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Shih PY, Cheng YJ, Ho SI, Huang HH, Yeh JR, Sun WZ, Chan KC. Recovery of cardiac electrophysiological alterations by heart rate complexity based on multiscale entropy following liver transplantation. Sci Rep 2024; 14:7467. [PMID: 38553611 PMCID: PMC10980714 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-58191-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2023] [Accepted: 03/26/2024] [Indexed: 04/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Autonomic nervous dysfunction is a known cardiac sequalae in patients with end-stage liver disease and is associated with a poor prognosis. Heart rate analysis using nonlinear models such as multiscale entropy (MSE) or complexity may identify marked changes in these patients where conventional heart rate variability (HRV) measurements do not. To investigate the application of heart rate complexity (HRC) based on MSE in liver transplantation settings. Thirty adult recipients of elective living donor liver transplantation were enrolled. HRV parameters using conventional HRV analysis and HRC analysis were obtained at the following time points: (1) 1 day before surgery, (2) postoperative day (POD) 7, (3) POD 14, (4) POD 90, and (5) POD 180. Preoperatively, patients with MELD score ≥ 25 had significantly lower HRC compared to patients with lower MELD scores. This difference in HRC disappeared by POD 7 following liver transplantation and subsequent analyses at POD 90 and 180 continued to show no significant difference. Our results indicated a significant negative correlation between HRC based on MSE analysis and liver disease severity preoperatively, which may be more sensitive than conventional linear HRV analysis. HRC in patients with MELD score ≧ 25 improved over time and became comparable to those with MELD < 25 as early as in 7 days.
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Affiliation(s)
- Po-Yuan Shih
- Department of Anesthesiology, National Taiwan University Hospital, No.7, Zhongshan S. Rd., Zhongzheng Dist., Taipei City 100, Taiwan
| | - Ya-Jung Cheng
- Department of Anesthesiology, National Taiwan University Hospital, No.7, Zhongshan S. Rd., Zhongzheng Dist., Taipei City 100, Taiwan
| | - Shih-I Ho
- Department of Anesthesiology, National Taiwan University Hospital, No.7, Zhongshan S. Rd., Zhongzheng Dist., Taipei City 100, Taiwan
| | - Hui-Hsun Huang
- Department of Anesthesiology, National Taiwan University Hospital, No.7, Zhongshan S. Rd., Zhongzheng Dist., Taipei City 100, Taiwan
| | - Jia-Rong Yeh
- Research Center for Adaptive Data Analysis and Center for Dynamical Biomarkers and Translational Medicine, National Central University, No. 200, Zhongbei Rd., Zhongli Dist., Taoyuan City, 320314, Taiwan
| | - Wei-Zen Sun
- Department of Anesthesiology, National Taiwan University Hospital, No.7, Zhongshan S. Rd., Zhongzheng Dist., Taipei City 100, Taiwan
| | - Kuang-Cheng Chan
- Department of Anesthesiology, National Taiwan University Hospital, No.7, Zhongshan S. Rd., Zhongzheng Dist., Taipei City 100, Taiwan.
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Vandenberk B, Altieri MH, Liu H, Raj SR, Lee SS. Review article: diagnosis, pathophysiology and management of atrial fibrillation in cirrhosis and portal hypertension. Aliment Pharmacol Ther 2023; 57:290-303. [PMID: 36571829 DOI: 10.1111/apt.17368] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2022] [Revised: 10/16/2022] [Accepted: 12/08/2022] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common arrhythmia and its management in cirrhosis can be challenging due to the altered hepatic metabolism of medications and increased risk of bleeding. AIMS To provide a comprehensive overview of the diagnosis, pathophysiology and management of AF in patients with cirrhosis from both a cardiology and a hepatology perspective. METHODS An extensive literature search was performed using the terms 'atrial fibrillation' and 'cirrhosis'. Guideline documents and consensus statements were explored. RESULTS The prevalence of AF in patients with cirrhosis ranges between 6.6% and 14.2%, while the incidence of new-onset AF in the post-operative period after liver transplant ranged between 6.8% and 10.2%. AF in patients with cirrhosis is associated with adverse outcomes in both pre-transplant and post-transplant settings, including an increased risk of stroke when compared to the general population. We review the pathogenesis of AF in general and in cirrhosis. This review also provides guidance on the management of AF, including the use of anticoagulation and rate versus rhythm control. In the absence of strict contraindications, all patients with cirrhosis and AF should be anticoagulated. The use of DOACs is preferred over vitamin K antagonists. In patients with a high bleeding risk, a DOAC with an approved antidote may be preferred. CONCLUSIONS Atrial fibrillation is increased in patients with cirrhosis. AF management requires careful consideration of treatment options. Since patients with cirrhosis were excluded from all major randomised clinical trials, dedicated research on the pathophysiology and management of AF in cirrhosis is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bert Vandenberk
- Department of Cardiac Sciences, Libin Cardiovascular Institute, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada.,Department of Cardiovascular Sciences, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Mario H Altieri
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, CHU Caen, Caen, France
| | - Hongqun Liu
- Liver Unit, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Satish R Raj
- Department of Cardiac Sciences, Libin Cardiovascular Institute, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada.,Autonomic Dysfunction Center, Division of Clinical Pharmacology, Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Samuel S Lee
- Liver Unit, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
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Bezinover D, Mukhtar A, Wagener G, Wray C, Blasi A, Kronish K, Zerillo J, Tomescu D, Pustavoitau A, Gitman M, Singh A, Saner FH. Hemodynamic Instability During Liver Transplantation in Patients With End-stage Liver Disease: A Consensus Document from ILTS, LICAGE, and SATA. Transplantation 2021; 105:2184-2200. [PMID: 33534523 DOI: 10.1097/tp.0000000000003642] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Hemodynamic instability (HDI) during liver transplantation (LT) can be difficult to manage and increases postoperative morbidity and mortality. In addition to surgical causes of HDI, patient- and graft-related factors are also important. Nitric oxide-mediated vasodilatation is a common denominator associated with end-stage liver disease related to HDI. Despite intense investigation, optimal management strategies remain elusive. In this consensus article, experts from the International Liver Transplantation Society, the Liver Intensive Care Group of Europe, and the Society for the Advancement of Transplant Anesthesia performed a rigorous review of the most current literature regarding the epidemiology, causes, and management of HDI during LT. Special attention has been paid to unique LT-associated conditions including the causes and management of vasoplegic syndrome, cardiomyopathies, LT-related arrhythmias, right and left ventricular dysfunction, and the specifics of medical and fluid management in end-stage liver disease as well as problems specifically related to portal circulation. When possible, management recommendations are made.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dmitri Bezinover
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, Pennsylvania State University, Penn State Health, Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, Hershey, PA. Represents ILTS and LICAGE
| | - Ahmed Mukhtar
- Department of Anesthesia and Surgical Intensive Care, Cairo University, Almanyal, Cairo, Egypt. Represents LICAGE
| | - Gebhard Wagener
- Department of Anesthesiology, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, NY. Represents SATA and ILTS
| | - Christopher Wray
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Ronald Reagan Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA. Represents SATA
| | - Annabel Blasi
- Department of Anesthesia, IDIBAPS (Institut d´investigació biomèdica Agustí Pi i Sunyé) Hospital Clinic, Villaroel, Barcelona, Spain. Represents LICAGE and ILTS
| | - Kate Kronish
- Department of Anesthesia and Perioperative Care, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA. Represents SATA
| | - Jeron Zerillo
- Department of Anesthesiology, Perioperative and Pain Medicine, Mount Sinai Hospital, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY. Represents SATA and ILTS
| | - Dana Tomescu
- Department of Anesthesiology and Intensive Care, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Fundeni Clinical Institute, Bucharest, Romania. Represents LICAGE
| | - Aliaksei Pustavoitau
- Department of Anesthesia and Critical Care Medicine, Johns Hopkins Hospital, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD. Represents ILTS
| | - Marina Gitman
- Department of Anesthesiology, University of Illinois Hospital, Chicago, IL. Represents SATA and ILTS
| | - Anil Singh
- Department of Liver Transplant and GI Critical Care, Sir HN Reliance Foundation Hospital, Cirgaon, Mumbai, India. Represents ILTS
| | - Fuat H Saner
- Department of General, Visceral and Transplant Surgery, Essen University Medical Center, Essen, Germany. Represents LICAGE
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Caballero-Mateos AM, García Márquez J, Ortiz Sánchez A, Roa Colomo A, Rodríguez Acosta C. Is gastroparesis that is often detected in patients with alcoholic chronic liver disease a manifestation of an autonomic dysfunction syndrome? A preliminary study. REVISTA ESPANOLA DE ENFERMEDADES DIGESTIVAS 2020; 113:269-271. [PMID: 33233909 DOI: 10.17235/reed.2020.7303/2020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND the autonomic dysfunction defines the neuropathy of the autonomic nervous system. The prevalence of the gastric dysmotility and its relationship with the autonomic dysfunction in patients with alcohol chronic liver disease is not well known. METHODS thirty-six patients with alcohol chronic liver disease and 25 healthy controls were evaluated, in order to detect an autonomic dysfunction through different cardiovascular reflexes and gastric emptying tests. RESULTS ninety-four per cent of the patients showed an impaired R index (variations in heart rate during six deep inspirations-expirations per minute) and/or S/S-HR (variations in heart rate when standing from a supine position). Seventy-five per cent of the patients showed gastroparesis (T1/2: gastric half-emptying time was delayed). There was a correlation between the R index and T1/2 (r = -0.49; p < 0.01). CONCLUSIONS we suggest that gastroparesis detected in alcoholic chronic liver disease is another clinical manifestation of the autonomic parasympathetic dysfunction.
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Interplay of cardiovascular mediators, oxidative stress and inflammation in liver disease and its complications. Nat Rev Cardiol 2020; 18:117-135. [PMID: 32999450 DOI: 10.1038/s41569-020-0433-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The liver is a crucial metabolic organ that has a key role in maintaining immune and endocrine homeostasis. Accumulating evidence suggests that chronic liver disease might promote the development of various cardiac disorders (such as arrhythmias and cardiomyopathy) and circulatory complications (including systemic, splanchnic and pulmonary complications), which can eventually culminate in clinical conditions ranging from portal and pulmonary hypertension to pulmonary, cardiac and renal failure, ascites and encephalopathy. Liver diseases can affect cardiovascular function during the early stages of disease progression. The development of cardiovascular diseases in patients with chronic liver failure is associated with increased morbidity and mortality, and cardiovascular complications can in turn affect liver function and liver disease progression. Furthermore, numerous infectious, inflammatory, metabolic and genetic diseases, as well as alcohol abuse can also influence both hepatic and cardiovascular outcomes. In this Review, we highlight how chronic liver diseases and associated cardiovascular effects can influence different organ pathologies. Furthermore, we explore the potential roles of inflammation, oxidative stress, vasoactive mediator imbalance, dysregulated endocannabinoid and autonomic nervous systems and endothelial dysfunction in mediating the complex interplay between the liver and the systemic vasculature that results in the development of the extrahepatic complications of chronic liver disease. The roles of ageing, sex, the gut microbiome and organ transplantation in this complex interplay are also discussed.
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Liangpunsakul S, Agarwal R. Altered circadian hemodynamic and renal function in cirrhosis. Nephrol Dial Transplant 2017; 32:333-342. [PMID: 28186574 DOI: 10.1093/ndt/gfw014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2015] [Accepted: 01/17/2016] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Given that alterations in systemic hemodynamics have a profound influence on renal function in patients with cirrhosis, it is surprising that circadian variations in blood pressure (BP) and renal electrolyte excretion have scarcely been studied. Our aims were to define the relationship of 24-h ambulatory BP changes with renal tubular function and to determine the influence of endotoxemia on BP and urinary parameters. Methods Forty healthy controls served as a comparator to 20 cirrhotic patients. They underwent 24-h ambulatory BP monitoring and 24-h urine collection. Results Subjects with cirrhosis demonstrated significant diurnal variations in urinary excretion of sodium (57.7 µmol/min day versus 87 µmol/min night) and creatinine (826 µg/min day versus 1202 µg/min night). Increasing severity of cirrhosis was associated with a progressive reduction in ambulatory awake systolic (P-trend = 0.015), diastolic (P-trend < 0.001) and mean BP (P-trend < 0.001). In patients with cirrhosis, the magnitude of change in BP from awake to sleep state was blunted for systolic BP (5% reduction, P = 0.039) and pulse rate (2% reduction, P < 0.001). The amplitude of variation in pulse rate was blunted with increasing severity of cirrhosis (controls 6.5, Child-Pugh Class A 5.3, Child B 3.4, Child C 1.2, P = 0.03) and the acrophase was right-shifted with increasing severity of cirrhosis. Compared with sleep state, during the awake state, endotoxin was associated with less sodium excretion and a lower systolic BP. Compared with the awake state, endotoxin was associated with a higher sleeping pulse rate (P < 0.001). Conclusions Patients with cirrhosis have altered diurnal profiles in renal tubular function and blood pressure that appear to be related to endotoxemia. Determining whether endotoxemia is causally related to these perturbations will require interventional studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suthat Liangpunsakul
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA.,R.L. Roudebush VA Medical Center, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Rajiv Agarwal
- R.L. Roudebush VA Medical Center, Indianapolis, IN, USA.,Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
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Di Stefano C, Milazzo V, Milan A, Veglio F, Maule S. The role of autonomic dysfunction in cirrhotic patients before and after liver transplantation. Review of the literature. Liver Int 2016; 36:1081-9. [PMID: 27003923 DOI: 10.1111/liv.13126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2016] [Accepted: 03/15/2016] [Indexed: 02/13/2023]
Abstract
In patients affected by hepatic cirrhosis, autonomic dysfunction is a common finding; usually it is asymptomatic but it may correlate with increased mortality and morbidity before, during and after liver transplant, due to hemodynamic instability in the course of stressful events like sepsis, gastrointestinal bleeding and reperfusion after transplantation surgery. Hyperdynamic circulation and hepatic dysfunction seem to play a role in the pathogenesis of autonomic dysfunction, even if pathophysiological mechanisms are not completely known. We present a revision of previous literature about prevalence, pathophysiological mechanisms, clinical features, and mortality and morbidity of autonomic dysfunction secondary to hepatic cirrhosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Di Stefano
- Autonomic Unit and Hypertension Unit, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Valeria Milazzo
- Autonomic Unit and Hypertension Unit, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Alberto Milan
- Autonomic Unit and Hypertension Unit, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Franco Veglio
- Autonomic Unit and Hypertension Unit, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Simona Maule
- Autonomic Unit and Hypertension Unit, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
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8
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Sabath E, Báez-Ruiz A, Buijs RM. Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease as a consequence of autonomic imbalance and circadian desynchronization. Obes Rev 2015. [PMID: 26214605 DOI: 10.1111/obr.12308] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The circadian system, headed by the suprachiasmatic nucleus, synchronizes behaviour and metabolism according to the external light-dark cycle through neuroendocrine and autonomic signals. Metabolic diseases, such as steatosis, obesity and glucose intolerance, have been associated with conditions of circadian misalignment wherein the feeding schedule has been moved to the resting phase. Here we describe the physiological processes involved in liver lipid accumulation and show how they follow a circadian pattern importantly regulated by both the autonomic nervous system and the feeding-fasting cycle. We propose that an unbalanced activity of the sympathetic-parasympathetic branches between organs induced by circadian misalignment provides the conditions for the development and progression of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Sabath
- Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, Institute for Biomedical Research, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - A Báez-Ruiz
- Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, Institute for Biomedical Research, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - R M Buijs
- Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, Institute for Biomedical Research, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mexico City, Mexico
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9
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Effect of biliary cirrhosis on neurogenic relaxation of rat gastric fundus and anococcygeus muscle: role of nitric oxide pathway. Dig Dis Sci 2014; 59:2675-81. [PMID: 24898099 DOI: 10.1007/s10620-014-3225-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2013] [Accepted: 05/23/2014] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cirrhosis, associated with a host of hemodynamic abnormalities, could affect the gastrointestinal (GI) tract motility. On the other hand, the nonadrenergic noncholinergic (NANC) neurotransmission has been shown to play a pivotal role in GI tract motility and has been linked with release of nitric oxide (NO) on electrical stimulation. In this study, we investigated the effect of biliary cirrhosis on the neurogenic relaxation of rat gastric fundus and anococcygeus muscle and also the possible role of nitric oxide system in this manner. METHODS Isolated gastric fundus and anococcygeus strips of sham-operated and biliary cirrhotic (4 weeks after bile duct ligation) rats were mounted under tension in a standard organ bath. Electrical stimulation was applied to obtain NANC-mediated relaxations in precontracted gastric fundus and anococcygeus muscle. The neurogenic relaxations were examined in the presence of different doses of NO synthase inhibitor, N (w)-Nitro-L-Arginine Methyl Ester (L-NAME). The concentration-dependent relaxant responses to the NO donor sodium nitroprusside were also evaluated. RESULTS The neurogenic relaxation of both gastric fundus and anococcygeus muscle was significantly (P < 0.001) increased in cirrhotic animals. L-NAME (0.03-1,000 µM) inhibited relaxations in both groups in a dose-dependent manner (P < 0.001), but cirrhotic groups were more resistant to the inhibitory effects of L-NAME (P < 0.01). Sodium nitroprusside-mediated relaxations were similar in two groups. CONCLUSIONS This study for the first time demonstrated that cirrhosis increases the NO-mediated neurogenic relaxation of both rat gastric fundus and anococcygeus muscle, suggesting a crucial role for the neurogenic NO in the pathophysiology of disturbed GI motility in cirrhosis.
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Huh IY, Park ES, Kim KI, Lee AR, Hwang GS. Alteration of the QT variability index in end-stage liver disease. Korean J Anesthesiol 2014; 66:199-203. [PMID: 24729841 PMCID: PMC3983415 DOI: 10.4097/kjae.2014.66.3.199] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2013] [Revised: 07/26/2013] [Accepted: 08/14/2013] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Background A prolonged QT interval can lead to malignant ventricular arrhythmias and sudden cardiac death, and has frequently been found in end-stage liver disease (ESLD). However, myocardial repolarization lability has not yet been fully investigated. We evaluated the QT variability index (QTVI), a marker of temporal inhomogeneity in ventricular repolarization and an abnormality associated with re-entrant malignant ventricular arrhythmias. We determined whether QTVI is affected by the head-up tilt test in ESLD. Methods We assessed 36 ESLD patients and 12 control subjects without overt heart disease before and after the 70-degree head-up tilt test. The electrocardiography signal (lead II) was recorded on a computer with an analog-to-digital converter. The RR interval (RRI) and QT interval were measured after recording 5 min of the digitized electrocardiography. Then, the QT intervals were corrected with Bazett's formula (QTc). QTVI was calculated through the following formula: QTVI = log10 [(QTv/QTm2)/(RRIv/RRIm2)], QTv/RRIv: variance of QTI/RRI, QTm/RRIm: mean of QT interval/RRI. Results Cirrhotic patients exhibited an elevated QTVI. In particular, Child class C patients had a significantly increased QTVI compared to Child class A patients and the control subjects in the supine position. However, the head-up tilt test did not cause a significant difference in QTVI in relation to the severity of ESLD. Conclusions Myocardial repolarization lability was significantly altered in end-stage liver disease. Our data suggest that the severity of ESLD is associated with the degree of the alteration in the QT variability index.
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Affiliation(s)
- In Young Huh
- Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, Ulsan University Hospital, Ulsan, Korea
| | - Eun Sun Park
- Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, Ulsan University Hospital, Ulsan, Korea
| | - Kang-Il Kim
- Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, Ulsan University Hospital, Ulsan, Korea
| | - A-Ran Lee
- Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, Ulsan University Hospital, Ulsan, Korea
| | - Gyu-Sam Hwang
- Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, Asan Medical Center, Seoul, Korea
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Dinis-Oliveira RJ, Magalhães T, Moreira R, Proença JB, Pontes H, Santos A, Duarte JA, Carvalho F. Clinical and forensic signs related to ethanol abuse: a mechanistic approach. Toxicol Mech Methods 2013; 24:81-110. [PMID: 24274640 DOI: 10.3109/15376516.2013.869782] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
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Abstract
Improved medical management and the changing disease demographic mean that the majority of patients with chronic liver disease are living with the disease rather than dying from it. Historically, the perception has been that the impact of chronic liver disease is related entirely to the consequences of endstage liver disease; however, more recently a number of systemic symptoms have been recognised that can occur at any point in the natural history of chronic liver disease and which can be associated with functional impairment and reduced quality of life. The most characteristic of these systemic symptoms is fatigue, which frequently associates with sleep disturbance and autonomic dysfunction, particularly manifest as abnormality of blood pressure regulation. Cognitive symptoms can occur even in non-cirrhotic patients. Falls can present in patients with autonomic dysfunction, complicated by the presence of peripheral muscle strength problems. Importantly for clinicians managing chronic liver disease, the severity of these systemic symptoms is typically not related to liver disease severity, and therefore despite optimal liver disease management, patients can often continue to experience debilitating symptoms. The similarity in systemic symptoms between different chronic liver diseases (and indeed chronic inflammatory conditions affecting other organs) suggests the possibility of shared pathogenetic processes and raises the possibility of common management strategies, although further research is urgently needed to confirm this. In primary biliary cirrhosis, where our understanding of systemic symptoms is arguably most developed, structured management strategies have been shown to improve the quality of life of patients. It is highly likely that similar approaches will have comparable benefits for other chronic liver disease groups. Here, we review the current understanding of systemic symptoms in chronic liver disease and offer recommendations regarding the successful management of these symptoms. Critical for successful treatment is use of a structured and systematic approach to management in which all contributing factors are addressed in an organised fashion. We believe that such a systematic approach, when applied to research as well as to clinical management, will allow us to reduce the overall burden of chronic liver disease, improve quality of life and enhance functional ability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia L Newton
- UK NIHR Biomedical Research Centre in Ageing and Age Related Diseases, Newcastle University, Newcastle, UK.
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Abstract
It is becoming increasingly clear that quality of life (QOL) is impaired in those with chronic liver disease (CLD). One of the most important contributors to impaired QOL is the symptomatic burden which can range from slight to debilitating. Autonomic dysfunction accounts for a significant proportion of these symptoms, which can be common, non-specific and challenging to treat. Investigating the autonomic nervous system can be straight forward and can assist the clinician to diagnose and treat specific symptoms. Evidence-based treatment options for autonomic symptoms, specifically in CLD, can be lacking and must be extrapolated from other studies and expert opinion. For those with severely impaired quality of life, liver transplantation may offer an improvement; however, more research is needed to confirm this.
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Affiliation(s)
- James Frith
- NIHR Biomedical Research Centre in Ageing, Institute for Ageing and Health, Newcastle University, Newcastle UK
| | - Julia L Newton
- NIHR Biomedical Research Centre in Ageing, Institute for Ageing and Health, Newcastle University, Newcastle UK
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Vedovetto V, Bilora F, Chemello L, Cavalletto L, Rossato A, Veronese F, Gottardo A, Pagnan A. Alterazioni neurovascolari nell’epatite cronica C: uno studio caso-controllo. ITALIAN JOURNAL OF MEDICINE 2011. [DOI: 10.1016/j.itjm.2010.09.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022] Open
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15
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Investigation of autonomic function and orocecal transit time in patients with nonalcoholic cirrhosis and the potential influence of these factors on disease outcome. J Clin Gastroenterol 2009; 43:884-9. [PMID: 19295446 DOI: 10.1097/mcg.0b013e31818de34c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The presence of autonomic dysfunction in nonalcoholic cirrhosis and its influence on intestinal transit and disease outcome still need clarification. GOALS To investigate the function of the autonomic nervous system in patients with nonalcoholic cirrhosis and the possible associations among autonomic dysfunction, severity of liver disease, disturbed intestinal transit, and the development of complications during follow-up. STUDY Measurements of heart rate variability obtained by analysis of 24-hour ambulatory electrocardiographic recordings to assess autonomic function and lactulose breath hydrogen test to determine orocecal transit time were performed in 32 patients with nonalcoholic cirrhosis divided into Child A and B. RESULTS Child B patients showed significantly lower values (P<0.05) of those parameters reflecting parasympathetic (high frequency, log-transformed high frequency, pNN50) and sympathetic function (low frequency, log-transformed low frequency) in comparison with controls and Child A patients. Orocecal transit time values were significantly (P=0.02) higher in Child B patients than in controls, but no relationship was found between delayed orocecal transit time and autonomic dysfunction. During follow-up, 42% of Child B patients developed encephalopathy. This complication was significantly associated with autonomic dysfunction. In addition, in the 4 patients who died the parameters reflecting parasympathetic function were significantly reduced in comparison with those of survivors. CONCLUSIONS Autonomic dysfunction and delayed intestinal transit are related to the severity of disease in nonalcoholic cirrhosis. Autonomic dysfunction seems to predispose cirrhotic patients to the development of encephalopathy and may be associated with a poor prognosis of these patients.
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Dümcke CW, Møller S. Autonomic dysfunction in cirrhosis and portal hypertension. Scandinavian Journal of Clinical and Laboratory Investigation 2009; 68:437-47. [DOI: 10.1080/00365510701813096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
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S. Møller, J. H. Henriksen. Cardiovascular Dysfunction in Cirrhosis: Pathophysiological Evidence of a Cirrhotic Cardiomyopathy. Scand J Gastroenterol 2009. [DOI: 10.1080/00365520120972] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/01/2023]
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Abstract
Autonomic dysfunction (AD) is common in chronic liver disease (CLD) of all aetiologies and even more so in those awaiting transplantation. As yet, the pathophysiology is not completely understood but the clinical effects are dramatic for the patient, who has a heavy symptomatic burden. There are several considerations, specific to liver disease, which complicate AD. Outlined here is a practical guide for clinicians detailing the common presentations and consequences of AD, investigation techniques and treatment options. As morbidity and mortality is increased in CLD patients with AD its recognition, investigation and management is important to all who encounter such patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- James Frith
- Biomedical Research Centre in Ageing-Liver theme & Institute of Cellular Medicine, Newcastle University, Newcastle, UK.
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Guggenheimer J, Close JM, Eghtesad B. Sialadenosis in patients with advanced liver disease. Head Neck Pathol 2009; 3:100-5. [PMID: 19644542 PMCID: PMC2715456 DOI: 10.1007/s12105-009-0113-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2009] [Accepted: 03/11/2009] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Sialadenosis (sialosis) has been associated most often with alcoholic liver disease and alcoholic cirrhosis, but a number of nutritional deficiencies, diabetes, and bulimia have also been reported to result in sialadenosis. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of sialadenosis in patients with advanced liver disease. Patients in the study group consisted of 300 candidates for liver transplantation. Types of liver disease in subjects with clinical evidence of sialadenosis were compared with diagnoses in cases who had no manifestations of sialadenosis. The data were analyzed for significant association. Sialadenosis was found in 28 of the 300 subjects (9.3%). Among these 28 cases, 11 (39.3%) had alcoholic cirrhosis. The remaining 17 (60.7%) had eight other types of liver disease. There was no significant association between sialadenosis and alcoholic cirrhosis (P = 0.389). These findings suggest that both alcoholic and non-alcoholic cirrhosis may lead to the development of sialadenosis. Advanced liver disease is accompanied by multiple nutritional deficiencies which may be exacerbated by alcohol. Similar metabolic abnormalities may occur in patients with diabetes or bulimia. Malnutrition has been associated with autonomic neuropathy, the pathogenic mechanism that has been proposed for sialadenosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- James Guggenheimer
- Department of Diagnostic Sciences, University of Pittsburgh School of Dental Medicine, Pittsburgh, USA.
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Portincasa P, Di Ciaula A, Wang HH, Palasciano G, van Erpecum KJ, Moschetta A, Wang DQH. Coordinate regulation of gallbladder motor function in the gut-liver axis. Hepatology 2008; 47:2112-26. [PMID: 18506897 DOI: 10.1002/hep.22204] [Citation(s) in RCA: 91] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Gallstones are one of the most common digestive diseases with an estimated prevalence of 10%-15% in adults living in the western world, where cholesterol-enriched gallstones represent 75%-80% of all gallstones. In cholesterol gallstone disease, the gallbladder becomes the target organ of a complex metabolic disease. Indeed, a fine coordinated hepatobiliary and gastrointestinal function, including gallbladder motility in the fasting and postprandial state, is of crucial importance to prevent crystallization and precipitation of excess cholesterol in gallbladder bile. Also, gallbladder itself plays a physiopathological role in biliary lipid absorption. Here, we present a comprehensive view on the regulation of gallbladder motor function by focusing on recent discoveries in animal and human studies, and we discuss the role of the gallbladder in the pathogenesis of gallstone formation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Piero Portincasa
- Department of Internal Medicine and Public Medicine, Clinica Medica A. Murri, University of Bari Medical School, Bari, Italy.
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Carey EJ, Gautam M, Ingall T, Douglas DD. The effect of liver transplantation on autonomic dysfunction in patients with end-stage liver disease. Liver Transpl 2008; 14:235-9. [PMID: 18236403 DOI: 10.1002/lt.21350] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Autonomic dysfunction is a recognized complication of end-stage liver disease (ESLD), but there is little information on how liver transplantation (LT) affects this problem. We sought to prospectively evaluate autonomic function in patients with ESLD before and after LT. Autonomic reflex screen (ARS) was performed on 30 patients with ESLD prior to transplantation. A 10-point composite autonomic score (CAS) was calculated from these data. ARS was repeated after LT, and these scores were compared with the pre-LT ARS. Thirty patients (25 male, 5 female) with cirrhosis that were listed for LT were enrolled in the study and underwent ARS prior to LT. The average age was 55.4 +/- 9.1 years. Indications for LT included hepatitis C virus (14), cryptogenic cirrhosis (5), alcoholic cirrhosis (4), and other (7). The mean native Model for End-Stage Liver Disease (MELD) score at ARS was 17.0 +/- 5.0. Prior to LT, 86.7% of patients had evidence of autonomic dysfunction. Mean CAS was 2.7 +/- 2.2. Sudomotor function was disturbed in 66%, parasympathetic function was disturbed in 57%, and adrenergic function was disturbed in 37%. There was no relationship between pre-LT CAS and age, gender, diabetes, etiology of liver disease, or MELD score. Twenty-one patients (17 male, 4 female) had repeat ARS a mean of 9 +/- 6.2 months after LT. The mean native MELD score at the time of ARS testing was 18.1 +/- 4.3. Mean pre-LT CAS in this group was 3.0 +/- 2.4. Pretransplant CAS was not related to age, gender, diabetes, or MELD score. Autonomic dysfunction improved after LT (CAS pre-LT, 3.0, versus CAS post-LT, 1.9, P = 0.02). There was no relationship between post-LT CAS and age, gender, diabetes, etiology of liver disease, immunosuppression, or type of transplant. In conclusion, autonomic dysfunction is common in patients with ESLD, with over 86% having abnormal testing. Sixty-three percent of patients with cirrhosis with autonomic dysfunction show improvement after LT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth J Carey
- Division of Transplantation Medicine, Mayo Clinic Arizona, Phoenix, AZ 85054, USA.
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Newton JL, Hudson M, Tachtatzis P, Sutcliffe K, Pairman J, Burt JA, Jones DEJ. Population prevalence and symptom associations of autonomic dysfunction in primary biliary cirrhosis. Hepatology 2007; 45:1496-505. [PMID: 17538969 DOI: 10.1002/hep.21609] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
UNLABELLED Patients with primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC) frequently experience significant fatigue thought to result from as-yet-unidentified central nervous system (CNS)-mediated processes. Pilot studies have suggested that autonomic dysfunction is a frequent occurrence in PBC and may contribute to the pathogenesis of this fatigue. The degree to which autonomic dysfunction affects the PBC population as a whole, and its interrelationship with other symptoms experienced by PBC patients remains unstudied. In this study, we used a geographically defined, fully representative PBC patient cohort to study the prevalence of symptoms of autonomic dysfunction and its relationship with other symptoms of PBC. Symptoms of cardiovascular autonomic dysfunction (as assessed using the Orthostatic Grading Scale [OGS]) were significantly more frequently reported and significantly more severe in PBC patients than in both matched normal controls (40% versus 6% with moderate or worse orthostasis (P < .0001), mean OGS score 3.2 +/- 3.4 versus 1.3 +/- 1.9, P < .005) and in patients with primary sclerosing cholangitis and in severity were independently associated with severity of fatigue and cognitive symptoms (both r2 = 0.3, P < .0001). Thirteen of 20 patients with an OGS value > 4 (moderate severity and worse) had significant abnormality in autonomic regulation of blood pressure, which was identified on dynamic testing. CONCLUSION Symptoms suggestive of autonomic dysfunction frequently occur in PBC patients and reflect dysregulation of actual blood pressure. Autonomic dysfunction is independently associated with both fatigue and, importantly, symptoms of cognitive dysfunction, suggesting the potential for significant organic sequelae.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia L Newton
- Liver Research Group, Institute of Cellular Medicine, Newcastle University, The Medical School, Framlington Place, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, UK
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Newton JL, Davidson A, Kerr S, Bhala N, Pairman J, Burt J, Jones DEJ. Autonomic dysfunction in primary biliary cirrhosis correlates with fatigue severity. Eur J Gastroenterol Hepatol 2007; 19:125-32. [PMID: 17272997 DOI: 10.1097/01.meg.0000252629.96043.67] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Autonomic dysfunction has previously been described in primary biliary cirrhosis patients. In nonhepatic diseases, fatigue is associated with autonomic dysfunction and impaired baroreflex sensitivity. Here, we investigate the prevalence of autonomic dysfunction using highly sensitive detection modalities and its relationship with fatigue in both noncirrhotic and cirrhotic primary biliary cirrhosis patients. METHODS Autonomic reflex tests were performed, using continuous blood pressure and electrocardiograph measurement in 47 primary biliary cirrhosis patients and age and sex-matched controls. Fatigue was measured using the primary biliary cirrhosis-40. RESULTS In all, 100% of precirrhotic and 81% of cirrhotic primary biliary cirrhosis patients exhibited autonomic dysfunction. Valsalva ratio and 30 : 15 ratio (measures of parasympathetic autonomic dysfunction) were significantly lower in primary biliary cirrhosis patients than in controls (valsalva ratio: 1.42 vs. 1.57; P=0.01, 30 : 15: 1.1 vs. 1.2; P=0.01). Blood pressure drop on standing (sympathetic autonomic dysfunction) was greater in the primary biliary cirrhosis group (31+/-22 vs. 23+/-15 mmHg; P=0.03). Valsalva phase IV size was similar between primary biliary cirrhosis patients and controls, however, time to phase IV was significantly longer (P=0.01), suggesting adrenergic failure. Increasing fatigue was associated with impaired baroreflex sensitivity and an earlier, bigger phase IV (sympathetic overactivity). No significant differences were seen, between cirrhotic and noncirrhotic patients. CONCLUSION The prevalence of autonomic dysfunction in primary biliary cirrhosis patients is significantly higher than has previously been thought to be the case. Indeed, when sensitive detection modalities are used, it is found to be almost universal at all stages of the disease process. Fatigue in primary biliary cirrhosis is associated with abnormalities of autonomic function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia L Newton
- Cardiovascular Investigation Unit, University of Newcastle, Care of the Elderly Offices, Royal Victoria Infirmary, UK.
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Abstract
BACKGROUND Autonomic dysfunction is common in patients with chronic liver disease, but it is still unclear whether acute hepatitis coincides with alterations in autonomic functions. METHODS We evaluated the heart rate variability (HRV) of 10 patients with acute hepatitis (6 males, 4 females; mean age, 44.0 y; range, 20-69 y). Frequency-domain analysis of short-term and stationary R-R intervals was performed on the first day of admission to detect low-frequency power (LF; 0.04-0.15 Hz), high-frequency power (HF, 0.15-0.40 Hz), the ratio of LF to HF (LF/HF), and LF in normalized units (LF%). The same measurement was repeated on the 7th day of admission. RESULTS We found that there was a significant increase of HF as well as variance of the R-R interval on the 7th day after admission (P < 0.05). There was a significant negative correlation between HF and the change of total bilirubin (P < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS The study demonstrates a change in cardiac vagal tone associated with acute hepatitis by analysis of HRV, and such alteration is less pronounced later during the clinical course of acute hepatitis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kuan-Yang Chen
- Department of Medicine, Taipei Municipal Jen Ai Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
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Abstract
Patients with cirrhosis and portal hypertension exhibit characteristic cardiovascular and pulmonary hemodynamic changes. A vasodilatatory state and a hyperdynamic circulation affecting the cardiac and pulmonary functions dominate the circulation. The recently defined cirrhotic cardiomyopathy may affect systolic and diastolic functions, and imply electromechanical abnormalities. In addition, the baroreceptor function and regulation of the circulatory homoeostasis is impaired. Pulmonary dysfunction involves diffusing abnormalities with the development of the hepatopulmonary syndrome and portopulmonary hypertension in some patients. Recent research has focused on the assertion that the hemodynamic and neurohumoral dysregulation are of major importance for the development of the cardiovascular and pulmonary complications in cirrhosis. This aspect is important to take into account in the management of these patients.
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Carey EJ, Douglas DD. Effects of orthotopic liver transplantation on the corrected QT interval in patients with end-stage liver disease. Dig Dis Sci 2005; 50:320-3. [PMID: 15745093 DOI: 10.1007/s10620-005-1603-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
Autonomic dysfunction is a recognized complication of end-stage liver disease (ESLD) associated with a poor prognosis. The corrected QT interval (QTc) on electrocardiogram is a marker of autonomic function. A few small studies have suggested that QTc may normalize with the return of liver function after orthotopic liver transplantation. We sought to determine how transplantation affects the QTc in patients with ESLD. The QTc from the pretransplantation evaluation of 46 patients with ESLD was compared with the QTc at 4-month posttransplantation follow-up. Other factors that can influence autonomic function also were evaluated. Most patients with ESLD (54%) showed a prolonged QTc (> or = 440 msec) at the pretransplantation evaluation (451 +/- 45 msec) that improved to within the normal range at posttransplantation follow-up (418 +/- 18 msec; P < 0.001). There was no relationship between QTc prolongation and Child-Turcotte-Pugh score, Model for End-Stage Liver Disease score, diabetes mellitus, age, or etiology of liver disease. Most patients with ESLD and a prolonged QTc will have a significant improvement in QTc after transplantation; however, 6.5% of patients in our study had a worsening of QTc after transplantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth J Carey
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mayo Clinic, Scottsdale, Arizona, USA
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Keresztes K, Istenes I, Folhoffer A, Lakatos PL, Horvath A, Csak T, Varga P, Kempler P, Szalay F. Autonomic and sensory nerve dysfunction in primary biliary cirrhosis. World J Gastroenterol 2004; 10:3039-43. [PMID: 15378789 PMCID: PMC4576268 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v10.i20.3039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
AIM: Cardiovascular autonomic and peripheral sensory neuropathy is a known complication of chronic alcoholic and non-alcoholic liver diseases. We aimed to assess the prevalence and risk factors for peripheral sensory nerve and autonomic dysfunction using sensitive methods in patients with primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC).
METHODS: Twenty-four AMA M2 positive female patients with clinical, biochemical and histological evidence of PBC and 20 age matched healthy female subjects were studied. Five standard cardiovascular reflex tests and 24-h heart rate variability (HRV) analysis were performed to define autonomic function. Peripheral sensory nerve function on median and peroneal nerves was characterized by current perception threshold (CPT), measured by a neuroselective diagnostic stimulator (Neurotron, Baltimore, MD).
RESULTS: Fourteen of 24 patients (58%) had at least one abnormal cardiovascular reflex test and thirteen (54%) had peripheral sensory neuropathy. Lower heart rate response to deep breathing (P = 0.001), standing (P = 0.03) and Valsalva manoeuvre (P = 0.01), and more profound decrease of blood pressure after standing (P = 0.03) was found in PBC patients than in controls. As a novel finding we proved that both time domain and frequency domain parameters of 24-h HRV were significantly reduced in PBC patients compared to controls. Each patient had at least one abnormal parameter of HRV. Lower CPT values indicated hyperaesthesia as a characteristic feature at peroneal nerve testing at three frequencies (2000 Hz: P = 0.005; 250 Hz: P = 0.002; 5 Hz: P = 0.004) in PBC compared to controls. Correlation of autonomic dysfunction with the severity and duration of the disease was observed. Lower total power of HRV correlated with lower CPT values at median nerve testing at 250 Hz (P = 0.0001) and at 5 Hz (P = 0.002), as well as with those at peroneal nerve testing at 2000 Hz (P = 0.01).
CONCLUSION: Autonomic and sensory nerve dysfunctions are frequent in PBC. Twenty-four-hour HRV analysis is more sensitive than standard cardiovascular tests for detecting of both parasympathetic and sympathetic impairments. Our novel data suggest that hyperaesthesia is a characteristic feature of peripheral sensory neuropathy and might contribute to itching in PBC. Autonomic dysfunction is related to the duration and severity of PBC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katalin Keresztes
- 1st Department of Medicine, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
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Portincasa P, Moschetta A, Berardino M, Di-Ciaula A, Vacca M, Baldassarre G, Pietrapertosa A, Cammarota R, Tannoia N, Palasciano G. Impaired gallbladder motility and delayed orocecal transit contribute to pigment gallstone and biliary sludge formation in β -thalassemia major adults. World J Gastroenterol 2004; 10:2383-90. [PMID: 15285024 PMCID: PMC4576293 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v10.i16.2383] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
AIM: Gallbladder and gastrointestinal motility defects exist in gallstones patients and to a lesser extent in pigment gallstone patients. To investigated the role of gallbladder and gastrointestinal motility disorders in pigment gallstone formation in β -thalassemia major.
METHODS: Twenty-three patients with β -thalassemia major (16 females; age range 18-37 years) and 70 controls (47 females, age range 18-40 years) were studied for gallbladder and gastric emptying (functional ultrasonography), orocecal transit (OCTT, H2-breath test), autonomic dysfunction (sweat-spot, cardiorespiratory reflex tests), bowel habits, gastrointestinal symptoms and quality of life (all with questionnaires). Gallbladder content (ultrasonography) was examined before and during 8-12 mo follow-up.
RESULTS: Gallstones and/or biliary sludge were found in 13 (56%) patients. β -thalassemia major patients had increased fasting (38.0 ± 4.8 mL vs 20.3 ± 0.7 mL, P = 0.0001) and residual (7.9 ± 1.3 mL vs 5.1 ± 0.3 mL, P = 0.002) volume and slightly slower emptying (24.9 ± 1.7 min vs 20.1 ± 0.7 min, P = 0.04) of the gallbladder, together with longer OCTT (132.2 ± 7.8 min vs 99.7 ± 2.3 min, P = 0.00003) than controls. No differences in gastric emptying and bowel habits were found. Also, patients had higher dyspepsia (score: 6.7 ± 1.2 vs 4.9 ± 0.2, P = 0.027), greater appetite (P = 0.000004) and lower health perception (P = 0.00002) than controls. Autonomic dysfunction was diagnosed in 52% of patients (positive tests: 76.2% and 66.7% for parasympathetic and sympathetic involvement, respectively). Patients developing sludge during follow-up (38%, 2 with prior stones) had increased fasting and residual gallbladder volume.
CONCLUSION: Adult β -thalassemia major patients have gallbladder dysmotility associated with delayed small intestinal transit and autonomic dysfunction. These abnormalities apparently contribute together with haemolytic hyperbilirubinemia to the pathogenesis of pigment gallstones/ sludge in β -thalassemia major.
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Affiliation(s)
- Piero Portincasa
- Section of Internal Medicine, Department of Internal and Public Medicine, University Medical School of Bari, P.zza G. Cesare 11, 70124 Bari, Italy.
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McDougall AJ, Davies L, McCaughan GW. Autonomic and peripheral neuropathy in endstage liver disease and following liver transplantation. Muscle Nerve 2003; 28:595-600. [PMID: 14571462 DOI: 10.1002/mus.10477] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Severe chronic liver disease may be associated with a peripheral somatic and an autonomic neuropathy. There are only a limited number of reports on the incidence and features of these neuropathies. In addition the effects of liver transplantation on these neuropathies have not been well studied. We examined peripheral somatic and autonomic nerve function in 42 patients with endstage liver disease prior to transplantation and also examined the effect of liver transplantation on these neuropathies in 14 patients. Peripheral somatic neuropathy (93%) and autonomic neuropathy (50%) were common in patients with endstage liver disease and were more frequent than previously reported. Abnormalities improved in some patients after liver transplantation, particularly if there was return of normal hepatic function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alan J McDougall
- Institute of Clinical Neurosciences, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Sydney, Australia.
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Pérez-Peña J, Rincón D, Bañares R, Olmedilla L, Garutti I, Grigorov I, Calleja J. Autonomic neuropathy in end-stage cirrhotic patients and evolution after liver transplantation. Transplant Proc 2003; 35:1834-5. [PMID: 12962814 DOI: 10.1016/s0041-1345(03)00587-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
Autonomic neuropathy (AN), which is frequently observed in cirrhosis patients, has been associated with a higher mortality. We have prospectively evaluated the prevalence of AN, its relationship with the degree of liver dysfunction and circulatory disturbances, and the evolution of AN after liver transplantation (LT) in 62 end-stage liver cirrhosis patients. AN was evaluated by seven cardiovascular tests assessing sympathetic or parasympathetic function before and 6 months after LT. Patients were classified as showing absent (A), early (E), or definite dysfunction (D). AN appeared in 67.7% of cases (E: 24.2%, D: 43.5%) without relation to liver disease etiology. Parasympathetic dysfunction was more prevalent than sympathetic dysfunction (59.7% vs. 20.9%). AN was significantly related to Child-Pugh score. Hyperdynamic circulation was more marked in the D than the A group as shown by a greater cardiac output (CO)(9 vs. 7.3 L/min) and a lower peripheral resistance (SVR)(666 vs. 866 dyn.s.cm(-5)). Moreover, AN scores significantly correlated with CO and SVR. Overall the prevalence of AN decreased 6 months after LT (67.7% vs 48%) due to a significant reduction in definite AN (43.5 vs. 14.8%; P<.05). AN improved in 70% of cases after LT. Sympathetic dysfunction remained in only one patient. We conclude that AN is frequent in liver transplant candidates; its severity is associated with the degree of liver failure. Systemic circulatory disturbances seem to correlate with the severity of AN. AN is clearly improved by LT. The evaluation of AN may contribute to a better selection of LT recipients.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Pérez-Peña
- Anesthesiology Department, University Hospital Gregorio Marañón, Madrid, Spain
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Bal JS, Thuluvath PJ. Prolongation of QTc interval: relationship with etiology and severity of liver disease, mortality and liver transplantation. Liver Int 2003; 23:243-8. [PMID: 12895263 DOI: 10.1034/j.1600-0676.2003.00833.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 123] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND A prolonged QTc interval has been reported in patients with liver disease. The objectives of our study were to determine whether a prolonged QTc interval was an independent predictor of mortality in patients with cirrhosis and to examine the effect of liver transplantation (LT) on QTc interval. PATIENTS AND METHODS We retrospectively studied two cohorts of patients - QTc interval was measured in 409 patients (pre-transplant group), and in 162 patients (transplant group) before and 6 months after LT. QT interval (mean) corrected (QTc) for ventricular rate was read from a 12-lead EKG. Patients with known cardiovascular disease or other risk factors that are known to cause a prolonged QTc interval were excluded. RESULTS Pre-transplant group. One hundred and sixty-two patients (40%) had a prolonged QTc interval (>440 ms). By binary logistic regression, age (P=0.005), alcoholic cirrhosis (P=0.007) and Child-Pugh scores (P=0.007) were independent predictors of prolonged QTc interval. Sixty-six patients died during a mean follow-up of 8.9 years. Although the Kaplan-Meier survival curve showed a lower survival in patients with a prolonged QTc interval (P=0.03 by log rank test), when survival was adjusted for the Child-Pugh score by Cox regression survival analysis, there were no survival differences in patients with and without prolonged QTc interval. Cox regression analysis showed that the Child-Pugh score (hazard ratio 1.5, CI 1.3-1.6, s<0.001) was the only independent predictor of survival. Transplant group. In this cohort, 91 patients (56%) had prolonged QTc (>440 ms) before LT. Mean QTc improved significantly after LT (429 +/- 29 ms vs. 450 +/- 39 ms P<0.002). Of the 91 patients with prolonged QTc, 50 (55%) normalized, three (3.3%) remained unchanged, 12 (13.3%) showed further prolongation, and 26 (28%) showed improvement but remained above normal limits. An additional nine patients who had normal QTc before LT developed prolonged QTc (>440 ms) after LT. CONCLUSION A prolonged QTc interval was common in patients with cirrhosis, but its presence had no independent effect on mortality. Prolonged QTc returns to normal values in about half of the patients after LT, suggesting that liver disease plays a role, but may not be the only factor in the pathogenesis of prolonged QTc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jasdeep Singh Bal
- Department of Medicine, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
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Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Neuropathy in association with chronic liver disease, including cirrhosis, is recognized; however, there are differences in the incidence and type of neuropathy reported. The causal relationship of liver disease to neuropathy has been questioned. This study was designed to evaluate the incidence and character of peripheral neuropathy in patients with liver cirrhosis. The effect of alcohol consumption, severity of liver disease and encephalopathy on the incidence and severity of neuropathy were also studied. METHODS Patients having an identifiable cause of peripheral neuropathy, except alcohol, were excluded from the study. Patients with evidence of vitamin B12 deficiency or diabetes were also excluded from the study. In this study, 33 patients with liver cirrhosis were evaluated clinically and electrophysiologically to detect any evidence of peripheral neuropathy. Nerve conduction studies were performed in the upper and lower limbs using surface electrodes. These patients also underwent a detailed clinical examination. RESULTS Clinical signs of peripheral neuropathy were found in seven (21%) patients. Nerve conduction studies were abnormal in 24 (73%) patients. The pattern of involvement was predominantly of an axonal sensory motor polyneuropathy. Neuropathy was found both in patients with alcohol-related and non-alcohol-related cirrhosis. The presence of encephalopathy did not have a significant bearing on the incidence and severity of neuropathy. The neuropathy was also not significantly related to the severity of liver disease. CONCLUSIONS The present study reveals that a significant number of patients with liver cirrhosis show evidence of peripheral neuropathy, which is present regardless of the etiology of cirrhosis, and is subclinical in a majority of these patients. The cause of neuropathy was probably the liver disease itself, as the incidence and severity of neuropathy in the alcohol-related cirrhosis, although higher, was not significantly different from the neuropathy in patients with non-alcohol-related cirrhosis.
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Gumurdulu Y, Yapar Z, Canataroglu A, Serin E, Gumurdulu D, Kibar M, Colakoglu S. Gastric emptying time and the effect of cisapride in cirrhotic patients with autonomic neuropathy. J Clin Gastroenterol 2003; 36:175-8. [PMID: 12544204 DOI: 10.1097/00004836-200302000-00017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
GOALS To investigate the relationships between gastric emptying and autonomic dysfunction in hepatic cirrhosis and to assess the effects of cisapride on gastric emptying in cirrhotic patients. STUDY Twenty-four cirrhotic patients (8 patients in each Child-Pugh classification) and 25 healthy controls were enrolled. All the patients had viral (B or C) hepatitis. Patients with DM, alcoholic cirrhosis, active peptic ulcer, gastric malignancy and pyloric obstruction were excluded by esophagogastroduodenoscopy. Parasympathetic and sympathetic functions were assessed by the criteria set forth by Ewing and Clark. Drugs affecting GI motility and smoking were discontinued 48 hours and 12 hours prior to the study respectively. A solid-phase of gastric emptying study was conducted by scintigraphic method for the calculation of gastric half-emptying time (GET1/2). RESULTS The study revealed that 9 patients with Child-Pugh B and C cirrhosis had autonomic neuropathy and none of Child-Pugh A cirrhosis had autonomic neuropathy. Prolonged GET1/2 was noted in cirrhotics compared with the control group (p < 0.05). However, there was significant difference between 9 patients (Child B-C) with autonomic neuropathy compared with patients 15 patients without autonomic neuropathy. Again there was a significant difference in GET1/2 between Child A cirrhotic and Child B-C cirrhotic whether they had autonomic neuropathy or not. Cisapride decreased GET1/2 significantly in cirrhotic patients (Child B-C cirrhotic). Clearly, patients with autonomic neuropathy in Child B-C cirrhosis had significantly reduced GET1/2 after cisapride administration. Even though cisapride decreased GET1/2 in patients with Child B-C cirrhosis without autonomic neuropathy, this was not significant. CONCLUSION Autonomic neuropathy in advanced cirrhosis from viral hepatitis may cause prolonged gastric emptying. Cisapride can shorten gastric emptying time in such patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuksel Gumurdulu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Faculty of Medicine, Cukurova University, Adana, Turkey.
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Chaudhry V, Umapathi T, Ravich WJ. Neuromuscular diseases and disorders of the alimentary system. Muscle Nerve 2002; 25:768-84. [PMID: 12115965 DOI: 10.1002/mus.10089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
This review outlines the relationship and interaction between neuromuscular diseases and disorders of the alimentary system. Neuromuscular manifestations of gastrointestinal and hepatobiliary diseases are first considered. Such diseases may cause neuromuscular disorders by leading to nutritional deficiency or by more direct mechanisms. The pathogenesis, clinical features, and treatment of these various neuromuscular manifestations are discussed. The impact of disorders of nerve, neuromuscular transmission, and muscle on the alimentary system is then reviewed. The main sequelae are impaired deglutition and gastrointestinal dysmotility. The management of these complications is considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vinay Chaudhry
- Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 600 North Wolfe Street, Meyer 6-119, Baltimore, Maryland 21287, USA.
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Rangari M, Sinha S, Kapoor D, Mohan JC, Sarin SK. Prevalence of autonomic dysfunction in cirrhotic and noncirrhotic portal hypertension. Am J Gastroenterol 2002; 97:707-13. [PMID: 11922567 DOI: 10.1111/j.1572-0241.2002.05551.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Autonomic dysfunction is common in patients with cirrhosis of the liver, but more so in patients with decompensated state, and is associated with increased mortality. We evaluated the presence and extent of autonomic dysfunction in patients with extrahepatic portal venous obstruction (EHPVO) and noncirrhotic portal fibrosis (NCPF), diseases with relatively preserved liver functions. METHODS Heart rate variability in response to standing, deep breathing, and Valsalva maneuver and blood pressure response to sustained handgrip and standing were studied in 18 patients with EHPVO (13 mol/L, 5 F, mean age 15.2 +/- 6 yr), 12 patients with NCPF (5 mol/L, 7 F, mean age 26.4 +/- 8 yr), 15 patients with cirrhosis (7 mol/L, 8 F, mean age 12.6 +/- 6 yr), and 17 healthy controls (11 mol/L, 6 F, mean age 18.6 +/- 3 yr). Time-domain parameters of heart rate variability on 24-h ambulatory monitoring were assessed in all the patients. RESULTS Autonomic dysfunction was observed in 67% of EHPVO, 25% of NCPF, and 80% of cirrhotic subjects but none of the healthy controls (p < 0.05). Four of five time-domain heart rate variability indices showed significant abnormalities in patients with EHPVO (p < 0.05) and cirrhosis (p < 0.05), when compared with patients with NCPF and healthy controls. CONCLUSIONS Autonomic dysfunction is frequently encountered in patients with EHPVO and cirrhosis, and the presence of autonomic dysfunction in patients with noncirrhotic portal hypertension suggests a primary role of portal hypertension per se in the dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manisha Rangari
- Department of Gastroenterology, G. B. Pant Hospital, New Delhi, India
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Møller S, Henriksen JH. Cirrhotic cardiomyopathy: a pathophysiological review of circulatory dysfunction in liver disease. Heart 2002; 87:9-15. [PMID: 11751653 PMCID: PMC1766971 DOI: 10.1136/heart.87.1.9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 232] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/12/2001] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The systemic circulation in patients with cirrhosis is hyperdynamic with an increased cardiac output and heart rate and a reduced systemic vascular resistance as the most pronounced alterations. The concomitant cardiac dysfunction has recently been termed "cirrhotic cardiomyopathy", which is an entity different from that seen in alcoholic heart muscle disease. Clinically, these patients present with sodium fluid retention and strain often unmasks the presence of latent heart failure. No specific treatment can yet be recommended but caution should be used with respect to procedures that may stress the heart such as shunt implantation and liver transplantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Møller
- Department of Clinical Physiology, 239, Hvidovre Hospital, University of Copenhagen, DK-2650 Hvidovre, Denmark.
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Puthumana L, Chaudhry V, Thuluvath PJ. Prolonged QTc interval and its relationship to autonomic cardiovascular reflexes in patients with cirrhosis. J Hepatol 2001; 35:733-8. [PMID: 11738100 DOI: 10.1016/s0168-8278(01)00217-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND/AIMS We have previously shown that an abnormality in cardiac autonomic reflexes (AN) is an independent predictor of mortality in patients with chronic liver disease. Aim of this study was to determine whether there was an association between prolonged QTc interval and cardiac AN. METHODS Cardiac AN and QTc interval were determined in 130 patients (Child A 42, B 53, C 35) with alcoholic and non-alcoholic liver disease. RESULTS Prolonged QTc (>440ms) was seen in 58 (Child A 30%, B 46%, C 60%, P=0.04) patients. Autonomic tests were normal in 21%, borderline abnormal in 36% and definitely abnormal in 43%. QTc correlated with albumin (P<0.001), prothrombin time (P=0.003) and Child-Pugh score (P<0.001), but not with Valsalva ratio, heart rate variation with 6 breath/min breathing, tilt table or isometric exercise. By logistic regression analysis, QTc correlated only with Child-Pugh score (P<0.001). Mean QTc of 34 who died during the follow up was higher than survivors. Cox regression analysis showed that only Child-Pugh score and AN were independent predictors of mortality. CONCLUSIONS Prolonged QTc seen in liver disease is independent of their cardiac autonomic function, but is related to the severity of the liver disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Puthumana
- Department of Medicine and Neurology, School of Medicine, The Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
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Abstract
The hyperdynamic circulation begins in the portal venous bed as a consequence of portal hypertension due to the increased resistance to flow from altered hepatic vascular morphology of chronic liver disease. Dilatation of the portal vein is associated with increased blood flow, as well as the opening up or formation of veno-venous shunts and splenomegaly. At the same time, portal hypertension leads to subclinical sodium retention resulting in expansion of all body fluid compartments, including the systemic and central blood volumes. This blood volume expansion is associated with vasorelaxation, as manifested by suppression of the renin--angiotensin--aldosterone system, initially only when the patient is in the supine position. Acute volume depletion in such patients results in normalisation of the hyperdynamic circulation, whilst acute volume expansion results in exaggerated natriuresis. As liver disease progresses and liver function deteriorates, the systemic hyperdynamic circulation becomes more manifest with activation of the renin--angiotensin--aldosterone system. The presence of vasodilatation in the presence of highly elevated levels of circulating vasoconstrictors may be explained by vascular hyporesponsiveness due to increased levels of vasodilators such as nitric oxide, as well as the development of an autonomic neuropathy. However, vasodilatation is not generalised, but confined to certain vascular beds, such as the splanchnic and pulmonary beds. Even here, the status may change with the natural history of the disease, since even portal blood flow may decrease and become reversed with advanced disease. The failure of these changes to reverse following liver transplantation may be due to remodelling and angiogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Blendis
- Institute of Gastroenterology, Sourasky Tel Aviv Medical Center, 6 Weizman Street, Tel Aviv 64239, Israel.
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Acosta F, Sansano T, Palenciano CG, Reche M, Roques V, Beltran R, Robles R, Bueno FS, Ramirez P, Parrilla P. Efficiency of the vasoconstrictor response to vascular exclusion in patients with alcoholic cirrhosis undergoing liver transplantation. Transplant Proc 2000; 32:2662-3. [PMID: 11134751 DOI: 10.1016/s0041-1345(00)01831-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- F Acosta
- Liver Transplant Unit, University Hospital "V.Arrixaca,", Murcia, Spain
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Helmy A, Jalan R, Newby DE, Hayes PC, Webb DJ. Role of angiotensin II in regulation of basal and sympathetically stimulated vascular tone in early and advanced cirrhosis. Gastroenterology 2000; 118:565-72. [PMID: 10702208 DOI: 10.1016/s0016-5085(00)70263-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS The renin-angiotensin and sympathetic nervous systems are activated in cirrhosis. This study aimed to establish the role of angiotensin II (ANG II) in the regulation of basal and sympathetically stimulated vascular tone in preascitic cirrhotic patients and patients with diuretic-refractory ascites compared with age- and sex-matched healthy controls. METHODS Forearm blood flow (FBF) responses to lower body negative pressure (LBNP) and to subsystemic, intrabrachial infusions of losartan, an angiotensin II type 1 (AT(1)) receptor antagonist, norepinephrine, and ANG II were measured using venous occlusion plethysmography. RESULTS In all groups, ANG II and norepinephrine caused dose-dependent reductions in FBF (P < 0.001); responses to norepinephrine were similar across the 3 groups but those to ANG II were less in both cirrhotic groups than in controls (P < 0.01). Losartan caused a dose-dependent increase in FBF only in patients with refractory ascites (P < 0.01). LBNP caused less reduction in FBF in refractory ascites patients than in both preascitic patients and controls (P < 0.01). CONCLUSIONS Despite hyporesponsiveness to exogenous ANG II in both early and advanced cirrhosis, endogenous ANG II contributes to the maintenance of basal vascular tone only in advanced cirrhosis. These findings suggest a role of ANG II in the pathogenesis of ascites. Attenuated LBNP responses occurred only in advanced cirrhosis, without apparent interaction with endogenous ANG II.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Helmy
- Liver Unit, Department of Medicine, Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, Scotland
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Chaudhry V, Corse AM, O'Brian R, Cornblath DR, Klein AS, Thuluvath PJ. Autonomic and peripheral (sensorimotor) neuropathy in chronic liver disease: a clinical and electrophysiologic study. Hepatology 1999; 29:1698-703. [PMID: 10347110 DOI: 10.1002/hep.510290630] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Peripheral neuropathy has been reported in association with chronic liver disease. However, the precise incidence, severity and characteristics of neuropathy, and the relationship of neuropathy to different etiologies of liver disease have not been defined. In this study, 58 patients with advanced liver disease were evaluated in detail for the presence of neuropathy. Peripheral (sensorimotor) neuropathy was found in 71% and autonomic neuropathy was found in 48% of the patients. Although the majority of patients were asymptomatic, neurological examination showed distal sensory loss to pain, or vibration or distal loss of reflexes in 17 patients (29%). Sensory neuropathy was seen more commonly than motor axonal polyneuropathy on nerve conduction studies. Quantitative sensory testing was frequently abnormal (62%) and cooling thresholds were more affected than vibration thresholds. Overall, the pattern of neuropathy in patients with liver disease conformed to the pattern expected in "dying back" or length-dependent neuropathy. The neuropathy was most severe in patients with advanced hepatic decompensation. Comparison of causes of liver disease showed no significant differences in the severity of neuropathy among the different etiologies. In conclusion, axonal sensory-motor polyneuropathy and autonomic neuropathy are commonly seen in patients with end-stage liver disease of different causes.
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Affiliation(s)
- V Chaudhry
- Department of Neurology,The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
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Abstract
A large epidemiological study has documented that one-third of diabetic patients have peripheral neuropathy. Diabetes duration, poor glycaemic control, smoking and hypertension are all independent predictors of the incidence of diabetic polyneuropathy. High prevalence of autonomic dysfunctions, both sympathetic and parasympathetic, has been found in patients with nonalcoholic chronic liver disease. The pathogenesis of metabolic neuropathy is unclear; even immunologic factors might play a role in the development of diabetic autonomic neuropathy. No specific treatments are available for these neuropathies. Correction of metabolic derangement is fundamental, as shown by the amelioration of peripheral nerve function obtained after successful simultaneous pancreas-kidney transplantation. The therapeuthic potentials of neurotrophins for the prevention and treatment of diabetic neuropathy have to be confirmed in future studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Comi
- Department of Neurology, University of Milan, Scientific Institute H. San Raffaele, Italy
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Abstract
Impaired homeostasis of the blood volume, with increased fluid and sodium retention, is a prevailing element in the deranged systemic and splanchnic haemodynamics in patients with liver disease. In this review, some basic elements of the circulatory changes that take place and of neurohumoral fluid regulation are outlined in order to provide an update of recent investigations on the neuroendocrine compensation of circulatory and volume dysfunction in chronic liver disease. The underlying pathophysiology is a systemic vasodilatation in which newly described potent vasoactive substances such as nitric oxide and vasodilating peptides seem to play an important role. The development of central hypovolaemia and activation of potent vasoconstricting systems such as the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system and the sympathetic nervous system lead to a hyperdynamic circulation with increased heart rate and cardiac output. Moreover, patients exhibit an autonomic dys- and hyperfunction with vascular hyporeactivity to pressor stimuli. The circulatory dysfunction may be part of a multiorgan failure with disturbed haemodynamics of various vascular beds, including those of the splanchnic system, kidneys, brain and lungs. It is still an enigma why patients with chronic liver disease are at the same time overloaded and functional hypovolaemic with a hyperdynamic, hyporeactive circulation. Further research is needed to find the solution to this apparent haemodynamic conflict concerning the abnormal neurohumoral fluid regulation in chronic liver disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Møller
- Department of Clinical Physiology, Hvidovre Hospital, University of Copenhagen, Denmark
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