Meta-analysis: the safety and efficacy of vaptans (tolvaptan, satavaptan and lixivaptan) in cirrhosis with ascites or hyponatraemia

Ascites and Chronic Liver Disease in Children

Development of ascites in children with chronic liver disease is the most common form of decompensation. It is associated with a poor prognosis and increased risk of mortality. A diagnostic paracentesis should be performed in liver disease patients with- new-onset ascites, at the beginning of each hospital admission and when ascitic fluid infection (AFI) is suspected. The routine analysis includes cell count with differential, bacterial culture, ascitic fluid total protein and albumin. A serum albumin-ascitic fluid albumin gradient of ≥1.1 g/dL confirms the diagnosis of portal hypertension. Ascites has been reported in children with non-cirrhotic liver disease like acute viral hepatitis, acute liver failure and extrahepatic portal venous obstruction. The main steps in management of cirrhotic ascites include dietary sodium restriction, diuretics and large-volume paracentesis. Sodium should be restricted to maximum of 2 mEq/kg/d (max 90 mEq/d) of sodium/day. Oral diuretic therapy comprises of aldosterone antagonists (e.g., spironolactone) with or without loop-diuretics (e.g., furosemide). Once the ascites is mobilized, the diuretics should be gradually tapered to the minimum effective dosage. Tense ascites should be managed with a large-volume paracentesis (LVP) preferably with albumin infusion. Therapeutic options for refractory ascites include recurrent LVP, transjugular intrahepatic porto-systemic shunt and liver transplantation. AFI (fluid neutrophil count ≥250/mm3) is an important complication, and requires prompt antibiotic therapy. Hyponatremia, acute kidney injury, hepatic hydrothorax and hernias are the other complications.

Evidence-based hyponatremia management in liver disease

Hyponatremia is primarily a water balance disorder associated with high morbidity and mortality. The pathophysiological mechanisms behind hyponatremia are multifactorial, and diagnosing and treating this disorder remains challenging. In this review, the classification, pathogenesis, and step-by-step management approaches for hyponatremia in patients with liver disease are described based on recent evidence. We summarize the five sequential steps of the traditional diagnostic approach: 1) confirm true hypotonic hyponatremia, 2) assess the severity of hyponatremia symptoms, 3) measure urine osmolality, 4) classify hyponatremia based on the urine sodium concentration and extracellular fluid status, and 5) rule out any coexisting endocrine disorder and renal failure. Distinct treatment strategies for hyponatremia in liver disease should be applied according to the symptoms, duration, and etiology of disease. Symptomatic hyponatremia requires immediate correction with 3% saline. Asymptomatic chronic hyponatremia in liver disease is prevalent and treatment plans should be individualized based on diagnosis. Treatment options for correcting hyponatremia in advanced liver disease may include water restriction; hypokalemia correction; and administration of vasopressin antagonists, albumin, and 3% saline. Safety concerns for patients with liver disease include a higher risk of osmotic demyelination syndrome.

Liver Transplantation: Protocol for Recipient Selection, Evaluation, and Assessment

Liver transplantation (LT) is the definitive therapy for patients with end-stage liver disease, acute liver failure, acute-on-chronic liver failure, hepatocellular carcinoma, and metabolic liver diseases. The acceptance of LT in Asia has been gradually increasing and so is the expertise to perform LT. Preparing a patient with cirrhosis for LT is the most important aspect of a successful LT. The preparation for LT begins with the first index decompensation for a patient with cirrhosis. Patients planned for LT should undergo a thorough screening for infections, and a complete cardiac, pulmonology, and psychosocial evaluation pre-LT. In this review, we discuss the indications and contraindications of LT and the evaluation and assessment of patients with liver disease planned for LT.

Efficacy and safety of tolvaptan in cirrhotic patients: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Tolvaptan has been approved for the management of cirrhosis-related complications according to the Japanese and Chinese practice guidelines, but not the European or American practice guidelines in view of FDA warning about its hepatotoxicity. This study aimed to systematically evaluate its efficacy and safety in cirrhosis.

METHODS

The PubMed, EMBASE, and Cochrane library databases were searched to identify randomized controlled trials (RCTs) evaluating the efficacy and/or safety of tolvaptan in cirrhosis. Risk ratios (RRs) and weight mean differences (WMDs) were calculated. The incidence of common adverse events (AEs) was pooled.

RESULTS

Eight RCTs were included. Tolvaptan was significantly associated with higher rates of improvement of ascites (RR = 1.49, P < 0.001) and hyponatremia (RR = 1.80, P = 0.005) and incidence of any AEs (RR = 1.18, P = 0.003), but not serious AEs (RR = 0.86, P = 0.410). Tolvaptan was significantly associated with reductions in body weight (WMD = -1.30 kg, P < 0.001) and abdominal circumference (WMD = -1.71 cm, P < 0.001), and increases in daily urine volume (WMD = 1299.84 mL, P < 0.001) and serum sodium concentration (WMD = 2.57 mmol/L, P < 0.001). The pooled incidences of dry mouth, thirst, constipation, and pollakiuria were 16%, 24%, 6%, and 17%, respectively.

CONCLUSION

Short-term use of tolvaptan may be considered in cirrhotic patients with ascites who have inadequate response to conventional diuretics and those with hyponatremia.

Pathophysiology and management of liver cirrhosis: from portal hypertension to acute-on-chronic liver failure

Cirrhosis transcends various progressive stages from compensation to decompensation driven by the severity of portal hypertension. The downstream effect of increasing portal hypertension severity leads to various pathophysiological pathways, which result in the cardinal complications of cirrhosis, including ascites, variceal hemorrhage, and hepatic encephalopathy. Additionally, the severity of portal hypertension is the central driver for further advanced complications of hyperdynamic circulation, hepatorenal syndrome, and cirrhotic cardiomyopathy. The management of these individual complications has specific nuances which have undergone significant developments. In contrast to the classical natural history of cirrhosis and its complications which follows an insidious trajectory, acute-on-chronic failure (ACLF) leads to a rapidly downhill course with high short-term mortality unless intervened at the early stages. The management of ACLF involves specific interventions, which have quickly evolved in recent years. In this review, we focus on complications of portal hypertension and delve into an approach toward ACLF.

The Effects of SGLT2 Inhibitors on Liver Cirrhosis Patients with Refractory Ascites: A Literature Review

Decompensated liver cirrhosis is often complicated by refractory ascites, and intractable ascites are a predictor of poor prognosis in patients with liver cirrhosis. The treatment of ascites in patients with cirrhosis is based on the use of aldosterone blockers and loop diuretics, and occasionally vasopressin receptor antagonists are also used. Recent reports suggest that sodium–glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors may be a new treatment for refractory ascites with a different mechanism with respect to conventional agents. The main mechanisms of ascites reduction with SGLT2 inhibitors appear to be natriuresis and osmotic diuresis. However, other mechanisms, including improvements in glucose metabolism and nutritional status, hepatoprotection by ketone bodies and adiponectin, amelioration of the sympathetic nervous system, and inhibition of the renin–angiotensin–aldosterone system, may also contribute to the reduction of ascites. This literature review describes previously reported cases in which SGLT2 inhibitors were used to effectively treat ascites caused by liver cirrhosis. The discussion of the mechanisms involved is expected to contribute to establishing SGLT2 therapy for ascites in the future.

Hypo-osmolarity induces apoptosis resistance via TRPV2-mediated AKT-Bcl-2 pathway

In cirrhosis, several molecular alterations such as resistance to apoptosis could accelerate carcinogenesis. Recently, mechanotransduction has been attracting attention as one of the causes of these disturbances. In patients with cirrhosis, the serum sodium levels progressively decrease in the later stage of cirrhosis, and hyponatremia leads to serum hypo-osmolality. Since serum sodium levels in patients with cirrhosis with liver cancer are inversely related to cancer's number, size, stage, and cumulative survival, we hypothesized that hypo-osmolality-induced mechanotransduction under cirrhotic conditions might contribute to oncogenesis and/or progression of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). In this study, we adjusted osmosis of culture medium by changing the sodium chloride concentration and investigated the influence of hypotonic conditions on the apoptosis resistance of an HCC cell line, HepG2, using a serum-deprivation-induced apoptosis model. By culturing the cells in a serum-free medium, the levels of an antiapoptotic protein Bcl-2 were downregulated. In contrast, the hypotonic conditions caused apoptosis resistance by upregulation of Bcl-2. Next, we examined which pathway was involved in the apoptosis resistance. Hypotonic conditions enhanced AKT signaling, and constitutive activation of AKT in HepG2 cells led to upregulation of Bcl-2. Moreover, we revealed that the enhancement of AKT signaling was caused by intracellular calcium influx via a mechanosensor, TRPV2. Our findings suggested that hyponatremia-induced serum hypotonic in patients with cirrhosis promoted the progression of hepatocellular carcinoma.NEW & NOTEWORTHY Our study first revealed that hypo-osmolarity-induced mechanotransduction enhanced calcium-mediated AKT signaling via TRPV2 activation, resulting in contributing to apoptosis resistance. The finding indicates a possible view that liver cirrhosis-induced hyponatremia promotes hepatocellular carcinogenesis.

Management of Portal Hypertension

Portal hypertension is the cause of the clinical complications associated with cirrhosis. The primary complications of portal hypertension are ascites, acute variceal bleed, and hepatic encephalopathy. Hepatic venous pressure gradient measurement remains the gold standard test for diagnosing cirrhosis-related portal hypertension. Hepatic venous pressure gradient more than 10 mmHg is associated with an increased risk of complications and is termed clinically significant portal hypertension (CSPH). Clinical, laboratory, and imaging methods can also aid in diagnosing CSPH non-invasively. Recently, deep learning methods have been demonstrated to diagnose CSPH effectively. The management of portal hypertension is always individualized and is dependent on the etiology, the availability of therapies, and the degree of portal hypertension complications. In this review, we discuss the diagnosis and management of cirrhosis-related portal hypertension in detail. Also, we highlight the history of portal hypertension and future research areas in portal hypertension.

Management of Ascites in Patients with Cirrhosis: An Update

Ascites represents a critical event in the natural history of liver cirrhosis. From a prognostic perspective, its occurrence marks the transition from the compensated to the decompensated stage of the disease, leading to an abrupt worsening of patients' life expectancy. Moreover, ascites heralds a turbulent clinical course, characterized by acute events and further complications, frequent hospitalizations, and eventually death. The pathophysiology of ascites classically relies on hemodynamic mechanisms, with effective hypovolemia as the pivotal event. Recent discoveries, however, integrated this hypothesis, proposing systemic inflammation and immune system dysregulation as key mechanisms. The mainstays of ascites treatment are represented by anti-mineralocorticoids and loop diuretics, and large volume paracentesis. When ascites reaches the stage of refractoriness, however, diuretics administration should be cautious due to the high risk of adverse events, and patients should be treated with periodic execution of paracentesis or with the placement of a trans-jugular intra-hepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS). TIPS reduces portal hypertension, eases ascites control, and potentially modify the clinical course of the disease. Further studies are required to expand its indications and improve the management of complications. Long-term human albumin administration has been studied in two RCTs, with contradictory results, and remains a debated issue worldwide, despite a potential effectiveness both in ascites control and long-term survival. Other treatments (vaptans, vasoconstrictors, or implantable drainage systems) present some promising aspects but cannot be currently recommended outside clinical protocols or a case-by-case evaluation.

Targeted Albumin Therapy Does Not Improve Short-Term Outcome in Hyponatremic Patients Hospitalized With Complications of Cirrhosis: Data From the ATTIRE Trial

INTRODUCTION

Patients with decompensated cirrhosis and hyponatremia have a poor prognosis. We investigated Albumin to Prevent Infection in Chronic Liver Failure trial data to determine whether targeted albumin infusions improved outcome in patients with hyponatremia at baseline.

METHODS

We examined the interaction between targeted albumin and standard care for the composite primary end point, stratifying by baseline sodium ≥ and <130 mmol/L.

RESULTS

Randomization to albumin was associated with a significant increase in sodium; however, there was no interaction between sodium category and treatment for the trial primary end point.

DISCUSSION

Targeted intravenous albumin infusions increased serum sodium level in hospitalized hyponatremic patients with cirrhosis, but this did not improve outcome.

Tolvaptan reduces the required amount of albumin infusion in patients with decompensated cirrhosis with uncontrolled ascites : a multicenter retrospective propensity score-matched cohort study

Background

The aim of this retrospective study was to determine whether tolvaptan treatment reduces the amount of albumin administered, volume of ascites removed, and frequency of paracentesis procedures in patients with decompensated cirrhosis with uncontrolled ascites with conventional diuretics.

Patients and methods

The control (C) group included patients treated with conventional diuretics. The tolvaptan (T) group included patients treated with both tolvaptan and conventional diuretics. Both groups were matched according to baseline parameters. The amount of albumin administered, volume of ascites removed, and frequency of paracentesis within 30 days of onset of uncontrolled ascites were compared between the two groups.

Results

After matching, 74 patients (C=37, T=37) were included. Baseline parameters (C vs. T group) were as follows: age, 69.5 ± 9.3 vs. 70.4 ± 11.0 years (p = 0.702) ; males, 24 (64.9%) vs. 25 (67.6%) (p = 0.999) ; patients with hepatocellular carcinoma, 17 (45.9%) vs. 18 (48.6%) (p = 0.999) ; serum albumin levels at treatment initiation, 2.76 ± 0.48 vs. 2.73 ± 0.49 g/dL (p = 0.773), and serum creatinine levels at treatment initiation, 1.18 ± 1.23 vs. 1.09 ± 0.48 g/dL (p = 0.679). In the C vs. T groups, respectively, mean amount of albumin administered was 51.0 ± 31.4 vs. 33.4 ± 29.8 g/month (p = 0.016) ; mean volume of ascites removed was 2,905 ± 4,921 vs. 1,824 ± 3,185 mL/month (p = 0.266) ; and mean frequency of paracentesis was 0.92 ± 1.46 vs. 0.89 ± 1.45 procedures (p = 0.937).

Conclusions

Tolvaptan reduced the use of albumin infusion in patients with decompensated cirrhosis and was effective and acceptable for uncontrolled ascites.

Guidelines on the management of ascites in cirrhosis

The British Society of Gastroenterology in collaboration with British Association for the Study of the Liver has prepared this document. The aim of this guideline is to review and summarise the evidence that guides clinical diagnosis and management of ascites in patients with cirrhosis. Substantial advances have been made in this area since the publication of the last guideline in 2007. These guidelines are based on a comprehensive literature search and comprise systematic reviews in the key areas, including the diagnostic tests, diuretic use, therapeutic paracentesis, use of albumin, transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic stent shunt, spontaneous bacterial peritonitis and beta-blockers in patients with ascites. Where recent systematic reviews and meta-analysis are available, these have been updated with additional studies. In addition, the results of prospective and retrospective studies, evidence obtained from expert committee reports and, in some instances, reports from case series have been included. Where possible, judgement has been made on the quality of information used to generate the guidelines and the specific recommendations have been made according to the 'Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE)' system. These guidelines are intended to inform practising clinicians, and it is expected that these guidelines will be revised in 3 years' time.

Natremia and liver transplantation: The right amount of salt for a good recipe

An adequate balance between electrolytes and clear water is of paramount importance to maintaining physiologic homeostasis. Natremia imbalance and, in particular, hyponatremia is the most frequent electrolyte abnormality observed in hospitalized subjects, involving approximately one-fourth of them. Pathological changes occurring during liver cirrhosis predispose patients to an increased risk of sodium imbalance, and hypervolemic hyponatremia has been reported in nearly 50% of subjects with severe liver disease and ascites. Splanchnic vasodilatation, portal-systemic collaterals’ opening and increased excretion of vasoactive modulators are all factors impairing clear water handling during liver cirrhosis. Of concern, sodium imbalance has been consistently reported to be associated with increased risk of complications and reduced survival in liver disease patients. In the last decades clinical interest in sodium levels has been also extended in the field of liver transplantation. Evidence that [Na⁺] in blood is an independent risk factor for in-list mortality led to the incorporation of sodium value in prognostic scores employed for transplant priority, such as model for end-stage liver disease-Na and UKELD. On the other hand, severe hyponatremic cirrhotic patients are frequently delisted by transplant centers due to the elevated risk of mortality after grafting. In this review, we describe in detail the relationship between sodium imbalance and liver cirrhosis, focusing on its impact on peritransplant phases. The possible therapeutic approaches, in order to improve transplant outcome, are also discussed. 

Clinical implications with tolvaptan on monitored bioimpedance-defined fluid status in patients with cirrhotic ascites: an observational study

Background

Prognostic value or clinical implications of fluid status monitoring in liver cirrhosis are not fully elucidated. Tolvaptan, an orally available, selective vasopressin V2-receptor antagonist approved for hyponatremia in the United States and European Union. It is also used for cirrhotic ascites at a relatively low dose (3.75 mg to 7.5 mg) in Japan, exerts its diuretic function by excreting electrolyte-free water. We hypothesized that bioimpedance-defined dynamic changes in fluid status allow prediction of response of V2 antagonism and survival in cirrhotic patients.

Methods

In this prospective observational study, 30 patients with decompensated liver cirrhosis who were unresponsive to conventional diuretics were enrolled. Detailed serial changes of body composition that were assessed by using non-invasive bioimpedance analysis (BIA) devices, along with biochemical studies, were monitored at 5 time points.

Results

Sixteen patients were classified as short-term responders (53%). Rapid and early decrease of BIA-defined intracellular water, as soon as 6 h after the first dose (ΔICW_BIA%-6 h), significantly discriminated responders from non-responders (AUC = 0.97, P < 0.0001). ΔICW_BIA%-6 h was highly correlated with the change of BIA-derived phase angle of trunk, e.g. reduced body reactance operated at 50 kHz after 24 h of the first dose of tolvaptan. Lower baseline blood urea nitrogen and lower serum aldosterone were predictive of a rapid and early decrease of ICW_BIA. A rapid and early decrease of ICW_BIA in response to tolvaptan was also predictive of a better transplant-free survival.

Conclusions

BIA-defined water compartment monitoring may help predict short-term efficacy and survival in decompensated cirrhotic patients treated with tolvaptan.

Impact of Vaptans on Clinical Outcomes in Cirrhosis Patients: A Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials

Background: Vaptans have been confirmed to mobilize ascites and improve hyponatremia in cirrhosis patients. However, the effects of vaptans on all-cause mortality, ascites-related complications, and adverse events in cirrhosis patients have not been fully determined.

Objectives: To systematically evaluate the impact of vaptans on the clinical outcomes in patients with cirrhosis.

Materials and Methods: A systematic review and meta-analysis was performed. The PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane’s Library electronic databases were systematically searched for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) investigating the clinical efficacy of vaptans in cirrhosis patients. The results were pooled with a random-effect model.

Results: Eighteen RCTs containing 3,059 cirrhosis patients with ascites and/or hyponatremia were included. Meta-analysis showed that vaptans did not significantly affect the risk of all-cause mortality (RR: 1.02, 95% CI: 0.87 to 1.08, p = 0.83; I² = 2%), consistent with studies with short-term (< 26 weeks) and long-term (≥ 26 weeks) follow-up durations. Additionally, vaptans did not affect the incidence of variceal bleeding (RR: 0.96, p = 0.86), showed a trend of reduced incidence of hepatic encephalopathy (RR: 0.86, p = 0.09), significantly reduced the incidence of spontaneous bacterial peritonitis (RR: 0.75, p = 0.03), but did not significantly affect the risk of hepatorenal syndrome or renal failure (RR: 1.09, p = 0.36). Vaptans did not affect the incidence of adverse events in cirrhosis patients.

Discussion: Treatment with vaptans is not associated with improved survival in cirrhosis patients, although it may reduce the risk of hepatic encephalopathy and spontaneous bacterial peritonitis in these patients. The limitations of the current study include limited number of available studies, small sample sizes of the included studies, variations of baseline patient characteristics, and differences in the dose and duration of vaptans.

A Route to (Het)arene-Annulated Pyrrolo[1,2-d][1,4]diazepines via the Expanded Intramolecular Paal-Knorr Reaction: Nitro Group and Furan Ring as Equivalents of Amino Group and 1,4-Diketone

A straightforward protocol toward pharmacologically relevant (het)areno[x,y-b]pyrrolo[1,2-d][1,4]diazepines in good to high yields has been described. The designed approach consists of an acid-promoted furan ring opening in easily accessible N-(2-furylethyl)-2-nitroanilines or their heterocyclic analogues followed by the reductive cyclization of the corresponding nitro-1,4-diketones.

Outcomes in Clinical Trials Evaluating Interventions for the Prevention and Treatment of Hepatic Encephalopathy

Randomised clinical trials and systematic reviews of research findings can provide high-quality evidence for decision-making in the management of patients with hepatic encephalopathy. A large number of clinical trials have been undertaken, over the last 50 years, relative to the prevention and treatment of this condition. However, changes have been made, during this time, in the classification of hepatic encephalopathy, diagnostic criteria and assessment measures. These temporally based changes and the consequent lack of standardisation make it difficult to compare interventions and to evaluate their comparative efficacy and safety. While some consensus has been reached in relation to the diagnostic evaluation, classification and monitoring of patients in clinical trials, there is less surety about the choice of clinical endpoints. These outcome measures should be universally applicable, easily measured and clinically relevant. This article reviews the current recommendations regarding outcome selection and outlines some of the potential problems and pitfalls inherent in clinical trial evaluating interventions for the management of hepatic encephalopathy.

Correction of Hyponatremia May Be a Treatment Stratification Biomarker: A Two-Stage Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Changes in serum sodium concentration ([Na⁺]_serum) can permit evaluation of the treatment effect of vasopressin antagonists (vaptans) in patients with worsening heart failure (HF) or cirrhotic ascites; that is, they may act as a treatment stratification biomarker. A two-stage systematic review and meta-analysis were carried out and contextualized by experts in fluid resuscitation and translational pharmacology (registration ID in the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO): CRD42017051440). Meta-analysis of aggregated dichotomous outcomes was performed. Pooled estimates for correction of hyponatremia (normalization or an increase in [Na⁺]_serum of at least 3–5 mEq/L) under treatment with vaptans (Stage 1) and for clinical outcomes in both worsening HF (rehospitalization and/or death) and cirrhotic ascites (ascites worsening) when correction of hyponatremia is achieved (Stage 2) were calculated. The body of evidence was assessed. Correction of hyponatremia was achieved under vaptans (odds ratio (OR)/95% confidence interval (95% CI)/I²/number of studies (n): 7.48/4.95–11.30/58%/15). Clinical outcomes in both worsening HF and cirrhotic ascites improved when correction of hyponatremia was achieved (OR/95% CI/I²/n: 0.51/0.26–0.99/52%/3). Despite the appropriateness of the study design, however, there are too few trials to consider that correction of hyponatremia is a treatment stratification biomarker. Patients with worsening HF or with cirrhotic ascites needing treatment with vaptans, have better clinical outcomes when correction of hyponatremia is achieved. However, the evidence base needs to be enlarged to propose formally correction of hyponatremia as a new treatment stratification biomarker. Markers for use with drugs are needed to improve outcomes related to the use of medicines.

Association between the Serum Sodium Levels and the Response to Tolvaptan in Liver Cirrhosis Patients with Ascites and Hyponatremia

Objective Hyponatremia is closely associated with the pathophysiology of cirrhosis. However, the association between the serum sodium level and the response to tolvaptan is unclear. This study evaluated the factors related to the tolvaptan response and the prognosis in cirrhosis patients with ascites and hyponatremia. Methods We retrospectively reviewed the clinical records of cirrhosis patients hospitalized for treatment with tolvaptan. The associations of patient baseline characteristics with the tolvaptan response after one week and of the characteristics after one-month tolvaptan treatment with the prognosis were analyzed. Results We analyzed 83 cirrhosis patients with ascites, including 34 patients with hyponatremia. The response rates to tolvaptan in patients with serum sodium <130 mEq/L, 130-135 mEq/L, and >135 mEq/L were 20%, 66%, and 58%, respectively (p=0.22). The serum sodium level was associated with the response to tolvaptan [odds ratio=1.18; 95% confidence interval (CI) =1.02-1.37; p=0.029]. In patients with hyponatremia, the serum sodium level after 1-month tolvaptan treatment was increased compared to baseline (132 mEq/L vs. 136 mEq/L, p=0.006), and an increasing serum sodium level was associated with a lower risk of mortality (hazard ratio=0.85; 95% CI=0.75-0.97; p=0.016). The survival rate was higher in patients with an increase in the serum sodium level after 1 month than in patients with a decreased serum sodium level (p=0.023). Conclusion Tolvaptan treatment was effective in cirrhosis patients with ascites and hyponatremia, but a low serum sodium level was associated with non-responsiveness to tolvaptan. An increased serum sodium level after one-month tolvaptan treatment may positively influence the mortality risk in cirrhosis patients with hyponatremia.

The Impact of Albumin Use on Resolution of Hyponatremia in Hospitalized Patients With Cirrhosis

OBJECTIVES

Hyponatremia is associated with poor outcomes in cirrhosis independent of MELD. While intravenous albumin has been used in small series, its role in hyponatremia is unclear. The aim of this study is to determine the effect of albumin therapy on hyponatremia.

METHODS

Hospitalized cirrhotic patients included in the NACSELD (North American Consortium for End-Stage Liver Disease) cohort with hyponatremia (Na <130mmol/L) were divided into those receiving intravenous albumin or not. Determinants of hyponatremia resolution (Na ≥135 meq/L) and 30-day survival were analyzed using regression and ANCOVA models.

RESULTS

Overall, 2435 patients, of whom 1126 had admission hyponatremia, were included. Of these, 777 received 225 (IQR 100,400) g of albumin, while 349 did not. Patients given albumin had a higher admission MELD score, and serum creatinine and lower admission Na and mean arterial pressure (MAP). However they experienced a higher maximum Na and hyponatremia resolution (69% vs 61%, p = 0.008) compared to those who did not. On regression, delta Na was independently associated with admission creatinine, MAP and albumin use. On ANCOVA with logistic regression, there was a significant difference in hyponatremia resolution between those who did or did not receive albumin, even after adjustment for admission Na and GFR (85.41% vs 44.78%, p = 0.0057, OR: 1.50 95% CI: 1.13-2.00). Independent predictors of 30-day survival were hyponatremia resolution, age, ACLF, and admission GFR.

CONCLUSION

Hospitalized patients with cirrhosis and hyponatremia who received intravenous albumin had a higher rate of hyponatremia resolution independent of renal function and baseline sodium levels, which was in turn associated with a better 30-day survival.

Development and Validation of a Patient-Reported Outcome Measurement for Symptom Assessment in Cirrhotic Ascites

OBJECTIVES

As current treatments of cirrhotic ascites are not associated with survival benefit, symptom relief is the major therapeutic end point. We developed a questionnaire (Ascites-Q; modified polycystic liver disease questionnaire) and assessed validity and responsiveness for symptom assessment in cirrhotic ascites.

METHODS

Ascites-Q was compared with Functional Assessment of Chronic Illness Therapy-Ascites Index (FACIT-AI; developed for malignant ascites) and Japanese Ascites Symptom Inventory-7 (ASI-7) in cirrhotics undergoing large-volume paracentesis. Convergent validity was defined as correlation >0.4 between ascites questionnaires and quality of life (QoL) visual analog scale. Responsiveness was assessed by comparing scores at baseline and 7 days after large-volume paracentesis. To test discriminative ability, we compared scores of patients with cirrhotic controls without ascites (n=24) and diuretic-sensitive ascites (n=46).

RESULTS

We included 90 patients with refractory cirrhotic ascites (61% male, mean age 59 years, Model of End-Stage Liver Disease (MELD) score 16, median paracentesis volume 4,100 ml). Higher symptoms scores were correlated with lower QoL (Ascites-Q: r=0.479, P<0.001, FACIT-AI: r=0.313, P=0.007; ASI-7: r=0.340, P=0.004), but only Ascites-Q showed convergent validity (r>0.4). Symptoms decreased after paracentesis (Ascites-Q: 57 to 34, FACIT-AI: 44 to 33, and ASI-7: 57 to 25, all P<0.001). Ascites-Q and ASI-7 discriminated between controls without ascites, diuretic-sensitive, and refractory ascites (Ascites-Q: 16 vs. 35 vs. 56 points, ASI-7: 2 vs. 25 vs. 61 points, all P<0.05), whereas FACIT-AI (39 vs. 40 vs. 52 points) could not (P=0.314). Ascites-Q was validated at 3 months in an independent cohort with ascites controlled with a pump.

CONCLUSIONS

The Ascites-Q is the best ascites-specific outcome to evaluate symptom relief in cirrhotic ascites.

Tolvaptan is effective in treating patients with refractory ascites due to cirrhosis

The treatment of refractory ascites due to cirrhosis is a clinical challenge for hepatologists. Tolvaptan, a novel aquaporin modulator, was made available in Japan in 2013 for the treatment of patients with refractory ascites due to cirrhosis. Despite the potential of this drug, few reports are available regarding its clinical use. The aim of the present study was to clarify the efficacy of tolvaptan in patients with refractory ascites due to cirrhosis and to review the clinical outcomes of treatment. Medical records were retrospectively reviewed for 65 patients with refractory ascites due to cirrhosis who were treated daily with 7.5 mg tolvaptan. The median follow-up time, defined as the period between starting tolvaptan and the last clinic visit or date of mortality, was 175 days (interquartile range 56-406). After one week of tolvaptan treatment, the mean weight reduction was 3.4 kg, with a response rate of 69% (45/65). Subsequently, factors associated with the response to tolvaptan were analyzed. On univariate analysis, maintaining serum sodium (Na) ≥140 mEq/l and an estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) ≥55 ml/min were significant predictors of response (P<0.05). On multivariate analysis, hepatitis C virus etiology, maintaining serum Na ≥140 mEq/l and an eGFR ≥55 ml/min were significant predictors of response (P<0.05). Factors associated with survival were also analyzed using the Cox proportional hazard model. On multivariate analysis, responsiveness to tolvaptan was a predictor of long-term survival (P=0.002), and hyperbilirubinemia was associated with short-term survival (P=0.028). Additionally, Kaplan-Meier analysis with a log-rank test indicated longer survival times in tolvaptan responders than non-responders (P=0.011). In conclusion, tolvaptan was effective in treating patients with refractory ascites due to cirrhosis. In particular, tolvaptan treatment was highly effective for patients with hepatitis C virus etiology and normal serum Na and renal function. Furthermore, response to tolvaptan was associated with longer survival time while hyperbilirubinemia was associated with shorter survival time.

The Outcome of Cirrhotic Patients with Ascites Is Improved by the Normalization of the Serum Sodium Level by Tolvaptan

Objective Hyponatremia is frequently observed in patients with decompensated liver cirrhosis and it is also related to a poor prognosis. The vasopressin V2-receptor antagonist tolvaptan is used to treat cirrhotic patients with ascites and increases the serum sodium (Na) level. In this study, we investigated (i) whether or not correction of the Na level improves the prognosis of cirrhotic patients with ascites and (ii) predictors of normalization of the serum Na level after tolvaptan therapy. Methods This was a single-center retrospective study. A total of 95 Japanese cirrhotic patients (60 men, median age 63 years) were enrolled and received tolvaptan orally after hospitalization for ascites treatment. The serum Na level was monitored during the period of tolvaptan treatment. The laboratory data and survival rates of patients who achieved serum Na levels of <135 and ≥135 mEq/L after 1 week were compared. Results Patients showed serum Na levels of 136 (121-145) mEq/L, and 42.1% had a serum Na level of <135 mEq/L. Among patients with an initial serum Na level <135 mEq/L, 60.0% achieved a normal level after 1 week, and the survival rate was significantly higher in patients with a normalized serum Na level (p<0.01). The pretreatment brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) level was predictive of achieving a serum Na level of ≥135 mEq/L (odds ratio: 0.87, 95% confidence interval: 0.316-0.987, p<0.05). Conclusion Normalization of the Na level after one week was associated with a favorable outcome of tolvaptan therapy, and Na correction improved the prognosis.

Prevention of the Osmotic Demyelination Syndrome After Liver Transplantation: A Multidisciplinary Perspective

The osmotic demyelination syndrome (ODS) is a serious neurologic condition that occurs in the setting of rapid correction of hyponatremia. It presents with protean manifestations, from encephalopathy to the "locked-in" syndrome. ODS can complicate liver transplantation (LT), and its incidence may increase with the inclusion of serum sodium as a factor in the Mayo End-Stage Liver Disease score. A comprehensive understanding of risk factors for the development of ODS in the setting of LT, along with recommendations to mitigate the risk of ODS, are necessary. The literature to date on ODS in the setting of LT was reviewed. Major risk factors for the development of ODS include severe pretransplant hyponatremia (serum sodium [SNa] < 125 mEq/L), the magnitude of change in SNa pre- versus posttransplant, higher positive intraoperative fluid balance, and the presence of postoperative hemorrhagic complications. Strategies to reduce the risk of ODS include correcting hyponatremia pretransplant via fluid restriction and/or ensuring an appropriate rate of increase from the preoperative SNa via close attention to fluid and electrolyte management both during and after surgery. Multidisciplinary management involving transplant hepatology, nephrology, neurology, surgery, and anesthesiology/critical care is key to performing LT safely in patients with hyponatremia.

Electrolyte and Acid-Base Disturbances in End-Stage Liver Disease: A Physiopathological Approach

Electrolyte and acid-base disturbances are frequent in patients with end-stage liver disease; the underlying physiopathological mechanisms are often complex and represent a diagnostic and therapeutic challenge to the physician. Usually, these disorders do not develop in compensated cirrhotic patients, but with the onset of the classic complications of cirrhosis such as ascites, renal failure, spontaneous bacterial peritonitis and variceal bleeding, multiple electrolyte, and acid-base disturbances emerge. Hyponatremia parallels ascites formation and is a well-known trigger of hepatic encephalopathy; its management in this particular population poses a risky challenge due to the high susceptibility of cirrhotic patients to osmotic demyelination. Hypokalemia is common in the setting of cirrhosis: multiple potassium wasting mechanisms both inherent to the disease and resulting from its management make these patients particularly susceptible to potassium depletion even in the setting of normokalemia. Acid-base disturbances range from classical respiratory alkalosis to high anion gap metabolic acidosis, almost comprising the full acid-base spectrum. Because most electrolyte and acid-base disturbances are managed in terms of their underlying trigger factors, a systematic physiopathological approach to their diagnosis and treatment is required.

Dual Organ Duel: The Hepatorenal Axis

Recent developments in our understanding of the pathogenesis of kidney disease in the setting of liver failure have highlighted that kidney injury, rather than occurring in isolation, is a marker of systemic disease and poor prognosis. The differential diagnosis of kidney disease associated with liver failure is broader than formerly described and new biopsy data, along with better acute kidney injury classification tools, have increased appreciation for distinct pathophysiological mechanisms. Evidence suggests that acute kidney injury contributes to worsening hepatic failure by directly injuring hepatic cells and by imposing restrictions on therapeutic strategies for portal hypertension. Furthermore, kidney injury limits the use of various therapeutic agents and increases their toxicity due to altered pharmacodynamics. A greater appreciation of CKD in this population is also overdue because management decisions are affected and increased vigilance may avoid further kidney injury. A multidisciplinary approach to kidney injury in the setting of liver failure will enable targeted therapeutic strategies that are safe and effective and serve to guide further research, while limiting clinical potential for harm. Finally, new hepatitis C antiviral therapies promise to change the landscape of liver failure, and a discussion of kidney risk factors and antiviral therapy of patients with kidney disease and hepatitis C is worthwhile.

Novel treatment options for portal hypertension

Portal hypertension is most frequently associated with cirrhosis and is a major driver for associated complications, such as variceal bleeding, ascites or hepatic encephalopathy. As such, clinically significant portal hypertension forms the prelude to decompensation and impacts significantly on the prognosis of patients with liver cirrhosis. At present, non-selective β-blockers, vasopressin analogues and somatostatin analogues are the mainstay of treatment but these strategies are far from satisfactory and only target splanchnic hyperemia. In contrast, safe and reliable strategies to reduce the increased intrahepatic resistance in cirrhotic patients still represent a pending issue. In recent years, several preclinical and clinical trials have focused on this latter component and other therapeutic avenues. In this review, we highlight novel data in this context and address potentially interesting therapeutic options for the future.

Ascites, refractory ascites and hyponatremia in cirrhosis

Ascites is the most common complication related to cirrhosis and is associated with increased morbidity and mortality. Ascites is a consequence of the loss of compensatory mechanisms to maintain the overall effective arterial blood volume due to worsening splanchnic arterial vasodilation as a result of clinically significant portal hypertension. In order to maintain effective arterial blood volume, vasoconstrictor and antinatriuretic pathways are activated, which increase overall sodium and fluid retention. As a result of progressive splanchnic arterial vasodilation, intestinal capillary pressure increases and results in the formation of protein-poor fluid within the abdominal cavity due to increased capillary permeability from the hepatic sinusoidal hypertension. In some patients, the fluid can translocate across diaphragmatic fenestrations into the pleural space, leading to hepatic hydrothorax. In addition, infectious complications such as spontaneous bacterial peritonitis can occur. Eventually, as the liver disease progresses related to higher portal pressures, loss of a compensatory cardiac output and further splanchnic vasodilation, kidney function becomes compromised from worsening renal vasoconstriction as well as the development of impaired solute-free water excretion and severe sodium retention. These mechanisms then translate into significant clinical complications, such as refractory ascites, hepatorenal syndrome and hyponatremia, and all are linked to increased short-term mortality. Currently, liver transplantation is the only curative option for this spectrum of clinical manifestations but ongoing research has led to further insight on alternative approaches. This review will further explore the current understanding on the pathophysiology and management of ascites as well as expand on two advanced clinical consequences of advanced liver disease, refractory ascites and hyponatremia.

Midodrine and tolvaptan in patients with cirrhosis and refractory or recurrent ascites: a randomised pilot study

BACKGROUND

Splanchnic arterial vasodilatation and subsequent sodium and water retention play an important role in cirrhotic ascites. Midodrine and tolvaptan have been used separately in these patients. However, there are no reports on the use of combination of midodrine and tolvaptan in the control of ascites. The aim of this study was to evaluate the safety and efficacy of midodrine, tolvaptan and their combination in control of refractory or recurrent ascites in cirrhotics.

METHODS

Fifty cirrhotic patients with refractory or recurrent ascites were randomised to receive midodrine (n=13), tolvaptan (n=12) or both (n=13) plus standard medical therapy (SMT) or SMT alone (n=12).

RESULTS

A significant increase in urinary volume and urinary sodium at 1 and 3 months (P<.05) was observed in all groups except SMT. There was no worsening of renal or hepatic function in any group. There was deterioration of model for end-stage liver disease (MELD) in SMT. Midodrine as well as combination of midodrine and tolvaptan but not tolvaptan alone was superior to SMT in control of ascites at 3 months (P<.05). The combination therapy was also superior to midodrine in the control of ascites at 1 month. The morbidity and mortality were similar in all the groups except SMT.

CONCLUSIONS

The results of this pilot study suggest that midodrine and combination with tolvaptan better controls ascites without any renal or hepatic dysfunction. The combination therapy rapidly controls ascites as compared to midodrine or tolvaptan alone.

Utility and safety of tolvaptan in cirrhotic patients with hyponatremia: A prospective cohort study

Introduction and aim. Hyponatremia is common in patients with decompensated cirrhosis and is associated with increased mortality. Tolvaptan, a vasopressor V2 receptor antagonist, can increase free water excretion, but its efficacy and safety in cirrhotic patients remain unclear.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

We studied the usage and safety of tolvaptan in cirrhotic patients in a real-life, non-randomized, multicenter prospective cohort study. Forty-nine cirrhotic patients with hyponatremia were treated with tolvaptan 15 mg daily, and 48 patients not treated with tolvaptan in the same period served as controls. Improvement in serum sodium level was defined as an increase in serum sodium from < 125 to ≥ 125 mmol/L or from 125-134 to ≥ 135 mmol/L on day 7.

RESULTS

Twenty-three (47%) patients in the tolvaptan group and 17 (35%) in the control group had normal serum sodium on day 7 (p = 0.25). Serum sodium improved in 30 (61%) patients in the tolvaptan group and 17 (35%) patients in the control group (p = 0.011). Adverse events occurred in 46-47% of patients in both groups, and tolvaptan was not associated with worsened liver function. No patient with normal serum sodium on day 7 died within 30 days of treatment, whereas 16% of those with persistent hyponatremia died (p = 0.0019).

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, short-term tolvaptan treatment is safe and can improve serum sodium level in cirrhotic patients with hyponatremia. Normalization of serum sodium level is associated with better survival.

Efficacy of peritoneovenous shunt for treating tolvaptan-resistant refractory ascites in a cirrhotic patient with portal vein thrombosis: A case report

Peritoneovenous shunt is normally used for the treatment of refractory ascites. However, its efficacy in treating tolvaptan-resistant refractory ascites has not been reported thus far. In addition, the impact of peritoneovenous shunt on the prognosis of cirrhotic patients remains controversial. In the present report, a case of tolvaptan-resistant refractory ascites associated with liver cirrhosis and portal vein thrombosis is described. The male patient was diagnosed with hepatitis C virus-related liver cirrhosis at the age of 51 years. At the age of 56 years, the patient developed portal vein thrombosis, resulting in the development of refractory ascites. Since the ascites was resistant to treatment with a low-sodium diet and diuretics such as tolvaptan, a peritoneovenous shunt was implanted upon obtaining consent. The shunt immediately increased the urine volume, and the ascites was markedly decreased. The patient's body weight decreased from 62.7 to 57.1 kg in 2 days, and his ascites symptom inventory-7 score decreased from 23 to 0 points in 31 days. Although the patient succumbed to sepsis on day 486 following the shunt implant, his activities of daily living were preserved until 8 days prior to mortality. Thus, the present case supports the efficacy of peritoneovenous shunt for the treatment of tolvaptan-resistant refractory ascites associated with liver cirrhosis and portal vein thrombosis. Furthermore, the present case suggests that peritoneovenous shunt may prolong the survival of cirrhotic patents with refractory ascites.

Pathophysiology and management of hepatic encephalopathy 2014 update: Ammonia toxicity and hyponatremia

Hyperammonemia is a major factor involved in the pathogenesis of hepatic encephalopathy (HE). Ammonia elicits astrocyte swelling and causes brain edema. In addition, hyponatremia, a condition frequently observed in hepatic cirrhosis, also exacerbates brain edema, potentially becoming a factor that exacerbates HE. Therefore, as a treatment strategy for HE, alleviating ammonia toxicity is essential. In addition to restricting protein intake, synthetic disaccharides such as lactulose and lactitol, probiotics that improve gut flora, and rifaximin, an antibiotic with poor bioavailability, are also administrated. Additionally, branched-chain amino acids and carnitine have also been administrated. Moreover, we investigated the current trend in the concomitant use of drugs with different mechanisms of action. In Japan, the V2 receptor antagonist tolvaptan can be administrated to hepatic cirrhosis patients with fluid retention. This drug is also useful as a countermeasure for hyponatremia in hepatic cirrhosis, and elucidating its effects in HE patients may therefore become an agenda in the future. These observations indicate that ammonia toxicity, gut flora control and low sodium control are major focuses in HE improvement and long-term prognosis.

Do vasopressin V2 receptor antagonists benefit cirrhotics with refractory ascites?

Hyponatremia is a frequent complication of advanced cirrhosis with ascites associated with increased morbidity and mortality. It is caused by an impairment in the renal capacity to eliminate solute-free water and is considered to be related to persistent secretion of vasopressin despite low serum osmolality. This nonosmotic release of vasopressin is mediated by the autonomic nervous system, which senses the underfilling of arterial vascular component. This reduction of effective arterial blood volume is closely related to the development of ascites. Although the short-time effects of vasopressin V2 receptor antagonists (vaptans) on hyponatremia and ascites have been repeatedly reported, their effects on the long-term management of cirrhotic ascites have not been established yet. Considering that their effects on water diuresis and their safety are limited by severe underfilling state of patients, cautious approaches with adequate monitoring are needed to advanced cirrhosis. Proper indication, adequate doses and new possibility of combination therapy should be explored in the future controlled study. As hyponatremia is frequent obstacle to ascites management, judicious combination with low-dose diuretics may decrease the incidence of refractory ascites. Although vaptans show much promise in the treatment of advanced cirrhosis, the problem of high cost should be solved for the future.

Hyponatremia in Cirrhosis--Pathogenesis, Treatment, and Prognostic Significance

Cirrhosis is characterized by systemic and splanchnic vasodilation that leads to excessive nonosmotic secretion of vasopressin (antidiuretic hormone). Hyponatremia is a common electrolyte abnormality in advanced liver disease that results from the impaired ability of the kidney to excrete solute-free water that leads to "dilutional" hyponatremia-water retention disproportionate to the retention of sodium. Hyponatremia in liver diseases carries the prognostic burden, correlates with the severity of cirrhosis, and, in recent studies, has also been implicated in the pathogenesis of hepatic encephalopathy. The current treatment options are limited to conventional therapies like fluid restriction, and the outcomes are unsatisfactory. Although currently available vasopressin (V2 receptors) antagonists have been shown to increase serum sodium concentrations and improve ascites control, their role in the treatment of hyponatremia in liver disease patients remains questionable because of adverse effect profiles, high cost, and poor data on long-term mortality benefits. More information is needed to argue the benefits vs risks of short-term use of vaptans for correction of hyponatremia especially just hours-to-days before liver transplant.

[Hyponatremia and tolvaptan : what is the situation 5 years after approval?]

The diuretic tolvaptan has been approved for more than 5 years for the indications of euvolemic hyponatremia due to syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone (SIADH) secretion. In recent years many patients have been treated with tolvaptan and many physicians could gather practical experience. Other countries, such as the USA had already gained greater experience, also in the indications for hypervolemic hyponatremia. After approval was granted more than 5000 patients worldwide were included in the so-called hyponatremia register and 22 active centers in Germany with 317 patients participated. Although some details from this now concluded register have been published, the final publication of the multinational post-authorization safety study on tolvaptan in the treatment of SIADH has not yet been published. In the years 2012 and 2013 two warning letters were issued on tolvaptan. The first letter warned of the risk of a faster increase in serum sodium using tolvaptan and provided detailed information on how the risk of osmotic demeyelination can be minimized. So far only one proven case of osmotic demelination syndrome (ODS) is known; however, this occurred following incorrect use of tolvaptan in a monotherapy. The second warning letter provided information on the potential risk (reversible) of liver damage by tolvaptan, which resulted from the TEMPO 3:4 study. In this study tolvaptan was used in a higher dosage for therapy of autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease. Although the European renal best practice (ERBP) guidelines from 2014 did not recommend tolvaptan for the indications of SIADH, other guidelines came to different conclusions. In summary, 5 years after the approval of tolvaptan there is still no consensus. At the current time many questions still remain unanswered. Initiation of therapy with tolvaptan remains reserved for experienced physicians in hospitals. Treatment must be adapted on the basis of a clinical estimation of the individual situation of each patient.

Management of cirrhotic ascites

The most common complication to chronic liver failure is ascites. The formation of ascites in the cirrhotic patient is caused by a complex chain of pathophysiological events involving portal hypertension and progressive vascular dysfunction. Since ascites formation represents a hallmark in the natural history of chronic liver failure it predicts a poor outcome with a 50% mortality rate within 3 years. Patients with ascites are at high risk of developing complications such as spontaneous bacterial peritonitis, hyponatremia and progressive renal impairment. Adequate management of cirrhotic ascites and its complications betters quality of life and increases survival. This paper summarizes the pathophysiology behind cirrhotic ascites and the diagnostic approaches, as well as outlining the current treatment options. Despite improved medical treatment of ascites, liver transplantation remains the ultimate treatment and early referral of the patient to a highly specialized hepatology unit should always be considered.

Low-dose tolvaptan for the treatment of dilutional hyponatremia in cirrhosis: a case report and literature review

Dilutional hyponatremia is common in decompensated cirrhosis and can be successfully treated by tolvaptan, a vasopressin V2-receptor antagonist. Data were lacking regarding the effects of tolvaptan on cirrhotic patients with a Child-Pugh score of >10 and a serum sodium concentration of <120 mmol/L. We report a case of forties man with a 20-year history of chronic hepatitis B presenting with yellow urine and skin. Laboratory tests demonstrated prolonged prothrombin time, markedly elevated total bilirubin, severe hyponatremia, and a Child-Pugh score of >10. The patient was diagnosed with dilutional hyponatremia and was treated with recommended dosage tolvaptan at first. The serum concentration of sodium recover but the patient felt obviously thirsty. As the dosage of tolvaptan was decreased accordingly from 15 mg to 5 mg, the patient still maintained the ideal concentration of serum sodium. This case emphasizes that cirrhotic patient with higher Child-Pugh scores and serum sodium concentration of <120 mmol/L can be treated with lower dose of tolvaptan.

Correlation of serum sodium levels with complications and prognosis in cirrhotic patients

AIM: To investigate the correlation of serum sodium levels with complications and prognosis in cirrhotic patients, and to analyze the relationship between serum sodium levels and Child-Pugh score and model for end-stage liver disease (MELD).

METHODS: One hundred and ninety-five patients with end-stage liver cirrhosis were divided into four groups according to the levels of serum sodium: a normal group (n = 88), a mild hyponatremia group (n = 52), a moderate hyponatremia group (n = 38) and a severe hyponatremia group (n = 17). Child-Pugh score, MELD and complications were compared among different groups.

RESULTS: Lower levels of serum sodium were associated with significantly higher incidences of hepatic encephalopathy, hypokalemia, spontaneous bacterial peritonitis, hepatorenal syndrome and gastrointestinal bleeding, more severe ascites, higher Child-Pugh score and MELD, shorter median survival and higher mortality (P < 0.05). Serum sodium levels were negatively correlated with Child-Pugh score (r = -0.475, P = 0.005) and MELD score (r = -0.553, P = 0.002), but positively with mean survival time (r = -0.398, P = 0.007).

CONCLUSION: Hyponatremia is closely associated with Child-Pugh score, MELD score, complications and mortality in patients with end-stage liver disease. The levels of sodium can effectively predict the progression of a patient's condition.

Kidney injury in cirrhosis: pathophysiological and therapeutic aspects of hepatorenal syndromes

Acute kidney injury (AKI) is frequent in patients with cirrhosis. AKI and hyponatraemia are major determinants of the poor prognosis in advanced cirrhosis. The hepatorenal syndrome (HRS) denotes a functional and potential reversible impairment of renal function. Type 1 HRS, a special type of AKI, is a rapidly progressive AKI, whereas the renal function in type 2 HRS decreases more slowly. HRS is precipitated by factors such as sepsis that aggravate the effective hypovolaemia in decompensated cirrhosis, by lowering arterial pressure and cardiac output and enhanced sympathetic nervous activity. Therefore, attempts to prevent and treat HRS should seek to improve liver function and to ameliorate arterial hypotension, central hypovolaemia and cardiac output, and to reduce renal vasoconstriction. Ample treatment of HRS is important to prevent further progression and death, but as medical treatment only modestly improves long-term survival, these patients should always be considered for liver transplantation. Hyponatraemia, defined as serum sodium <130 mmol/L, is common in patients with decompensated cirrhosis. From a pathophysiological point of view, hyponatraemia is related to an impairment of renal solute-free water excretion most likely caused by an increased vasopressin secretion. Patients with cirrhosis mainly develop hypervolaemic hyponatraemia. Current evidence does not support routine use of vaptans in the management of hyponatraemia in cirrhosis.

Review article: advances in the management of patients with cirrhosis and portal hypertension-related renal dysfunction

BACKGROUND

In cirrhosis, portal hypertension is associated with a spectrum of renal dysfunction that has significant implications for morbidity and mortality.

AIM

To discuss recent progress in the patho-physiological mechanisms and therapeutic options for portal hypertension-related renal dysfunction.

METHODS

A literature search using Pubmed was performed.

RESULTS

Portal hypertension-related renal dysfunction occurs in the setting of marked neuro-humoral and circulatory derangement. A systemic inflammatory response is a pathogenetic factor in advanced disease. Such physiological changes render the individual vulnerable to further deterioration of renal function. Patients are primed to develop acute kidney injury when exposed to additional 'hits', such as sepsis. Recent progress has been made regarding our understanding of the aetiopathogenesis. However, treatment options once hepatorenal syndrome develops are limited, and prognosis remains poor. Various strategies to prevent acute kidney injury are suggested.

CONCLUSION

Prevention of acute kidney injury in high risk patients with cirrhosis and portal hypertension-related renal dysfunction should be a clinical priority.

Hyponatraemia and cirrhosis

Hyponatraemia is a common complication of advanced cirrhosis related to an impairment in the renal capacity for eliminating solute-free water, causing a retention of water that is disproportionate to the retention of sodium, thus leading to a reduction in serum sodium concentration and hypo-osmolality. The main pathogenic factor responsible for hyponatraemia is a non-osmotic hypersecretion of arginine vasopressin (AVP) or antidiuretic hormone from the neurohypophysis, related to circulatory dysfunction. Hyponatraemia in cirrhosis is associated with increased morbidity and mortality. Hyponatraemia is also associated with increased morbidity and impaired short-term survival after transplantation. The current standard of care based on restricting fluids to 1-1.5 L/day is rarely effective. Other approaches, such as albumin infusion and the use of vaptans-which act by specifically antagonizing the effects of AVP on the V2 receptors located in the kidney tubules-have been evaluated for their role in the management of hyponatraemia. The short-term treatment with vaptans is associated with a marked increase in renal solute-free water excretion and improvement of hyponatraemia; however their use in patients with end-stage liver disease is limited by hepatotoxic effects of some of these drugs. Long-term administration of vaptans seems to be effective in maintaining the improvement of serum sodium concentration, but the available information is still limited.

Management of hyponatremia in clinical hepatology practice

The burden of liver disease continues to increase in the United States, with the epidemics of hepatitis C, alcoholic liver disease, and the coming wave of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease patients all contributing to a high burden of individuals with end-stage liver disease. The complications of cirrhosis have been related to portal hypertension or synthetic dysfunction with variceal bleeding, ascites, hepatic encephalopathy, jaundice, hepatorenal syndrome, and the pulmonary complications of cirrhosis being described classically. Over the past decade, a body of evidence has now been assembled demonstrating that hyponatremia is also an important complication in patients with decompensated cirrhosis, with recent data demonstrating that hyponatremia is an important prognostic indicator in those with cirrhosis [1••]. Seminal research has demonstrated the pathophysiologic role of the hyperdynamic circulation and vasodilation in those with decompensated cirrhosis that leads to many of the complications, including hyponatremia [2•]. Moreover, a new class of drugs, the vaptans, have provided important insights into the pathophysiology and potential therapy of those with hyponatremia and possibly in those with hyponatremia and cirrhotic ascites [3]. However, there are safety concerns with some drugs in this class. In this article, the pathophysiology of hyponatremia, clinical relevance to patients with decompensated cirrhosis, and management options will be addressed.

Ascites and spontaneous bacterial peritonitis: recommendations from two United States centers

Cirrhosis affects millions of people throughout the world. Two of the most serious complications of liver cirrhosis are ascites and spontaneous bacterial peritonitis (SBP). The development of ascites is related to the severity of portal hypertension and is an indicator of increased mortality. Although sodium restriction and diuretic therapy have proven effective, some patients may not respond appropriately or develop adverse reactions to diuretic therapy. In such cases, interventions such as transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) placement are warranted. SBP is a complication of ascites that confers a very high mortality rate. Recognition and prompt treatment of this condition is essential to prevent serious morbidity and mortality. Initiation of prophylaxis in SBP remains controversial. Given the burden of liver cirrhosis on the health care system, ascites and SBP will continue to provide challenges for the primary care provider, hospitalist, internist, and gastroenterologist alike.

Drug therapies in liver disease

The likelihood of a general physician encountering a patient with compensated and decompensated liver disease is increasing. This article provides an overview of pharmaceutical agents currently used in the management of cirrhosis and is designed to allow a better understanding of the rationale for using certain drugs in patients with often complex pathology.