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Gairing SJ, Mangini C, Zarantonello L, Gioia S, Nielsen EJ, Danneberg S, Gabriel M, Ehrenbauer AF, Bloom PP, Ripoll C, Sultanik P, Galle PR, Labenz J, Thabut D, Zipprich A, Lok AS, Weissenborn K, Marquardt JU, Lauridsen MM, Nardelli S, Montagnese S, Labenz C. Prevalence of Minimal Hepatic Encephalopathy in Patients With Liver Cirrhosis: A Multicenter Study. Am J Gastroenterol 2023; 118:2191-2200. [PMID: 36940426 DOI: 10.14309/ajg.0000000000002251] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2023] [Accepted: 03/01/2023] [Indexed: 03/22/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The prevalence of minimal hepatic encephalopathy (MHE), in particular in different subgroups, remains unknown. This study aimed to analyze the prevalence of MHE in different subgroups to identify patients at high risk and to pave the way for personalized screening approaches. METHODS In this study, data of patients recruited at 10 centers across Europe and the United States were analyzed. Only patients without clinical signs of hepatic encephalopathy were included. MHE was detected using the Psychometric Hepatic Encephalopathy Score (PHES, cut-off < or ≤-4 depending on local norms). Clinical and demographic characteristics of the patients were assessed and analyzed. RESULTS In total, 1,868 patients with cirrhosis with a median model for end-stage liver disease (MELD) of 11 were analyzed (Child-Pugh [CP] stages: A 46%, B 42%, and C 12%). In the total cohort, MHE was detected by PHES in 650 patients (35%). After excluding patients with a history of overt hepatic encephalopathy, the prevalence of MHE was 29%. In subgroup analyses, the prevalence of MHE in patients with CP A was low (25%), whereas it was high in CP B or C (42% and 52%). In patients with a MELD score <10, the prevalence of MHE was only 25%, but it was 48% in patients with a MELD score ≥20. Standardized ammonia levels (ammonia level/upper limit of normal of each center) correlated significantly, albeit weakly with PHES (Spearman ρ = -0.16, P < 0.001). DISCUSSION The prevalence of MHE in patients with cirrhosis was high but varied substantially between diseases stages. These data may pave the way for more individualized MHE screening approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simon Johannes Gairing
- Department of Internal Medicine I, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg-University, Mainz, Germany
- Cirrhosis Center Mainz (CCM), University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg-University, Mainz, Germany
| | - Chiara Mangini
- Department of Medicine, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | | | - Stefania Gioia
- Department of Translational and Precision Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Elise Jonasson Nielsen
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Hospital of South West Jutland, Esbjerg, Denmark
| | - Sven Danneberg
- Department of Medicine I, University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein, Lübeck, Germany
| | - Maria Gabriel
- Clinic for Neurology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | | | - Patricia P Bloom
- Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Cristina Ripoll
- Department of Internal Medicine IV, Jena University Hospital, Jena, Germany
- First Department of Internal Medicine, Martin-Luther-University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle, Germany
| | - Philippe Sultanik
- Service d'hépato-gastroentérologie, Sorbonne Université, Hôpital Pitié-Salpêtrière Assistance Publique Hôpitaux de Paris, Paris, France
| | - Peter Robert Galle
- Department of Internal Medicine I, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg-University, Mainz, Germany
- Cirrhosis Center Mainz (CCM), University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg-University, Mainz, Germany
| | - Joachim Labenz
- Department of Medicine, Diakonie Hospital Jung-Stilling, Siegen, Germany
| | - Dominique Thabut
- Service d'hépato-gastroentérologie, Sorbonne Université, Hôpital Pitié-Salpêtrière Assistance Publique Hôpitaux de Paris, Paris, France
| | - Alexander Zipprich
- Department of Internal Medicine IV, Jena University Hospital, Jena, Germany
- First Department of Internal Medicine, Martin-Luther-University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle, Germany
| | - Anna S Lok
- Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | | | - Jens Uwe Marquardt
- Department of Medicine I, University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein, Lübeck, Germany
| | - Mette Munk Lauridsen
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Hospital of South West Jutland, Esbjerg, Denmark
| | - Silvia Nardelli
- Department of Translational and Precision Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Sara Montagnese
- Department of Medicine, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
- Chronobiology Section, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Surrey, Guildford, UK
| | - Christian Labenz
- Department of Internal Medicine I, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg-University, Mainz, Germany
- Cirrhosis Center Mainz (CCM), University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg-University, Mainz, Germany
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Ripoll C, Greinert R, Reuken P, Reichert MC, Weber SN, Hupfer Y, Staltner R, Meier Clinien M, Lammert F, Bruns T, Zipprich A. Influence of NOD2 risk variants on hepatic encephalopathy and association with inflammation, bacterial translocation and immune activation. Liver Int 2023; 43:1793-1802. [PMID: 37249050 DOI: 10.1111/liv.15627] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2023] [Revised: 04/21/2023] [Accepted: 05/18/2023] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain containing 2 (NOD2) risk variants lead to impaired mucosal barrier function, increased bacterial translocation (BT), and systemic inflammation. AIM To evaluate the association between the presence of NOD2 risk variants, BT, inflammation, and hepatic encephalopathy (HE). PATIENTS AND METHODS This prospective multicenter study included patients with cirrhosis and testing for NOD2 risk variants (p.R702W, p.G908R, c.3020insC, N289S, and c.-958T>C). Patients were evaluated for covert (C) and overt (O) HE. Markers of systemic inflammation (leukocytes, CRP, IL-6, LBP) and immune activation (soluble CD14) as well as bacterial endotoxin (hTRL4 activation) were determined in serum. RESULTS Overall, 172 patients (70% men; median age 60 [IQR 54-66] years; MELD 12 [IQR 9-16]; 72% ascites) were included, of whom 53 (31%) carried a NOD2 risk variant. In this cohort, 11% presented with OHE and 27% and CHE. Presence and severity of HE and surrogates of inflammation, BT, and immune activation did not differ between patients with and without a NOD2 risk variant, also not after adjustment for MELD. HE was associated with increased ammonia and systemic inflammation, as indicated by elevated CRP (w/o HE: 7.2 [2.7-16.7]; with HE 12.6 [4.5-29.7] mg/dL; p < 0.001) and elevated soluble CD14 (w/o HE 2592 [2275-3033]; with HE 2755 [2410-3456] ng/mL; p = 0.025). CONCLUSIONS The presence of NOD2 risk variants in patients with cirrhosis is not associated with HE and has no marked impact on inflammation, BT, or immune activation. In contrast, the presence of HE was linked to ammonia, the acute phase response, and myeloid cell activation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Ripoll
- Internal Medicine IV, Jena University Hospital, Friedrich Schiller University, Jena, Germany
| | - Robin Greinert
- Internal Medicine I, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle, Germany
| | - Philipp Reuken
- Internal Medicine IV, Jena University Hospital, Friedrich Schiller University, Jena, Germany
| | | | - Susanne N Weber
- Department of Medicine II, Saarland University Medical Center, Homburg, Germany
| | - Yvonne Hupfer
- Internal Medicine IV, Jena University Hospital, Friedrich Schiller University, Jena, Germany
| | - Raphaela Staltner
- Department of Nutritional Sciences, Molecular Nutritional Science, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Magdalena Meier Clinien
- Internal Medicine IV, Jena University Hospital, Friedrich Schiller University, Jena, Germany
| | | | - Tony Bruns
- Internal Medicine IV, Jena University Hospital, Friedrich Schiller University, Jena, Germany
- Internal Medicine III, University Hospital RWTH Aachen, Aachen, Germany
| | - Alexander Zipprich
- Internal Medicine IV, Jena University Hospital, Friedrich Schiller University, Jena, Germany
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Kaps L, Hildebrand K, Nagel M, Michel M, Kremer WM, Hilscher M, Galle PR, Schattenberg JM, Wörns MA, Labenz C. Validation of EncephalApp_Stroop as screening tool for the detection of minimal hepatic encephalopathy in German patients with liver cirrhosis. Clin Res Hepatol Gastroenterol 2022; 46:101873. [PMID: 35124289 DOI: 10.1016/j.clinre.2022.101873] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2021] [Revised: 12/14/2021] [Accepted: 01/17/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In contrast to overt hepatic encephalopathy (OHE), the diagnosis of minimal HE (MHE) is challenging in patients with cirrhosis requiring elaborate, specialized testing. The EncephalApp_Stroop is a smartphone-based application established as screening tool for the diagnosis of MHE but has not yet been validated in a German cohort and country specific cut-offs are currently missing. METHODS 93 patients with cirrhosis were enroled into this study. Psychometric hepatic encephalopathy score (PHES) was used to detect MHE, and a subset of the patients was tested with critical flicker frequency (CFF). All patients underwent testing with EncephalApp_Stroop. Cut-off thresholds for EncephalApp_Stroop were calculated according to Youden's Index and a separate cut-off was determined with focus on sensitivity. RESULTS 24 (26%) patients had MHE according to PHES. EncephalApp_Stroop had a strong correlation with PHES (r=-0.76, p<0.001), while there was only a modest correlation with CFF (r=-0.51, <0.001). On time as well as on+off time discriminated best between patients with and without MHE with AUROCS of 0.87 for both measures. According to Youden's index, a cut-off of >224.7 s (sec) (on+off time) discriminated best between patients with and without MHE with a sensitivity of 71% and a specificity of 88%. The adjusted cut-off value for on+off time with focus on sensitivity (sensitivity:specificity weighed 2:1) was 185.1 s, yielding an optimized sensitivity of 92% and a negative predictive value of 96%. By using this cut-off as a pre-screening test in a stepwise diagnosis algorithm, elaborate testing with PHES could have been avoided in 49% of all patients. CONCLUSION EncephalApp_Stroop may be useful in a stepwise diagnosis algorithm or even as a stand-alone screening tool to detect MHE in German patients with cirrhosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leonard Kaps
- Department of Internal Medicine I, University Medical Centre of the Johannes Gutenberg-University, Mainz, Germany; Cirrhosis Centre Mainz (CCM), University Medical Centre of the Johannes Gutenberg-University, Mainz, Germany.
| | - Katharina Hildebrand
- Department of Internal Medicine I, University Medical Centre of the Johannes Gutenberg-University, Mainz, Germany; Cirrhosis Centre Mainz (CCM), University Medical Centre of the Johannes Gutenberg-University, Mainz, Germany
| | - Michael Nagel
- Department of Internal Medicine I, University Medical Centre of the Johannes Gutenberg-University, Mainz, Germany; Cirrhosis Centre Mainz (CCM), University Medical Centre of the Johannes Gutenberg-University, Mainz, Germany
| | - Maurice Michel
- Department of Internal Medicine I, University Medical Centre of the Johannes Gutenberg-University, Mainz, Germany; Cirrhosis Centre Mainz (CCM), University Medical Centre of the Johannes Gutenberg-University, Mainz, Germany
| | - Wolfgang Maximilian Kremer
- Department of Internal Medicine I, University Medical Centre of the Johannes Gutenberg-University, Mainz, Germany; Cirrhosis Centre Mainz (CCM), University Medical Centre of the Johannes Gutenberg-University, Mainz, Germany
| | - Max Hilscher
- Department of Internal Medicine I, University Medical Centre of the Johannes Gutenberg-University, Mainz, Germany; Cirrhosis Centre Mainz (CCM), University Medical Centre of the Johannes Gutenberg-University, Mainz, Germany
| | - Peter R Galle
- Department of Internal Medicine I, University Medical Centre of the Johannes Gutenberg-University, Mainz, Germany; Cirrhosis Centre Mainz (CCM), University Medical Centre of the Johannes Gutenberg-University, Mainz, Germany
| | - Jörn M Schattenberg
- Department of Internal Medicine I, University Medical Centre of the Johannes Gutenberg-University, Mainz, Germany
| | - Marcus-Alexander Wörns
- Department of Internal Medicine I, University Medical Centre of the Johannes Gutenberg-University, Mainz, Germany; Cirrhosis Centre Mainz (CCM), University Medical Centre of the Johannes Gutenberg-University, Mainz, Germany; Department of Gastroenterology, Hematology, Oncology and Endocrinology, Klinikum Dortmund, Germany
| | - Christian Labenz
- Department of Internal Medicine I, University Medical Centre of the Johannes Gutenberg-University, Mainz, Germany; Cirrhosis Centre Mainz (CCM), University Medical Centre of the Johannes Gutenberg-University, Mainz, Germany.
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Hansen MKG, Kjærgaard K, Eriksen LL, Grønkjær LL, Mikkelsen ACD, Sandahl TD, Vilstrup H, Thomsen KL, Lauridsen MME. Psychometric methods for diagnosing and monitoring minimal hepatic encephalopathy -current validation level and practical use. Metab Brain Dis 2022; 37:589-605. [PMID: 35102491 DOI: 10.1007/s11011-022-00913-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2021] [Accepted: 01/14/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Hepatic encephalopathy (HE) is cerebral dysfunction caused by liver failure and inflicts 30-40% of patients with liver cirrhosis during their disease course. Clinically manifest HE is often preceded by minimal HE (MHE) - a clinically undetectable cognitive disturbance closely associated with loss of quality of life. Accordingly, detecting and treating MHE improve the patients' daily functioning and prevent HE-related hospital admissions. The scope of this review article is to create an overview of the validation level and usage of psychometric tests used to detect MHE: Portosystemic hepatic encephalopathy test, continuous reaction time test, Stroop EncephalApp, animal naming test, critical flicker frequency test, and inhibitory control test. Our work is aimed at the clinician or scientist who is about to decide on which psychometric test would fit best in their clinic, cohort, or study. First, we outline psychometric test validation obstacles and requirements. Then, we systematically approach the literature on each test and select well-conducted studies to answer the following questions:• Which percentage of patients with cirrhosis does the test deem as having MHE?• Is the test able to predict clinically manifest HE?• Is there a well-known test-retest variation and inter-observer variation?• Is the test able to detect a treatment response?• Is the test result affected by age, educational level, gender, or comorbidities?
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Affiliation(s)
- Mads Kingo Guldberg Hansen
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University Hospital South Denmark, Finsensgade 35, 6700, Esbjerg, Denmark.
| | - Kristoffer Kjærgaard
- Department of Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Aarhus University Hospital, Palle Juul-Jensens Boulevard 99, 8200, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Lotte Lindgreen Eriksen
- Department of Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Aarhus University Hospital, Palle Juul-Jensens Boulevard 99, 8200, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Lea Ladegaard Grønkjær
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University Hospital South Denmark, Finsensgade 35, 6700, Esbjerg, Denmark
| | - Anne Catrine Daugaard Mikkelsen
- Department of Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Aarhus University Hospital, Palle Juul-Jensens Boulevard 99, 8200, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Thomas Damgaard Sandahl
- Department of Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Aarhus University Hospital, Palle Juul-Jensens Boulevard 99, 8200, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Hendrik Vilstrup
- Department of Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Aarhus University Hospital, Palle Juul-Jensens Boulevard 99, 8200, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Karen Louise Thomsen
- Department of Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Aarhus University Hospital, Palle Juul-Jensens Boulevard 99, 8200, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Mette Munk Enok Lauridsen
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University Hospital South Denmark, Finsensgade 35, 6700, Esbjerg, Denmark
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Kim M, Liotta EM, Maas MB, Braun RI, Garcia-Canga B, Ganger DR, Ladner DP, Reid KJ, Zee PC. Rest-activity rhythm disturbance in liver cirrhosis and association with cognitive impairment. Sleep 2021; 44:6047598. [PMID: 33367862 DOI: 10.1093/sleep/zsaa288] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2020] [Revised: 11/20/2020] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Cognitive impairment and disturbed sleep-wake rhythms are disabling complications of liver cirrhosis, yet there is limited understanding of how they are related. We tested the hypothesis that alterations of sleep, rest-activity, and light exposure patterns are associated with worse cognition in cirrhosis. A total of 54 ambulatory adult patients with cirrhosis and 41 age-/gender-matched healthy controls wore wrist actigraphy for rest-activity and light measurements and completed Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System sleep instruments for self-reported sleep quality. We used standard nonparametric descriptors to characterize rest-activity and light patterns, and wake after sleep onset and sleep efficiency to assess objective sleep quality. The NIH Toolbox cognition battery was used for objective cognitive evaluation using T-scores from a demographically adjusted population reference. Spearman's correlation and multivariable models were used to explore associations between measures of cognition, sleep, rest-activity, and light. Cognition was significantly impaired in cirrhosis patients. Sleep quality was worse in cirrhosis patients by subjective and objective measures compared with controls. Cirrhosis patients exhibited fragmented and dampened rest-activity rhythms, lower daytime and higher nighttime light exposure compared with controls. Worse working memory and processing speed was associated with lower daytime activity level, higher rest-activity fragmentation, lower day-to-day stability, and greater nocturnal light exposure. No association was found between cognition and sleep quality. Rest-activity fragmentation and abnormal light exposure patterns are common in patients with liver disease and are associated with the severity of cognitive impairment. Further research is needed to investigate the effects of timed bright light and exercise intervention on cognitive function in patients with liver disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Minjee Kim
- Department of Neurology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL
- Center for Circadian and Sleep Medicine, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL
- Northwestern University Transplant Outcomes Research Collaborative (NUTORC), Comprehensive Transplant Center (CTC), Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL
| | - Eric M Liotta
- Department of Neurology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL
- Northwestern University Transplant Outcomes Research Collaborative (NUTORC), Comprehensive Transplant Center (CTC), Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL
- Division of Transplant, Department of Surgery, Northwestern Medicine, Chicago, IL
| | - Matthew B Maas
- Department of Neurology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL
- Center for Circadian and Sleep Medicine, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL
| | - Rosemary I Braun
- Center for Circadian and Sleep Medicine, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL
- Biostatistics Division, Department of Preventive Medicine, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL
- Department of Engineering Sciences and Applied Mathematics, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL
| | - Blas Garcia-Canga
- Department of Neurology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL
| | - Daniel R Ganger
- Northwestern University Transplant Outcomes Research Collaborative (NUTORC), Comprehensive Transplant Center (CTC), Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL
- Division of Transplant, Department of Surgery, Northwestern Medicine, Chicago, IL
- Department of Medicine, Northwestern Medicine, Chicago, IL
| | - Daniela P Ladner
- Northwestern University Transplant Outcomes Research Collaborative (NUTORC), Comprehensive Transplant Center (CTC), Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL
- Division of Transplant, Department of Surgery, Northwestern Medicine, Chicago, IL
- Department of Medical Social Sciences, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL
| | - Kathryn J Reid
- Department of Neurology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL
- Center for Circadian and Sleep Medicine, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL
| | - Phyllis C Zee
- Department of Neurology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL
- Center for Circadian and Sleep Medicine, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL
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Kondo Y, Iwasa M, Kawaratani H, Miyaaki H, Hanai T, Kon K, Hirano H, Shimizu M, Yoshiji H, Okita K, Koike K. Proposal of Stroop test cut-off values as screening for neuropsychological impairments in cirrhosis: A Japanese multicenter study. Hepatol Res 2021; 51:674-681. [PMID: 33615662 DOI: 10.1111/hepr.13629] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2020] [Revised: 02/01/2021] [Accepted: 02/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
AIM Despite its relevant clinical impact and high prevalence, covert hepatic encephalopathy (HE) still remains underdiagnosed. As patients with liver cirrhosis tend to be older in Japan, more suitable tests for the elderly and cut-off values based on this attribute are needed. Recently, a Stroop test has been developed and validated for the screening and diagnosis of covert HE in the United States. The present study aims to establish the cut-off values of the Stroop test to screen covert HE. METHODS This study was a prospective multicenter cross-sectional endeavor. We undertook a survey of 311 cirrhotic patients, administering the number connection test (NCT)-A and -B and the Stroop-off and -on test. RESULTS We determined the cut-off values of Stroop test results for cirrhotic patients in a variety of age ranges. The cut-off value of the Stroop test was strongly correlated with age. There was a significant correlation between the results of NCT-B and age, and Stroop-on test results showed a correlation with serum albumin (Alb) levels. Serum Alb ≤3.2 g/dl could have the potential to be an objective biomarker of covert HE. In addition, stepwise logistic regression analysis revealed a relationship between the results of the Stroop-on test and plasma ammonia levels. CONCLUSIONS We established the cut-off values of Stroop test results and confirmed the efficacy of the Stroop test as a simple tool for assessing cognitive alterations. The Stroop test could be suitable as a necessary minimum for the diagnosis of covert HE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yasuteru Kondo
- Department of Hepatology, Sendai Kousei Hospital, Sendai, Japan
| | - Motoh Iwasa
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mie University Graduate School of Medicine, Mie, Japan
| | - Hideto Kawaratani
- Department of Gastroenterology, Nara Medical University, Nara, Japan
| | - Hisamitsu Miyaaki
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Nagasaki University Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Nagasaki, Japan
| | - Tatsunori Hanai
- Department of Gastroenterology/Internal Medicine, Gifu University Graduate School of Medicine, Gifu, Japan
| | - Kazuyoshi Kon
- Department of Gastroenterology, Juntendo University Graduate School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Hirotaka Hirano
- Department of Gastroenterology, Yodogawa Christian Hospital, Osaka, Japan
| | - Masahito Shimizu
- Department of Gastroenterology/Internal Medicine, Gifu University Graduate School of Medicine, Gifu, Japan
| | - Hitoshi Yoshiji
- Department of Gastroenterology, Nara Medical University, Nara, Japan
| | | | - Kazuhiko Koike
- Department of Gastroenterology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
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Greinert R, Zipprich A, Simón-Talero M, Stangl F, Ludwig C, Wienke A, Praktiknjo M, Höhne K, Trebicka J, Genescà J, Ripoll C. Covert hepatic encephalopathy and spontaneous portosystemic shunts increase the risk of developing overt hepatic encephalopathy. Liver Int 2020; 40:3093-3102. [PMID: 32890428 DOI: 10.1111/liv.14660] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2020] [Revised: 08/14/2020] [Accepted: 08/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
AIM The aim of the study was to evaluate the presence of covert hepatic encephalopathy (cHE) and its characteristics according to the presence of spontaneous portosystemic shunts (SPSS) and their influence on the development of overt hepatic encephalopathy. METHODS Secondary analysis of a multicentre study, which evaluated the association between SPSS and complications of cirrhosis. The present study population includes those patients who also underwent cHE diagnostic evaluation. Presence of SPSS was evaluated by cross-sectional imaging and quantified by total SPSS-area. Logistic and Cox-regression competing risk analyses were performed. RESULTS About 65 patients were included of age 58 (IQR 50-66), MELD 15 (IQR 10-20), with alcoholic liver disease 63%. Thirty-two patients (49%) had cHE, had higher MELD [16 (IQR 12-24) vs 13 (IQR 9-17), P = .027], a greater proportion of SPSS [n = 18 (56%) vs n = 8 (24%); P = .008] and a higher total cross-sectional SPSS-area [28.3 (0-94.2) vs 0 (0-14.1); P = .005]. On multivariate analysis MELD [OR 1.11 (95% CI 1.01-1.21)] and presence of SPSS [OR 3.95 (95% CI 1.22-12.80)] were independently associated to cHE at baseline. During follow-up cHE was an independent predictor of oHE [cHE: HR 6.93 (95% CI 2.64-18.20). The effect of cHE on the development of oHE was greater in patients with SPSS [only cHE: HR 5.66 (95% CI 1.82-17.62), cHE and SPSS: HR 8.63 (95% CI 3.15-23.65)]. CONCLUSIONS cHE is independently associated to the presence of SPSS (and total cross-sectional SPSS-area) and MELD. Furthermore, the presence of SPSS seems to increase the risk of cHE of developing of overt hepatic encephalopathy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robin Greinert
- First Department of Internal Medicine, Martin-Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle, Germany
| | - Alexander Zipprich
- First Department of Internal Medicine, Martin-Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle, Germany
| | - Macarena Simón-Talero
- Liver Unit, Department of Internal Medicine, Hospital Universitari Vall d'Hebron, Vall d'Hebron Institut de Recerca (VHIR), CIBEREHD, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Franz Stangl
- Department of Radiology, Martin-Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle, Germany
| | - Christiane Ludwig
- First Department of Internal Medicine, Martin-Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle, Germany
| | - Andreas Wienke
- Institute of Medical Epidemiology, Biostatistics, and Informatics, Martin-Luther-University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle, Germany
| | | | - Kevin Höhne
- First Department of Internal Medicine, Martin-Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle, Germany
| | - Jonel Trebicka
- Medizinische Klinik 1, Universitätsklinikum Frankfurt. Goethe Universität, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Joan Genescà
- Liver Unit, Department of Internal Medicine, Hospital Universitari Vall d'Hebron, Vall d'Hebron Institut de Recerca (VHIR), CIBEREHD, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Cristina Ripoll
- First Department of Internal Medicine, Martin-Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle, Germany
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Han W, Zhang H, Han Y, Duan Z. Cognition-tracking-based strategies for diagnosis and treatment of minimal hepatic encephalopathy. Metab Brain Dis 2020; 35:869-881. [PMID: 32495311 PMCID: PMC7354280 DOI: 10.1007/s11011-020-00539-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2019] [Accepted: 01/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Minimal hepatic encephalopathy (MHE), which shows mild cognitive impairment, is a subtle complication of cirrhosis that has been shown to affect daily functioning and quality of life. However, until 2014, relevant guidelines do not give much attention to the diagnosis and treatment of MHE, resulting in patients being ignored and denied the benefits of treatment. In this review, we summarize recent cognition-based research about (1) alteration of nerve cells, including astrocytes, microglial cells and neurons, in mild cognitive impairment in MHE; (2) comparison of methods in detecting cognitive impairment in MHE; and (3) comparison of methods for therapy of cognitive impairment in MHE. We hope to provide information about diagnosis and treatment of cognitive impairment in patients with MHE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weijia Han
- Difficult & Complicated Liver Diseases and Artificial Liver Center, Beijing Youan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100069, China
- Beijing Municipal Key Laboratory of Liver Failure and Artificial Liver Treatment Research, Beijing, China
| | - Huanqian Zhang
- Yidu Central Hospital of Weifang Medical College, Shandong, China
| | - Ying Han
- Department of Immunologic Liver Disease, Beijing YouAn Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Zhongping Duan
- Difficult & Complicated Liver Diseases and Artificial Liver Center, Beijing Youan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100069, China.
- Beijing Municipal Key Laboratory of Liver Failure and Artificial Liver Treatment Research, Beijing, China.
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9
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Wernberg CW, Schaffalitzky de Muckadell OB, Vilstrup H, M. Lauridsen M. Prediction of overt hepatic encephalopathy by the continuous reaction time method and the portosystemic encephalopathy syndrome test in clinically mentally unimpaired patients with cirrhosis. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0226283. [PMID: 31830113 PMCID: PMC6907801 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0226283] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2019] [Accepted: 11/22/2019] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and aim Predicting overt hepatic encephalopathy (OHE) is important because the condition is frequent, often requires hospitalization and is potentially preventable. The risk of OHE is related to pre-existing discrete cognitive defects, and for clinical practice it is recommended to apply two different psychometric tests to detect such deficits. We used the continuous reaction time test (CRT) and the portosystemic encephalopathy (PSE) syndrome test and examined their single and combined value for OHE prediction in cirrhosis patients. Patients and methods We studied 130 clinically mentally unimpaired cirrhosis patients by the two tests and followed them for an average of 38.5 months. The CRT measures velocity and stability of motor reaction times to 150 repeated auditory signals. The PSE is a five sub-set paper-and-pencil test battery evaluating cognitive and psychomotor processing, speed and vision-motor coordination. We collected data on episodes of OHE during follow-up. The clinical course was analysed in patient groups according to the outcome of each test and of both tests together. No anti-HE treatment was initiated except for cases with OHE. Results At baseline, the CRT test was abnormal in 74 patients and the PSE in 47. During follow-up 35 patients (27%) experienced 74 OHE events. 23 patients with abnormal CRT experienced OHE (prediction sensitivity 65%). The PSE predicted OHE in 14 patients (prediction sensitivity 40%). One or both tests were abnormal in 87/130 (67%) and this predicted OHE in 27 patients (21%) (prediction sensitivity 77%). Conclusion The CRT test was clinically useful in identifying two-thirds of clinically mentally unimpaired cirrhosis patients who later experienced OHE, and the use of both the CRT and PSE showed satisfactory prediction by identifying three-fourths of later OHE cases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charlotte W. Wernberg
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hospital of Southwest Jutland, Esbjerg, Region of Southwest of Denmark, Denmark
- * E-mail:
| | | | - Hendrik Vilstrup
- Department of Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Aarhus University Hospital, Central Denmark Region, Denmark
| | - Mette M. Lauridsen
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hospital of Southwest Jutland, Esbjerg, Region of Southwest of Denmark, Denmark
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10
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Critical flickering frequency test: a diagnostic tool for minimal hepatic encephalopathy. Eur J Gastroenterol Hepatol 2019; 31:1030-1034. [PMID: 31274595 DOI: 10.1097/meg.0000000000001375] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Minimal hepatic encephalopathy (MHE) is underestimated. It affects 30-55% of patients with liver cirrhosis and can change their daily functions. Psychometric tests are sensitive in diagnosing MHE, but interpretation is difficult. Availability of a simpler diagnostic tool for MHE is mandatory. Critical flicker frequency (CFF) is a simple diagnostic test. AIM The aim of this study was to assess the diagnostic accuracy of CFF test for MHE. PATIENTS AND METHODS A total of 86 patients with cirrhosis with negative history of overt hepatic encephalopathy were included. History, clinical examination, laboratory investigations, and abdominal ultrasonography data were collected. Arabic version of number connection test, serial dotting test, and line tracing test were done. Total psychometric hepatic encephalopathy score (PHES) was used to diagnose MHE. CFF was done for all patients with MHE diagnosis at 39 Hz. RESULTS Of the 86 patients, 45 (52.3%) had MHE with PHES. Patients with MHE had significantly older age, presentation with jaundice, ascites, lower hemoglobin level, lower serum albumin, prolonged INR, higher Child class and score (P≤0.001), and higher model of end stage liver disease score (P=0.001) than patients without MHE. In comparison with PHES, CFF has a sensitivity of 91.1±8.32%, specificity of 92.7±7.96%, positive predictive value of 93.2±7.44%, and negative predictive value of 90.4±8.91%. In receiver operating characteristic curve, CFF is excellent in diagnosis of MHE, with area under the curve 0.937 (P<0.001). CONCLUSION MHE is common among patients with liver cirrhosis. CFF is a simple, rapid, noninvasive test for diagnosis of MHE, with a very good accuracy at 39 Hz.
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11
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Plunkett A, Mortimore M, Good P. Palliative care in cirrhosis with decompensation. Intern Med J 2019; 49:904-908. [DOI: 10.1111/imj.14348] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2018] [Revised: 10/02/2018] [Accepted: 10/03/2018] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Angela Plunkett
- Department of Palliative and Supportive CareRoyal Brisbane and Women's Hospitals Brisbane Queensland Australia
- School of MedicineUniversity of Queensland Brisbane Queensland Australia
| | - Marianne Mortimore
- School of MedicineUniversity of Queensland Brisbane Queensland Australia
- Department of GastroenterologyMater Adult Hospital Brisbane Queensland Australia
| | - Phillip Good
- School of MedicineUniversity of Queensland Brisbane Queensland Australia
- Department of Palliative CareMater Adult Hospital Brisbane Queensland Australia
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12
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Tapper EB. Predicting Overt Hepatic Encephalopathy for the Population With Cirrhosis. Hepatology 2019; 70:403-409. [PMID: 30703852 PMCID: PMC6597301 DOI: 10.1002/hep.30533] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2018] [Accepted: 01/25/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Hepatic encephalopathy (HE) is associated with poor quality of life, sharply increased mortality, repeated hospitalizations, falls, and motor vehicle accidents. HE manifests with a dynamic spectrum of severity. Overt HE is clinically obvious disorientation, even coma. Although multiple strategies are available to characterize early-stage HE, data are limited that validate these methods in predicting overt HE, many are impractical in clinical practice, and test cutoffs relevant to the average patient clinicians manage are lacking. To accurately and efficiently classify the risk of overt HE in the population with cirrhosis, novel strategies may be needed. Herein, we review the potential competing strategies for the prediction of overt HE. Conclusion: We propose refining diagnostic cutoffs for tests that are designed to define early HE, using overt HE as a gold standard and expanding prediction tools by using measures of components from the risk pathway for HE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elliot B. Tapper
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Michigan,Gastroenterology Section, VA Ann Arbor Healthcare System, Ann Arbor
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13
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14
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Greinert R, Ripoll C, Zipprich A. Covert hepatic encephalopathy leads to distinct alterations in the emotional state, independently of MELD-Score. ZEITSCHRIFT FUR GASTROENTEROLOGIE 2018; 56:461-468. [PMID: 29341039 DOI: 10.1055/s-0043-123766] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Covert hepatic encephalopathy impairs many aspects of quality of life, although its impact on the emotional state has not been evaluated. This study aims to evaluate the impact of covert hepatic encephalopathy on the emotional state and which factors are associated with changes in the emotional state in patients with cirrhosis. METHODS This single-center study included all patients with cirrhosis who underwent the portosystemic encephalopathy syndrome (PSE) test, critical flicker frequency, and emotional state assessment with the Eigenschaftswörterliste 60-S in 2011. Covert hepatic encephalopathy was defined by abnormal PSE. Parametric and non-parametric tests were used according to variable distribution. RESULTS One hundred seventeen patients with cirrhosis were included (median age: 59 [interquartile range: 48 - 67], 32 % female, 74 % alcohol-associated). Seventy patients had covert hepatic encephalopathy (60 %) with a higher MELD (16 [interquartile range: 13 - 21], p = 0.001) and a higher Child-Pugh score (p = 0.003) compared to patients without encephalopathy. Patients with covert encephalopathy felt reduced mental activity (p = 0.004), lower general well-being (p = 0.001), and reduced extraversion (p = 0.021). The scores in the negative domains such as general lethargy (p = 0.031) and anxiousness/depressiveness (p = 0.033) were higher in patients with covert hepatic encephalopathy. There was no correlation between MELD and the emotional state. Patients with 2 pathological tests (critical flicker frequency and PSE) showed the most distinct alterations in the emotional state in the group of patients with covert hepatic encephalopathy. CONCLUSIONS Patients with covert hepatic encephalopathy have an alteration of the emotional state, which is more marked in patients with 2 pathological tests. Interestingly, MELD had no impact on the emotional state.
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15
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Abstract
Hepatic encephalopathy describes the array of neurological alterations that occur during acute liver failure or chronic liver injury. While key players in the pathogenesis of hepatic encephalopathy, such as increases in brain ammonia, alterations in neurosteroid levels, and neuroinflammation, have been identified, there is still a paucity in our knowledge of the precise pathogenic mechanism. This review gives a brief overview of our understanding of the pathogenesis of hepatic encephalopathy and then summarizes the significant recent advances made in clinical and basic research contributing to our understanding, diagnosis, and possible treatment of hepatic encephalopathy. A literature search using the PubMed database was conducted in May 2017 using "hepatic encephalopathy" as a keyword, and selected manuscripts were limited to those research articles published since May 2014. While the authors acknowledge that many significant advances have been made in the understanding of hepatic encephalopathy prior to May 2014, we have limited the scope of this review to the previous three years only.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victoria Liere
- Department of Medical Physiology, College of Medicine, Texas A&M Health Science Center, Temple, TX, USA
| | | | - Sharon DeMorrow
- Department of Medical Physiology, College of Medicine, Texas A&M Health Science Center, Temple, TX, USA
- Central Texas Veterans Healthcare System, Temple, TX, USA
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16
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Zacharias HD, Jackson CD, Morgan MY, Olesen SS. Letter: stepwise diagnosis in covert hepatic encephalopathy - critical flicker frequency and MELD-score as a first-step approach. Replication and pitfalls. Aliment Pharmacol Ther 2017; 45:187-189. [PMID: 27910151 DOI: 10.1111/apt.13830] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- H D Zacharias
- UCL Institute for Liver & Digestive Health, Division of Medicine, Royal Free Campus, University College London, Hampstead, London, UK
| | - C D Jackson
- Department of Neurophysiology, Royal Free Hospital, Royal Free London NHS Foundation Trust, Hampstead, London, UK
| | - M Y Morgan
- UCL Institute for Liver & Digestive Health, Division of Medicine, Royal Free Campus, University College London, Hampstead, London, UK
| | - S S Olesen
- Mech-Sense, Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Aalborg University Hospital, Aalborg, Denmark
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17
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Greinert R, Zipprich A, Ripoll C. Letter: stepwise diagnosis in covert hepatic encephalopathy - critical flicker frequency and MELD-score as a first-step approach. Replication and pitfalls. Authors' reply. Aliment Pharmacol Ther 2017; 45:189-190. [PMID: 27910143 DOI: 10.1111/apt.13850] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/08/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- R Greinert
- Department of Internal Medicine I, Martin-Luther-University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle, Germany
| | - A Zipprich
- Department of Internal Medicine I, Martin-Luther-University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle, Germany
| | - C Ripoll
- Department of Internal Medicine I, Martin-Luther-University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle, Germany
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18
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Greinert R, Zipprich A, Ripoll C. Letter: Stepwise diagnosis in covert hepatic encephalopathy-do not forget ammonia. Authors' reply. Aliment Pharmacol Ther 2016; 44:908. [PMID: 27634235 DOI: 10.1111/apt.13785] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/08/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- R Greinert
- Department of Internal Medicine I, Martin-Luther-University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle, Germany
| | - A Zipprich
- Department of Internal Medicine I, Martin-Luther-University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle, Germany
| | - C Ripoll
- Department of Internal Medicine I, Martin-Luther-University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle, Germany.
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19
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Hermann B, Weiss N, Thabut D. Letter: stepwise diagnosis in covert hepatic encephalopathy - do not forget ammonia. Aliment Pharmacol Ther 2016; 44:906-7. [PMID: 27634234 DOI: 10.1111/apt.13760] [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: 12/08/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- B Hermann
- Brain Liver Pitié-Salpêtrière Study Group, Groupement Hospitalier Pitié-Salpêtrière-Charles Foix, Paris, France.,Unité de Réanimation Neurologique, Fédération de Neurologie, Pôle des Maladies du Système Nerveux, Groupement Hospitalier Pitié-Salpêtrière-Charles Foix, Paris, France
| | - N Weiss
- Brain Liver Pitié-Salpêtrière Study Group, Groupement Hospitalier Pitié-Salpêtrière-Charles Foix, Paris, France.,Unité de Réanimation Neurologique, Fédération de Neurologie, Pôle des Maladies du Système Nerveux, Groupement Hospitalier Pitié-Salpêtrière-Charles Foix, Paris, France
| | - D Thabut
- Brain Liver Pitié-Salpêtrière Study Group, Groupement Hospitalier Pitié-Salpêtrière-Charles Foix, Paris, France. .,Unité de Soins Intensifs d'Hépato-gastroentérologie, Groupement Hospitalier Pitié-Salpêtrière-Charles Foix, Paris, France.
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