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Pearson M, Nobes J, Macpherson I, Gold L, Miller M, Dow E, Dillon JF. Enhanced liver fibrosis (ELF) score predicts hepatic decompensation and mortality. JHEP Rep 2024; 6:101062. [PMID: 38826498 PMCID: PMC11141136 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhepr.2024.101062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2024] [Revised: 02/22/2024] [Accepted: 03/05/2024] [Indexed: 06/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Background & Aims In community pathways for detection of liver disease the most common reason for referral is fibrosis assessment. We investigated the impact of adding the Enhanced Liver Fibrosis (ELF) score as a second-line test (subsequent to an indeterminate or high Fibrosis-4 index [FIB-4] and/or non-alcoholic fatty liver disease fibrosis score) to guide referral and prognostication in our multi-aetiology pathway. Methods Patients with ELF results from the intelligent Liver Function Testing (iLFT) pathway were recruited. Case note review was undertaken to compare ELF with endpoints of cirrhosis, hepatic decompensation, and mortality (liver-related and all-cause death). Results In total, 1,327 individuals were included with a median follow-up of 859 days and median ELF score of 10.2. Overall sensitivity for cirrhosis at the 9.8 threshold was 94% (100% for metabolic-associated steatotic liver disease, 89% for alcohol-related liver disease). Determination of the ELF score as a second-line test reduced the referral rate by 34%. ELF scores predicted hepatic outcomes; each unit change was associated with increased decompensation (adjusted Hazard Ratio [aHR] 2.215, 95% CI: 1.934-2.537) and liver-related mortality (aHR 2.024, 95% CI: 1.674-2.446). ELF outperformed FIB-4 for risk of liver-related mortality, particularly in the short-term (area under the curve [AUC] 94.3% vs. 82.8% at six months). Where FIB-4 was indeterminate, ELF had higher AUC for all outcomes within at least 2 years. ELF ≥13 was associated with particularly high rates of decompensation (26% within 90 days) and all-cause mortality (38% at 1 year). Conclusions The addition of ELF reduced the number of individuals referred for fibrosis assessment following iLFT pathway testing and provided useful prognostic information. Individuals with ELF scores ≥13 were considered at high-risk of negative outcomes warranting urgent clinical assessment. Impact and implications Primary care pathways for suspected liver disease are increasingly common and often lead to increased specialist hepatology referrals for fibrosis assessment. This study, using clinical follow-up for liver-related outcomes, provides further evidence supporting ELF testing to safely reduce referrals in a two-step approach when combined with other simple fibrosis markers. Additionally, ELF scores predict liver-related morbidity and mortality, with ELF scores ≥13 indicating particularly high-risk patients. This study may help inform the implementation of diagnostic pathways for early detection of liver disease and highlights the need for urgent review of individuals with very high ELF scores.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jennifer Nobes
- Department of Blood Sciences, NHS Tayside, Dundee, Scotland, UK
- Gut Group, Division of Molecular and Cellular Medicine, University of Dundee, Dundee, Scotland, UK
| | - Iain Macpherson
- Gut Group, Division of Molecular and Cellular Medicine, University of Dundee, Dundee, Scotland, UK
| | - Lucy Gold
- School of Medicine, University of Dundee, Dundee, Scotland, UK
| | - Michael Miller
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, NHS Tayside, Dundee, Scotland, UK
| | - Ellie Dow
- Department of Blood Sciences, NHS Tayside, Dundee, Scotland, UK
| | - John F. Dillon
- Gut Group, Division of Molecular and Cellular Medicine, University of Dundee, Dundee, Scotland, UK
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, NHS Tayside, Dundee, Scotland, UK
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2
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Needham E, Webb G. Hepatic encephalopathy: a neurologist's perspective. Pract Neurol 2024; 24:200-206. [PMID: 38453473 DOI: 10.1136/pn-2023-003802] [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] [Accepted: 02/18/2024] [Indexed: 03/09/2024]
Abstract
Liver disease is increasingly common, estimated to affect over 25% of the world's population. Failure of the liver to maintain a normal metabolic milieu leads to impaired brain function (hepatic encephalopathy), and conditions that cause liver disease can themselves predispose to neurological disease. As neurologists' involvement with the acute take increases, it is important that we are familiar with the neurological complications of liver disease, their investigation and management, and to know which other neurological diseases occur in this patient population. In this article, we review the causes, presentation and treatment of hepatic encephalopathy, and discuss important differential diagnoses in patients with liver disease who present with neurological disturbance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edward Needham
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
- Department of Neurology, Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge, UK
| | - Gwilym Webb
- Department of Hepatology, Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge, UK
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3
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Sarraf B, Skoien R, Hartel G, O'Beirne J, Clark PJ, Collins L, Leggett B, Powell EE, Valery PC. Rising hospital admissions for alcohol-related cirrhosis and the impact of sex and comorbidity - a data linkage study. Public Health 2024; 232:178-187. [PMID: 38795666 DOI: 10.1016/j.puhe.2024.04.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2023] [Revised: 04/15/2024] [Accepted: 04/21/2024] [Indexed: 05/28/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES International studies have shown shifting demographic data and rising hospitalizations for alcohol-related cirrhosis (ARC), with a paucity of data from Australia. We examined hospitalizations, mortality and demographic data for people admitted with ARC over the last decade in Queensland, Australia. STUDY DESIGN Data linkage study. METHODS A retrospective analysis of adults hospitalized with ARC during 2008-2019 was performed using state-wide admissions data. International Classification of Diseases, 10th revision, codes identified admissions with the principal diagnosis of ARC based on validated algorithms. Comorbidity was assessed using the Charlson Comorbidity Index. RESULTS A total of 7152 individuals had 24,342 hospital admissions with ARC (16,388 were for ARC). There was a predominance of males (72.6%) and age ≥50 years (80.4%) at index admission. Females were admitted at a significantly younger age than men (59% of women and 43% of men were aged <60 years, P < 0.001). Comorbidities were common, with 45.1% of people having at least one comorbidity. More than half (54.6%) of the patients died over the study period (median follow-up time was 5.1 years; interquartile range 2.4-8.6). Women had significantly lower mortality, with 47.6% (95% confidence interval [CI] 45.0-50.2) probability of 5-year survival, compared with 40.1% (95% CI 38.5-41.6) in men. In multivariable analysis, this was attributable to significantly lower age and comorbidity burden in women. Significantly lower survival was seen in people with higher comorbidity burden. Overall, the number of admissions for ARC increased 2.2-fold from 869 admissions in 2008 to 1932 in 2019. CONCLUSIONS Hospital admissions for ARC have risen substantially in the last decade. Females were admitted at a younger age, with fewer comorbidities and had lower mortality compared with males. The association between greater comorbidity burden and higher mortality has important clinical implications, as comorbidity-directed interventions may reduce mortality.
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Affiliation(s)
- B Sarraf
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Princess Alexandra Hospital, Brisbane, QLD, Australia; QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Herston, QLD, Australia.
| | - R Skoien
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital, Brisbane, QLD, Australia.
| | - G Hartel
- QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Herston, QLD, Australia; School of Public Health, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia; School of Nursing, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD, Australia.
| | - J O'Beirne
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Sunshine Coast University Hospital, Sunshine Coast, QLD, Australia.
| | - P J Clark
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Princess Alexandra Hospital, Brisbane, QLD, Australia; Mater Hospital Brisbane, South Brisbane, QLD, Australia; Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, QLD, Australia.
| | - L Collins
- QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Herston, QLD, Australia.
| | - B Leggett
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital, Brisbane, QLD, Australia; Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, QLD, Australia.
| | - E E Powell
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Princess Alexandra Hospital, Brisbane, QLD, Australia; QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Herston, QLD, Australia; Centre for Liver Disease Research, Translational Research Institute, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, QLD, Australia.
| | - P C Valery
- QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Herston, QLD, Australia; Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, QLD, Australia.
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Nobes J, Leith D, Handjiev S, Dillon JF, Dow E. Intelligent Liver Function Testing (iLFT): An Intelligent Laboratory Approach to Identifying Chronic Liver Disease. Diagnostics (Basel) 2024; 14:960. [PMID: 38732374 PMCID: PMC11083526 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics14090960] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2024] [Revised: 04/29/2024] [Accepted: 05/02/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024] Open
Abstract
The intelligent Liver Function Testing (iLFT) pathway is a novel, algorithm-based system which provides automated laboratory investigations and clinical feedback on abnormal liver function test (LFT) results from primary care. iLFT was introduced to NHS Tayside, Scotland, in August 2018 in response to vast numbers of abnormal LFTs, many of which were not appropriately investigated, coupled with rising mortality from chronic liver disease. Here, we outline the development and implementation of the iLFT pathway, considering the implications for the diagnostic laboratories, primary care services and specialist hepatology clinics. Additionally, we describe the utility, outcomes and evolution of iLFT, which was used over 11,000 times in its first three years alone. Finally, we will consider the future of iLFT and propose areas where similar 'intelligent' approaches could be used to add value to laboratory investigations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer Nobes
- Department of Blood Sciences, NHS Tayside, Ninewells Hospital, Dundee DD1 9SY, UK
- Population Health & Genomics, School of Medicine, University of Dundee, Dundee DD1 9SY, UK
| | - Damien Leith
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, NHS Tayside, Ninewells Hospital, Dundee DD1 9SY, UK
- Gut Group, School of Medicine, University of Dundee, Dundee DD1 9SY, UK
| | - Sava Handjiev
- Department of Blood Sciences, NHS Tayside, Ninewells Hospital, Dundee DD1 9SY, UK
- Gut Group, School of Medicine, University of Dundee, Dundee DD1 9SY, UK
| | - John F. Dillon
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, NHS Tayside, Ninewells Hospital, Dundee DD1 9SY, UK
- Gut Group, School of Medicine, University of Dundee, Dundee DD1 9SY, UK
| | - Ellie Dow
- Department of Blood Sciences, NHS Tayside, Ninewells Hospital, Dundee DD1 9SY, UK
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Subhani M, Dhanda A, Olaru A, Dunford L, Ahmad N, Wragg A, Frost K, Greenwood J, King M, Jones KA, Rosenberg W, Sinclair J, Rennick-Egglestone S, Morling JR, Patel K, Ryder SD. Top ten research priorities for alcohol use disorder and alcohol-related liver disease: results of a multistakeholder research priority setting partnership. Lancet Gastroenterol Hepatol 2024; 9:400-402. [PMID: 38330981 DOI: 10.1016/s2468-1253(24)00009-8] [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] [Received: 01/22/2024] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 02/10/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Mohsan Subhani
- Nottingham Digestive Diseases Centre, Institute of Mental Health, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2UH, UK; National Institutes of Health Research, Nottingham Biomedical Research Centre, Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust and the University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK.
| | - Ashwin Dhanda
- Faculty of Health, University of Plymouth, Plymouth, UK
| | - Adina Olaru
- Nottingham Digestive Diseases Centre, Institute of Mental Health, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2UH, UK; School of Medicine, Institute of Mental Health, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2UH, UK
| | - Louise Dunford
- James Lind Alliance, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK; Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Warwick, UK
| | - Nahid Ahmad
- James Lind Alliance, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - Andrew Wragg
- National Institutes of Health Research, Nottingham Biomedical Research Centre, Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust and the University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Kate Frost
- National Institutes of Health Research, Nottingham Biomedical Research Centre, Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust and the University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | | | - Melinda King
- National Institutes of Health Research, Nottingham Biomedical Research Centre, Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust and the University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK; Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - Katy A Jones
- School of Medicine, Institute of Mental Health, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2UH, UK
| | - William Rosenberg
- Institute for Liver and Digestive Diseases, University College London, London, UK
| | - Julia Sinclair
- National Institutes of Health Research, Nottingham Biomedical Research Centre, Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust and the University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK; Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - Stefan Rennick-Egglestone
- Institute of Mental Health, School of Health Sciences, Institute of Mental Health, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2UH, UK
| | - Joanne R Morling
- Nottingham Centre for Public Health and Epidemiology, Institute of Mental Health, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2UH, UK
| | | | - Stephen D Ryder
- Nottingham Digestive Diseases Centre, Institute of Mental Health, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2UH, UK; National Institutes of Health Research, Nottingham Biomedical Research Centre, Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust and the University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
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6
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Patel VC, McPhail MJ, Uddin R, Jafari H, Lawrence V, Le Boutillier C, Shearer J, Yaziji N, Cape A, Ahmed H, Ward C, Walsh P, Besly K, Zamalloa A, Kelly J, Carter B. Beta-blockers or Placebo for Primary Prophylaxis (BOPPP) of oesophageal varices: study protocol for a randomised controlled trial. Trials 2024; 25:265. [PMID: 38627804 PMCID: PMC11022376 DOI: 10.1186/s13063-024-08063-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2023] [Accepted: 03/18/2024] [Indexed: 04/19/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Liver disease is within the top five causes of premature death in adults. Deaths caused by complications of cirrhosis continue to rise, whilst deaths related to other non-liver disease areas are declining. Portal hypertension is the primary sequelae of cirrhosis and is associated with the development of variceal haemorrhage, ascites, hepatic encephalopathy and infection, collectively termed hepatic decompensation, which leads to hospitalisation and mortality. It remains uncertain whether administering a non-selective beta-blocker (NSBB), specifically carvedilol, at an earlier stage, i.e. when oesophageal varices are small, can prevent VH and reduce all-cause decompensation (ACD). METHODS/DESIGN The BOPPP trial is a pragmatic, multicentre, placebo-controlled, triple-blinded, randomised controlled trial (RCT) in England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. Patients aged 18 years or older with cirrhosis and small oesophageal varices that have never bled will be recruited, subject to exclusion criteria. The trial aims to enrol 740 patients across 55 hospitals in the UK. Patients are allocated randomly on a 1:1 ratio to receive either carvedilol 6.25 mg (a NSBB) or a matched placebo, once or twice daily, for 36 months, to attain adequate power to determine the effectiveness of carvedilol in preventing or reducing ACD. The primary outcome is the time to first decompensating event. It is a composite primary outcome made up of variceal haemorrhage (VH, new or worsening ascites, new or worsening hepatic encephalopathy (HE), spontaneous bacterial peritonitis (SBP), hepatorenal syndrome, an increase in Child-Pugh grade by 1 grade or MELD score by 5 points, and liver-related mortality. Secondary outcomes include progression to medium or large oesophageal varices, development of gastric, duodenal, or ectopic varices, participant quality of life, healthcare costs and transplant-free survival. DISCUSSION The BOPPP trial aims to investigate the clinical and cost-effectiveness of carvedilol in patients with cirrhosis and small oesophageal varices to determine whether this non-selective beta-blocker can prevent or reduce hepatic decompensation. There is clinical equipoise on whether intervening in cirrhosis, at an earlier stage of portal hypertension, with NSBB therapy is beneficial. Should the trial yield a positive result, we anticipate that the administration and use of carvedilol will become widespread with pathways developed to standardise the administration of the medication in primary care. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION The trial has been approved by the National Health Service (NHS) Research Ethics Committee (REC) (reference number: 19/YH/0015). The results of the trial will be submitted for publication in a peer-reviewed scientific journal. Participants will be informed of the results via the BOPPP website ( www.boppp-trial.org ) and partners in the British Liver Trust (BLT) organisation. TRIAL REGISTRATION EUDRACT reference number: 2018-002509-78. ISRCTN reference number: ISRCTN10324656. Registered on April 24 2019.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vishal C Patel
- Institute of Liver Studies, King's College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK.
- Institute of Liver Studies, Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, School of Immunology and Microbial Sciences, King's College London, London, UK.
- The Roger Williams Institute of Hepatology, Foundation for Liver Research, 111 Coldharbour Lane, London, SE5 9NT, UK.
| | - Mark J McPhail
- Institute of Liver Studies, King's College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
- Institute of Liver Studies, Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, School of Immunology and Microbial Sciences, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Ruhama Uddin
- Institute of Liver Studies, King's College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Hassan Jafari
- Department of Biostatistics and Health Informatics, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
- King's Clinical Trials Unit, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience,, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Vanessa Lawrence
- Health Service and Population Research Department, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Clair Le Boutillier
- Health Service and Population Research Department, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
- Division of Methodologies, Florence Nightingale Faculty of Nursing, Midwifery & Palliative Care, King's College London, London, UK
| | - James Shearer
- Health Service and Population Research Department, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Nahel Yaziji
- Health Service and Population Research Department, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Angela Cape
- King's Clinical Trials Unit, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience,, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Haroon Ahmed
- Cardiff University, Division of Population Medicine, Cardiff, UK
| | | | - Peter Walsh
- British Liver Trust, Venta Court, Winchester, UK
| | - Kevin Besly
- Institute of Liver Studies, King's College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Ane Zamalloa
- Institute of Liver Studies, King's College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Joanna Kelly
- King's Clinical Trials Unit, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience,, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Ben Carter
- Department of Biostatistics and Health Informatics, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
- King's Clinical Trials Unit, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience,, King's College London, London, UK
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Monnig MA, Treloar Padovano H, Monti PM. Alcohol-associated liver disease and behavioral and medical cofactors: unmet needs and opportunities. Front Public Health 2024; 12:1322460. [PMID: 38638470 PMCID: PMC11024463 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2024.1322460] [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] [Received: 10/25/2023] [Accepted: 03/25/2024] [Indexed: 04/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Chronic liver disease is a leading cause of death in the US and is often preventable. Rising burden, cost, and fatality due to liver disease are driven by intensified alcohol use in the US population and the contributions of comorbid conditions. This mini-review focuses on the topic of liver health in the context of chronic, behavioral cofactors of disease, using research-based examples from the Brown University Center for Addiction and Disease Risk Exacerbation (CADRE). Our aim is to illustrate the current challenges and opportunities in clinical research addressing liver health in the context of behavioral and medical comorbidity and to highlight next steps in this crucial area of public health research and clinical care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mollie A. Monnig
- Center for Alcohol and Addiction Studies, Brown University, Providence, RI, United States
- Center for Addiction and Disease Risk Exacerbation, Brown University, Providence, RI, United States
| | - Hayley Treloar Padovano
- Center for Alcohol and Addiction Studies, Brown University, Providence, RI, United States
- Center for Addiction and Disease Risk Exacerbation, Brown University, Providence, RI, United States
- Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior, Brown University, Providence, RI, United States
| | - Peter M. Monti
- Center for Alcohol and Addiction Studies, Brown University, Providence, RI, United States
- Center for Addiction and Disease Risk Exacerbation, Brown University, Providence, RI, United States
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Cagnin S, Martini A, Donato D, Angeli P, Pontisso P. Electronic sanitary database: a new potential tool to identify occult chronic liver disease in general population. Intern Emerg Med 2024; 19:641-647. [PMID: 38227274 DOI: 10.1007/s11739-023-03507-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2023] [Accepted: 12/06/2023] [Indexed: 01/17/2024]
Abstract
Chronic liver disease (CLD) is a leading global cause of mortality, morbidity, and healthcare resource utilization. However, the burden of CLD is underestimated because the course of the disease is often asymptomatic until clinical decompensation and the development of life-threatening complications. In this study, we assessed the use of available blood tests from electronic medical records for identifying individuals with undiagnosed CLD in the general population. We analyzed a total of 202,529 blood tests obtained from 99,848 adults recorded in the Electronic Health Records of the Padova Teaching Hospital. Transaminases levels > 1.5 times the normal value indicated occult CLD, while platelet counts < 120,000/μL identified occult cirrhosis. We characterized patients using Italian Medical Exemptions (IME), excluding oncologic cases. Overt and occult cirrhosis prevalence was 1% and 4.18%, respectively, while overt and occult CLD affected 2.85% and 4.61% of the population. The epidemiology of patients with overt and occult cirrhosis was similar but significantly different from that of the controls. Among subjects aged 60-70 years, working disability was twofold higher in those with occult cirrhosis compared to those with overt cirrhosis. Occult CLD and cirrhosis had higher prevalence rates than diagnosed cases in the general population. Electronic medical record data may serve as a valuable tool for CLD identification, potentially reducing cirrhosis development and clinical decompensation. This, in turn, may lead to a decrease in the economic impact on the healthcare system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Cagnin
- Unit of Internal Medicine and Hepatology (UIMH), Department of Medicine (DIMED), Padova Teaching Hospital, Padua, Italy
| | - Andrea Martini
- Unit of Internal Medicine and Hepatology (UIMH), Department of Medicine (DIMED), Padova Teaching Hospital, Padua, Italy
| | - Daniele Donato
- Medical Head Office, Padova Teaching Hospital, Padua, Italy
| | - Paolo Angeli
- Unit of Internal Medicine and Hepatology (UIMH), Department of Medicine (DIMED), Padova Teaching Hospital, Padua, Italy
| | - Patrizia Pontisso
- Unit of Internal Medicine and Hepatology (UIMH), Department of Medicine (DIMED), Padova Teaching Hospital, Padua, Italy.
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Mehta G, Lin S, Nadar A, PV B, Kumar R, Balaji A, Macdonald S, Sheikh MF, Saeidinejad M, Sharma SR, King JJ, Mookerjee RP, McDonagh L, Afuwape SA, Moore K, Jalan R. AlcoChange: A digital therapeutic for patients with alcohol-related liver disease. JHEP Rep 2024; 6:100993. [PMID: 38425452 PMCID: PMC10899036 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhepr.2023.100993] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2023] [Revised: 11/27/2023] [Accepted: 11/30/2023] [Indexed: 03/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Background & Aims Maintenance of abstinence in alcohol-related liver disease (ARLD) is a major unmet therapeutic need. Digital therapeutics can deliver ongoing behavioural therapy, in real-time, for chronic conditions. The aim of this project was to develop and clinically test AlcoChange, a novel digital therapeutic for ARLD. Methods AlcoChange was developed using validated behaviour change techniques and a digital alcohol breathalyser. This was an open-label, single-centre study. Patients with ARLD, ongoing alcohol use (within 1 month) and possession of a suitable smartphone were eligible. Patients were recruited from inpatient and outpatient settings, and received AlcoChange therapy for 3 months. The primary outcome was reduction in alcohol use from baseline to 3 months, measured by timeline follow-back. Secondary outcomes included: (i) compliance with the AlcoChange app, (ii) alcohol-related and all-cause hospital re-admissions up to 1 year, (iii) qualitative analysis to determine factors associated with compliance. Results Sixty-five patients were recruited, of whom 41 completed the study per protocol. Patients compliant with the intervention (>60 logins over 3 months) had a significant reduction in alcohol use from baseline compared to non-compliant patients (median [IQR]: -100% [100% to -55.1%] vs. -57.1% [-95.3% to +32.13%], p = 0.029). The proportion attaining abstinence at 3 months was higher in the compliant group (57.1% vs. 22.2%, p = 0.025). The compliant group had a significantly decreased risk of subsequent alcohol-related re-admission up to 12 months (p = 0.008). Qualitative analysis demonstrated that receiving in-app feedback and the presence of a health-related 'sentinel event' were predictors of compliance with the intervention. Conclusions Use of the novel digital therapeutic, AlcoChange, was associated with a significant reduction in alcohol use and an increase in the proportion of patients with ARLD attaining abstinence. Definitive randomised trials are warranted for this intervention. Impact and implications Alcohol-related liver disease (ARLD) is an increasing health problem worldwide. The main cause of death and disability in ARLD is ongoing alcohol consumption, but few patients receive medications or talking therapy to maintain abstinence. This study demonstrated that a digital therapeutic, linked to a smartphone, may help reduce alcohol consumption and alcohol-related hospital admissions in these patients. If validated in larger, randomised, trials, digital therapeutics may have a role in the primary and secondary prevention of complicatons from ARLD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gautam Mehta
- Institute for Liver and Digestive Health, University College London, London, UK
- Roger Williams Institute of Hepatology, Foundation for Liver Research, London, UK
- Royal Free London NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Su Lin
- Institute for Liver and Digestive Health, University College London, London, UK
- Department of Hepatology, Hepatology Research Institute, The First Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fujian, China
| | - Aida Nadar
- Institute for Liver and Digestive Health, University College London, London, UK
| | | | | | | | - Stewart Macdonald
- Institute for Liver and Digestive Health, University College London, London, UK
- Royal Free London NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Mohammed F. Sheikh
- Institute for Liver and Digestive Health, University College London, London, UK
- Royal Free London NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - MohammadMahdi Saeidinejad
- Institute for Liver and Digestive Health, University College London, London, UK
- Royal Free London NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | | | - Ji J. King
- Royal Free London NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | | | - Lorraine McDonagh
- Institute of Epidemiology and Health Care, University College London, London, UK
| | - Sarah A. Afuwape
- Institute for Liver and Digestive Health, University College London, London, UK
- Royal Free London NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Kevin Moore
- Institute for Liver and Digestive Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Rajiv Jalan
- Institute for Liver and Digestive Health, University College London, London, UK
- European Foundation for the Study of Chronic Liver Failure, Barcelona, Spain
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Kondili LA, Lazarus JV, Jepsen P, Murray F, Schattenberg JM, Korenjak M, Craxì L, Buti M. Inequities in primary liver cancer in Europe: The state of play. J Hepatol 2024; 80:645-660. [PMID: 38237866 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2023.12.031] [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: 06/14/2023] [Revised: 12/01/2023] [Accepted: 12/11/2023] [Indexed: 02/12/2024]
Abstract
Given the increasing burden of liver cancer in Europe, it is crucial to investigate how social determinants of health (SDoH) affect liver cancer risk factors and access to care in order to improve health outcomes equitably. This paper summarises the available evidence on the differential distribution of liver cancer risk factors, incidence, and health outcomes in the European Economic Area and the United Kingdom from an SDoH perspective. Vulnerable and marginalised populations have low socio-economic and educational levels and are the most affected by liver cancer risk factors. Reasons for this include varied access to hepatitis B virus vaccination and limited access to viral hepatitis B and C screening, harm reduction, and treatment. Additionally, alcohol-related liver disease remains highly prevalent among individuals with low education, insecure employment, economic instability, migrants, and deprived populations. Moreover, significant variation exists across Europe in the proportion of adults with steatotic liver disease, overweight/obesity, and diabetes, based on geographical area, gender, socio-economic and educational background, and density of ultra-processed food outlets. Inequities in cirrhosis mortality rates have been reported, with the highest death rates among individuals living in socio-economically disadvantaged areas and those with lower educational levels. Furthermore, insufficient healthcare access for key populations with primary liver cancer is influenced by complex healthcare systems, stigmatisation, discrimination, low education, language barriers, and fear of disclosure. These challenges contribute to inequities in liver cancer care pathways. Future studies are needed to explore the different SDoH-interlinked effects on liver cancer incidence and outcomes in European countries. The ultimate goal is to develop evidence-based multilevel public health interventions that reduce the SDoH impact in precipitating and perpetuating the disproportionate burden of liver cancer in specific populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Loreta A Kondili
- National Centre for Global Health, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy, UniCamillus International Medical University, Rome, Italy
| | - Jeffrey V Lazarus
- CUNY Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy (CUNY SPH), New York, NY, USA; Barcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal), Hospital Clínic, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain; Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Peter Jepsen
- Department of Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Frank Murray
- Beaumont Private Clinic, Beaumont, Dublin 9, Ireland
| | - Jörn M Schattenberg
- Department of Internal Medicine II, Saarland University Medical Center, Homburg and Saarland University, Saarbrücken, Germany
| | | | - Lucia Craxì
- Department of Biomedicine, Neuroscience, and Advanced Diagnostics, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Maria Buti
- Liver Unit, Hospital Universitario Vall d'Hebrón, Vall d'Hebron Barcelona Hospital Campus, Barcelona, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain.
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11
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Haque LY, Zuluaga P, Muga R, Fuster D. Treatment of alcohol use disorder in patients with alcohol-associated liver disease: Innovative approaches and a call to action. Addict Sci Clin Pract 2024; 19:19. [PMID: 38504384 PMCID: PMC10949674 DOI: 10.1186/s13722-024-00448-8] [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] [Received: 08/01/2023] [Accepted: 02/20/2024] [Indexed: 03/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Alcohol-associated liver disease is currently the leading cause of liver transplantation and liver deaths both in Europe and the United States. Efficacious treatments exist for alcohol use disorder, but they are seldomly prescribed for patients who need them. Besides, the presence of liver cirrhosis can complicate pharmacological treatment choices. In this review, we discuss established and innovative treatment strategies to treat unhealthy alcohol use in patients with alcohol-associated liver disease. We also describe the experience of our own institutions, Hospital Universitari Germans Trias i Pujol in Badalona (Spain) and Yale-New Haven Health and Yale Medicine (Connecticut. United States of America).
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Affiliation(s)
- Lamia Y Haque
- Department of Medicine, Digestive Diseases, & Program in Addiction Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Paola Zuluaga
- Department of Internal Medicine, Addiction Unit, Hospital Universitari Germans Trias i Pujol, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08916, Badalona (Barcelona), Spain
| | - Robert Muga
- Department of Internal Medicine, Addiction Unit, Hospital Universitari Germans Trias i Pujol, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08916, Badalona (Barcelona), Spain
| | - Daniel Fuster
- Department of Internal Medicine, Addiction Unit, Hospital Universitari Germans Trias i Pujol, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08916, Badalona (Barcelona), Spain.
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12
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Lee J, Byrne CJ, Brennan PN, MacPherson I, Dow E, Dillon JF. Optimal ALT threshold for the automated diagnosis of MASLD: A population-based study using iLFT. Ann Hepatol 2024; 29:101280. [PMID: 38219950 DOI: 10.1016/j.aohep.2023.101280] [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: 10/04/2023] [Revised: 11/07/2023] [Accepted: 11/13/2023] [Indexed: 01/16/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES Early diagnosis of metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), especially with advanced fibrosis, is crucial due to the increased risk of complications and mortality. Serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT) is commonly used; however, many patients have normal ranges (<55 U/L) who may remain undetected. We investigated the clinical implications of a lower ALT cut-off (>30 U/L) using intelligent liver function testing (iLFT) to identify MASLD patients with and without advanced fibrosis in primary care. MATERIALS AND METHODS All patients entering the iLFT diagnostic pathway had liver aetiological screening investigations if ALT >30 U/L. In those with MASLD the proportions with and without advanced fibrosis at different ALT thresholds: 31-41 U/L, 42-54 U/L and ≥55 U/L were compared. RESULTS 16,373 patients underwent iLFT between March 2016 to April 2022. 762 (5 %) patients had MASLD with abnormal fibrosis scores, while 908 (6 %) had MASLD with normal fibrosis scores. 428 (56 %) patients were assessed in liver clinics, where 169 (39 %) had evidence of fibrosis. Of these, 22 (13 %) had ALT 31-41 U/L, 31 (18 %) had ALT 42-54 U/L and 116 (69 %) had ALT ≥55 U/L. 145 (86 %) patients had advanced fibrosis or cirrhosis, where 20 (14 %) had ALT 31-41 U/L, 28 (19 %) had ALT 42-54 U/L and 97 (67 %) had ALT ≥55 U/L. CONCLUSIONS 33 % of MASLD patients with advanced fibrosis or cirrhosis had ALT 31-54 U/L, who would have been missed using the conventional ALT range. This suggests that lowering the ALT cut-off improves diagnosis of MASLD with advanced fibrosis in primary care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeremy Lee
- School of Medicine, University of Dundee, Ninewells Hospital and Medical School, Dundee, UK.
| | - Christopher J Byrne
- Division of Molecular and Clinical Medicine, University of Dundee, Ninewells Hospital and Medical School, Dundee, UK; Directorate of Public Health, Kings Cross Hospital, NHS Tayside, Dundee, UK
| | - Paul N Brennan
- Division of Molecular and Clinical Medicine, University of Dundee, Ninewells Hospital and Medical School, Dundee, UK; Centre for Regenerative Medicine, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Iain MacPherson
- Division of Molecular and Clinical Medicine, University of Dundee, Ninewells Hospital and Medical School, Dundee, UK
| | - Eleanor Dow
- Department of Blood Sciences, Ninewells Hospital and Medical School, NHS Tayside, Dundee, UK
| | - John F Dillon
- Division of Molecular and Clinical Medicine, University of Dundee, Ninewells Hospital and Medical School, Dundee, UK; Department of Gastroenterology, NHS Tayside, Ninewells Hospital and Medical School, Dundee, UK
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13
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Giles B, Fancey K, Gamble K, Riaz Z, Dowman JK, Fowell AJ, Aspinall RJ. Novel, nurse-led early postdischarge clinic is associated with fewer readmissions and lower mortality following hospitalisation with decompensated cirrhosis. Frontline Gastroenterol 2024; 15:124-129. [PMID: 38486673 PMCID: PMC10935524 DOI: 10.1136/flgastro-2023-102489] [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: 06/19/2023] [Accepted: 10/20/2023] [Indexed: 03/17/2024] Open
Abstract
Objective Patients hospitalised with decompensated cirrhosis have high rates of early unplanned readmission. Many readmissions are avoidable with secondary preventative strategies, but patients are often readmitted prior to outpatient review. To address this, we established a novel, nurse-led early postdischarge (EPD) clinic delivering goal-directed care for cirrhosis complications and evaluated the impact. Methods Retrospective cohort study comparing outcomes in 78 patients seen in the EPD clinic with 91 phenotypically matched controls receiving standard, consultant hepatologist care. Follow-up for 12 months from index admission with endpoints including survival, time to readmission, number of readmissions and healthcare burden. Results Median time to readmission was 51 days in controls and 98 days in the intervention group (p<0.01). The intervention cohort had significantly fewer readmissions at 30 days (12% vs 30%, p<0.01) and 90 days (27% vs 49%, p<0.01) but not significantly at 12 months (58% vs 68%, p=0.16) with an overall reduction in bed day usage of 29%. Mortality for the control group was 4% at 30 days with no deaths in the intervention group. There were significantly fewer deaths in the intervention group at 90 days (5% vs 15%, p<0.05) and 12 months (22% vs 41%, p<0.01). Conclusions Following an index hospitalisation with decompensated cirrhosis, goal-directed postdischarge care can be effectively delivered by specialist nurses, prior to outpatient review by hepatologists. This model was associated with significantly fewer readmissions, lower bed day usage and a reduced mortality. Our data suggest such models of care deserve wider implementation and further evaluation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin Giles
- Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Portsmouth Hospitals University NHS Trust, Portsmouth, UK
| | - Kirsty Fancey
- Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Portsmouth Hospitals University NHS Trust, Portsmouth, UK
| | - Karen Gamble
- Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Portsmouth Hospitals University NHS Trust, Portsmouth, UK
| | - Zeshan Riaz
- Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Portsmouth Hospitals University NHS Trust, Portsmouth, UK
| | - Joanna K Dowman
- Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Portsmouth Hospitals University NHS Trust, Portsmouth, UK
| | - Andrew J Fowell
- Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Portsmouth Hospitals University NHS Trust, Portsmouth, UK
| | - Richard J Aspinall
- Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Portsmouth Hospitals University NHS Trust, Portsmouth, UK
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14
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Tavabie OD, Salehi S, Aluvihare VR. The challenges and potential of microRNA-based therapy for patients with liver failure syndromes and hepatocellular carcinoma. Expert Opin Ther Targets 2024; 28:179-191. [PMID: 38487923 DOI: 10.1080/14728222.2024.2331598] [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: 12/21/2023] [Accepted: 03/13/2024] [Indexed: 03/20/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Morbidity and mortality from liver disease continues to rise worldwide. There are currently limited curative treatments for patients with liver failure syndromes, encompassing acute liver failure and decompensated cirrhosis states, outside of transplantation. Whilst there have been improvements in therapeutic options for patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), there remain challenges necessitating novel therapeutic agents. microRNA have long been seen as potential therapeutic targets but there has been limited clinical translation. AREAS COVERED We will discuss the limitations of conventional non-transplant management of patients with liver failure syndromes and HCC. We will provide an overview of microRNA and the challenges in developing and delivering microRNA-based therapeutic agents. We will finally provide an overview of microRNA-based therapeutic agents which have progressed to clinical trials. EXPERT OPINION microRNA have great potential to be developed into therapeutic agents due to their association with critical biological processes which govern health and disease. Utilizing microRNA sponges to target multiple microRNA associated with specific biological processes may improve their therapeutic efficacy. However, there needs to be significant improvements in delivery systems to ensure the safe delivery of microRNA to target sites and minimize systemic distribution. This currently significantly impacts the clinical translation of microRNA-based therapeutic agents.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Siamak Salehi
- Institute of Liver Studies, King's College Hospital, London, UK
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15
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Abeysekera KWM, Valenti L, Younossi Z, Dillon JF, Allen AM, Nourredin M, Rinella ME, Tacke F, Francque S, Ginès P, Thiele M, Newsome PN, Guha IN, Eslam M, Schattenberg JM, Alqahtani SA, Arrese M, Berzigotti A, Holleboom AG, Caussy C, Cusi K, Roden M, Hagström H, Wong VWS, Mallet V, Castera L, Lazarus JV, Tsochatzis EA. Implementation of a liver health check in people with type 2 diabetes. Lancet Gastroenterol Hepatol 2024; 9:83-91. [PMID: 38070521 DOI: 10.1016/s2468-1253(23)00270-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2023] [Revised: 07/31/2023] [Accepted: 08/01/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023]
Abstract
As morbidity and mortality related to potentially preventable liver diseases are on the rise globally, early detection of liver fibrosis offers a window of opportunity to prevent disease progression. Early detection of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease allows for initiation and reinforcement of guidance on bodyweight management, risk stratification for advanced liver fibrosis, and treatment optimisation of diabetes and other metabolic complications. Identification of alcohol-related liver disease provides the opportunity to support patients with detoxification and abstinence programmes. In all patient groups, identification of cirrhosis ensures that patients are enrolled in surveillance programmes for hepatocellular carcinoma and portal hypertension. When considering early detection strategies, success can be achieved from applying ad-hoc screening for liver fibrosis in established frameworks of care. Patients with type 2 diabetes are an important group to consider case findings of advanced liver fibrosis and cirrhosis, as up to 19% have advanced fibrosis (which is ten times higher than the general population) and almost 70% have non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. Additionally, patients with type 2 diabetes with alcohol use disorders have the highest proportion of liver-related morbidity of people with type 2 diabetes generally. Patients with type 2 diabetes receive an annual diabetes review as part of their routine clinical care, in which the health of many organs are considered. Yet, liver health is seldom included in this review. This Viewpoint argues that augmenting the existing risk stratification strategy with an additional liver health check provides the opportunity to detect advanced liver fibrosis, thereby opening a window for early interventions to prevent end-stage liver disease and its complications, including hepatocellular carcinoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kushala W M Abeysekera
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, UK; Department of Liver Medicine, Bristol Royal Infirmary, Bristol, UK
| | - Luca Valenti
- Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy; Precision Medicine, Biological Resource Center, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Zobair Younossi
- Beatty Liver and Obesity Research Program, Department of Medicine, Inova Fairfax Medical Campus, Falls Church, VA, USA
| | - John F Dillon
- Division of Molecular and Clinical Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Dundee, Dundee, UK
| | - Alina M Allen
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Mazen Nourredin
- Sherrie & Alan Conover Center for Liver Disease & Transplantation, Underwood Center for Digestive Disorders, Department of Medicine, Houston Methodist Hospital, Houston, Texas, USA; Houston Research Institute, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Mary E Rinella
- Pritzker School of Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Frank Tacke
- Department of Hepatology & Gastroenterology, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Sven Francque
- Department of Gastroenterology Hepatology, Antwerp University Hospital, Edegem, Belgium; Translational Sciences in Inflammation and Immunology, Laboratory of Experimental Medicine and Paediatrics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Care Sciences, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Pere Ginès
- Liver Unit, Hospital Clinic Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain; Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer, Barcelona, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas, Barcelona, Spain; Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Maja Thiele
- Center for Liver Research, Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark; Department for Clinical Research, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | - Philip N Newsome
- National Institute for Health Research, Birmingham Biomedical Research Centre, University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham, UK; Centre for Liver & Gastrointestinal Research, Institute of Immunology and Immunotherapy, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Indra Neil Guha
- National Institute for Health Research, Nottingham Biomedical Research Centre, Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust and the University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Mohammed Eslam
- Storr Liver Centre, Westmead Institute for Medical Research, Westmead Hospital and University of Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Jörn M Schattenberg
- Metabolic Liver Research Program, Department of Medicine, University Medical Center, Mainz, Germany
| | - Saleh A Alqahtani
- Liver Transplant Center, King Faisal Specialist Hospital & Research Center, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia; Division of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Marco Arrese
- Departamento de Gastroenterología, Escuela de Medicina, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Annalisa Berzigotti
- Department of Visceral Surgery and Medicine, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Adriaan G Holleboom
- Department of Vascular Medicine, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Cyrielle Caussy
- CarMeN Laboratory, INSERM, INRA, INSA Lyon, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, University of Lyon, Lyon, France; Department of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Nutrition, Hôpital Lyon Sud, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Lyon, France
| | - Kenneth Cusi
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Michael Roden
- Department of Endocrinology and Diabetology, Medical Faculty, Heinrich-Heine University Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany; Institute for Clinical Diabetology, German Diabetes Center, Leibniz Center for Diabetes Research, Heinrich-Heine University Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany; German Center for Diabetes Research, Partner Düsseldorf, Munich, Germany
| | - Hannes Hagström
- Department of Medicine, Huddinge, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Vincent Wai-Sun Wong
- Department of Medicine and Therapeutics, Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, China
| | - Vincent Mallet
- Faculty of Medicine, Université Paris Cité, F-75006, Paris, France; Service d'Hépatologie, Département Médico-Universitaire Cancérologie et Spécialités Médico-Chirurgicales, AP-HP.Centre, Groupe Hospitalier Cochin Port Royal, Paris, France
| | - Laurent Castera
- Department of Hepatology, Beaujon Hospital, Université Paris Cité, INSERM UMR1149, Paris, France
| | - Jeffrey V Lazarus
- Department of Health Policy and Mangement, City University of New York Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy, New York, NY, USA; Barcelona Institute for Global Health, Hospital Clinic Barcelona, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Emmanuel A Tsochatzis
- Sheila Sherlock Liver Unit, Royal Free Hospital, London, UK; UCL Institute of Liver and Digestive Health, University College London, UK.
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Regional variations in inpatient decompensated cirrhosis mortality may be associated with access to specialist care: results from a multicentre retrospective study. Frontline Gastroenterol 2024; 15:3-13. [PMID: 38487559 PMCID: PMC10935520 DOI: 10.1136/flgastro-2023-102412] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2023] [Accepted: 06/18/2023] [Indexed: 12/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Specialist centres have been developed to deliver high-quality Hepatology care. However, there is geographical inequity in accessing these centres in the United Kingdom (UK). We aimed to assess the impact of these centres on decompensated cirrhosis patient outcomes and understand which patients transfer to specialist centres. Methods A UK multicentred retrospective observational study was performed including emergency admissions for patients with decompensated cirrhosis in November 2019. Admissions were grouped by specialist/non-specialist centre designation, National Health Service region and whether a transfer to a more specialist centre occurred or not. Univariable and multivariable comparisons were made. Results 1224 admissions (1168 patients) from 104 acute hospitals were included in this analysis. Patients at specialist centres were more likely to be managed by a Consultant Gastroenterologist/Hepatologist on a Gastroenterology/Hepatology ward. Only 24 patients were transferred to a more specialist centre. These patients were more likely to be admitted for gastrointestinal bleeding and were not using alcohol. Specialist centres eliminated regional variations in mortality which were present at non-specialist centres. Low specialist Consultant staffing numbers impacted mortality at non-specialist centres (aOR 2.15 (95% CI 1.18 to 4.07)) but not at specialist centres. Hospitals within areas of high prevalence of deprivation were more likely to have lower specialist Consultant staffing numbers. Conclusions Specialist Hepatology centres improve patient care and standardise outcomes for patients with decompensated cirrhosis. There is a need to support service development and care delivery at non-specialist centres. Formal referral pathways are required to ensure all patients receive access to specialist interventions.
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Bhala N, Mellinger J, Asrani SK, Shah VH. Tackling the burden of preventable liver disease in the USA. Lancet Gastroenterol Hepatol 2024; 9:9-10. [PMID: 37956688 DOI: 10.1016/s2468-1253(23)00361-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2023] [Revised: 10/11/2023] [Accepted: 10/12/2023] [Indexed: 11/15/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Neeraj Bhala
- Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science, Rochester, MN 55905, USA; Queens Medical Centre, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK; Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham, University Hospital Birmingham, Birmingham, UK.
| | - Jessica Mellinger
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA; Department of Psychiatry, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Sumeet K Asrani
- Baylor University Medical Center, Baylor Scott and White Health, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Vijay H Shah
- Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science, Rochester, MN 55905, USA
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18
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Tavabie OD, Salehi S, Aluvihare VR. The challenges and potential in developing microRNA associated with regeneration as biomarkers to improve prognostication for liver failure syndromes and hepatocellular carcinoma. Expert Rev Mol Diagn 2024; 24:5-22. [PMID: 38059597 DOI: 10.1080/14737159.2023.2292642] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2023] [Accepted: 12/05/2023] [Indexed: 12/08/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Determining the need for liver transplantation remains critical in the management of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and liver failure syndromes (including acute liver failure and decompensated cirrhosis states). Conventional prognostic models utilize biomarkers of liver and non-liver failure and have limitations in their application. Novel biomarkers which predict regeneration may fulfil this niche. microRNA are implicated in health and disease and are present in abundance in the circulation. Despite this, they have not translated into mainstream clinical biomarkers. AREAS COVERED We will discuss current challenges in the prognostication of patients with liver failure syndromes as well as for patients with HCC. We will discuss biomarkers implicated with liver regeneration. We then provide an overview of the challenges in developing microRNA into clinically tractable biomarkers. Finally, we will provide a scoping review of microRNA which may have potential as prognostic biomarkers in liver failure syndromes and HCC. EXPERT OPINION Novel biomarkers are needed to improve prognostic models in liver failure syndromes and HCC. Biomarkers associated with liver regeneration are currently lacking and may fulfil this niche. microRNA have the potential to be developed into clinically tractable biomarkers but a consensus on standardizing methodology and reporting is required prior to large-scale studies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Siamak Salehi
- Institute of Liver Studies, King's College Hospital, London, UK
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19
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Forlano R, Stanic T, Jayawardana S, Mullish BH, Yee M, Mossialos E, Goldin R, Petta S, Tsochatzis E, Thursz M, Manousou P. A prospective study on the prevalence of MASLD in people with type-2 diabetes in the community. Cost effectiveness of screening strategies. Liver Int 2024; 44:61-71. [PMID: 37718933 DOI: 10.1111/liv.15730] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2023] [Revised: 08/18/2023] [Accepted: 08/31/2023] [Indexed: 09/19/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS As screening for the liver disease and risk-stratification pathways are not established in patients with type-2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), we evaluated the diagnostic performance and the cost-utility of different screening strategies for MASLD in the community. METHODS Consecutive patients with T2DM from primary care underwent screening for liver diseases, ultrasound, ELF score and transient elastography (TE). Five strategies were compared to the standard of care: ultrasound plus abnormal liver function tests (LFTs), Fibrosis score-4 (FIB-4), NAFLD fibrosis score, Enhanced liver fibrosis test (ELF) and TE. Standard of care was defined as abnormal LFTs prompting referral to hospital. A Markov model was built based on the fibrosis stage, defined by TE. We generated the cost per quality-adjusted life year (QALY) gained and calculated the incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER) over a lifetime horizon. RESULTS Of 300 patients, 287 were included: 64% (186) had MASLD and 10% (28) had other causes of liver disease. Patients with significant fibrosis, advanced fibrosis, and cirrhosis due to MASLD were 17% (50/287), 11% (31/287) and 3% (8/287), respectively. Among those with significant fibrosis classified by LSM≥8.1 kPa, false negatives were 54% from ELF and 38% from FIB-4. On multivariate analysis, waist circumference, BMI, AST levels and education rank were independent predictors of significant and advanced fibrosis. All the screening strategies were associated with QALY gains, with TE (148.73 years) having the most substantial gains, followed by FIB-4 (134.07 years), ELF (131.68 years) and NAFLD fibrosis score (121.25 years). In the cost-utility analysis, ICER was £2480/QALY for TE, £2541.24/QALY for ELF and £2059.98/QALY for FIB-4. CONCLUSION Screening for MASLD in the diabetic population in primary care is cost-effective and should become part of a holistic assessment. However, traditional screening strategies, including FIB-4 and ELF, underestimate the presence of significant liver disease in this setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberta Forlano
- Liver Unit/Division of Digestive Diseases, Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Tijana Stanic
- Department of Health Policy, London School of Economics and Political Science, London, UK
| | - Sahan Jayawardana
- Department of Health Policy, London School of Economics and Political Science, London, UK
| | - Benjamin Harvey Mullish
- Liver Unit/Division of Digestive Diseases, Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Michael Yee
- Section of Endocrinology and Metabolic Medicine, St Mary's Hospital, Imperial College NHS Trust, London, UK
| | - Elias Mossialos
- Department of Health Policy, London School of Economics and Political Science, London, UK
- Centre for Health Policy, The Institute of Global Health Innovation, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Robert Goldin
- Department of Cellular Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Salvatore Petta
- Section of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, PROMISE, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | | | - Mark Thursz
- Liver Unit/Division of Digestive Diseases, Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Pinelopi Manousou
- Liver Unit/Division of Digestive Diseases, Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, UK
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20
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Bodger K, Mair T, Schofield P, Silberberg B, Hood S, Fleming KM. Outcomes of first emergency admissions for alcohol-related liver disease in England over a 10-year period: retrospective observational cohort study using linked electronic databases. BMJ Open 2023; 13:e076955. [PMID: 37993152 PMCID: PMC10668174 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2023-076955] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2023] [Accepted: 11/02/2023] [Indexed: 11/24/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To examine time trends in patient characteristics, care processes and case fatality of first emergency admission for alcohol-related liver disease (ARLD) in England. DESIGN National population-based, retrospective observational cohort study. SETTING Clinical Practice Research Datalink population of England, 2008/2009 to 2017/2018. First emergency admissions were identified using the Liverpool ARLD algorithm. We applied survival analyses and binary logistic regression to study prognostic trends. OUTCOME MEASURES Patient characteristics; 'recent' General Practitioner (GP) consultations and hospital admissions (preceding year); higher level care; deaths in-hospital (including certified cause) and within 365 days. Covariates were age, sex, deprivation status, coding pattern, ARLD stage, non-liver comorbidity, coding for ascites and varices. RESULTS 17 575 first admissions (mean age: 53 years; 33% women; 32% from most deprived quintile). Almost half had codes suggesting advanced liver disease. In year before admission, only 47% of GP consulters had alcohol-related problems recorded; alcohol-specific diagnostic codes were absent in 24% of recent admission records. Overall, case fatality rate was 15% in-hospital and 34% at 1 year. Case-mix-adjusted odds of in-hospital death reduced by 6% per year (adjusted OR (aOR): 0.94; 95% CI: 0.93 to 0.96) and 4% per year at 365 days (aOR: 0.96; 95% CI: 0.95 to 0.97). Exploratory analyses suggested the possibility of regional inequalities in outcome. CONCLUSIONS Despite improving prognosis of first admissions, we found missed opportunities for earlier recognition and intervention in primary and secondary care. In 2017/2018, one in seven were still dying during index admission, rising to one-third within a year. Nationwide efforts are needed to promote earlier detection and intervention, and to minimise avoidable mortality after first emergency presentation. Regional variation requires further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keith Bodger
- Department of Health Data Science, Institute of Population Health, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
- Gastroenterology Department, Liverpool University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Liverpool, UK
| | - Thomas Mair
- Department of Health Data Science, Institute of Population Health, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Peità Schofield
- Department of Public Health & Policy, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Benjamin Silberberg
- Department of Health Data Science, Institute of Population Health, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Steve Hood
- Gastroenterology Department, Liverpool University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Liverpool, UK
| | - Kate M Fleming
- Data & Analytics Transformation Directorate, NHS England, Redditch, UK
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21
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Carmona C, Claxton L, O'Brien A, Hebditch V. Cirrhosis in over 16s: assessment and management-updated summary of NICE guidance. BMJ 2023; 383:2598. [PMID: 37993129 DOI: 10.1136/bmj.p2598] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Chris Carmona
- National Institute for Health and Care Excellence, Manchester, UK
| | - Lindsay Claxton
- National Institute for Health and Care Excellence, Manchester, UK
| | - Alastair O'Brien
- UCL Institute of Liver and Digestive Health, University College and The Royal Free Hospitals, London, UK
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22
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Wan L, Hu C, Wang F, Xu K, Li F, He B, Wu Z, Luo L, Wen Z. Evaluation of the efficacy of Biejia decoction pill combined with entecavir in the treatment of hepatitis B liver fibrosis/cirrhosis by VCTE. Sci Rep 2023; 13:19616. [PMID: 37949927 PMCID: PMC10638370 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-46459-4] [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: 08/29/2023] [Accepted: 11/01/2023] [Indexed: 11/12/2023] Open
Abstract
The vibration controlled transient elastography (VCTE) technique was used to assess the effectiveness of a Biejia Decoction pill in combination with Entecavir in the treatment of hepatitis B liver fibrosis/cirrhosis. We randomly selected 120 patients to receive entecavir and 119 patients to receive both entecavir and Biejia Decoction Pill, which both with hepatitis B liver fibrosis/cirrhosis visited the Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University between January 2019 and February 2022. The observation group got ETV (entecavir) and Biejia Decoction pills, whereas the control group received only standard ETV antiviral medication. Based on the grading of the VCTE detection value (LSM) initially diagnosed for patients with hepatitis B liver fibrosis/cirrhosis, we divided the patients into two subgroups of liver fibrosis and cirrhosis. In addition, patients with liver fibrosis were divided into mild and moderate subgroups according to their VCTE values. Patients were measured for liver hardness after three, six, nine, and twelve months of treatment with VCTE. Biejia Decoction Pill combined with ETV on HBV liver fibrosis/cirrhosis was evaluated by comparing patients' changes in liver hardness and HBV-DNA negative conversion rates before and after treatment in each group at the same baseline. The LSM (liver elasticity value) of the observation group and the control group after treatment was lower than that before treatment, and the difference was statistically significant (P < 0.0001); The LSM of the observation group after treatment was significantly lower than that of the control group, and the difference was also statistically significant (P = 0.0005 < 0.05). In the subgroup of liver fibrosis, the number of patients with moderate and severe liver fibrosis who completely reversed liver fibrosis after treatment in the treatment group was far more than that in the control group, and the difference between the two groups was statistically significant (χ2 = 4.82 P = 0.028 < 0.05) 。 When the treatment course was more than 9 months, the negative conversion rate of patients in the observation group reached 87.4%, which was higher than that in the control group (70.8%), and the difference was statistically significant (P = 0.002 < 0.05); After 12 months of treatment, the negative conversion rate of patients in the observation group was as high as 95%, which was significantly higher than 76.67% in the control group (P < 0.001). The degree of liver fibrosis was significantly improved when Biejia Decoction Pill was combined with ETV in patients with liver fibrosis/cirrhosis due to hepatitis B. The virological response rate to HBV-DNA increased with the prolongation of treatment, and the Biejia Decoction Pill assists with entecavir in antiviral therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lijun Wan
- Department of Gastroenterology Department, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, 1 Minde Road, Donghu District, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
| | - Chungen Hu
- Department of Gastroenterology Department, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, 1 Minde Road, Donghu District, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
| | - Fenfen Wang
- Department of Gastroenterology Department, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, 1 Minde Road, Donghu District, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
| | - Kedong Xu
- Department of Gastroenterology Department, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, 1 Minde Road, Donghu District, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
| | - Fan Li
- Department of Gastroenterology Department, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, 1 Minde Road, Donghu District, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
| | - Bo He
- Department of Gastroenterology Department, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, 1 Minde Road, Donghu District, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
| | - Zhengqiang Wu
- Department of Gastroenterology Department, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, 1 Minde Road, Donghu District, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
| | - Linfei Luo
- Department of Gastroenterology Department, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, 1 Minde Road, Donghu District, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
| | - Zhili Wen
- Department of Gastroenterology Department, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, 1 Minde Road, Donghu District, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China.
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23
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Verma S, Hingwala J, Low JTS, Patel AA, Verma M, Bremner S, Haddadin Y, Shinall MC, Komenda P, Ufere NN. Palliative clinical trials in advanced chronic liver disease: Challenges and opportunities. J Hepatol 2023; 79:1236-1253. [PMID: 37419393 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2023.06.018] [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: 04/11/2023] [Revised: 06/14/2023] [Accepted: 06/21/2023] [Indexed: 07/09/2023]
Abstract
Patients with advanced chronic liver disease have a complex symptom burden and many are not candidates for curative therapy. Despite this, provision of palliative interventions remains woefully inadequate, with an insufficient evidence base being a contributory factor. Designing and conducting palliative interventional trials in advanced chronic liver disease remains challenging for a multitude of reasons. In this manuscript we review past and ongoing palliative interventional trials. We identify barriers and facilitators and offer guidance on addressing these challenges. We hope that this will reduce the inequity in palliative care provision in advanced chronic liver disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sumita Verma
- Brighton and Sussex Medical School and University Hospitals Sussex NHS Foundation Trust, Brighton, UK.
| | - Jay Hingwala
- University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
| | | | - Arpan A Patel
- Division of Digestive Diseases, University of California, Los Angeles, USA; Department of Gastroenterology, Veterans Affairs Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Manisha Verma
- Department of Medicine, Einstein Healthcare Network, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Stephen Bremner
- Brighton and Sussex Medical School and University Hospitals Sussex NHS Foundation Trust, Brighton, UK
| | - Yazan Haddadin
- Brighton and Sussex Medical School and University Hospitals Sussex NHS Foundation Trust, Brighton, UK
| | | | - Paul Komenda
- University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
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24
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Woodland H, Buchanan RM, Pring A, Dancox M, McCune A, Forbes K, Verne J. Inequity in end-of-life care for patients with chronic liver disease in England. Liver Int 2023; 43:2393-2403. [PMID: 37519025 DOI: 10.1111/liv.15684] [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: 06/28/2022] [Revised: 06/05/2023] [Accepted: 07/17/2023] [Indexed: 08/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS The World Health Assembly recommends integration of palliative care into treatment of patients with any life-limiting condition, yet patients with non-malignant disease are less likely to receive specialist palliative care (SPC). This study compares SPC offered to patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) versus patients with chronic liver disease without HCC (CLD without HCC). METHODS Patients who died from CLD or HCC over 5 years (2013-2017) in England were identified using a dataset linking national data on all hospital admissions (Hospital Episode Statistics - HES) with national mortality data from the Office for National Statistics (HES - ONS). The primary outcome was the proportion of patients who received inpatient SPC in their last year of life (LYOL). Secondary outcomes were (1) early inpatient SPC input and (2) the proportion dying in a hospice. The outcomes were compared between patients with HCC and CLD without HCC. RESULTS 29 669 patients were identified, 8143 of whom had HCC. Patients with HCC were significantly more likely to receive inpatient SPC input-adjusted OR 3.74 (95% CI 3.52-3.97) and early inpatient SPC input-adjusted OR 7.26 (95% CI 6.38-8.25) and die in a hospice OR 8.23 (95% CI 7.33-9.24) than patients with CLD without HCC. CONCLUSIONS These data highlight the stark inequity in access to SPC services between patients with HCC and patients with CLD without HCC in England. Addressing these inequities will improve end-of-life care for patients with CLD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hazel Woodland
- Department of Population Health Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
- Gastrointestinal Unit, Salisbury NHS Foundation Trust, Salisbury, UK
| | - Ryan M Buchanan
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - Andy Pring
- Office for Health Improvement and Disparities, Department of Health and Social Care, London, UK
| | - Mark Dancox
- Office for Health Improvement and Disparities, Department of Health and Social Care, London, UK
| | - Anne McCune
- Department of Hepatology, University Hospitals Bristol and Weston NHS Foundation Trust, Bristol, UK
| | - Karen Forbes
- Department of Population Health Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Julia Verne
- Office for Health Improvement and Disparities, Department of Health and Social Care, London, UK
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25
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Nixon-Hill M, Mookerjee RP, Leung TS. Assessment of bilirubin levels in patients with cirrhosis via forehead, sclera and lower eyelid smartphone images. PLOS DIGITAL HEALTH 2023; 2:e0000357. [PMID: 37801433 PMCID: PMC10558070 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pdig.0000357] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2022] [Accepted: 08/25/2023] [Indexed: 10/08/2023]
Abstract
One of the key biomarkers evaluating liver disease progression is an elevated bilirubin level. Here we apply smartphone imaging to non-invasive assessment of bilirubin in patients with cirrhosis. Image data was processed using two different approaches to remove variation introduced by ambient conditions and different imaging devices-a per-image calibration using a color chart in each image, and a two-step process using pairs of flash/ no-flash images to account for ambient light in combination with a one-time calibration. For the first time, results from the forehead, sclera (white of the eye) and lower eyelid were compared. The correlation coefficients between the total serum bilirubin and the predicted bilirubin via the forehead, sclera and lower eyelid were 0.79, 0.89 and 0.86 (all with p<0.001, n = 66), respectively. Given the simpler image capture for the sclera, the recommended imaging site for this patient cohort is the sclera.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miranda Nixon-Hill
- Department of Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, University College London, United Kingdom
| | | | - Terence S. Leung
- Department of Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, University College London, United Kingdom
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26
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Schreiner AD, Zhang J, Moran WP, Koch DG, Livingston S, Bays C, Marsden J, Mauldin PD, Gebregziabher M. Real-World Primary Care Data Comparing ALT and FIB-4 in Predicting Future Severe Liver Disease Outcomes. J Gen Intern Med 2023; 38:2453-2460. [PMID: 36814048 PMCID: PMC10465412 DOI: 10.1007/s11606-023-08093-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2022] [Accepted: 02/08/2023] [Indexed: 02/24/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Alanine aminotransferase (ALT) has long provided a cue for chronic liver disease (CLD) diagnostic evaluation, but the Fibrosis-4 Index (FIB-4), a serologic score used for predicting advanced fibrosis risk in CLD, may provide an alternative signal. OBJECTIVE Compare the predictive performance of FIB-4 with ALT for severe liver disease (SLD) events while adjusting for potential confounders. DESIGN Retrospective cohort study of primary care electronic health record data from 2012 to 2021. PATIENTS Adult primary care patients with at least two sets of ALT and other lab values necessary for calculating two unique FIB-4 scores, excluding those patients with an SLD prior to their index FIB-4 value. MAIN MEASURES The occurrence of an SLD event, a composite of cirrhosis, hepatocellular carcinoma, and liver transplantation, was the outcome of interest. Categories of ALT elevation and FIB-4 advanced fibrosis risk were the primary predictor variables. Multivariable logistic regression models were developed to evaluate the association of FIB-4 and ALT with SLD, and the areas under the curve (AUC) for each model were compared. KEY RESULTS The cohort of 20,828 patients included 14% with an abnormal index ALT (≥40 IU/L) and 8% with a high-risk index FIB-4 (≥2.67). During the study period, 667 (3%) patients suffered an SLD event. Adjusted multivariable logistic regression models demonstrated an association between high-risk FIB-4 (OR 19.34; 95%CI 15.50-24.13), persistently high-risk FIB-4 (OR 23.85; 95%CI 18.24-31.17), abnormal ALT (OR 7.07; 95%CI 5.81-8.59), and persistently abnormal ALT (OR 7.58; 95%CI 5.97-9.62) with SLD outcomes. The AUC of the index FIB-4 (0.847, p < 0.001) and combined FIB-4 (0.849, p < 0.001) adjusted models exceeded the index ALT adjusted model (0.815). CONCLUSIONS High-risk FIB-4 scores demonstrated superior performance compared to abnormal ALT in predicting future SLD outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jingwen Zhang
- Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, USA
| | | | - David G Koch
- Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, USA
| | | | - Chloe Bays
- Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, USA
| | - Justin Marsden
- Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, USA
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27
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Beraza N. Ketohexokinase-C: The mechanistic link between dietary sugars and protein acetylation during liver steatosis. J Hepatol 2023; 79:16-18. [PMID: 36958528 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2023.03.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2023] [Revised: 03/13/2023] [Accepted: 03/13/2023] [Indexed: 03/25/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Naiara Beraza
- Gut Microbes and Health Institute Strategic Programme, Quadram Institute Bioscience, Norwich Research Park, Norwich, UK.
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28
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Abeysekera KWM, Srivastava A, Rowe I, Jarvis H, Ryder SD, Yeoman A, Dillon JF, Rosenberg W. Exploring changing attitudes to non-invasive liver fibrosis tests in secondary care pathways: comparison of two national surveys. Frontline Gastroenterol 2023; 14:483-490. [PMID: 37854785 PMCID: PMC10579552 DOI: 10.1136/flgastro-2023-102415] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2023] [Accepted: 04/28/2023] [Indexed: 10/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction The increasing availability of non-invasive tests (NITs) has created the opportunity to explore their use in improving risk stratification of advanced liver disease. The study aimed to determine the attitudes and practices among UK secondary care specialists, focusing primarily on attitudes to fibrosis assessment and the use of NITs. Methods Two web-based surveys were circulated, first between 2014 and 2015 (survey 1), and again in 2021 (survey 2). The surveys were promoted via the British Society of Gastroenterology, the British Association for the Study of the Liver and using Twitter. Results In survey 1, 215 healthcare professionals (HCPs) completed the online survey. 112 HCPs completed survey 2. 71 acute UK trusts were represented in survey 1 compared with 60 trusts in survey 2. Between the two surveys, the proportion of HCPs performing fibrosis assessment in all or nearly all cases rose from 45.1% to 74.1% (χ2=25.01; p<0.0001). 46.5% (n=33/71) respondents in acute services reported the use of NITs in clinical pathways in survey 1, rising to 70.0% (n=42/60) in survey 2 (χ2=7.35; p=0.007). Availability of tests has increased but is not universal. The proportion reporting availability as a barrier to uptake fell from 57.2% of responses in survey 1 to 38.4% in 2021 χ2=11.01; p=0.0009). Conclusion Between 2014 and 2021, the role of NITs in fibrosis assessment has risen substantially, as has the proportion of clinicians using NITs in clinical pathways to assess risk of liver disease. Poor access to NITs remains the predominant barrier.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kushala W M Abeysekera
- Department of Liver Medicine, University Hospitals Bristol and Weston NHS Foundation Trust, Bristol, UK
- Population Health Sciences, University of Bristol Medical School, Bristol, UK
| | - Ankur Srivastava
- Gastrointestinal and Liver Services, North Bristol NHS Trust, Bristol, UK
| | - Ian Rowe
- Leeds Liver Unit, University of Leeds & St James's University Hospital, Leeds, UK
| | - Helen Jarvis
- Population Health Sciences, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Stephen D Ryder
- NIHR Nottingham Biomedical Research Centre, Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust, Nottingham, UK
| | - Andrew Yeoman
- Gwent Liver Unit, Aneurin Bevan University Health Board, Newport, UK
| | - John F Dillon
- Division of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, University of Dundee, Ninewells Hospital and Medical School, Dundee, UK
| | - William Rosenberg
- Institute for Liver and Digestive Health, University College London Division of Medicine, London, UK
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Oyelade T, Forrest E, Moore KP, O'Brien A, Mani AR. Parenclitic Network Mapping Identifies Response to Targeted Albumin Therapy in Patients Hospitalized With Decompensated Cirrhosis. Clin Transl Gastroenterol 2023; 14:e00587. [PMID: 37019645 PMCID: PMC10299770 DOI: 10.14309/ctg.0000000000000587] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2023] [Accepted: 03/23/2023] [Indexed: 04/07/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The efficacy of targeted albumin therapy in the management of decompensatory events in cirrhosis is unclear, with different reports showing conflicting results. It is possible that only certain subgroups of patients may benefit from targeted albumin administration. However, extensive conventional subgroup analyses have not yet identified these subgroups. Albumin is an important regulator of physiological networks and may interact with homeostatic mechanism differently in patients according to the integrity of their physiological network. In this study, we aimed to assess the value of network mapping in predicting response to targeted albumin therapy in patients with cirrhosis. METHODS This is a substudy of the ATTIRE trial, a multicenter randomized trial conducted to assess the effect of targeted albumin therapy in cirrhosis. Baseline serum bilirubin, albumin, sodium, creatinine, CRP, white cell count (WCC), international normalized ratio, heart rate, and blood pressure of 777 patients followed up for 6 months were used for network mapping using parenclitic analysis. Parenclitic network analysis involves measuring the deviation of each patient from the existing network of physiological interactions in a reference population. RESULTS Overall network connectivity and deviations along the WCC-CRP axis predicted 6-month survival independent of age and model for end-stage liver disease in the standard care arm. Patients with lower deviation along the WCC-CRP axis showed lower survival in response to targeted albumin administration over a 6-month follow-up period. Likewise, patients with higher overall physiological connectivity survived significantly less than the standard care group after targeted albumin infusion. DISCUSSION The parenclitic network mapping can predict the survival of patients with cirrhosis and identify patient subgroups that do not benefit from targeted albumin therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tope Oyelade
- Division of Medicine, Institute for Liver and Digestive Health, UCL, London, UK;
- Division of Medicine, Network Physiology Laboratory, UCL, London, UK;
| | - Ewan Forrest
- Department of Gastroenterology, Glasgow Royal Infirmary, Glasgow, UK.
| | - Kevin P. Moore
- Division of Medicine, Institute for Liver and Digestive Health, UCL, London, UK;
| | - Alastair O'Brien
- Division of Medicine, Institute for Liver and Digestive Health, UCL, London, UK;
| | - Ali R. Mani
- Division of Medicine, Institute for Liver and Digestive Health, UCL, London, UK;
- Division of Medicine, Network Physiology Laboratory, UCL, London, UK;
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30
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Maurice JB, Tribich S, Zamani A, Ryan J. How to manage alcohol-related liver disease: A case-based review. Frontline Gastroenterol 2023; 14:435-441. [PMID: 37581189 PMCID: PMC10423597 DOI: 10.1136/flgastro-2022-102270] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2022] [Accepted: 05/02/2023] [Indexed: 08/16/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- James B Maurice
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Southmead Hospital, North Bristol NHS Trust, Bristol, UK
| | - Samuel Tribich
- Department of Hepatology, Royal London Hospital, Barts Health NHS Trust, London, UK
| | - Ava Zamani
- Hammersmith Hospital, Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, London, UK
| | - Jennifer Ryan
- Department of Hepatology and Liver Transplantation, Royal Free Hospital, Royal Free London NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
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Kolaric TO, Kuna L, Covic M, Roguljic H, Matic A, Sikora R, Hefer M, Petrovic A, Mihaljevic V, Smolic R, Bilic-Curcic I, Vcev A, Smolic M. Preclinical Models and Promising Pharmacotherapeutic Strategies in Liver Fibrosis: An Update. Curr Issues Mol Biol 2023; 45:4246-4260. [PMID: 37232739 DOI: 10.3390/cimb45050270] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2023] [Revised: 04/28/2023] [Accepted: 05/10/2023] [Indexed: 05/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Liver fibrosis represents one of the greatest challenges in medicine. The fact that it develops with the progression of numerous diseases with high prevalence (NAFLD, viral hepatitis, etc.) makes liver fibrosis an even greater global health problem. Accordingly, it has received much attention from numerous researchers who have developed various in vitro and in vivo models to better understand the mechanisms underlying fibrosis development. All these efforts led to the discovery of numerous agents with antifibrotic properties, with hepatic stellate cells and the extracellular matrix at the center of these pharmacotherapeutic strategies. This review focuses on the current data on numerous in vivo and in vitro models of liver fibrosis and on various pharmacotherapeutic targets in the treatment of liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tea Omanovic Kolaric
- Department of Pharmacology and Biochemistry, Faculty of Dental Medicine and Health, 31000 Osijek, Croatia
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, 31000 Osijek, Croatia
| | - Lucija Kuna
- Department of Pharmacology and Biochemistry, Faculty of Dental Medicine and Health, 31000 Osijek, Croatia
| | - Marina Covic
- Department of Pharmacology and Biochemistry, Faculty of Dental Medicine and Health, 31000 Osijek, Croatia
| | - Hrvoje Roguljic
- Department of Pharmacology and Biochemistry, Faculty of Dental Medicine and Health, 31000 Osijek, Croatia
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, 31000 Osijek, Croatia
- Department of Internal Medicine, University Hospital Osijek, 31000 Osijek, Croatia
| | - Anita Matic
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, 31000 Osijek, Croatia
- Department of Pathophysiology and Physiology with Immunology, Faculty of Dental Medicine and Health, 31000 Osijek, Croatia
| | - Renata Sikora
- Department of Dental Medicine, Faculty of Dental Medicine and Health, 31000 Osijek, Croatia
| | - Marija Hefer
- Department of Physics, Biophysics, and Chemistry, Faculty of Dental Medicine and Health, 31000 Osijek, Croatia
| | - Ana Petrovic
- Department of Pharmacology and Biochemistry, Faculty of Dental Medicine and Health, 31000 Osijek, Croatia
| | - Vjera Mihaljevic
- Department of Pharmacology and Biochemistry, Faculty of Dental Medicine and Health, 31000 Osijek, Croatia
| | - Robert Smolic
- Department of Pharmacology and Biochemistry, Faculty of Dental Medicine and Health, 31000 Osijek, Croatia
| | - Ines Bilic-Curcic
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, 31000 Osijek, Croatia
- Department of Endocrinology, University Hospital Osijek, 31000 Osijek, Croatia
| | - Aleksandar Vcev
- Department of Pathophysiology and Physiology with Immunology, Faculty of Dental Medicine and Health, 31000 Osijek, Croatia
| | - Martina Smolic
- Department of Pharmacology and Biochemistry, Faculty of Dental Medicine and Health, 31000 Osijek, Croatia
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, 31000 Osijek, Croatia
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Admission care bundles for decompensated cirrhosis are poorly utilised across the UK: results from a multi-centre retrospective study. Clin Med (Lond) 2023; 23:193-200. [PMID: 37236796 PMCID: PMC11046546 DOI: 10.7861/clinmed.2022-0541] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
Admission care bundles have been demonstrated to improve clinical outcomes for patients in several settings. Decompensated cirrhosis care bundles have been developed following previous reports demonstrating poor care for inpatients with alcohol-related liver disease (ARLD). We performed a UK multi-centred retrospective observational study to understand how frequently decompensated cirrhosis admission care bundles were utilised, who they were used for and their impact on outcomes. In this study (1,224 admissions, 104 hospitals), we demonstrated that admission care bundle usage was low across the UK (11.44%). They were more likely to be utilised in patients with ARLD or who were jaundiced, and less likely to be used in patients admitted for gastrointestinal bleeding. The admission care bundle improved the standard of alcohol care and requesting initial investigations. However, there were areas where more than 80% compliance was achieved without the use of a care bundle and areas where less than 50% compliance was achieved with the use of a care bundle. Given the low utilisation of care bundles, we were unable to demonstrate an effect on risk-adjusted mortality. Thus, interdisciplinary work is required to develop tools which are widely used and improve care and outcomes for patients with decompensated cirrhosis.
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Forlano R, Sigon G, Mullish BH, Yee M, Manousou P. Screening for NAFLD-Current Knowledge and Challenges. Metabolites 2023; 13:metabo13040536. [PMID: 37110194 PMCID: PMC10144613 DOI: 10.3390/metabo13040536] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2023] [Revised: 04/05/2023] [Accepted: 04/06/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is the most common cause of abnormal liver function tests worldwide, with an estimated prevalence ranging between 19-46% in the general population. Of note, NAFLD is also expected to become a leading cause of end-stage liver disease in the next decades. Given the high prevalence and severity of NAFLD, especially in high-risk populations (i.e., patients with type-2 diabetes mellitus and/or obesity), there is a major interest in early detection of the disease in primary care. Nevertheless, substantial uncertainties still surround the development of a screening policy for NAFLD, such as limitations in currently used non-invasive markers of fibrosis, cost-effectiveness and the absence of a licensed treatment. In this review, we summarise current knowledge and try to identify the limitations surrounding the screening policy for NAFLD in primary care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberta Forlano
- Liver Unit, Division of Digestive Diseases, Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London W21NY, UK
| | - Giordano Sigon
- Liver Unit, Division of Digestive Diseases, Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London W21NY, UK
| | - Benjamin H Mullish
- Liver Unit, Division of Digestive Diseases, Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London W21NY, UK
| | - Michael Yee
- Liver Unit, Division of Digestive Diseases, Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London W21NY, UK
| | - Pinelopi Manousou
- Liver Unit, Division of Digestive Diseases, Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London W21NY, UK
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34
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Ullah MI, Alameen AAM, Al-Oanzi ZH, Eltayeb LB, Atif M, Munir MU, Ejaz H. Biological Role of Zinc in Liver Cirrhosis: An Updated Review. Biomedicines 2023; 11:biomedicines11041094. [PMID: 37189711 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11041094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2023] [Revised: 04/01/2023] [Accepted: 04/02/2023] [Indexed: 05/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Liver cirrhosis is a complication usually due to the consequence of persistent chronic liver disease. It is associated with different mechanisms, including hypoalbuminemia, impaired amino acid turnover, and micronutrient deficiencies. Consequently, cirrhotic patients can develop progressive complications like ascites, hepatic encephalopathy, and hepatocellular carcinoma. The liver is a vital organ that regulates the different metabolic pathways and transportation of trace elements. Zn is an indispensable micronutrient trace element involved in its crucial functions in cellular metabolic activity. Zn mediates its action by binding to a wide range of proteins; therefore, it imparts numerous biological effects, including cellular division, differentiation, and growth. It is also involved in critical processes for the biosynthesis of structural proteins and regulation of transcription factors and acts as a co-factor for the various enzymatic processes. As the liver is a significant regulator of Zn metabolism, its abnormalities lead to Zn deficiency, which has consequences on cellular, endocrine, immune, sensory, and skin dysfunctions. Conversely, Zn deficiency may modify the functions of hepatocytes and immune responses (acute phase protein production) in inflammatory liver diseases. This review has concisely stated the evolving indication of the critical role of Zn in biological processes and complications associated with liver cirrhosis pathogenesis due to Zn deficiency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Ikram Ullah
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Jouf University, Sakaka 72388, Aljouf, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ayman Ali Mohammed Alameen
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Jouf University, Sakaka 72388, Aljouf, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ziad H Al-Oanzi
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Jouf University, Sakaka 72388, Aljouf, Saudi Arabia
| | - Lienda Bashier Eltayeb
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Prince Sattam Bin Abdul Aziz University, Al-Kharj 11942, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Muhammad Atif
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Jouf University, Sakaka 72388, Aljouf, Saudi Arabia
| | - Muhammad Usman Munir
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, Jouf University, Sakaka 72388, Aljouf, Saudi Arabia
| | - Hasan Ejaz
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Jouf University, Sakaka 72388, Aljouf, Saudi Arabia
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35
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Schmalz F, Fischer J, Innes H, Buch S, Möller C, Matz-Soja M, von Schönfels W, Krämer B, Langhans B, Klüners A, Soyka M, Stickel F, Nattermann J, Strassburg CP, Berg T, Lutz P, Nischalke HD. High producer variant of lipoprotein lipase may protect from hepatocellular carcinoma in alcohol-associated cirrhosis. JHEP Rep 2023; 5:100684. [PMID: 36879887 PMCID: PMC9985032 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhepr.2023.100684] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2022] [Revised: 01/11/2023] [Accepted: 01/14/2023] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Background & Aims Progression of alcohol-associated liver disease (ALD) is driven by genetic predisposition. The rs13702 variant in the lipoprotein lipase (LPL) gene is linked to non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. We aimed at clarifying its role in ALD. Methods Patients with alcohol-associated cirrhosis, with (n = 385) and without hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) (n = 656), with HCC attributable to viral hepatitis C (n = 280), controls with alcohol abuse without liver damage (n = 366), and healthy controls (n = 277) were genotyped regarding the LPL rs13702 polymorphism. Furthermore, the UK Biobank cohort was analysed. LPL expression was investigated in human liver specimens and in liver cell lines. Results Frequency of the LPL rs13702 CC genotype was lower in ALD with HCC in comparison to ALD without HCC both in the initial (3.9% vs. 9.3%) and the validation cohort (4.7% vs. 9.5%; p <0.05 each) and compared with patients with viral HCC (11.4%), alcohol misuse without cirrhosis (8.7%), or healthy controls (9.0%). This protective effect (odds ratio [OR] = 0.5) was confirmed in multivariate analysis including age (OR = 1.1/year), male sex (OR = 3.0), diabetes (OR = 1.8), and carriage of the PNPLA3 I148M risk variant (OR = 2.0). In the UK Biobank cohort, the LPL rs13702 C allele was replicated as a risk factor for HCC. Liver expression of LPL mRNA was dependent on LPL rs13702 genotype and significantly higher in patients with ALD cirrhosis compared with controls and alcohol-associated HCC. Although hepatocyte cell lines showed negligible LPL protein expression, hepatic stellate cells and liver sinusoidal endothelial cells expressed LPL. Conclusions LPL is upregulated in the liver of patients with alcohol-associated cirrhosis. The LPL rs13702 high producer variant confers protection against HCC in ALD, which might help to stratify people for HCC risk. Impact and implications Hepatocellular carcinoma is a severe complication of liver cirrhosis influenced by genetic predisposition. We found that a genetic variant in the gene encoding lipoprotein lipase reduces the risk for hepatocellular carcinoma in alcohol-associated cirrhosis. This genetic variation may directly affect the liver, because, unlike in healthy adult liver, lipoprotein lipase is produced from liver cells in alcohol-associated cirrhosis.
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Key Words
- ALD, alcohol-associated liver disease
- ALT, alanine aminotransferase
- AST, aspartate aminotransferase
- Alcohol-associated liver disease
- BCLC, Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer
- BSA, bovine serum albumin
- Cirrhosis
- FCS, foetal calf serum
- FIB-4, fibrosis 4
- GADPH, glyceraldehyde 3-phosphate dehydrogenase
- GGT, gamma-glutamyl transferase
- HCC
- HCC, hepatocellular carcinoma
- HSCs, hepatic stellate cells
- HbA1c, glycated haemoglobin
- LPL
- LPL, lipoprotein lipase
- LSECs, liver sinusoidal endothelial cells
- MAF, minor allele frequency
- NAFLD, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease
- NASH, non-alcoholic steatohepatitis
- OR, odds ratio
- PNPLA3, patatin-like phospholipase domain-containing protein 3
- T2DM, type 2 diabetes mellitus
- UKB, UK Biobank
- rs13702
- rs328
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Affiliation(s)
- Franziska Schmalz
- Department of Internal Medicine I, University Hospital, University of Bonn, Germany
| | - Janett Fischer
- Division of Hepatology, Department of Medicine II, Leipzig University Medical Center, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Hamish Innes
- School of Health and Life Sciences, Glasgow Caledonian University, Glasgow, UK
| | - Stephan Buch
- Medical Department 1, University Hospital Dresden, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Christine Möller
- Department of Internal Medicine I, University Hospital, University of Bonn, Germany
| | - Madlen Matz-Soja
- Division of Hepatology, Department of Medicine II, Leipzig University Medical Center, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Witigo von Schönfels
- Department of General, Visceral-, Thoracic-, Transplantation- and Pediatric Surgery, University Medical Center Schleswig-Holstein (UKSH), Campus Kiel, and Christian-Albrecht University (CAU), Kiel, Germany
| | - Benjamin Krämer
- Department of Internal Medicine I, University Hospital, University of Bonn, Germany
| | - Bettina Langhans
- Department of Internal Medicine I, University Hospital, University of Bonn, Germany
| | - Alexandra Klüners
- Department of Internal Medicine I, University Hospital, University of Bonn, Germany
| | - Michael Soyka
- Psychiatric Hospital, Ludwig Maximilians University, Munich, Germany
| | - Felix Stickel
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University Hospital of Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Jacob Nattermann
- Department of Internal Medicine I, University Hospital, University of Bonn, Germany
| | | | - Thomas Berg
- Division of Hepatology, Department of Medicine II, Leipzig University Medical Center, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Philipp Lutz
- Department of Internal Medicine I, University Hospital, University of Bonn, Germany
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Hinkson A, Lally H, Gibson H, Jones R, Rowe IA, Shinkins B, Parker R. Meta-analysis: Enhanced liver fibrosis test to identify hepatic fibrosis in chronic liver diseases. Aliment Pharmacol Ther 2023; 57:750-762. [PMID: 36650720 DOI: 10.1111/apt.17385] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2022] [Revised: 07/06/2022] [Accepted: 12/27/2022] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Patients with liver disease can be stratified for risk of liver-related ill health by degree of hepatic fibrosis. The Enhanced liver fibrosis (ELF) test was developed to quantify hepatic fibrosis non-invasively and is widely used. The objective of this review was to identify and synthesise the evidence on the diagnostic accuracy of the ELF test for staging of hepatic fibrosis. APPROACH & RESULTS Searches of PubMed and EMBASE were conducted between October 2020 and November 2021 to identify studies reporting the diagnostic accuracy of the ELF test compared to histology in liver disease patients. QUADAS-2 was used to assess risk of bias in each study. Meta-analysis using the multiple thresholds model described by Steinhauser S, Schumacher M, Rücker G. Modelling multiple thresholds in meta-analysis of diagnostic test accuracy studies. BMC Med. Res. Methodol. 2016;16. 10.1186/s12874-016-0196-1 allowed synthesis of 2 × 2 data at different cut-offs. Sixty-three studies were included in this review. These studies included 19,285 patients with or at risk of liver disease from viral hepatitis, Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease, Alcohol-related Liver Disease and other mixed chronic liver diseases. The prevalence of significant fibrosis, advanced fibrosis and cirrhosis was 47.5%, 39.2% and 4.4%, respectively. Cut-offs with maximal Youden index were generated with AUROC = 0.811 (95% CI: 0.736-0.870), 0.812 (95% CI: 0.758-0.856) and 0.810 (95% CI: 0.694-0.888) to detect significant fibrosis, advanced fibrosis or cirrhosis, respectively. Diagnostic accuracy of the ELF test varied between different liver diseases and cut-offs to detect each stage with 95% sensitivity or specificity were also generated. CONCLUSIONS Meta-analysis revealed considerable variability in the ability of ELF to stage fibrosis across disease aetiologies. Research has mostly focused on viral hepatitis and NAFLD. There is currently a lack of data on the value of the ELF test in Alcohol-related liver disease and patients in primary care settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander Hinkson
- Leeds Liver Unit, St James' University Hospital, Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, Leeds, UK.,Leeds Liver Research Group, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK.,Leeds Institute for Medical Research, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
| | - Hannah Lally
- School of Medicine, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
| | | | - Rebecca Jones
- Leeds Liver Unit, St James' University Hospital, Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, Leeds, UK
| | - Ian A Rowe
- Leeds Liver Unit, St James' University Hospital, Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, Leeds, UK.,Leeds Liver Research Group, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK.,Leeds Institute for Medical Research, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
| | - Bethany Shinkins
- Test Evaluation Group, Leeds Institute for Health Sciences, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
| | - Richard Parker
- Leeds Liver Unit, St James' University Hospital, Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, Leeds, UK.,Leeds Liver Research Group, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
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37
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Devarbhavi H, Asrani SK, Arab JP, Nartey YA, Pose E, Kamath PS. Global burden of Liver Disease: 2023 Update. J Hepatol 2023:S0168-8278(23)00194-0. [PMID: 36990226 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2023.03.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 164] [Impact Index Per Article: 164.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2022] [Revised: 03/06/2023] [Accepted: 03/09/2023] [Indexed: 03/31/2023]
Abstract
Liver disease accounts for 2 million deaths and is responsible for 4% of all deaths (1 out of every 25 deaths worldwide); approximately 2/3 of all liver related deaths occur in men. Deaths are largely attributable to complications of cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma, with acute hepatitis accounting for a smaller proportion of deaths. The most common causes of cirrhosis worldwide are related to viral hepatitis, alcohol, and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Hepatotropic viruses are the etiological factor in most cases of acute hepatitis, but drug-induced liver injury increasingly accounts for a significant proportion of cases. This iteration of the global burden of liver disease is an update of the 2019 version and focuses mainly on areas where significant new information is available like alcohol-associated liver disease, NAFLD, viral hepatitis, and HCC. We also devote a separate section to the burden of liver disease in Africa, an area of the world typically neglected in such documents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harshad Devarbhavi
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, St. John's Medical College Hospital, Bangalore, India
| | - Sumeet K Asrani
- Baylor University Medical Center, Baylor Scott and White, Dallas, TX, United States.
| | - Juan Pablo Arab
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Schulich School of Medicine, Western University & London Health Sciences Centre, London, Ontario, Canada; Departamento de Gastroenterologia, Escuela de Medicina, Pontificia Universidad Catolica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Yvonne Ayerki Nartey
- Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medical Sciences, University of Cape Coast, Cape Coast, Ghana
| | - Elisa Pose
- Liver Unit, Hospital Clinic of Barcelona. Institut D'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS)
| | - Patrick S Kamath
- Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science, Rochester, MN, United States
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38
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Raahimi MM, Livesey A, Hamilton J, Shipman AR, Aspinall RJ. Liver fibrosis for the dermatologist: a review. Clin Exp Dermatol 2023; 48:303-309. [PMID: 36763770 DOI: 10.1093/ced/llac083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2022] [Revised: 10/28/2022] [Accepted: 11/14/2022] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Methotrexate-induced liver fibrosis is not a well-defined pathology, and many of the reported cases can instead be classified as nonalcoholic fatty liver disease by current diagnostic criteria, which is particularly common in the psoriasis cohort. Liver fibrosis usually takes many years to progress; therefore, screening for liver fibrosis should be done no more regularly than annually at the very most in dermatology practice. An algorithm is presented about how to investigate abnormal liver blood tests and screening tools for liver fibrosis are compared.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mina M Raahimi
- Departments of Dermatology, Portsmouth Hospitals University NHS Trust, UK
| | - Amy Livesey
- Departments of Dermatology, Portsmouth Hospitals University NHS Trust, UK
| | - Jessica Hamilton
- Departments of Dermatology, Portsmouth Hospitals University NHS Trust, UK
| | - Alexa R Shipman
- Departments of Dermatology, Portsmouth Hospitals University NHS Trust, UK
| | - Richard J Aspinall
- Departments of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Portsmouth Hospitals University NHS Trust, UK
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Gillespie SL, Hanrahan TP, Rockey DC, Majumdar A, Hayes PC. Review article: controversies surrounding the use of carvedilol and other beta blockers in the management of portal hypertension and cirrhosis. Aliment Pharmacol Ther 2023; 57:454-463. [PMID: 36691947 DOI: 10.1111/apt.17380] [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: 10/04/2022] [Revised: 11/03/2022] [Accepted: 12/18/2022] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Advanced chronic liver disease is an increasing cause of premature morbidity and mortality in the UK. Portal hypertension is the primary driver of decompensation, including the development of ascites, hepatic encephalopathy and variceal haemorrhage. Non-selective beta blockers (NSBB) reduce portal pressure and are well established in the prevention of variceal haemorrhage. Carvedilol, a newer NSBB, is more effective at reducing portal pressure due to additional α-adrenergic blockade and has additional anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-fibrotic effects. AIM To summarise the available evidence on the use of beta blockers, specifically carvedilol, in cirrhosis, focussing on when and why to start METHODS: We performed a comprehensive literature search of PubMed for relevant publications. RESULTS International guidelines advise the use of NSBB in primary prophylaxis against variceal haemorrhage in those with high-risk varices, with substantial evidence of efficacy comparable with endoscopic band ligation (EBL). NSBB are also well established in secondary prophylaxis, in combination with EBL. More controversial is their use in patients without large varices, but with clinically significant portal hypertension. However, there is gathering evidence that NSBB, particularly carvedilol, reduce the risk of decompensation and improve survival. While caution is advised in patients with advanced cirrhosis and refractory ascites, recent evidence suggests that NSBB can continue to be used safely, and that premature discontinuation may be detrimental. CONCLUSIONS With increasing evidence of benefit independent of variceal bleeding, namely retardation of decompensation and improvement in survival, it is time to consider whether carvedilol should be offered to all patients with advanced chronic liver disease.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Timothy P Hanrahan
- Centre for Liver and Digestive Disorders, Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK.,Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Austin Health, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Don C Rockey
- Digestive Disease Research Center, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, USA
| | - Avik Majumdar
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Austin Health, Melbourne, Australia.,The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Peter C Hayes
- Centre for Liver and Digestive Disorders, Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK.,College of Medicine and Veterinary Medicine, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
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40
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Current and emerging therapies for alcohol-associated hepatitis. LIVER RESEARCH 2023. [DOI: 10.1016/j.livres.2023.03.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/17/2023]
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41
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Davis S, Higgs P, Jones L, Greenslade L, Wilson J, Low JT. "I am in other people's hands as regards my health" A sociological critique of health care encounters of people with cirrhosis. A secondary analysis. Chronic Illn 2023; 19:102-117. [PMID: 34812061 PMCID: PMC9841472 DOI: 10.1177/17423953211058422] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES People with cirrhosis are encouraged to participate in shared decision-making with their doctors, but studies suggest that doctors limit the amount of information that is shared. In this study we explore the presence of medical power in clinical encounters in 2015 from a patient perspective and highlight its effects on healthcare interactions. METHODS Qualitative semi-structured interviews were conducted with ten people with cirrhosis attending a tertiary liver transplant centre in southern England. We explored their understanding of their disease and prognosis, and their participation in decision-making. Using the lens of medical power as a framework, we analysed findings into thematic sentences to summarise key ideas whilst preserving the complexity of identified concepts. RESULTS Three key concepts explained patient perspectives of their communication with doctors: (1) portraying a positive image to doctors, (2) avoiding confrontation with doctors, (3) feeling powerless in the face of doctors' medical knowledge. These concepts show deeper dynamic issues of power during healthcare encounters, illustrated by participants' reluctance to voice their concerns and express themselves, challenge decisions, or seek information. CONCLUSION People with cirrhosis struggle to articulate their concerns or challenge decisions on their care and treatment and may worry about potential consequences. Our findings demonstrate the continuing persistence of issues of power at play in contemporary health care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Davis
- Marie Curie Palliative Care Research Department, Division of Psychiatry, University College London, London, UK
| | - Paul Higgs
- Division of Psychiatry, University College London, London, UK
| | - Louise Jones
- Marie Curie Palliative Care Research Department, Division of Psychiatry, University College London, London, UK
| | | | - Jo Wilson
- Department of Palliative Care, 4965Royal Free London NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Joseph Ts Low
- Marie Curie Palliative Care Research Department, Division of Psychiatry, University College London, London, UK
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42
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Maurice JB, Srivastava A, Ferguson J. Trainee engagement in the Improving Quality in Liver Services accreditation programme. Lancet Gastroenterol Hepatol 2023; 8:209-210. [PMID: 36773611 DOI: 10.1016/s2468-1253(22)00437-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2022] [Accepted: 12/13/2022] [Indexed: 02/13/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- James B Maurice
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, North Bristol National Health Service Trust, Bristol, UK.
| | - Ankur Srivastava
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, North Bristol National Health Service Trust, Bristol, UK
| | - James Ferguson
- Department of Hepatology and Liver Transplantation, University Hospitals Birmingham National Health Service Trust, Birmingham, UK
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43
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McPherson S, Jarvis H, McGonigle J, Bedlington J, Dean J, Hallsworth K, Hanon E, Liddle T, Luvai A, Mansour D, Patel P, Renwick L, Teare D, Tanney C, Anstee Q. Stratification Of LIver Disease (SOLID): protocol for a prospective observational cohort study to determine the optimum biomarker strategies for the detection of advanced liver disease at the primary-secondary care interface. BMJ Open Gastroenterol 2023; 10:bmjgast-2022-001092. [PMID: 36754448 PMCID: PMC9923258 DOI: 10.1136/bmjgast-2022-001092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2022] [Accepted: 01/24/2023] [Indexed: 02/10/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Undiagnosed fatty liver disease is prevalent in the community, due to high rates of harmful alcohol consumption and/or obesity. Fatty liver disease can progress to cirrhosis and its complications. Early identification of liver disease and treatment may prevent progression to cirrhosis. Biomarkers including FIB-4, enhanced liver fibrosis (ELF), PRO-C3 and vibration controlled transient elastography (VCTE) can stage liver fibrosis, but it is not known how well they perform in a primary care population. Moreover, no assessment of long-term prognostic ability of these biomarkers has been conducted in primary care. We aim to evaluate the performance of fibrosis biomarkers in primary care to develop a pathway to detect advanced fibrosis. METHODS AND ANALYSIS This prospective, observational cohort study will recruit 3000 individuals with fatty liver disease risk factors (obesity, type 2 diabetes or hazardous alcohol consumption) at their primary care 'annual chronic disease review'. Participants will have a 'liver health check'. Two pathways will be evaluated: (1) all have FIB-4, ELF and VCTE performed, and (2) patients have an initial assessment with FIB-4 and ELF, followed by VCTE in only those with increased FIB-4 and/or ELF. Individuals with suspected significant/advanced liver fibrosis (liver stiffness measurement>8 kPa), will be reviewed in secondary care to confirm their fibrosis stage and institute treatment. The performance of FIB-4, ELF, PRO-C3, VCTE and novel biomarkers alone or in combination for advanced fibrosis/cirrhosis will be evaluated. Participants will be followed longitudinally via their electronic health records to assess long-term clinical outcomes. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION Ethical approval was obtained from the London-Chelsea Research Ethics Committee (22/PR/0535; 27 June 2022). Recruitment began on 31 October 2022. Outcomes of this study will be published in peer-reviewed journals and presented at scientific meetings. A lay summary of the results will be available for study participants and will be disseminated widely by LIVErNORTH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stuart McPherson
- Liver Unit, Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK .,Translational & Clinical Research Institute, University of Newcastle upon Tyne, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK.,Newcastle NIHR Biomedical Research Centre, The Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Helen Jarvis
- Population Health Sciences Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - John McGonigle
- Cruddas Park and Hillsview Surgery, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | | | - Jill Dean
- Clinical Research Network North East and Cumbria, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Kate Hallsworth
- Liver Unit, Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK,Translational & Clinical Research Institute, University of Newcastle upon Tyne, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK,Newcastle NIHR Biomedical Research Centre, The Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Elodie Hanon
- Department of Blood Sciences, The Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Trevor Liddle
- Clinical Research Informatics, The Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Ahai Luvai
- Department of Blood Sciences, The Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Dina Mansour
- Translational & Clinical Research Institute, University of Newcastle upon Tyne, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK,Gastrointestinal and Liver Services, Gateshead Health NHS Foundation Trust, Gateshead, UK
| | - Preya Patel
- Liver Unit, Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Laura Renwick
- Clinical Research Network North East and Cumbria, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Dawn Teare
- Population Health Sciences Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Christina Tanney
- Clinical Research Network North East and Cumbria, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Quentin Anstee
- Liver Unit, Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK,Translational & Clinical Research Institute, University of Newcastle upon Tyne, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK,Newcastle NIHR Biomedical Research Centre, The Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
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Dhanda A, Bodger K, Hood S, Henn C, Allison M, Amasiatu C, Burton R, Cramp M, Forrest E, Khetani M, MacGilchrist A, Masson S, Parker R, Sheron N, Simpson K, Vergis N, White M, Boyd A, Brind A, Joshi A, Rund A, Srivastava A, McCune A, Gartland A, Hudson B, Stableforth B, John C, Maxan E, Unitt E, Beetteridge F, Lewis H, Fellows H, Haq I, Patel J, Ryan J, Cobbold J, Pohl K, Raeburn K, Corless L, Johnston M, Subhani M, Shah N, Ali N, Rajoriya N, Bendall O, Saeed O, Berry P, Moodley P, Abdelbadiee S, Davies S, Kotha S, Ryder S, Verma S, Manship T, Kumar V, Haddadin Y. The Liverpool alcohol-related liver disease algorithm identifies twice as many emergency admissions compared to standard methods when applied to Hospital Episode Statistics for England. Aliment Pharmacol Ther 2023; 57:368-377. [PMID: 36397658 PMCID: PMC10099257 DOI: 10.1111/apt.17307] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2022] [Revised: 05/19/2022] [Accepted: 11/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Emergency admissions in England for alcohol-related liver disease (ArLD) have increased steadily for decades. Statistics based on administrative data typically focus on the ArLD-specific code as the primary diagnosis and are therefore at risk of excluding ArLD admissions defined by other coding combinations. AIM To deploy the Liverpool ArLD Algorithm (LAA), which accounts for alternative coding patterns (e.g., ArLD secondary diagnosis with alcohol/liver-related primary diagnosis), to national and local datasets in the context of studying trends in ArLD admissions before and during the COVID-19 pandemic. METHODS We applied the standard approach and LAA to Hospital Episode Statistics for England (2013-21). The algorithm was also deployed at 28 hospitals to discharge coding for emergency admissions during a common 7-day period in 2019 and 2020, in which eligible patient records were reviewed manually to verify the diagnosis and extract data. RESULTS Nationally, LAA identified approximately 100% more monthly emergency admissions from 2013 to 2021 than the standard method. The annual number of ArLD-specific admissions increased by 30.4%. Of 39,667 admissions in 2020/21, only 19,949 were identified with standard approach, an estimated admission cost of £70 million in under-recorded cases. Within 28 local hospital datasets, 233 admissions were identified using the standard approach and a further 250 locally verified cases using the LAA (107% uplift). There was an 18% absolute increase in ArLD admissions in the seven-day evaluation period in 2020 versus 2019. There were no differences in disease severity or mortality, or in the proportion of admissions with decompensation of cirrhosis or alcoholic hepatitis. CONCLUSIONS The LAA can be applied successfully to local and national datasets. It consistently identifies approximately 100% more cases than the standard coding approach. The algorithm has revealed the true extent of ArLD admissions. The pandemic has compounded a long-term rise in ArLD admissions and mortality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashwin Dhanda
- University of Plymouth, Plymouth, UK.,South West Liver Unit, University Hospitals Plymouth NHS Trust, Plymouth, UK
| | - Keith Bodger
- University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK.,Liverpool University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Liverpool, UK
| | - Steve Hood
- Liverpool University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Liverpool, UK
| | - Clive Henn
- Addiction and Inclusion Directorate, Office for Health Improvement and Disparities, Department for Health and Social Care, London, UK
| | - Michael Allison
- Cambridge Liver Unit, Cambridge NIHR Biomedical Research Centre, Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge, UK
| | - Chioma Amasiatu
- Addiction and Inclusion Directorate, Office for Health Improvement and Disparities, Department for Health and Social Care, London, UK
| | - Robyn Burton
- Addiction and Inclusion Directorate, Office for Health Improvement and Disparities, Department for Health and Social Care, London, UK
| | - Matthew Cramp
- University of Plymouth, Plymouth, UK.,South West Liver Unit, University Hospitals Plymouth NHS Trust, Plymouth, UK
| | | | - Meetal Khetani
- Addiction and Inclusion Directorate, Office for Health Improvement and Disparities, Department for Health and Social Care, London, UK
| | | | - Steven Masson
- Liver Unit, Newcastle Hospitals NHS Trust, Newcastle, UK
| | - Richard Parker
- Leeds Liver Unit, Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, Leeds, UK
| | - Nick Sheron
- Addiction and Inclusion Directorate, Office for Health Improvement and Disparities, Department for Health and Social Care, London, UK
| | - Ken Simpson
- Liver Unit, Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh, NHS Lothian, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Nikhil Vergis
- Imperial College London, London, UK.,Research and Development, GlaxoSmithKline (GSK), Hertfordshire, UK
| | - Martin White
- Addiction and Inclusion Directorate, Office for Health Improvement and Disparities, Department for Health and Social Care, London, UK
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45
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Åberg F, Britton A, Luukkonen PK. Changes over time in the Chronic Liver Disease risk score predict liver-related outcomes: longitudinal analysis of the Whitehall II study. Scand J Gastroenterol 2023; 58:170-177. [PMID: 35989617 DOI: 10.1080/00365521.2022.2113130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2022] [Revised: 08/04/2022] [Accepted: 08/09/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS The Chronic Liver Disease (CLivD) risk score was recently shown to predict future advanced liver disease in the general population. We here investigated the impact of individual CLivD-score changes over time. METHODS Participants of both phase 3 (baseline, 1991-1994) and phase 5 (follow-up, 1997-1999) examinations of the Whitehall II study were followed for liver-related outcomes (hospitalization, cancer, death) until December 2019 through linkage with electronic healthcare registers. The CLivD score, its modifiable components (alcohol use, waist-hip ratio [WHR], diabetes, and smoking), and their individual changes were studied. RESULTS Among 6590 adults (mean age 50 years, 30% women) with a median 21-year follow-up, there were 80 liver outcomes. A rise in the CLivD score between baseline and follow-up examinations significantly increased the risk for liver-related outcomes (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR] 1.62, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.01-2.60), more so in subjects with baseline intermediate-high CLivD scores (HR 2.4 for a CLivD-change) compared to minimal-low CLivD scores. Adverse changes over time in alcohol use and WHR, and new-onset diabetes also predicted liver outcomes. In contrast to WHR, changes in body weight (kg) showed a U-shaped association with liver outcomes. CONCLUSIONS A change in the CLivD score over time corresponds to a true change in the risk for liver-related outcomes, suggesting the usefulness of the CLivD score for assessing response to liver-directed lifestyle interventions. Changes in WHR predicted liver outcomes better than changes in body weight or waist circumference, independent of body mass index, supporting the WHR in assessing risk for future liver disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fredrik Åberg
- Transplantation and Liver Surgery Clinic, Helsinki University Hospital, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Annie Britton
- Institute of Epidemiology and Health Care, University College London, London, UK
| | - Panu K Luukkonen
- Minerva Foundation Institute for Medical Research, Helsinki, Finland
- Department of Medicine, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
- Department of Internal Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
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46
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Abstract
Patients with cirrhosis frequently require admission to the intensive care unit (ICU). Common indications for admission to ICU include one or more reasons of sepsis, shock due to any cause, acute gastrointestinal bleeding, and altered mentation either due to hepatic encephalopathy, alcohol withdrawal/intoxication, or metabolic encephalopathy. The appropriate critical care of an individual can determine the outcomes of these sick patients. The Airway, Breathing, Circulation, Disability (ABCD) approach to a patient admitted to ICU includes airway, breathing, circulation, and disability management. In this review, the authors discuss the common indications for ICU admission in a patient with cirrhosis and also their management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahathi Avadhanam
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Queen Elizabeth hospital, London, UK
| | - Anand V Kulkarni
- Department of Hepatology, AIG Hospitals, Gachibowli, Hyderabad, India-500032.
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47
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Hagström H, Yan J, Talbäck M, Andreasson A, Walldius G, Bottai M, Hammar N. Improved prediction of 10-year risk of severe liver disease in the general population using commonly available biomarkers. Aliment Pharmacol Ther 2023; 57:418-425. [PMID: 36566508 PMCID: PMC10107149 DOI: 10.1111/apt.17374] [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: 09/04/2022] [Revised: 11/03/2022] [Accepted: 12/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Estimating the risk for cirrhosis in the general population is complex. Existing prediction tools are in general unsatisfactory. AIMS To explore if using commonly available biomarkers can improve the commonly used FIB-4 score in the identification of subgroups at risk of cirrhosis. METHODS We used laboratory and clinical data on 126,925 individuals aged 35-79 years in Stockholm, Sweden, undergoing health examinations from 1985 to 1996. We used Swedish nationwide registries to ascertain 10-year cumulative incidence of severe liver disease, a composite of diagnoses corresponding to cirrhosis and its complications. We considered combinations of biomarkers associated with severe liver disease to identify subgroups with different risk profiles. RESULTS During an average follow-up of 9.3 years, we ascertained 630 incident cases of severe liver disease (0.5%). Age, the FIB-4 score, diabetes or impaired glucose and gamma-glutamyl transferase (gGT) were the most relevant characteristics for classifying risk profiles. Using these factors, we identified 24 groups with a cumulative incidence of severe liver disease at 10 years ranging from 0.2% (age 35-65, low FIB-4, no diabetes or impaired glucose and normal gGT) to 32.1% (age 35-65, high FIB-4, diabetes or impaired glucose and high gGT). CONCLUSIONS Identification of subjects at increased risk of severe liver disease in the general population using the FIB-4 score can be substantially improved by adding age and specific biomarkers commonly available in the primary care setting. These parameters should be considered for inclusion in the development of future risk prediction models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hannes Hagström
- Division of Hepatology, Department of Upper GI, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden.,Department of Medicine, Huddinge, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Jacinth Yan
- Division of Biostatistics, Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Mats Talbäck
- Unit of Epidemiology, Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Anna Andreasson
- Department of Medicine Solna, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.,Department of Psychology, Stress Research Institute, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Göran Walldius
- Unit of Epidemiology, Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Matteo Bottai
- Division of Biostatistics, Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Niklas Hammar
- Unit of Epidemiology, Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
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48
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Pembroke TPI, John G, Puyk B, Howkins K, Clarke R, Yousuf F, Czajkowski M, Godkin A, Salmon J, Yeoman A. Rising incidence, progression and changing patterns of liver disease in Wales 1999-2019. World J Hepatol 2023; 15:89-106. [PMID: 36744166 PMCID: PMC9896508 DOI: 10.4254/wjh.v15.i1.89] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2022] [Revised: 11/17/2022] [Accepted: 01/01/2023] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Liver disease incidence and hence demand on hepatology services is increasing.
AIM To describe trends in incidence and natural history of liver diseases in Wales to inform effective provision of hepatology services.
METHODS The registry is populated by International Classification of Diseases-10 (ICD-10) code diagnoses for residents derived from mortality data and inpatient/day case activity between 1999-2019. Pseudo-anonymised linkage of: (1) Causative diagnoses; (2) Cirrhosis; (3) Portal hypertension; (4) Decompensation; and (5) Liver cancer diagnoses enabled tracking liver disease progression.
RESULTS The population of Wales in 2019 was 3.1 million. Between 1999 and 2019 73054 individuals were diagnosed with a hepatic disorder, including 18633 diagnosed with cirrhosis, 10965 with liver decompensation and 2316 with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Over 21 years the incidence of liver diseases increased 3.6 fold, predominantly driven by a 10 fold increase in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD); the leading cause of liver disease from 2014. The incidence of cirrhosis, decompensation, HCC, and all-cause mortality tripled. Liver-related mortality doubled. Alcohol-related liver disease (ArLD), autoimmune liver disease and congestive hepatopathy were associated with the highest rates of decompensation and all-cause mortality.
CONCLUSION A 10 fold increase in NAFLD incidence is driving a 3.6 fold increase in liver disease in Wales over 21 years. Liver-related morbidity and mortality rose more slowly reflecting the lower progression rate in NAFLD. Incidence of ArLD remained stable but was associated with the highest rates of liver-related and all-cause mortality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Peter Ignatius Pembroke
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University Hospital of Wales, Cardiff CF14 4XN, United Kingdom
- Division of Infection and Immunity, Cardiff University, Cardiff CF14 4XW, United Kingdom
| | - Gareth John
- Digital Health and Care Wales, NHS Wales, Cardiff CF11 9AD, United Kingdom
| | - Berry Puyk
- Digital Health and Care Wales, NHS Wales, Cardiff CF11 9AD, United Kingdom
| | - Keith Howkins
- Digital Health and Care Wales, NHS Wales, Cardiff CF11 9AD, United Kingdom
| | - Ruth Clarke
- Digital Health and Care Wales, NHS Wales, Cardiff CF11 9AD, United Kingdom
| | - Fidan Yousuf
- Gwent Liver Unit, Royal Gwent Hospital, Newport NP20 2UB, United Kingdom
| | - Marek Czajkowski
- Gwent Liver Unit, Royal Gwent Hospital, Newport NP20 2UB, United Kingdom
| | - Andrew Godkin
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University Hospital of Wales, Cardiff CF14 4XN, United Kingdom
- Division of Infection and Immunity, Cardiff University, Cardiff CF14 4XW, United Kingdom
| | - Jane Salmon
- Public Health Wales, NHS Wales, Cardiff CF10 4BZ, United Kingdom
| | - Andrew Yeoman
- Gwent Liver Unit, Royal Gwent Hospital, Newport NP20 2UB, United Kingdom
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49
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Tavabie OD, Kronsten VT, Przemioslo R, McDougall N, Ramos K, Joshi D, Prachalias A, Menon K, Agarwal K, Heneghan MA, Valliani T, Cash J, Cramp ME, Aluvihare V. Satellite liver transplant centres significantly improve transplant assessment outcomes for patients with chronic liver disease but not hepatocellular carcinoma: a retrospective cohort study. Frontline Gastroenterol 2023; 14:334-342. [PMID: 37409334 PMCID: PMC11138172 DOI: 10.1136/flgastro-2022-102366] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2022] [Accepted: 01/06/2023] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Liver transplantation (LT) remains integral to the management of end-stage chronic liver disease (CLD). However, referral thresholds and assessment pathways remain poorly defined. Distance from LT centre has been demonstrated to impact negatively on patient outcomes resulting in the development of satellite LT centres (SLTCs). We aimed to evaluate the impact of SLTCs on LT assessment in patients with CLD and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Methods A retrospective cohort study was undertaken including all patients with CLD or HCC assessed for LT at King's College Hospital (KCH) between October 2014 and October 2019. Referral location, social, demographic, clinical and laboratory data were collected. Univariable and multivariable analyses (MVA) were performed to assess the impact of SLTCs on patients being accepted as LT candidates and contraindications being identified. Results 1102 and 240 LT assessments were included for patients with CLD and HCC, respectively. MVA demonstrated significant associations with; patients living greater than 60 min from KCH/SLTCs and LT candidacy acceptance in CLD, and less deprived patients and LT candidacy acceptance in HCC. However, neither variable was associated with identification of LT contraindications. MVA demonstrated that referrals from SLTCs were more likely to result in acceptance of LT candidacy and less likely to result in a contraindication being identified in CLD. However, such associations were not demonstrated in HCC. Conclusion SLTCs improve LT assessment outcomes in CLD but not HCC reflecting the standardised HCC referral pathway. Developing a formal regional LT assessment pathway across the UK would improve equity of access to transplantation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Robert Przemioslo
- Department of Gastroenterology, North Bristol NHS Trust, Bristol, UK
| | | | - Katie Ramos
- South West Liver Unit, Plymouth Hospitals NHS Trust, Plymouth, UK
| | - Deepak Joshi
- Institute of Liver Studies, King's College Hospital, London, UK
| | | | - Krish Menon
- Institute of Liver Studies, King's College Hospital, London, UK
| | - Kosh Agarwal
- Institute of Liver Studies, King's College Hospital, London, UK
| | | | - Talal Valliani
- Department of Gastroenterology, North Bristol NHS Trust, Bristol, UK
| | - Johnny Cash
- The Liver Unit, Royal Victoria Hospital, Belfast, UK
| | - Matthew E Cramp
- South West Liver Unit, Plymouth Hospitals NHS Trust, Plymouth, UK
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50
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Gananandan K, Phillips A, Chikhlia A, Old H, Sim SJY, Thakur N, Hussain I, Kazankov K, Mookerjee RP. Negative impact of the pandemic on hospital admissions, morbidity and early mortality for acute cirrhosis decompensation. BMJ Open Gastroenterol 2023; 10:bmjgast-2022-001071. [PMID: 36650007 PMCID: PMC9853150 DOI: 10.1136/bmjgast-2022-001071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2022] [Accepted: 01/03/2023] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The global pandemic has diverted resources away from management of chronic diseases, including cirrhosis. While there is increasing knowledge on COVID-19 infection in liver cirrhosis, little is described on the impact of the pandemic on decompensated cirrhosis admissions and outcomes, which was the aim of this study. METHODS A single-centre, retrospective study, evaluated decompensated cirrhosis admissions to a tertiary London hepatology and transplantation centre, from October 2018 to February 2021. Patients were included if they had an admission with cirrhosis decompensation defined as new-onset jaundice or ascites, infection, encephalopathy, portal hypertensive bleeding or renal dysfunction. RESULTS The average number of admissions stayed constant between the pre-COVID-19 (October 2018-February 2020) and COVID-19 periods (March 2020-February 2021). Patients transferred in from secondary centres had consistently higher severity scores during the COVID-19 period (UK Model for End-Stage Liver Disease 58 vs 54; p=0.007, Model for End-Stage Liver Disease-Sodium 22 vs 18; p=0.006, EF-CLIF Acute Decompensation (AD) score 55.0 vs 51.0; p=0.055). Of those admitted to the intensive care without acute-on-chronic liver failure, there was a significant increase in AD scores during the COVID-19 period (58 vs 48, p=0.009). In addition, there was a trend towards increased hospital readmission rates during the COVID-19 period (29.5% vs 21.5%, p=0.067). When censored at 30 days, early mortality postdischarge was significantly higher during the COVID-19 period (p<0.001) with a median time to death of 35 days compared with 62 days pre-COVID-19. DISCUSSION This study provides a unique perspective on the impact that the global pandemic had on decompensated cirrhosis admissions. The findings of increased early mortality and readmissions, and higher AD scores on ICU admission, highlight the need to maintain resourcing for high-level hepatology care and follow-up, in spite of other disease pressures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kohilan Gananandan
- University College London Institute for Liver and Digestive Health, London, UK
| | - Alexandra Phillips
- University College London Institute for Liver and Digestive Health, London, UK
| | | | - Hannah Old
- Royal Free London NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | | | - Niharika Thakur
- University College London Institute for Liver and Digestive Health, London, UK
| | - Ishrat Hussain
- University College London Institute for Liver and Digestive Health, London, UK
| | - Konstantin Kazankov
- University College London Institute for Liver and Digestive Health, London, UK,Aarhus University Hospital Department of Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Aarhus, Midtjylland, Denmark
| | - Rajeshwar P Mookerjee
- University College London Institute for Liver and Digestive Health, London, UK .,Aarhus University Hospital Department of Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Aarhus, Midtjylland, Denmark
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