Factor V Leiden related Budd-Chiari syndrome

Budd-Chiari syndrome in myeloproliferative neoplasms: A review of literature

Myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPNs) are defined as clonal disorders of the hematopoietic stem cell in which an exaggerated production of terminally differentiated myeloid cells occurs. Classical, Philadelphia-negative MPNs, i.e., polycythemia vera, essential thrombocythemia and primary myelofibrosis, exhibit a propensity towards the development of thrombotic complications that can occur in unusual sites, e.g., portal, splanchnic or hepatic veins, the placenta or cerebral sinuses. The pathogenesis of thrombotic events in MPNs is complex and requires an intricate mechanism involving endothelial injury, stasis, elevated leukocyte adhesion, integrins, neutrophil extracellular traps, somatic mutations (e.g., the V617F point mutation in the JAK2 gene), microparticles, circulating endothelial cells, and other factors, to name a few. Herein, we review the available data on Budd-Chiari syndrome in Philadelphia-negative MPNs, with a particular focus on its epidemiology, pathogenesis, histopathology, risk factors, classification, clinical presentation, diagnosis, and management.

Pregnancy outcomes in patients with Budd-Chiari syndrome: A tertiary care experience

BACKGROUND

Budd-Chiari syndrome (BCS) is associated with infertility and adverse pregnancy outcomes in affected females. Scant literature is available on the effect of an endovascular intervention on fertility and the outcome of future pregnancies in these patients.

AIMS

To assess the infertility rates, maternal and fetal outcomes of pregnancy and effect of endovascular intervention in women with BCS.

METHODS

In this retrospective analysis, 121 female patients with BCS attending our liver clinic from 2017 to 2020 were included. Demographic details, intervention details, pregnancies - pre- and post-intervention - and fetal outcomes were noted.

RESULTS

BCS was diagnosed pre-conception in 58 women (group 1; median age: 22 years), during/after pregnancy, but before completion of family in 39 (group 2; median age: 27 years), and after completion of family in 24 (group 3; median age: 34 years). Median Child-Turcotte-Pugh (CTP) and model for end-stage liver disease (MELD) scores were 7 and 12, respectively. The primary infertility rate was 19.8% (24/121). In group 1, 15 women with primary infertility underwent endovascular intervention with 5/15 (33%) women conceiving subsequently, resulting in four live births and seven abortions. In group 2, five women developed BCS during pregnancy and 11 postpartum; 11/39 had a history of one or more abortions. Overall, 8/34 (23.5%) who underwent endovascular intervention had 4/8 (50%) successful pregnancies. In group 3, no patient had any major complications during past pregnancies. The mode of delivery was vaginal in 88% of cases. No congenital anomaly/major bleeding episodes/decompensation/maternal mortality occurred.

CONCLUSIONS

Infertility is common in patients with BCS. Pregnancy is well-tolerated in those with compensated liver disease.

Frequency of Leiden Mutation in Newborns with Birth Weight below 1500 g

It has been hypothesized that fetal prematurity or Intrauterine Growth Restriction (IUGR) could be related to the presence of factor V of Leiden mutation. This mutation is associated with a higher incidence of pregnancy difficulties that can result in preterm birth. The frequency of Leiden mutation was investigated in the group of newborns with a low birth weight below 1500 g over a six-year period from 2015 to 2020. During this period, 339 newborns were tested, of which 42 newborns with V Leiden mutation (12.4%) were detected. The average of its occurrence frequency in the Czech population was determined as 5.0% based on published studies. In our research, the occurrence of the V Leiden mutation was found significantly higher in newborns under 1500 g. At the same time, we did not demonstrate an increased frequency of births at lower gestational weeks, lower birth weight, or an association with sex in newborns with a positive diagnosis of the Leiden V factor.

An Update on the Management of Budd-Chiari Syndrome

Budd-Chiari syndrome (BCS) is an uncommon condition, caused by obstruction to hepatic venous outflow. It is largely underdiagnosed, and a high index of suspicion is required for any patient with unexplained portal hypertension. The understanding of its etiology and pathology is improving with advances in diagnostic techniques. Recent studies reported an identifiable etiology in > 80% of cases. Myeloproliferative neoplasm (MPN) is the most common etiology, and genetic studies help in diagnosing latent MPN. Better cross-sectional imaging helps delineate the site of obstruction accurately. The majority of BCS patients are now treated by endovascular intervention and anticoagulation which have improved survival in this disease. Angioplasty of hepatic veins/inferior vena cava remains under-utilized at present. While surgical porto-systemic shunts are no longer done for BCS, liver transplantation is reserved for select indications. Some of the unresolved issues in the current management of BCS are also discussed in this review.

Epidemiological Characteristics and Etiology of Budd-Chiari Syndrome in Upper Egypt

Background and Objectives

Budd-Chiari syndrome (BCS) is a rare disorder caused by obstruction to hepatic venous outflow. It affects all races, usually during the third or fourth decade of life. Higher prevalence had being evident in developing countries. The aim of the present study was to clarify sociodemographic features, clinical, radiological presentations, and etiology of BCS among Upper Egyptian patients.

Patients and Methods

This retrospective cohort study enrolled 50 Upper Egyptian Patients with confirmed primary BCS. Liver, coagulation, and thrombophilia workup profiles were performed as anticardiolipin antibodies, lupus anticoagulant, protein C, protein S, and antithrombin III assays. Factor V Leiden and JAK2 mutations were assessed. Full radiological assessment was done.

Results

Fifty patients were included. There were 28 males (56%) and 22 females (44%) with mean age (32.5 ± 11.1 years). The etiological factor was not identified in 22% of cases (n=11). Isolated factor C deficiency was found in 26% (n=13) with male predominance 39.3% and protein S deficiency in 10% (n=5). Factor V Leiden mutation was the etiology in 5 patients (10%). Membranous web and antiphospholipid syndrome each were the etiology in 8% (n=4). Behςet’s disease was diagnosed in 4% (n=2). Cases of liver cirrhosis(LC) were 41/50(82%)they were :33/50(66%) LC child class C, 8 /50(16%)  LC child class B, and 0/50 (0%) LC child class A. Abdominal pain was the most common symptom (96%), and ascites was the most common sign (82%). Obstruction of hepatic veins was present in 80%.

Conclusion

BCS in Upper Egyptian patients was mainly occurred in males in the third and fourth decade of life, mostly with liver cirrhosis. The most common etiology is isolated protein C deficiency followed by Factor V Leiden mutation and isolated protein S deficiency. Hepatic veins obstruction was the most common pattern of vascular involvement.

Budd-Chiari Syndrome: An Uncommon Cause of Chronic Liver Disease that Cannot Be Missed

Budd-Chiari syndrome (BCS), or hepatic venous outflow obstruction, is a rare cause of liver disease that should not be missed. Variable clinical presentation among patients with BCS necessitates a high index of suspicion to avoid missing this life-threatening diagnosis. BCS is characterized as primary or secondary, depending on etiology of venous obstruction. Most patients with primary BCS have several contributing risk factors leading to a prothrombotic state. A multidisciplinary stepwise approach is integral in treating BCS. Lifelong anticoagulation is recommended. Long-term monitoring of patients for development of cirrhosis, complications of portal hypertension, hepatocellular carcinoma, and progression of underlying diseases is important.

Is There Still a Role for Surgical Shunts in the Treatment of Budd-Chiari Syndrome? A 25-Year Experience

PURPOSE

To investigate the long-term results of shunt surgery in the treatment of Budd-Chiari Syndrome.

METHODS

Medical records of patients treated with Budd-Chiari Syndrome between 1993 and 2006 were reviewed.

RESULTS

Thirty-seven patients (26 female, 11 male) were identified, with a median age of 30 years (range 14-51). Median duration of symptoms was 3 months (range 1 month to 10 years). Twenty-five patients, all in acute or subacute stages of disease, were treated surgically. Constructed shunts were mesoatrial in 17, portocaval in five (one was converted from a failed portorenal shunt) and mesocaval in three. Median portal pressure decreased from 44 cm H₂O (range 31-55) to 20 cm H₂O (range 5-27). Seven patients (28%) died in the perioperative period. Eighteen patients (72%) were followed up for a median of 186 months (24-241 months). Seven patients died during follow-up, five due to reasons related to the underlying cause and treatment. Remaining 11 patients (61%) were alive at a median of 18 years (13-25 years) with patent shunts. One-, 5-, and 10-year survival rates in patients undergoing shunt surgery were 78%, 72%, and 66%, respectively.

CONCLUSION

Portosystemic shunts may still be considered when expertise for transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt or liver transplantation is not available.

Current knowledge in pathophysiology and management of Budd-Chiari syndrome and non-cirrhotic non-tumoral splanchnic vein thrombosis

Budd-Chiari syndrome and non-cirrhotic non-tumoral portal vein thrombosis are 2 rare disorders, with several similarities that are categorized under the term splanchnic vein thrombosis. Both disorders are frequently associated with an underlying prothrombotic disorder. They can cause severe portal hypertension and usually affect young patients, negatively influencing life expectancy when the diagnosis and treatment are not performed at an early stage. Yet, they have specific features that require individual consideration. The current review will focus on the available knowledge on pathophysiology, diagnosis and management of both entities.

Review article: a multidisciplinary approach to the diagnosis and management of Budd-Chiari syndrome

BACKGROUND

Budd-Chiari syndrome (BCS) is a rare but fatal disease caused by obstruction in the hepatic venous outflow tract.

AIM

To provide an update of the pathophysiology, aetiology, diagnosis, management and follow-up of BCS.

METHODS

Analysis of recent literature by using Medline, PubMed and EMBASE databases.

RESULTS

Primary BCS is usually caused by thrombosis and is further classified into "classical BCS" type where obstruction occurs within the hepatic vein and "hepatic vena cava BCS" which involves thrombosis of the intra/suprahepatic portion of the inferior vena cava (IVC). BCS patients often have a combination of prothrombotic risk factors. Aetiology and presentation differ between Western and certain Asian countries. Myeloproliferative neoplasms are present in 35%-50% of European patients and are usually associated with the JAK2-V617F mutation. Clinical presentation is diverse and BCS should be excluded in any patient with acute or chronic liver disease. Non-invasive imaging (Doppler ultrasound, computed tomography, or magnetic resonance imaging) usually provides the diagnosis. Liver biopsy should be obtained if small vessel BCS is suspected. Stepwise management strategy includes anticoagulation, treatment of identified prothrombotic risk factors, percutaneous revascularisation and transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic stent shunt to re-establish hepatic venous drainage, and liver transplantation in unresponsive patients. This strategy provides a 5-year survival rate of nearly 90%. Long-term outcome is influenced by any underlying haematological condition and development of hepatocellular carcinoma.

CONCLUSIONS

With the advent of newer treatment strategies and improved understanding of BCS, outcomes in this rare disease have improved over the last three decades. An underlying haematological disorder can be the major determinant of outcome.

Diagnosis of Budd-Chiari syndrome

Budd-Chiari syndrome (BCS) is defined by clinical and laboratory signs associated with partial or complete impairment of hepatic venous drainage in the absence of right heart failure or constrictive pericarditis. Primary BCS is the most frequent type and is a complication of hypercoagulable states, in particular myeloproliferative neoplasms. Secondary BCS involves tumor invasion or extrinsic compression. Most patients present with chronic BCS including a non-cirrhotic, dysmorphic, chronic liver disease with various degrees of fibrosis deposition. Acute BCS is rare, and patients present with hepatomegaly, ascites, and hepatic insufficiency. The diagnosis is based on imaging. Imaging features include (1) direct signs, in particular occlusion or compression of the hepatic veins and/or the inferior vena cava and venous collaterals and (2) indirect signs, in particular morphological changes in the liver with hypertrophy of the caudate lobe and delayed nodule formation. Ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging are the gold standard for diagnosis. The aim of this review is to provide an overview of the role of imaging in the diagnosis of BCS.

Angioplasty for Budd-Chiari Syndrome in a Child with 26-Year Follow-up

Budd-Chiari syndrome (BCS) is a rare but life-threatening disease. If not treated promptly, it is almost always lethal with progressive liver failure, severe nutritional depletion, and renal failure at the late stage. We report the successful treatment of a 5-year-old boy with BCS due to a stenosis of the inferior vena cava (IVC) with a 26-year follow-up. We performed a percutaneous transluminal angioplasty, which resulted in a great improvement of BCS and the disappearance of ascites. Restenosis occurred at 25 years after the initial angioplasty, for which balloon angioplasty was repeatedly performed. The IVC was patent at 1-year follow-up after the second angioplasty.

Budd-Chiari syndrome/hepatic venous outflow tract obstruction

BACKGROUND

Budd-Chiari syndrome (BCS) is a rare disease characterized by hepatic venous outflow tract obstruction (HVOTO).

METHODS

Recent literature has been analyzed for this narrative review.

RESULTS

Primary BCS/HVOTO is a result of thrombosis. The same patient often has multiple risk factors for venous thrombosis and most have at least one. Presentation and etiology may differ between Western and certain Eastern countries. Myeloproliferative neoplasms are present in 40% of patients and are usually associated with the V617F-JAK2 mutation in myeloid cells, in particular peripheral blood granulocytes. Presentation and symptoms vary, thus this diagnosis must be considered in any patient with acute or chronic liver disease. Doppler ultrasound, computed tomography, or magnetic resonance imaging of the hepatic veins and inferior vena cava usually successfully provide noninvasive identification of the obstruction or its consequences in the collaterals of hepatic veins or the inferior vena cava. The reported life expectancy in these patients is 3 years after the first symptoms. The therapeutic strategy includes first, anticoagulation, correction of risk factors, diuretics, and prophylaxis for portal hypertension, then angioplasty for short-length venous stenosis followed by transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) and finally liver transplantation. The progression of treatment is based on the response to therapy at each step. This strategy results in a 5-year survival rate of nearly 85%. The medium-term prognosis depends upon the severity of liver disease, and the long-term outcome can be jeopardized by transformation of underlying conditions and hepatocellular carcinoma.

CONCLUSION

BCS/HVOTO hepatic manifestations of BCS/HVOTO can be controlled in most patients with medical or radiological interventions. Underlying disease has become the major determinant of patient outcome.

Review article: the aetiology of primary Budd-Chiari syndrome - differences between the West and China

BACKGROUND

China may have the largest number of Budd-Chiari syndrome (BCS) cases in the world (at least 1914 original papers were published, and at least 20 191 BCS patients were reported). Considering the discrepancy in the clinical profiles and preferred treatment selection of primary BCS between the West and China, understanding its aetiology in these two different regions is very important.

AIM

To review the data from large cohort studies and meta-analyses to illustrate the epidemiology of risk factors for BCS in the West and China.

METHODS

Relevant papers were identified by major English- and Chinese-language databases, conference abstracts, and by manual search.

RESULTS

Risk factors reviewed include myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPNs) and their related gene mutations, anti-phospholipid syndrome, paroxysmal nocturnal haemoglobinuria (PNH), hyperhomocysteinaemia and 5,10-methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) C677T mutation, factor V Leiden (FVL) and prothrombin G20210A mutations, inherited anti-thrombin, protein C and protein S deficiencies, pregnancy and puerperium, poverty, and family history.

CONCLUSIONS

We examined the differences in the aetiological distribution of BCS between the West and China. Several recommendations should be considered in Chinese BCS patients: (i) screening for hyperhomocysteinaemia and MTHFR mutation should be regularly performed; (ii) screening for MPNs, PNH, and anti-phospholipid syndrome should be selectively performed; (iii) inherited anti-thrombin, protein C, and protein S deficiencies should be actively explored; (iv) screening for FVL and prothrombin G20210A mutations may be unnecessary; and (v) the clinical significance of pregnancy and puerperium, poverty with bacterial infections and unsanitary environments, and family history as possible risk factors should never be neglected.

Low frequency of V617F mutation in JAK2 gene in Indian patients with hepatic venous outflow obstruction and extrahepatic portal venous obstruction

BACKGROUND

Hepatic venous outflow tract obstruction (HVOTO) and extrahepatic portal venous obstruction (EHPVO) are important causes of portal hypertension and related complications in India. Both these conditions result from splanchnic venous thrombosis. In recent years, a V617F somatic mutation in Janus kinase 2 (JAK2) gene which is highly specific for myeloproliferative disorders has been detected in 40 % to 50 % and 30 % to 35 % of Western patients with HVOTO and EHPVO, respectively. However, data on this mutation in these conditions from Asian countries are limited.

METHODS

We looked for JAK2 V617F mutation in Indian patients with HVOTO (n = 40, median age 31 [range 17-51] years, 21 female) and EHPVO (n = 50, median age 23 [15-70] years, 25 female) by using two separate methods. Both the methods involved polymerase chain reaction using allele-specific primers. Positive results on one or both of these techniques were confirmed using DNA sequencing.

RESULTS

None of the 40 patients with HVOTO and only 1 of 50 patients with EHPVO was found to have JAK2 V617F mutation. In the one patient who was found to have this mutation, both the PCR methods and DNA sequencing showed positive results.

CONCLUSION

Hypercoagulability associated with JAK2 V617F mutation and associated chronic myeloproliferative disorders was not a major cause of HVOTO and EHPVO in this population.

AISF position paper on liver disease and pregnancy

The relationship between liver disease and pregnancy is of great clinical impact. Severe liver disease in pregnancy is rare; however, pregnancy-related liver disease is the most frequent cause of liver dysfunction during pregnancy and represents a severe threat to foetal and maternal survival. A rapid differential diagnosis between liver disease related or unrelated to pregnancy is required in women who present with liver dysfunction during pregnancy. This report summarizes the recommendation of an expert panel established by the Italian Association for the Study of the Liver (AISF) on the management of liver disease during pregnancy. The article provides an overview of liver disease occurring in pregnancy, an update on the key mechanisms involved in its pathogenesis, and an assessment of the available treatment options. The report contains in three sections: (1) specific liver diseases of pregnancy; (2) liver disease occurring during pregnancy; and (3) pregnancy in patients with pre-existing chronic liver disease. Each topic is discussed considering the most relevant data available in literature; the final statements are formulated according to both scientific evidence and clinical expertise of the involved physicians, and the AISF expert panel recommendations are reported.

Budd-Chiari Syndrome in Young Chinese: Clinical Characteristics, Etiology and Outcome of Recanalization from a Single Center

PURPOSE

We aimed to characterize the clinical profile, etiology, and outcomes of young Chinese patients with Budd-Chiari syndrome treated with recanalization.

METHODS

A total of 35 consecutive young patients (≤25 years of age) with primary Budd-Chiari syndrome treated with recanalization at our center were enrolled in this study between March 2011 and December 2014. Data on baseline information, etiology tests, therapeutic recanalization strategies, and follow-up were collected.

RESULTS

The most common clinical feature was ascites, present in 33 cases (94%). Hepatic vein obstruction was present in 60% (21/35) of patients, inferior vena cava obstruction in 3% (1/35), and combined obstruction in 37% (13/35). The most common risk factor for thrombosis was hyperhomocysteinemia (14/35, 40%). Recanalization was technically successful in 32 of 35 patients (91%), and clinically successful in 28 of these 32 patients (88%). The cumulative 1- and 3-year primary patency rates were 75.2 and 54.3%, respectively. The cumulative 1- and 3-year secondary patency rates were 89.3 and 89.3%, respectively. The cumulative 1- and 3-year survival rates were 96.9 and 93.8%, respectively.

CONCLUSION

In this study, the most common type of lesion was hepatic vein obstruction, the most common thrombotic risk factor was hyperhomocysteinemia, and recanalization resulted in good mid-term outcomes in young Chinese patients with Budd-Chiari syndrome.

Thrombotic Venous Diseases of the Liver

Thrombotic venous diseases of the liver do not occur frequently, but when they do, they can present as difficult diagnostic and therapeutic challenges. The aim of this article is to review the epidemiology, pathogenesis, diagnosis, and therapeutic options of these serious vascular problems.

Prevalence of Budd-Chiari Syndrome during Pregnancy or Puerperium: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Women during pregnancy or puerperium are likely to develop Budd-Chiari syndrome (BCS). However, the reported prevalence of pregnancy-related BCS varied considerably among studies. Our study aims to systematically review this issue. Overall, 817 papers were initially identified via the PubMed, EMBASE, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, and Chinese Scientific and Technological Journal databases. Twenty of them were eligible. The prevalence of pregnancy-related BCS varied from 0% to 21.5%. The pooled prevalence was 6.8% (95% CI: 3.9–10.5%) in all BCS patients, 6.3% (95% CI: 3.8–9.4%) in primary BCS patients, and 13.1% (95% CI: 7.1–20.7%) in female BCS patients. Among them, one study was carried out in Africa with a prevalence of 10.6%; 14 studies in Asian countries with a pooled prevalence of 7.1% (95% CI: 3.1–12.6%); and 5 studies in European countries with a pooled prevalence of 5.0% (95% CI: 3.1–7.3%). The pooled prevalence was 6.7% (95% CI: 2.6–12.3%) in studies published before 2005 and 7.3% (95% CI: 4.2–12.5%) in those published after 2005. In conclusion, pregnancy is a relatively common risk factor for BCS, but there is a huge variation in the prevalence among studies. Physicians should be aware of pregnancy-related BCS.

Incidence and risk factors of hepatocellular carcinoma in patients with hepatic venous outflow tract obstruction

BACKGROUND

Frequency of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in hepatic venous outflow tract obstruction (HVOTO) is unclear and risk factors in HVOTO associated with HCC are unknown.

AIM

To assess the incidence of HCC and to identify risk factors for HCC in primary HVOTO.

METHODS

In the consecutive primary HVOTO patients evaluated between 1989 to 2013, the incidence of HCC among HVOTO was assessed in a retrospective cohort study and identification of the risk factors for HCC in HVOTO patients done by a case-control study.

RESULTS

Of the 421 HVOTO patients, 8 had HCC at presentation (prevalence 1.9%). Another 8 of the remaining 413 developed HCC during 2076.2 person-years follow-up (mean 5.03 + 4.65 years, range 0.08-20 years). The cumulative incidence of HCC was 3.5% (95% CI 1.28-9.2%) at 10 years. The case-control study included 16 HCC as cases and remaining 405 as controls. Controls were predominantly males (M:F - 230:175), mean age 29 ± 10.3 years. Cases were predominantly females with an older age of 36.2 ± 11.4 years (P < 0.01, OR = 1.06, CI 1.0-1.10%). Presence of cirrhosis (P < 0.001), combined inferior vena cava (IVC) and hepatic vein (HV) block (P < 0.03, OR = 5.58, CI 1.43-25.30%) and long-segment IVC block (P < 0.02, OR = 6.50, CI 1.32-32.0%) were significantly higher among cases than controls.

CONCLUSIONS

Hepatic venous outflow tract obstruction is a risk factor for HCC. The cumulative incidence of HCC in HVOTO is low and progressively increases over time. Those with liver cirrhosis, combined IVC and HV block and long-segment IVC block are at risk to develop HCC and need active surveillance.

Budd-Chiari syndrome and liver transplantation

Budd-Chiari syndrome involves obstruction of hepatic venous outflow tracts at various levels from small hepatic veins to the inferior vena cava and is the result of thrombosis or its fibrous sequelae. There is a conspicuous difference in its etiology in the West and the East. Myeloproliferative disease predominates in the West and obstruction of the vena cava predominates in the East. The clinical presentation and clinical manifestations are so varied that it should be suspected in any patient with acute or chronic liver dysfunction. It should be treated with step-wise management. First-line therapy should be anticoagulation with medical treatment of the underlying illness, and interventional revascularization and TIPS are indicated in the event of a lack of response to medical therapy. Liver transplantation may be indicated as a rescue treatment or for fulminant cases with promising results. This step-by-step strategy has achieved a 5-year transplant-free survival rate of 70% and a 5-year overall survival rate of 90%. Living donor liver transplantation can also be used for patients with Budd-Chiari syndrome if deceased donor livers are scarce, but it requires a difficult procedure particularly with regard to venous outflow reconstruction.

Imbalance of pro- vs. anti-coagulation factors in Chinese patients with Budd-Chiari syndrome and non-cirrhotic portal vein thrombosis

BACKGROUND AND AIM

The coagulation abnormalities in non-cirrhotic Budd-Chiari syndrome (NC-BCS) and non-cirrhotic portal vein thrombosis (NC-PVT) are unclear. We conducted this case-control study to investigate the coagulation profile of NC-BCS and NC-PVT in Chinese patients.

METHODS

We measured the levels of factors II, V, VII, VIII, IX, X, XI, XII, protein C (PC), protein S (PS) and antithrombin (AT) in blood samples from 37 NC-BCS patients, 74 NC-PVT patients, and 100 healthy controls. The levels and ratios of pro- and anti-coagulation factors were compared between patients with NC-BCS and healthy controls, between different types of NC-BCS and between NC-PVT and healthy controls.

RESULTS

In patients with NC-BCS, factor VIII (P<0.001) was significantly elevated; factor V (P<0.001), VII (P<0.001), IX (P = 0.003), X (P<0.001), XI (P<0.001), XII (P<0.001), PC (P<0.001) and AT (P<0.001) were significantly decreased; and no difference was observed for factor II (P = 0.088) and PS (P = 0.199) compared with healthy controls. Factor VIII-to-PC (P = 0.008), factor VIII-to-PS (P = 0.037) and factor VIII-to-AT (P = 0.001) were significantly increased; other ratios were significantly reduced or did not show any difference. No differences were observed between different types of NC-BCS for individual pro- and anti-coagulation factors or the ratios between them. Among patients with NC-PVT, factor VIII (P<0.001) was significantly elevated and other factors were significantly decreased. Factor II-to-PC (P<0.001), factor VIII-to-PC (P<0.001), factor IX-to-PC (P<0.001), factor VIII-to-PS (P<0.001), factor II-to-AT (P<0.001), factor VIII-to-AT (P<0.001) and factor IX-to-AT (P<0.001) were significantly increased; all other ratios for NC-PVT were significantly reduced or did not show any significant difference.

CONCLUSIONS

NC-BCS and NC-PVT are associated with elevated levels of factor VIII and the decreased levels of PC and AT were probably the most significant features of coagulation imbalance. Additionally, NC-PVT was associated with decreased levels of PS.

Risk of Budd-Chiari syndrome associated with factor V Leiden and G20210A prothrombin mutation: a meta-analysis

Background

Various studies have demonstrated that factor V Leiden (FVL) and G20210A prothrombin mutation contribute to the risk of Budd-Chiari syndrome (BCS), while other studies provided conflicting findings. In order to derive more precise estimations of the relationships, a meta-analysis was performed.

Methods

Eligible articles were identified through search of databases including Pubmed, Chinese Biomedical Database (CBM, Chinese), and Chinese National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI, Chinese). Odd ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated using random- or fixed- model.

Results

Finally, twelve studies were included for FVL and nine studies were included for G20210A prothrombin mutation. With respect to FVL, significantly increased BCS risk was found in the overall population (OR = 6.29, 95%CI = 4.23–9.36). Subgroup analyses suggested that FVL was associated with an increased risk of BCS in the population with high background mutation prevalence (>1% in the normal population). No significant association was found between BCS and G20210A prothrombin mutation (OR = 1.78, 95%CI = 0.77–4.11).

Conclusion

The presence of FVL should be evaluated in patients with BCS. Conversely, G20210A prothrombin mutation is not significantly associated with risk of BCS. Large-scale well designed studies are necessary to be conducted to further confirm or refute the observed association.

Initial imaging analysis of Budd-Chiari syndrome in Henan province of China: most cases have combined inferior vena cava and hepatic veins involvement

AIM

To evaluate the type of venous involvement in Chinese Budd-Chiari syndrome (BCS) patients and the relative diagnostic accuracy of the different imaging modalities.

METHODS

Using digital subtraction angiography (DSA) as a reference standard, color Doppler ultrasound (CDUS), computed tomography angiography (CTA), and magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) were performed on 338 patients with BCS. We analyzed the course of the main and any accessory hepatic veins (HVs) and the inferior vena cava (IVC) to assess the etiology of obstructed segments and diagnostic accuracy of CDUS, CTA and MRA.

RESULTS

Among the 338 cases, there were 8 cases (2.4%) of isolated IVC membranous obstruction, 45 cases (13.3%) of isolated HV occlusion, and 285 cases (84.3%) with both IVC membranous obstruction and HV occlusion. Comparing with DSA, CDUS, CTA had a diagnostic accuracy of 89.3% and 80.2% in detecting BCS, and 83.4% of cases correctly correlated by MRA.

CONCLUSION

In Henan Province, most patients with BCS have complex lesions combining IVC and HV involvement. The combination of CDUS and CTA or MRI is useful for diagnosis of BCS and guiding therapy.

Hereditary and Acquired Thrombophilia in Splanchnic Vein Thrombosis: A Single-Center Experience

The purpose of this study was to characterize differences in the prevalence of hereditary and acquired thrombophilia in patients with splanchnic vein thrombosis (SVT). A total of 88 consecutive patients with SVT, including Budd Chiari Syndrome (n = 47) and portal extrahepatic portal vein obstruction (n = 41), underwent comprehensive thrombophilia testing, including testing for heritable and acquired causes. In 33 (37.5%) patients, etiology could be explained by at least 1 of the heritable etiologic factors, and 31 (35.2%) patients could be explained by at least 1 of the acquired causes studied. The combination of multiple concurrent factors was present in 9 (11.4%) patients. Among the heritable causes, the risk of SVT was found increased in the presence of thrombophilia resulting from the deficiencies of the naturally occurring anticoagulant proteins, and the acquired thrombogenic factors were significantly associated with causation of thrombosis in adult patients with SVT.

Thrombophilia differences in splanchnic vein thrombosis and lower extremity deep venous thrombosis in North America

BACKGROUND

The utility of thrombophilia testing in patients with splanchnic vein thrombosis (SpVT) has not previously been rigorously evaluated. The purpose of this study was to characterize differences in the prevalence of thrombophilia in patients with SpVT involving portal (PVT), mesenteric (MVT), splenic (SVT), or hepatic (HVT) veins in isolation or with multisegmental (M-SpVT) involvement compared to patients with lower extremity deep vein thrombosis (DVT).

METHODS

An inception cohort of patients with incident SpVT was identified for whom comprehensive thrombophilia testing was performed between 1995 and 2005 and compared to DVT controls.

RESULTS

341 patients with SpVT (mean age 50 ± 16 years, 53 % women) including isolated PVT (n = 112), MVT (n = 67), HVT (n = 22), SVT (n = 11), and M-SpVT (n = 129) involvement and 3621 DVT controls (mean age 55 ± 16 years, 56 % women) had comprehensive thrombophilia testing. The prevalence of abnormal results was similar for SpVT (24.6 %) and DVT (25.9 %) patients. "Strong" thrombophilias were more prevalent among SpVT patients (12.3 vs. 8.5 %, p = 0.0168). Patients with splenic (45.5 %) and mesenteric (41.8 %) thrombosis had the highest thrombophilia prevalence. Protein S deficiency was more common in SpVT patients (3.5 vs. 0.9 %, p < 0.001). In contrast, FV Leiden was more prevalent among DVT patients (15.8 vs. 10.9 %, p = 0.0497).

CONCLUSION

The prevalence of selected thrombophilia factors differ comparing SpVT and DVT patients. The prevalence is particularly high for patients with splenic and mesenteric vein thrombosis. Whereby the finding of strong thrombophilia impacts duration of anticoagulant therapy, such testing is warranted in the evaluation of patients with unprovoked SpVT.

Splanchnic vein thrombosis in myeloproliferative neoplasms

Splanchnic vein thrombosis (SVT) is one of the most important complications of myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPN). Although MPN are common causes of SVT, the pathophysiological mechanisms underlying this predisposition, their epidemiology and natural history are not fully understood. Studies have concentrated on the generalized prothrombotic environment generated by MPN and their relationship with abnormal blood counts, thereby furthering our knowledge of arterial and venous thrombosis in this population. In contrast, there are few studies that have specifically addressed SVT in the context of MPN. Recent research has demonstrated in patients with MPN the existence of factors increasing the risk of SVT such as the presence of the JAK2 V617F mutation and its 46/1 haplotype. Features unique to the circulating blood cells, splanchnic vasculature and surrounding micro-environment in patients with MPN have been described. There are also abnormalities in local haemodynamics, haemostatic molecules, the spleen, and splanchnic endothelial and endothelial progenitor cells. This review considers these important advances and discusses the contribution of individual anomalies that lead to the development of SVT in both the pre-neoplastic and overt stage of MPN. Clinical issues relating to epidemiology, recurrence and survival in these patients have also been reviewed and their results discussed.

Clinical features and etiology of Budd-Chiari syndrome in Chinese patients: a single-center study

BACKGROUND AND AIM

The clinical features and etiology of Budd-Chiari syndrome (BCS) vary from region to region, and there is lack of large sample studies about BCS in China. The aim of the present study was to study the clinical features and etiology of patients with incident BCS in China prospectively.

METHODS

A consecutive case series of patients with incident BCS who were diagnosed in the Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical College (Jiangsu, China) were enrolled from September 2010 to December 2011. All of the patients had continuous follow-ups to record the symptoms, body features, laboratory and radiology findings, and treatment methods through May 2012.

RESULTS

A total of 145 incident cases of BCS were identified. BCS was caused by hepatic venous obstruction in 31% of the patients, inferior vena cava obstruction in 6% of the patients, and 63% suffered from a combination of the two conditions. At least one etiological factor was present in 82% of the patients, with the most common being membranous obstruction (61%). Only 5% of the patients had myeloproliferative neoplasms with a JAK2 V617F mutation, and none of the patients had a factor V Leiden mutation. Eighteen months after a percutaneous transluminal angioplasty was performed, the survival rate and the asymptomatic survival rate were 99% (95% confidence interval, 95-100%) and 93% (95% confidence interval, 89-98%), respectively.

CONCLUSION

The most prevalent etiological factor for BCS in China is membranous obstruction. Moreover, most Chinese patients with chronic BCS are treated with percutaneous transluminal angioplasty and have an excellent clinical outcome.

Thrombotic risk factors in Chinese Budd-Chiari syndrome patients. An observational study with a systematic review of the literature

In Western countries, thrombotic risk factors for Budd-Chiari syndrome (BCS) are very common, including factor V Leiden mutation, prothrombin G20210A mutation, myeloproliferative neoplasms, paroxysmal nocturnal haemoglobinuria, etc. However, the data regarding thrombotic risk factors in Chinese BCS patients are extremely limited. An observational study was conducted to examine this issue. A total of 246 BCS patients who were consecutively admitted to our department between July 1999 and December 2011 were invited to be examined for thrombotic risk factors. Of these, 169 patients were enrolled. Neither factor V Leiden mutation nor prothrombin G20210A mutation was found in any of 136 patients tested. JAK2 V617F mutation was positive in four of 169 patients tested. Neither MPL W515L/K mutation nor JAK2 exon 12 mutation was found in any of 135 patients tested. Overt myeloproliferative neoplasms were diagnosed in five patients (polycythemia vera, n=3; essential thrombocythemia, n=1; idiopathic myelofibrosis, n=1). Two of them had positive JAK2 V617F mutation. Both CD55 and CD59 deficiencies were found in one of 166 patients tested. This patient had a previous history of paroxysmal nocturnal haemo-globinuria before BCS. Anticardiolipin IgG antibodies were positive or weakly positive in six of 166 patients tested. Hyperhomocysteinaemia was found in 64 of 128 patients tested. 5,10-methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase C677T mutation was found in 96 of 135 patients tested. In conclusion, factor V Leiden mutation, prothrombin G20210A mutation, myeloproliferative neoplasms, and paroxysmal nocturnal haemoglobinuria are very rare in Chinese BCS patients, suggesting that the etiological distribution of BCS might be different between Western countries and China.

Prevalence of paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria in Chinese patients with Budd-Chiari syndrome or portal vein thrombosis

BACKGROUND AND AIM

Routine screening for paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria (PNH) in patients with Budd-Chiari syndrome (BCS) or portal vein thrombosis (PVT) has been recommended in Western countries. However, little is known about whether the routine screening test should be necessary in Chinese patients with BCS or PVT. We conducted a prospective observational study to examine the prevalence of PNH in these patients.

METHODS

Patients with primary BCS or non-malignant PVT who were consecutively admitted to our department or regularly followed up between September 2009 and December 2011 were eligible for the study and detected the expression of CD55 and CD59 on erythrocytes and granulocytes. The CD55 or CD59 deficiency was considered as the proportion of erythrocytes or granulocytes with normal expression of CD55 or CD59 was less than 90%. PNH was diagnosed by both CD55 and CD59 deficient clone at flow cytometry of peripheral blood cells.

RESULTS

CD55 and/or CD59 deficiencies were found in 1.6% (2/127) of patients with primary BCS, 1.0% (1/100) of non-malignant and non-cirrhotic patients with PVT, and 4.7% (4/85) of cirrhotic patients with PVT. Only one patient had both CD55 and CD59 deficiencies on granulocytes. But he had been diagnosed with PNH before BCS.

CONCLUSIONS

Paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria was very rare in Chinese patients with BCS or PVT, suggesting that routine screening for PNH should not be indiscriminately performed in such patients.

Laquinimod, a once-daily oral drug in development for the treatment of relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis

Laquinimod is a novel, small, orally administered medication that has demonstrated efficacy in the treatment of multiple sclerosis, a chronic inflammatory demyelinating disease of the CNS. In preclinical testing, laquinimod inhibited the development of both acute and chronic paralysis in the multiple sclerosis model, experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis. Furthermore, laquinimod reduced inflammation, demyelination and axonal damage in experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis in mice treated at disease induction or at clinical disease onset. Recent findings from the clinical trials indicate that laquinimod has significant effects in reducing relapse rate and has more pronounced effects in reducing sustained disability progression as well as brain atrophy, with a good safety profile. In conclusion, preclinical studies show that laquinimod's unique mechanisms of action, including its immunomodulatory and CNS-protective effects, translate into clinical benefits in relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis patients.

Percutaneous recanalization of an occluded hepatic vein in a difficult subset of pediatric Budd-Chiari syndrome

We present a 3-year-old child with Budd Chiari syndrome having idiopathic complete occlusion of all three major hepatic veins and small hepatic venules. Adequate antegrade flow in right hepatic vein was established by transfemoral balloon angioplasty followed by stenting of the same. Long term antiplatelet therapy was instituted. Medium term follow up reveals satisfactory antegrade flow and regression of symptoms. This strategy highlights an effective nonsurgical approach of restoring physiological pattern of hepatic sinusoidal blood flow in Budd Chiari syndrome.

Epidemiological aspects of Budd-Chiari in Egyptian patients: A single-center study

AIM: To describe the socio-demographic features, etiology, and risk factors for Budd-Chiari syndrome (BCS) in Egyptian patients.

METHODS: Ninety-four Egyptian patients with confirmed primary Budd-Chiari syndrome were presented to the Budd-Chiari Study Group (BCSG) and admitted to the Tropical Medicine Department of Ain Shams University Hospital (Cairo, Egypt). Complete clinical evaluation and laboratory investigations, including a thrombophilia workup and full radiological assessment, were performed to determine underlying disease etiologies.

RESULTS: BCS was chronic in 79.8% of patients, acute or subacute in 19.1%, and fulminant in 1.1%. Factor V Leiden mutation (FVLM) was the most common etiological cause of disease (53.1%), followed by mutation of the gene encoding methylene tetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) (51.6%). Current or recent hormonal treatment was documented in 15.5% of females, and BCS associated with pregnancy was present in 17.2% of females. Etiology could not be determined in 8.5% of patients. Males had significantly higher rates of MTHFR gene mutation and Behçet’s disease, and females had significantly higher rates of secondary antiphospholipid antibody syndrome. A highly significant positive relationship was evident between the presence of Behçet’s disease and inferior vena caval occlusion, either alone or combined with occlusion of the hepatic veins (P < 0.0001).

CONCLUSION: FVLM is the most common disease etiology and MTHFR the second most common in Egyptian BCS patients. BCS etiology tends to vary with geographic region.

Budd-Chiari syndrome in urology: Impact on nephrectomy for advanced renal cell carcinoma

Objectives:

Budd-Chiari syndrome (BCS) is a poorly understood entity in urology. It results from obstruction of the hepatic veins and the subsequent complications. It has been infrequently reported to be secondary to hepatic venous obstruction from invasion by an inferior vena cava (IVC) tumor thrombus in renal cell carcinoma (RCC). We report the largest known series of patients with RCC and BCS.

Patients and Methods:

Ten patients presented to a tertiary hospital with locally advanced RCC with IVC tumor thrombus. All were evaluated and had clinical or radiographic evidence of BCS. All underwent nephrectomy, IVC thrombectomy or ligation, and tumor removal from the hepatic veins. The perioperative and pathological factors were measured. These included estimated blood loss (EBL) and transfusions. Inpatient factors including duration of intubation, length of intensive care unit (ICU) stay, and overall length of stay (LOS) were recorded. The tumor-free status was evaluated.

Results:

The average age was 59 years. No intraoperative deaths occurred. Two intraoperative complications were noted. The mean EBL was 4244 cc; mean surgery length was 8 hours 12 minutes; and the mean ICU stay was nine days. The overall LOS averaged 13.25 days. One patient died postoperatively of sepsis and multisystem organ failure. One patient required reoperation for an abdominal wall hematoma caused by subcutaneous enoxaparin administration. Average follow-up was 28 months. Five patients are alive with no evidence of disease.

Conclusions:

Budd-Chiari syndrome is a rare entity in urology, with a potential for significant morbidity and mortality. Surgical excision of the primary tumor along with thrombectomy results in alleviation of BCS and improvement in the patient.

Proteomic analysis reveals that apolipoprotein A1 levels are decreased in patients with Budd-Chiari syndrome

BACKGROUND & AIMS

Budd-Chiari syndrome (BCS) is a rare vascular liver disorder caused by thrombosis of the hepatic veins. In some patients, no known thrombophilic factor can be identified. This study aimed to identify novel factors that might play a role in thrombosis in BCS-patients by using a proteomic approach.

METHODS

The abundance of plasma clot-bound proteins was compared between nine BCS-patients and nine controls by using two-dimensional difference gel electrophoresis. The protein with the most significant decrease in patients was identified by mass spectrometry. Plasma levels of this protein were measured and the results were validated in a large cohort of BCS-patients.

RESULTS

A total of 26 protein spots significantly differed (p<0.001). The spot that decreased with the highest statistical significance in patients was identified by mass spectrometry as apolipoprotein A1 (apo A1). The mean level of apo A1 in the plasma of these BCS-patients (0.74 g/L) was also significantly lower than in controls (1.45 g/L, p=0.002). This finding was validated in a large cohort of 101 BCS-patients and 101 controls (0.97 g/L vs. 1.32 g/L, p<0.0001). There was no major correlation between plasma levels of apo A1 and various liver function tests.

CONCLUSIONS

BCS-patients show decreased clot-bound protein abundance and plasma levels of apo A1. Decreased levels of apo A1 may play a role in the etiology of thrombosis in BCS-patients and possibly in other patients with venous thrombosis.

Association of Budd-Chiari syndrome and celiac disease

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

An association between Budd-Chiari syndrome (BCS) and celiac disease (CD) is uncommon. The aims of our study were to investigate the etiology of BCS and to search for a particular HLA Ag pattern among patients.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

BCS diagnosis was based on Doppler ultrasound and CD diagnosis on duodenal biopsy, transglutaminase (TGAb) and gliadin antibodies (GAb). Patients were screened for prothrombotic disorders and seven had a PCR-SSO test for HLA genotypes. Patients were treated with anticoagulants and gluten-free diet.

RESULTS

Nine patients were included; mean age 27 years (20-42); sex ratio (F/M) 2; mean follow-up duration 31 months (6-54). All patients had endoscopic and histological features of CD. GAb/TGAb were found in 78 % (n=7). Ag HLA found were HLA DQβ1(*)02 (n=6) and DQβ1(*)03 (n=3). Prothrombotic conditions identified were latent myeloproliferative disorder (n=1), protein C deficiency (n=1), probable factor V Leiden (n=1) and oral contraceptive use (n=1). No prothrombotic state could be identified in the five other patients.

CONCLUSION

The BCS-CD association is relatively frequent in our country. Underlying prothrombotic conditions were absent in more than 50 % of cases, suggesting CD plays a role in the occurrence of thrombosis. HLA alleles found are strongly associated with CD, without any particular pattern for the BCS-CD association.

Chronic Budd-Chiari syndrome as a rare complication of Crohn's disease: a case report

The Budd-Chiari syndrome (BCS) is characterized by hepatic venous outflow obstruction involving the hepatic veins, inferior vena cava, or both. BCS has occasionally been reported in the literature as a very rare complication of ulcerative colitis. However, association of Crohn's disease (CD) and BCS is extremely rare with only a single case reported in the world literature to date. We report a case of a young woman with chronically active, therapy-resistant CD who developed massive ascites, elevation of liver enzymes, and coagulopathy in the course of her disease. She was subsequently diagnosed with BCS for which a successful liver transplantation was performed. Chronically active therapy resistant CD and methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase gene mutation have been identified as possible risk factors for development of BCS in this patient.

Budd-Chiari syndrome: long term success via hepatic decompression using transjugular intrahepatic porto-systemic shunt

Background

Budd-Chiari syndrome (BCS) generally implies thrombosis of the hepatic veins and/or the intrahepatic or suprahepatic inferior vena cava. Treatment depends on the underlying cause, the anatomic location, the extent of the thrombotic process and the functional capacity of the liver. It can be divided into medical treatment including anticoagulation and thrombolysis, radiological procedures such as angioplasty and transjugular intrahepatic porto-systemic shunt (TIPS) and surgical interventions including orthotopic liver transplantation (OLT). Controlled trials or reports on larger cohorts are limited due to rare disease frequency. The aim of this study was to report our single centre long term results of patients with BCS receiving one of three treatment options i.e. medication only, TIPS or OLT on an individually based decision of our local expert group.

Methods

20 patients with acute, subacute or chronic BCS were treated between 1988 and 2008. Clinical records were analysed with respect to underlying disease, therapeutic interventions, complications and overall outcome.

Results

16 women and 4 men with a mean age of 34 ± 12 years (range: 14-60 years) at time of diagnosis were included. Myeloproliferative disorders or a plasmatic coagulopathy were identified as underlying disease in 13 patients, in the other patients the cause of BCS remained unclear. 12 patients presented with an acute BCS, 8 with a subacute or chronic disease. 13 patients underwent TIPS, 4 patients OLT as initial therapy, 2 patients required only symptomatic therapy, and one patient died from liver failure before any specific treatment could be initiated. Eleven of 13 TIPS patients required 2.5 ± 2.4 revisions (range: 0-8). One patient died from his underlying hematologic disease. The residual 12 patients still have stable liver function not requiring OLT. All 4 patients who underwent OLT as initial treatment, required re-OLT due to thrombembolic complications of the graft. Survival in the TIPS group was 92.3% and in the OLT group 75% during a median follow-up of 4 and 11.5 years, respectively.

Conclusion

Our results confirm the role of TIPS in the management of patients with acute, subacute and chronic BCS. The limited number of patients with OLT does not allow to draw a meaningful conclusion. However, the underlying disease may generate major complications, a reason why OLT should be limited to patients who cannot be managed by TIPS.

Impaired fibrinolysis as a risk factor for Budd-Chiari syndrome

In Budd-Chiari syndrome (BCS), thrombosis develops in the hepatic veins or inferior vena cava. To study the relationship between hypofibrinolysis and BCS, we measured plasma levels of fibrinolysis proteins in 101 BCS patients and 101 healthy controls and performed a plasma-based clot lysis assay. In BCS patients, plasminogen activator inhibitor 1 (PAI-1) levels were significantly higher than in controls (median, 6.3 vs 1.4 IU/mL, P < .001). Thrombin-activatable fibrinolysis inhibitor and plasmin inhibitor levels were lower than in controls (13.8 vs 16.9 μg/mL and 0.91 vs 1.02 U/L, both P < .001). Median plasma clot lysis time (CLT) was 73.9 minutes in cases and 73.0 minutes in controls (P = .329). A subgroup of cases displayed clearly elevated CLTs. A CLT above the 90th or 95th percentile of controls was associated with an increased risk of BCS, with odds ratios of 2.4 (95% confidence interval, 1.1-5.5) and 3.4 (95% confidence interval, 1.2-9.7), respectively. In controls, only PAI-1 activity was significantly associated with CLT. Analysis of single nucleotide polymorphisms of fibrinolysis proteins revealed no significant differences between cases and controls. This case-control study provides the first evidence that an impaired fibrinolytic potential, at least partially caused by elevated PAI-1 levels, is related to the presence of BCS.

[Budd-Chiari syndrome associated with celiac disease]

The association of Budd-Chiari syndrome and celiac disease is rare and has been reported in only 13 cases. We report a 23-year-old man with celiac disease, treated with gluten-free diet since the age of 16 years. He presented with epigastric pain that was secondary to a Budd-Chiari syndrome. No other cause than celiac disease could be identified.

Rapid development of a hepatocellular carcinoma in isolated thrombosis of hepatic veins (classic Budd-Chiari syndrome): case report and review of literature

Budd-Chiari syndrome and membranous obstruction of the inferior vena cava frequently result in the development of mostly benign hepatic lesions. In cases of membranous obstruction of the inferior vena cava, which is prevalent mostly in the East, these lesions often progress to hepatocellular carcinoma. In contrast, malignant transformation has not yet been recognised in patients with isolated hepatic vein thrombosis. We report the case of a 37-year-old male Caucasian who presented with acute Budd-Chiari syndrome without involvement of the inferior vena cava. Despite porto-caval shunting, a hepatocellular carcinoma developed within several months. Three hepatic lesions were treated by radiofrequency thermal ablation until liver transplantation was performed. This report emphasises the possibility of malignant transformation of regenerative nodules in patients with disturbed hepatic perfusion in general. Physicians must be aware of this when assessing regenerative nodules, especially as no unambiguous predictors for the development of hepatocellular carcinoma have been identified so far.

Paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria in Budd-Chiari syndrome: findings from a cohort study

BACKGROUND/AIMS

A well recognized cause of Budd-Chiari syndrome (BCS) is paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria (PNH). PNH is an acquired disorder of hematopoietic stem cells, characterized by intravascular hemolysis and venous thrombosis. Testing for this hematological disorder should be considered in all BCS patients.

METHODS

Using data from the EN-Vie study, a multi-center study of 163 patients with BCS, we investigated the relationship between BCS and PNH in 15 patients with combined disease and compared the results to 62 BCS patients in whom PNH was excluded.

RESULTS

Median follow-up for the study group (n=77) was 20 months (range 0-44 months). BCS patients with PNH presented with a significantly higher percentage of additional splanchnic vein thrombosis (SVT) as compared to BCS patients without PNH (47% vs. 10%, p=0.002). During follow-up, type and frequency of interventions for BCS was similar between both groups. Six patients with BCS and PNH were successfully treated with a transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS). Of 15 patients with PNH, six underwent allogenic stem cell transplantation after diagnosis of BCS. PNH was successfully cured in five cases. There was no significant difference in survival between BCS patients with and without PNH.

CONCLUSIONS

This study shows that despite a higher frequency of additional SVT, short-term prognosis of BCS patients with PNH does not differ from BCS patients without PNH. Treatment with TIPS can be safely performed in patients with PNH. Stem cell transplantation appears to be a feasible treatment option for PNH in BCS patients.