua Sarmento Leite 245, Porto Alegre, RS 90050-170, Brazil.
| | - Cristiane V Tovo
- Universidade Federal de Ciências da Saúde de Porto Alegre (UFCSPA), Rua Sarmento Leite 245, Porto Alegre, RS 90050-170, Brazil
| | - Ângelo Z de Mattos
- Universidade Federal de Ciências da Saúde de Porto Alegre (UFCSPA), Rua Sarmento Leite 245, Porto Alegre, RS 90050-170, Brazil
| | - Marcelo Ahlert
- Universidade Federal de Ciências da Saúde de Porto Alegre (UFCSPA), Rua Sarmento Leite 245, Porto Alegre, RS 90050-170, Brazil
| | - Talita Chiesa
- Universidade Federal de Ciências da Saúde de Porto Alegre (UFCSPA), Rua Sarmento Leite 245, Porto Alegre, RS 90050-170, Brazil
| | - Angelo A de Mattos
- Universidade Federal de Ciências da Saúde de Porto Alegre (UFCSPA), Rua Sarmento Leite 245, Porto Alegre, RS 90050-170, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Jagdish RK, Maras JS, Sarin SK. Albumin in Advanced Liver Diseases: The Good and Bad of a Drug! Hepatology 2021; 74:2848-2862. [PMID: 33772846 DOI: 10.1002/hep.31836] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2020] [Revised: 02/13/2021] [Accepted: 03/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Human serum albumin is the most abundant plasma protein, and it regulates diverse body functions. In patients with advanced and decompensated cirrhosis, serum albumin levels are low because of a reduction in the hepatocyte mass due to disease per se and multiple therapeutic interventions. Because of their oncotic and nononcotic properties, administration of human albumin solutions (HAS) have been found to be beneficial in patients undergoing large-volume paracentesis or who have hepatorenal syndrome or spontaneous bacterial peritonitis. Albumin also improves the functionality of the immune cells and mitigates the severity and risk of infections in advanced cirrhosis. Its long-term administration can modify the course of decompensated cirrhosis patients by reducing the onset of new complications, improving the quality of life, and probably providing survival benefits. There is, however, a need to rationalize the dose, duration, and frequency of albumin therapy in different liver diseases and stages of cirrhosis. In patients with acute-on-chronic liver failure, potentially toxic oxidized isoforms of albumin increase substantially, especially human nonmercaptalbumin and 2, and nitrosoalbumin. The role of administration of HAS in such patients is unclear. Determining whether removal of the pathological and dysfunctional albumin forms in these patients by "albumin dialysis" is helpful, requires additional studies. Use of albumin is not without adverse events. These mainly include allergic and transfusion reactions, volume overload, antibody formation and coagulation derangements. Considering their cost, limited availability, need for a health care setting for their administration, and potential adverse effects, judicious use of HAS in liver diseases is advocated. There is a need for new albumin molecules and economic alternatives in hepatologic practice.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rakesh Kumar Jagdish
- Department of Hepatology, Institute of Liver and Biliary Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Jaswinder Singh Maras
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Medicine, Institute of Liver and Biliary Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Shiv Kumar Sarin
- Department of Hepatology, Institute of Liver and Biliary Sciences, New Delhi, India
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Medicine, Institute of Liver and Biliary Sciences, New Delhi, India
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Hasan LZ, Wu GY. Novel Agents in the Management of Hepatic Encephalopathy: A Review. J Clin Transl Hepatol 2021; 9:749-759. [PMID: 34722190 PMCID: PMC8516841 DOI: 10.14218/jcth.2021.00102] [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] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2021] [Revised: 05/28/2021] [Accepted: 06/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatic encephalopathy is an often devastating complication of chronic liver disease, associated with high mortality and increased burden on patients and healthcare systems. Current agents (such as nonabsorbable disaccharides and oral antibiotics) are often only partially effective and associated with unpleasant side effects. With our improved understanding of the pathophysiology of hepatic encephalopathy, multiple treatment modalities have emerged with promising results when used alone or as an adjunct to standard medications. The mechanisms of these agents vary greatly, and include the manipulation of gut microbial composition, reduction of oxidative stress, inhibition of inflammatory mediators, protection of endothelial integrity, modulation of neurotransmitter release and function, and other novel methods to reduce blood ammonia and neurotoxins. Despite their promising results, the studies assessing these treatment modalities are often limited by study design, sample size, outcome assessment heterogeneity, and paucity of data regarding their safety profiles. In this article, we discuss these novel agents in depth and provide the best evidence supporting their use, along with a critical look at their limitations and future directions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Leen Z. Hasan
- Correspondence to: Leen Z. Hasan, Department of Medicine, Internal Medicine Residency Program, UConn Health, 263 Farmington Avenue, Farmington, CT 06030-1235, USA. ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-3852-8591. Tel: +1-617-283-6633, Fax: +1-860-679-4613, E-mail: ,
| | | |
Collapse
|
33
|
Ventura-Cots M, Simón-Talero M, Poca M, Ariza X, Masnou H, Sanchez J, Llop E, Cañete N, Martín-Llahí M, Amador A, Martínez J, Clemente-Sanchez A, Puente A, Torrens M, Alvarado-Tapias E, Napoleone L, Miquel-Planas M, Ardèvol A, Casas Rodrigo M, Calleja JL, Solé C, Soriano G, Genescà J. Effects of Albumin on Survival after a Hepatic Encephalopathy Episode: Randomized Double-Blind Trial and Meta-Analysis. J Clin Med 2021; 10:4885. [PMID: 34768404 PMCID: PMC8584661 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10214885] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2021] [Revised: 10/20/2021] [Accepted: 10/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
No therapies have been proven to increase survival after a hepatic encephalopathy (HE) episode. We hypothesize that two doses of albumin could improve 90-day survival rates after a HE episode. METHODS (1) A randomized double-blind, placebo-controlled trial (BETA) was conducted in 12 hospitals. The effect of albumin (1.5 g/kg at baseline and 1 g/kg on day 3) on 90-day survival rates after a HE episode grade II or higher was evaluated. (2) A meta-analysis of individual patient's data for survival including two clinical trials (BETA and ALFAE) was performed. RESULTS In total, 82 patients were included. Albumin failed to increase the 90-day transplant-free survival (91.9% vs. 80.5%, p = 0.3). A competing risk analysis was performed, observing a 90-day cumulative incidence of death of 9% in the albumin group vs. 20% in the placebo (p = 0.1). The meta-analysis showed a benefit in the albumin group, with a lower rate of clinical events (death or liver transplant) than patients in the placebo (HR, 0.44; 95% CI, 0.21-0.82), when analyzed by a competing risk analysis (90-days mortality rate of 11% in the albumin group vs. 30% in the placebo, p = 0.02). CONCLUSIONS Repeated doses of albumin might be beneficial for patient's survival as an add-on therapy after an HE episode, but an adequately powered trial is needed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Meritxell Ventura-Cots
- Liver Unit, Department of Internal Medicine, Hospital Universitari Vall d’Hebron, Vall d’Hebron Institut de Recerca (VHIR), Vall d’Hebron Barcelona Hospital Campus, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08035 Barcelona, Spain; (M.T.); (J.G.)
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red, Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28029 Madrid, Spain; (M.P.); (X.A.); (J.S.); (E.L.); (A.C.-S.); (E.A.-T.); (L.N.); (M.M.-P.); (J.L.C.); (C.S.); (G.S.)
| | - Macarena Simón-Talero
- Liver Unit, Department of Internal Medicine, Hospital Universitari Vall d’Hebron, Vall d’Hebron Institut de Recerca (VHIR), Vall d’Hebron Barcelona Hospital Campus, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08035 Barcelona, Spain; (M.T.); (J.G.)
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red, Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28029 Madrid, Spain; (M.P.); (X.A.); (J.S.); (E.L.); (A.C.-S.); (E.A.-T.); (L.N.); (M.M.-P.); (J.L.C.); (C.S.); (G.S.)
| | - Maria Poca
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red, Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28029 Madrid, Spain; (M.P.); (X.A.); (J.S.); (E.L.); (A.C.-S.); (E.A.-T.); (L.N.); (M.M.-P.); (J.L.C.); (C.S.); (G.S.)
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau, Institut de Recerca Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08041 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Xavier Ariza
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red, Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28029 Madrid, Spain; (M.P.); (X.A.); (J.S.); (E.L.); (A.C.-S.); (E.A.-T.); (L.N.); (M.M.-P.); (J.L.C.); (C.S.); (G.S.)
- Liver Unit, Hospital Clínic de Barcelona, 08036 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Helena Masnou
- Gastroenterology Department, Hospital Universitary Germans Tries i Pujol, 08916 Badalona, Spain; (H.M.); (A.A.)
| | - Jordi Sanchez
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red, Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28029 Madrid, Spain; (M.P.); (X.A.); (J.S.); (E.L.); (A.C.-S.); (E.A.-T.); (L.N.); (M.M.-P.); (J.L.C.); (C.S.); (G.S.)
- Department of Gastroenterology, Corporació Sanitària Parc Taulí, 08208 Sabadell, Spain;
| | - Elba Llop
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red, Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28029 Madrid, Spain; (M.P.); (X.A.); (J.S.); (E.L.); (A.C.-S.); (E.A.-T.); (L.N.); (M.M.-P.); (J.L.C.); (C.S.); (G.S.)
- Hospital Universitario Puerta de Hierro, Puerta de Hierro Health Research Institute (IDIPHIM), 28222 Madrid, Spain
| | - Núria Cañete
- Liver Section, Gastroenterology Department, Hospital del Mar, Hospital del Mar Medical Research Institute (IMIM), Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08003 Barcelona, Spain;
| | - Marta Martín-Llahí
- Gastrointestinal Department, Hospital Moisès Broggi, 08970 Sant Joan Despí, Spain;
| | - Alberto Amador
- Hepatology Unit, Gastroenterology Department, Hospital de Bellvitge, ICS, Research Group of Hepato-biliary and Pancreatic Diseases (IDIBELL), Barcelona University, 08907 L’Hospitalet de Llobregat, Spain;
| | - Javier Martínez
- Deparment of Gastroenterology, Hospital Universitario Ramon y Cajal, 28034 Madrid, Spain;
| | - Ana Clemente-Sanchez
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red, Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28029 Madrid, Spain; (M.P.); (X.A.); (J.S.); (E.L.); (A.C.-S.); (E.A.-T.); (L.N.); (M.M.-P.); (J.L.C.); (C.S.); (G.S.)
- Liver Unit, Digestive Department, Hospital General Universitario Gregorio Marañón, Complutense University of Madrid, 28007 Madrid, Spain
| | - Angela Puente
- Digestive Disease Department, University Hospital Marqués de Valdecilla, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Valdecilla (IDIVAL), 39008 Santander, Spain;
| | - Maria Torrens
- Liver Unit, Department of Internal Medicine, Hospital Universitari Vall d’Hebron, Vall d’Hebron Institut de Recerca (VHIR), Vall d’Hebron Barcelona Hospital Campus, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08035 Barcelona, Spain; (M.T.); (J.G.)
| | - Edilmar Alvarado-Tapias
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red, Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28029 Madrid, Spain; (M.P.); (X.A.); (J.S.); (E.L.); (A.C.-S.); (E.A.-T.); (L.N.); (M.M.-P.); (J.L.C.); (C.S.); (G.S.)
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau, Institut de Recerca Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08041 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Laura Napoleone
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red, Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28029 Madrid, Spain; (M.P.); (X.A.); (J.S.); (E.L.); (A.C.-S.); (E.A.-T.); (L.N.); (M.M.-P.); (J.L.C.); (C.S.); (G.S.)
- Liver Unit, Hospital Clínic de Barcelona, 08036 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Mireia Miquel-Planas
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red, Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28029 Madrid, Spain; (M.P.); (X.A.); (J.S.); (E.L.); (A.C.-S.); (E.A.-T.); (L.N.); (M.M.-P.); (J.L.C.); (C.S.); (G.S.)
- Department of Gastroenterology, Corporació Sanitària Parc Taulí, 08208 Sabadell, Spain;
- Department of Medicine, Universitat de Vic-Universitat Central de Catalunya (UVIc-UCC), 08500 Vic, Spain
| | - Alba Ardèvol
- Gastroenterology Department, Hospital Universitary Germans Tries i Pujol, 08916 Badalona, Spain; (H.M.); (A.A.)
| | | | - Jose Luís Calleja
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red, Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28029 Madrid, Spain; (M.P.); (X.A.); (J.S.); (E.L.); (A.C.-S.); (E.A.-T.); (L.N.); (M.M.-P.); (J.L.C.); (C.S.); (G.S.)
- Hospital Universitario Puerta de Hierro, Puerta de Hierro Health Research Institute (IDIPHIM), 28222 Madrid, Spain
| | - Cristina Solé
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red, Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28029 Madrid, Spain; (M.P.); (X.A.); (J.S.); (E.L.); (A.C.-S.); (E.A.-T.); (L.N.); (M.M.-P.); (J.L.C.); (C.S.); (G.S.)
- Liver Unit, Hospital Clínic de Barcelona, 08036 Barcelona, Spain
- Department of Gastroenterology, Corporació Sanitària Parc Taulí, 08208 Sabadell, Spain;
| | - German Soriano
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red, Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28029 Madrid, Spain; (M.P.); (X.A.); (J.S.); (E.L.); (A.C.-S.); (E.A.-T.); (L.N.); (M.M.-P.); (J.L.C.); (C.S.); (G.S.)
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau, Institut de Recerca Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08041 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Joan Genescà
- Liver Unit, Department of Internal Medicine, Hospital Universitari Vall d’Hebron, Vall d’Hebron Institut de Recerca (VHIR), Vall d’Hebron Barcelona Hospital Campus, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08035 Barcelona, Spain; (M.T.); (J.G.)
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red, Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28029 Madrid, Spain; (M.P.); (X.A.); (J.S.); (E.L.); (A.C.-S.); (E.A.-T.); (L.N.); (M.M.-P.); (J.L.C.); (C.S.); (G.S.)
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Teh KB, Loo JH, Tam YC, Wong YJ. Efficacy and safety of albumin infusion for overt hepatic encephalopathy: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Dig Liver Dis 2021; 53:817-823. [PMID: 34011479 DOI: 10.1016/j.dld.2021.04.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2021] [Revised: 04/21/2021] [Accepted: 04/22/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS The efficacy and safety of albumin infusion for treatment and prevention of overt hepatic encephalopathy (OHE) among cirrhosis patients remained controversial. We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis to evaluate the benefit of albumin infusion for the treatment and prevention of OHE. METHODS We performed a systematic search of 4 electronic databases up to 31st January 2021. The primary outcome was the resolution of OHE. Secondary outcomes were inpatient mortality and albumin-associated adverse events. We assessed the pooled odds' risk, pooled mean differences, 95% confidence interval and heterogeneity using Review Manager Version 5.3. RESULTS A total of 12 studies (2,087 subjects) were identified. Among cirrhosis patients with OHE, albumin infusion was associated with a lower pooled risk of OHE (OR=0.43, 95%CI: 0.27, 0.68; I2=0%). Among patients without baseline OHE, albumin infusion was associated with a lower pooled risk of developing OHE (OR=0.53, 95%CI: 0.32, 0.86; I2=62%). Albumin infusion was associated with a lower pooled risk of inpatient mortality (OR=0.36, 95%CI: 0.21, 0.60; I2=0%). CONCLUSION Well-powered randomized trials are required to confirm the benefits of albumin infusion for the prevention and treatment of overt hepatic encephalopathy among decompensated cirrhosis patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kok Ban Teh
- Department of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, Changi General Hospital, Singapore
| | - Jing Hong Loo
- Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore
| | - Yew Chong Tam
- Department of Medicine, Singapore General Hospital, Singapore
| | - Yu Jun Wong
- Department of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, Changi General Hospital, Singapore; Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore; Duke-NUS Academic Medicine Programme, Singhealth, Singapore.
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
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.
Collapse
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
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Wong YJ, Kumar R, Chua YJJ, Ang TL. Long-term albumin infusion in decompensated cirrhosis: A review of current literature. World J Hepatol 2021; 13:421-432. [PMID: 33959225 PMCID: PMC8080546 DOI: 10.4254/wjh.v13.i4.421] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2021] [Revised: 03/22/2021] [Accepted: 04/13/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Decompensated cirrhosis is characterized by chronic inflammation and severe portal hypertension leading to systemic circulatory dysfunction. Albumin infusion has been widely used in decompensated cirrhosis in patients with spontaneous bacterial peritonitis, large-volume paracentesis and hepatorenal syndrome. Emerging data suggest long-term albumin infusion has both oncotic and non-oncotic properties which may improve the clinical outcomes in decompensated cirrhosis patients. We review the current literature on both the established and potential role of albumin, and specifically address the controversies of long-term albumin infusion in decompensated cirrhosis patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yu Jun Wong
- Department ofGastroenterology and Hepatology, Changi General Hospital, Singapore 529889, Singapore
| | - Rahul Kumar
- Department ofGastroenterology and Hepatology, Changi General Hospital, Singapore 529889, Singapore
| | - Yu Jing Jonathan Chua
- Department of Internal Medicine, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, Singapore 117597, Singapore
| | - Tiing Leong Ang
- Department ofGastroenterology and Hepatology, Changi General Hospital, Singapore 529889, Singapore
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Albumin administration in patients with decompensated liver cirrhosis: a meta-analytic update. Eur J Gastroenterol Hepatol 2021; 33:479-486. [PMID: 32976190 DOI: 10.1097/meg.0000000000001932] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
End-stage liver disease and its related complications exert a huge disease burden and reduce the survival rates of many patients. Albumin administration for patients with decompensated liver cirrhosis has been a controversial topic of discussion. The aim of this study is to investigate whether albumin reduces the mortality and complications of liver cirrhosis compared to standard medical therapy (SMT) alone. Clinical trials in which albumin administration was compared to SMT in patients with liver cirrhosis were included in this meta-analysis. The primary outcome of this study was to evaluate the effect on reducing all-cause mortality. Ascites control, renal failure and hepatic encephalopathy were evaluated as secondary outcomes. Nine clinical trials with 1231 patients were recruited and analyzed using the quality effect model. Mortality rate was significantly reduced in the albumin group [relative risk (RR) 0.73, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.56-0.96]. Heterogeneity was mild across all studies (I2 23.3%). Studies reporting long-term albumin (LTA) administration were found to have a significant decrease in mortality (RR 0.57, 95% CI 0.44-0.73). However, studies reporting short-term albumin administration were found to have no effect on mortality (RR 0.90, 95% CI 0.56-1.45). Furthermore, there was a significant decrease in the incidence of all secondary outcomes. This meta-analysis provides evidence that LTA administration is significantly effective in reducing the mortality of liver cirrhosis compared to SMT. Albumin administration was also shown to reduce the occurrence of ascites, renal failure and hepatic encephalopathy as complications of liver cirrhosis.
Collapse
|
38
|
Akahane T, Yoshiji H. Role of serum albumin in hepatic encephalopathy. Hepatol Res 2021; 51:353-354. [PMID: 33797845 DOI: 10.1111/hepr.13632] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/27/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Takemi Akahane
- Department of Gastroenterology, Nara Medical University, Kashihara, Japan
| | - Hitoshi Yoshiji
- Department of Gastroenterology, Nara Medical University, Kashihara, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
China L, Freemantle N, Forrest E, Kallis Y, Ryder SD, Wright G, Portal AJ, Becares Salles N, Gilroy DW, O'Brien A. A Randomized Trial of Albumin Infusions in Hospitalized Patients with Cirrhosis. N Engl J Med 2021; 384:808-817. [PMID: 33657293 DOI: 10.1056/nejmoa2022166] [Citation(s) in RCA: 168] [Impact Index Per Article: 56.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Infection and increased systemic inflammation cause organ dysfunction and death in patients with decompensated cirrhosis. Preclinical studies provide support for an antiinflammatory role of albumin, but confirmatory large-scale clinical trials are lacking. Whether targeting a serum albumin level of 30 g per liter or greater in these patients with repeated daily infusions of 20% human albumin solution, as compared with standard care, would reduce the incidences of infection, kidney dysfunction, and death is unknown. METHODS We conducted a randomized, multicenter, open-label, parallel-group trial involving hospitalized patients with decompensated cirrhosis who had a serum albumin level of less than 30 g per liter at enrollment. Patients were randomly assigned to receive either targeted 20% human albumin solution for up to 14 days or until discharge, whichever came first, or standard care. Treatment commenced within 3 days after admission. The composite primary end point was new infection, kidney dysfunction, or death between days 3 and 15 after the initiation of treatment. RESULTS A total of 777 patients underwent randomization, and alcohol was reported to be a cause of cirrhosis in most of these patients. A median total infusion of albumin of 200 g (interquartile range, 140 to 280) per patient was administered to the targeted albumin group (increasing the albumin level to ≥30 g per liter), as compared with a median of 20 g (interquartile range, 0 to 120) per patient administered to the standard-care group (adjusted mean difference, 143 g; 95% confidence interval [CI], 127 to 158.2). The percentage of patients with a primary end-point event did not differ significantly between the targeted albumin group (113 of 380 patients [29.7%]) and the standard-care group (120 of 397 patients [30.2%]) (adjusted odds ratio, 0.98; 95% CI, 0.71 to 1.33; P = 0.87). A time-to-event analysis in which data were censored at the time of discharge or at day 15 also showed no significant between-group difference (hazard ratio, 1.04; 95% CI, 0.81 to 1.35). More severe or life-threatening serious adverse events occurred in the albumin group than in the standard-care group. CONCLUSIONS In patients hospitalized with decompensated cirrhosis, albumin infusions to increase the albumin level to a target of 30 g per liter or more was not more beneficial than the current standard care in the United Kingdom. (Funded by the Health Innovation Challenge Fund; ATTIRE EudraCT number, 2014-002300-24; ISRCT number, N14174793.).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Louise China
- From the Institute for Liver and Digestive Health (L.C., N.B.S., A.O.), the Comprehensive Clinical Trials Unit (N.F.), and the Division of Medicine, University College London (D.W.G.), Barts and the London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London (Y.K.), London, the Glasgow Royal Infirmary and the University of Glagow, Glasgow (E.F.), the National Institute for Health Research Nottingham Biomedical Research Centre at Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust and the University of Nottingham, Queens Medical Centre, Nottingham (S.D.R.), the Mid and South Essex NHS Foundation Trust and the Basildon and Thurrock University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Basildon (G.W.), and the Bristol Royal Infirmary, Bristol (A.J.P.) - all in the United Kingdom
| | - Nick Freemantle
- From the Institute for Liver and Digestive Health (L.C., N.B.S., A.O.), the Comprehensive Clinical Trials Unit (N.F.), and the Division of Medicine, University College London (D.W.G.), Barts and the London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London (Y.K.), London, the Glasgow Royal Infirmary and the University of Glagow, Glasgow (E.F.), the National Institute for Health Research Nottingham Biomedical Research Centre at Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust and the University of Nottingham, Queens Medical Centre, Nottingham (S.D.R.), the Mid and South Essex NHS Foundation Trust and the Basildon and Thurrock University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Basildon (G.W.), and the Bristol Royal Infirmary, Bristol (A.J.P.) - all in the United Kingdom
| | - Ewan Forrest
- From the Institute for Liver and Digestive Health (L.C., N.B.S., A.O.), the Comprehensive Clinical Trials Unit (N.F.), and the Division of Medicine, University College London (D.W.G.), Barts and the London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London (Y.K.), London, the Glasgow Royal Infirmary and the University of Glagow, Glasgow (E.F.), the National Institute for Health Research Nottingham Biomedical Research Centre at Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust and the University of Nottingham, Queens Medical Centre, Nottingham (S.D.R.), the Mid and South Essex NHS Foundation Trust and the Basildon and Thurrock University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Basildon (G.W.), and the Bristol Royal Infirmary, Bristol (A.J.P.) - all in the United Kingdom
| | - Yiannis Kallis
- From the Institute for Liver and Digestive Health (L.C., N.B.S., A.O.), the Comprehensive Clinical Trials Unit (N.F.), and the Division of Medicine, University College London (D.W.G.), Barts and the London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London (Y.K.), London, the Glasgow Royal Infirmary and the University of Glagow, Glasgow (E.F.), the National Institute for Health Research Nottingham Biomedical Research Centre at Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust and the University of Nottingham, Queens Medical Centre, Nottingham (S.D.R.), the Mid and South Essex NHS Foundation Trust and the Basildon and Thurrock University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Basildon (G.W.), and the Bristol Royal Infirmary, Bristol (A.J.P.) - all in the United Kingdom
| | - Stephen D Ryder
- From the Institute for Liver and Digestive Health (L.C., N.B.S., A.O.), the Comprehensive Clinical Trials Unit (N.F.), and the Division of Medicine, University College London (D.W.G.), Barts and the London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London (Y.K.), London, the Glasgow Royal Infirmary and the University of Glagow, Glasgow (E.F.), the National Institute for Health Research Nottingham Biomedical Research Centre at Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust and the University of Nottingham, Queens Medical Centre, Nottingham (S.D.R.), the Mid and South Essex NHS Foundation Trust and the Basildon and Thurrock University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Basildon (G.W.), and the Bristol Royal Infirmary, Bristol (A.J.P.) - all in the United Kingdom
| | - Gavin Wright
- From the Institute for Liver and Digestive Health (L.C., N.B.S., A.O.), the Comprehensive Clinical Trials Unit (N.F.), and the Division of Medicine, University College London (D.W.G.), Barts and the London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London (Y.K.), London, the Glasgow Royal Infirmary and the University of Glagow, Glasgow (E.F.), the National Institute for Health Research Nottingham Biomedical Research Centre at Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust and the University of Nottingham, Queens Medical Centre, Nottingham (S.D.R.), the Mid and South Essex NHS Foundation Trust and the Basildon and Thurrock University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Basildon (G.W.), and the Bristol Royal Infirmary, Bristol (A.J.P.) - all in the United Kingdom
| | - Andrew J Portal
- From the Institute for Liver and Digestive Health (L.C., N.B.S., A.O.), the Comprehensive Clinical Trials Unit (N.F.), and the Division of Medicine, University College London (D.W.G.), Barts and the London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London (Y.K.), London, the Glasgow Royal Infirmary and the University of Glagow, Glasgow (E.F.), the National Institute for Health Research Nottingham Biomedical Research Centre at Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust and the University of Nottingham, Queens Medical Centre, Nottingham (S.D.R.), the Mid and South Essex NHS Foundation Trust and the Basildon and Thurrock University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Basildon (G.W.), and the Bristol Royal Infirmary, Bristol (A.J.P.) - all in the United Kingdom
| | - Natalia Becares Salles
- From the Institute for Liver and Digestive Health (L.C., N.B.S., A.O.), the Comprehensive Clinical Trials Unit (N.F.), and the Division of Medicine, University College London (D.W.G.), Barts and the London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London (Y.K.), London, the Glasgow Royal Infirmary and the University of Glagow, Glasgow (E.F.), the National Institute for Health Research Nottingham Biomedical Research Centre at Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust and the University of Nottingham, Queens Medical Centre, Nottingham (S.D.R.), the Mid and South Essex NHS Foundation Trust and the Basildon and Thurrock University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Basildon (G.W.), and the Bristol Royal Infirmary, Bristol (A.J.P.) - all in the United Kingdom
| | - Derek W Gilroy
- From the Institute for Liver and Digestive Health (L.C., N.B.S., A.O.), the Comprehensive Clinical Trials Unit (N.F.), and the Division of Medicine, University College London (D.W.G.), Barts and the London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London (Y.K.), London, the Glasgow Royal Infirmary and the University of Glagow, Glasgow (E.F.), the National Institute for Health Research Nottingham Biomedical Research Centre at Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust and the University of Nottingham, Queens Medical Centre, Nottingham (S.D.R.), the Mid and South Essex NHS Foundation Trust and the Basildon and Thurrock University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Basildon (G.W.), and the Bristol Royal Infirmary, Bristol (A.J.P.) - all in the United Kingdom
| | - Alastair O'Brien
- From the Institute for Liver and Digestive Health (L.C., N.B.S., A.O.), the Comprehensive Clinical Trials Unit (N.F.), and the Division of Medicine, University College London (D.W.G.), Barts and the London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London (Y.K.), London, the Glasgow Royal Infirmary and the University of Glagow, Glasgow (E.F.), the National Institute for Health Research Nottingham Biomedical Research Centre at Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust and the University of Nottingham, Queens Medical Centre, Nottingham (S.D.R.), the Mid and South Essex NHS Foundation Trust and the Basildon and Thurrock University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Basildon (G.W.), and the Bristol Royal Infirmary, Bristol (A.J.P.) - all in the United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Rose CF, Amodio P, Bajaj JS, Dhiman RK, Montagnese S, Taylor-Robinson SD, Vilstrup H, Jalan R. Hepatic encephalopathy: Novel insights into classification, pathophysiology and therapy. J Hepatol 2020; 73:1526-1547. [PMID: 33097308 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2020.07.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 204] [Impact Index Per Article: 51.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2019] [Revised: 07/01/2020] [Accepted: 07/03/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Hepatic encephalopathy (HE) is a frequent and serious complication of both chronic liver disease and acute liver failure. HE manifests as a wide spectrum of neuropsychiatric abnormalities, from subclinical changes (mild cognitive impairment) to marked disorientation, confusion and coma. The clinical and economic burden of HE is considerable, and it contributes greatly to impaired quality of life, morbidity and mortality. This review will critically discuss the latest classification of HE, as well as the pathogenesis and pathophysiological pathways underlying the neurological decline in patients with end-stage liver disease. In addition, management strategies, diagnostic approaches, currently available therapeutic options and novel treatment strategies are discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Christopher F Rose
- Hepato-Neuro Laboratory, CRCHUM, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Canada.
| | - Piero Amodio
- Department of Medicine, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Jasmohan S Bajaj
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Virginia Commonwealth University and McGuire VA Medical Center, Richmond, Virginia, USA
| | - Radha Krishan Dhiman
- Department of Hepatology, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India
| | | | - Simon D Taylor-Robinson
- Department of Surgery and Cancer, St. Mary's Hospital Campus, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Hendrik Vilstrup
- Department of Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Aarhus University Hospital, Denmark
| | - Rajiv Jalan
- Liver Failure Group, Institute for Liver and Digestive Health, University College London, Royal Free Campus, London, United Kingdom; European Foundation for the Study of Chronic Liver Failure, Barcelona, Spain.
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
Zaccherini G, Tufoni M, Bernardi M. Albumin Administration is Efficacious in the Management of Patients with Cirrhosis: A Systematic Review of the Literature. Hepat Med 2020; 12:153-172. [PMID: 33149707 PMCID: PMC7602890 DOI: 10.2147/hmer.s264231] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2020] [Accepted: 09/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The use of albumin in patients with cirrhosis has been extensively discussed over recent years. Current treatment approaches depend on targeting related complications, aiming to treat and/or prevent circulatory dysfunction, bacterial infections and multi-organ failure. Albumin has been shown to prolong survival and reduce complications in patients with cirrhosis. This review aims to ascertain whether the use of albumin is justified in patients with cirrhosis. A systematic review of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and meta-analyses evaluating albumin use in patients with cirrhosis published between 1985 and February 2020 was conducted; the quality and risk of bias of the included studies were assessed. In total, 45 RCTs and 10 meta-analyses were included. Based on the included evidence, albumin is superior at preventing and controlling the incidence of cirrhosis complications vs other plasma expanders. Recent studies reported that long-term albumin administration to patients with decompensated cirrhosis improves survival with a 38% reduction in the mortality hazard ratio compared with standard medical treatment alone. Albumin infusions are justified for routine use in patients with cirrhosis, and the use of albumin either alone or in combination with other treatments leads to clinical benefits. Long-term administration of albumin should be considered in some patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Giacomo Zaccherini
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum - University of Bologna, Bologna 40138, Italy
| | - Manuel Tufoni
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum - University of Bologna, Bologna 40138, Italy
| | - Mauro Bernardi
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum - University of Bologna, Bologna 40138, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
Henkel S, Vetterly C, Squires R, McKiernan P, Squires J. Pharmacological management of portal hypertension and its complications in children: lessons from adults and opportunities for the future. Expert Opin Pharmacother 2020; 22:291-304. [PMID: 33074032 DOI: 10.1080/14656566.2020.1825685] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Portal hypertension (PHT) and its complications in children are thought to be distinct from adult PHT in several areas, including the underlying bio-physiology of a child in which PHT develops, but also because of the pediatric-specific etiologies that drive disease progression. And yet pharmacologic approaches to PHT in children are mainly based on adult data, modified for pediatric practice. This reality has been driven by a lack of data specific to children. AREAS COVERED The authors discuss current therapeutic approaches to PHT in children, including management of acute gastrointestinal variceal bleed, pharmacotherapy in prophylaxis, and established and emerging therapies to combat systemic co-morbidities that result from PHT. The few areas where pediatric-specific data exist are highlighted and the many gaps in knowledge that remain unresolved are underscored. EXPERT OPINION Despite decades of experience, optimal management of pediatric PHT remains undefined. In large part, this can be directly linked to a lack of basic understanding related to the unique pathophysiology and natural history that defines PHT in children. As a result, meaningful research into the utility and effectiveness of pharmacotherapy in children with PHT remains in its infancy. Large, multi-center, prospective studies will be needed to begin to establish an infrastructure on which a pediatric-specific research agenda can be built.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Henkel
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, UPMC Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh , Pittsburgh, PA
| | - Carol Vetterly
- Department of Pharmacy, UPMC Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, University of Pittsburgh School of Pharmacy , Pittsburgh, PA
| | - Robert Squires
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, UPMC Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh , Pittsburgh, PA
| | - Patrick McKiernan
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, UPMC Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh , Pittsburgh, PA
| | - James Squires
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, UPMC Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh , Pittsburgh, PA
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
Abstract
Despite widespread use of lactulose and rifaximin for the treatment of hepatic encephalopathy, this complication of advanced liver disease remains a major burden on the health care system in the United States and continues to predispose to high morbidity and mortality. Several agents have surfaced over recent years with promise to treat hepatic encephalopathy and mitigate the cognitive impairment associated with this disease process. The purpose of this article is to highlight the leading emerging therapies in hepatic encephalopathy as well as their therapeutic targets.
Collapse
|
44
|
Kerbert AJC, Jalan R. Recent advances in understanding and managing hepatic encephalopathy in chronic liver disease. F1000Res 2020; 9. [PMID: 32399191 PMCID: PMC7194462 DOI: 10.12688/f1000research.22183.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatic encephalopathy (HE) is a common, severe complication of advanced chronic liver disease (CLD) and has a devastating impact on the patient’s quality of life and prognosis. The neurotoxin ammonia and the presence of systemic and neurological inflammation are considered the key drivers of this neuropsychiatric syndrome. Treatment options available in routine clinical practice are limited, and the development of novel therapies is hampered owing to the complexity and heterogeneity of HE. This review article aims to outline the current understanding of the pathomechanisms of HE and the recent advances in the identification and development of novel therapeutic targets.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Annarein J C Kerbert
- Institute for Liver and Digestive Health, University College London, Royal Free Campus, Rowland Hill Street, London, NW3 2PF, UK
| | - Rajiv Jalan
- Institute for Liver and Digestive Health, University College London, Royal Free Campus, Rowland Hill Street, London, NW3 2PF, UK
| |
Collapse
|
45
|
KASL clinical practice guidelines for liver cirrhosis: Varices, hepatic encephalopathy, and related complications. Clin Mol Hepatol 2020; 26:83-127. [PMID: 31918536 PMCID: PMC7160350 DOI: 10.3350/cmh.2019.0010n] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2019] [Accepted: 10/23/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
|
46
|
Tufoni M, Zaccherini G, Caraceni P, Bernardi M. Albumin: Indications in chronic liver disease. United European Gastroenterol J 2020; 8:528-535. [PMID: 32213034 DOI: 10.1177/2050640620910339] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Albumin is currently employed as a plasma expander to prevent and treat specific complications of cirrhosis with ascites, such as the prevention of paracentesis-induced circulatory dysfunction and renal dysfunction induced by spontaneous bacterial peritonitis, as well as the diagnosis and treatment of acute kidney injury and hepatorenal syndrome. Recently, evidence has shown that long-term albumin administration in patients with decompensated cirrhosis reduces mortality and incidence of complications, eases the management of ascites, is cost effective, and has a good safety profile.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Manuel Tufoni
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, S Orsola-Malpighi University Hospital, Bologna, Italy
| | - Giacomo Zaccherini
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, S Orsola-Malpighi University Hospital, Bologna, Italy
| | - Paolo Caraceni
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, S Orsola-Malpighi University Hospital, Bologna, Italy
| | - Mauro Bernardi
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, S Orsola-Malpighi University Hospital, Bologna, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
47
|
Ridola L, Riggio O, Gioia S, Faccioli J, Nardelli S. Clinical management of type C hepatic encephalopathy. United European Gastroenterol J 2020; 8:536-543. [PMID: 32213035 DOI: 10.1177/2050640620909675] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Type-C hepatic encephalopathy is a complex neurological syndrome, characteristic of patients with liver disease, causing a wide and complex spectrum of nonspecific neurological and psychiatric manifestations, ranging from a subclinical entity, minimal hepatic encephalopathy, to a deep form in which a complete alteration of consciousness can be observed: overt hepatic encephalopathy. Overt hepatic encephalopathy occurs in 30-40% of patients. According to the time course, hepatic encephalopathy is subdivided into episodic, recurrent and persistent. Diagnostic strategies range from simple clinical scales to more complex psychometric and neurophysiological tools. Therapeutic options may vary between episodic hepatic encephalopathy, in which it is important to define and treat the precipitating factor and hepatic encephalopathy and secondary prophylaxis, where the standard of care is non-absorbable disaccharides and rifaximin. Grey areas and future needs remain the therapeutic approach to minimal hepatic encephalopathy and issues in the design of therapeutic studies for hepatic encephalopathy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lorenzo Ridola
- Department of Translational and Precision Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Oliviero Riggio
- Department of Translational and Precision Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Stefania Gioia
- Department of Translational and Precision Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Jessica Faccioli
- Department of Translational and Precision Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Silvia Nardelli
- Department of Translational and Precision Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
48
|
Bai Z, Bernardi M, Yoshida EM, Li H, Guo X, Méndez-Sánchez N, Li Y, Wang R, Deng J, Qi X. Albumin infusion may decrease the incidence and severity of overt hepatic encephalopathy in liver cirrhosis. Aging (Albany NY) 2019; 11:8502-8525. [PMID: 31596729 PMCID: PMC6814610 DOI: 10.18632/aging.102335] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2019] [Accepted: 09/22/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The role of human albumin infusion for the prevention and treatment of overt hepatic encephalopathy (HE) in liver cirrhosis remains unclear. RESULTS Among the 708 patients without pre-existing overt HE, albumin infusion significantly decreased the incidence of overt HE (4.20% versus 12.70%, P<0.001) and in-hospital mortality (1.70% versus 5.40%, P=0.008). Among the 182 patients with overt HE at admission or during hospitalization, albumin infusion significantly improved overt HE (84.60% versus 68.10%, P=0.009) and decreased in-hospital mortality (7.70% versus 19.80%, P=0.018). Meta-analysis of 6 studies found that albumin infusion might decrease the risk of overt HE (OR=1.63, P=0.07), but the difference was not statistically significant. Meta-analysis of 3 studies found that albumin infusion significantly improved overt HE (OR=2.40, P=0.04). CONCLUSIONS Based on the results of our retrospective study and meta-analysis, albumin infusion might prevent from the occurrence of overt HE and improve the severity of overt HE in cirrhosis. Our retrospective study also suggested that albumin infusion improved the outcomes of cirrhotic patients regardless of overt HE. METHODS Cirrhotic patients consecutively admitted between January 2010 and June 2014 were considered in a retrospective study. A 1:1 propensity score matching analysis was performed. Additionally, publications regarding albumin infusion for the management of overt HE were systematically searched. Meta-analyses were performed by random-effect model. Odds ratio (OR) was calculated.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhaohui Bai
- Department of Gastroenterology, General Hospital of Northern Theater Command (formerly called General Hospital of Shenyang Military Area), Shenyang, P.R. China
- Postgraduate College, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, P.R. China
| | - Mauro Bernardi
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Eric M. Yoshida
- Division of Gastroenterology, Vancouver General Hospital, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Hongyu Li
- Department of Gastroenterology, General Hospital of Northern Theater Command (formerly called General Hospital of Shenyang Military Area), Shenyang, P.R. China
| | - Xiaozhong Guo
- Department of Gastroenterology, General Hospital of Northern Theater Command (formerly called General Hospital of Shenyang Military Area), Shenyang, P.R. China
| | - Nahum Méndez-Sánchez
- Liver Research Unit, Medica Sur Clinic and Foundation and Faculty of Medicine, National Autonomous University of Mexico, Mexico
| | - Yingying Li
- Department of Gastroenterology, General Hospital of Northern Theater Command (formerly called General Hospital of Shenyang Military Area), Shenyang, P.R. China
| | - Ran Wang
- Department of Gastroenterology, General Hospital of Northern Theater Command (formerly called General Hospital of Shenyang Military Area), Shenyang, P.R. China
| | - Jiao Deng
- Department of Pharmacology, General Hospital of Northern Theater Command, (formerly called General Hospital of Shenyang Military Area), Shenyang, P.R. China
| | - Xingshun Qi
- Department of Gastroenterology, General Hospital of Northern Theater Command (formerly called General Hospital of Shenyang Military Area), Shenyang, P.R. China
| |
Collapse
|
49
|
Abstract
Overt and covert hepatic encephalopathy (HE) are debilitating complications of cirrhosis. HE results in a poor quality of life for patients and their caregivers and, unless there is access to liver transplantation, the prognosis is poor. The development of overt HE is often unpredictable, and its management, particularly in the ward, remains challenging. There is an urgent need for novel approaches to treat HE. Until recently, therapies for this complication were disappointing, with frequently intolerable side effects such as diarrhoea and faecal incontinence. However, a non-absorbable antibiotic, rifaximin, * has been approved for the prevention of recurrent overt HE. It aims to reduce hospitalisation and resource use, as well as improve patients' quality of life. This article describes the practical aspects of diagnosing, classifying and managing HE. It reviews the pharmacological options for the treatment and prophylaxis of overt HE, and explores the evidence base demonstrating that rifaximin reduces the recurrence of overt HE.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Debbie L Shawcross
- Reader and Honorary Consultant Hepatologist, Institute of Liver Studies, School of Immunity and Microbial Science, Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, King's College Hospital, London
| |
Collapse
|
50
|
Cui Y, Guan S, Ding J, He Y, Li Q, Wang S, Sun H. Establishment and evaluation of a model for predicting 3-month mortality in Chinese patients with hepatic encephalopathy. Metab Brain Dis 2019; 34:213-221. [PMID: 30443767 DOI: 10.1007/s11011-018-0333-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2017] [Accepted: 10/30/2018] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Hepatic encephalopathy (HE) is a serious complication of liver disease. To establish a model for predicting 3-month mortality in patients with HE in China. This retrospective study included 609 patients with HE admitted to the Peoples' Hospital, Liaocheng City, China (August 2006 to January 2016). Patients were allocated to a modeling (n = 409) or validation (n = 200) group. Demographic/clinical characteristics, laboratory test results, Model for End Stage Liver Disease (MELD) score and Child-Turcotte-Pugh (CTP) score were extracted from medical records. A model for predicting death within 3 months after admission was established using logistic regression analysis (modeling group). Model validity (validation group) was assessed using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis. 270/409(66.0%) patients died in the modeling group and 142/203(70.0%) died in the validation group. Compared with survivors, patients who died had more severe HE, and higher MELD score, CTP score, incidence of complications including hepatorenal syndrome (HRS) and upper gastrointestinal bleeding, and values for laboratory parameters including red blood cell count(RBC) and total bilirubin(TBIL)(P < 0.05). Regression analysis revealed RBC, TBIL, HE stage, HRS and upper gastrointestinal bleeding as independent factors associated with death (P < 0.05). The area under the ROC curve (AUC) for the model was 0.931.The model had a higher Youden index than MELD or CTP scores and predicted death in the validation group with a sensitivity of 83.1% and specificity of 93.4%. The established model has superior performance to MELD and CTP scores for predicting mortality in patients with HE.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yanping Cui
- Department of Liver Disease, Liaocheng People's Hospital, Liaocheng, China
| | - Shan Guan
- Department of Liver Disease, Liaocheng People's Hospital, Liaocheng, China
| | - Jie Ding
- Central Laboratory, Liaocheng People's Hospital, Liaocheng, China
| | - Yukai He
- Department of Liver Disease, Liaocheng People's Hospital, Liaocheng, China
| | - Qingfang Li
- Department of Liver Disease, Liaocheng People's Hospital, Liaocheng, China
| | - Sikui Wang
- Department of Liver Disease, Liaocheng People's Hospital, Liaocheng, China
| | - Huiling Sun
- Department of Gastroenterology, Liaocheng People's Hospital, Liaocheng, 252004, China.
| |
Collapse
|