The cardiac response to exercise in cirrhosis

Sound waves and solutions: Point-of-care ultrasonography for acute kidney injury in cirrhosis

This article delves into the intricate challenges of acute kidney injury (AKI) in cirrhosis, a condition fraught with high morbidity and mortality. The complexities arise from distinguishing between various causes of AKI, particularly hemodynamic AKI, in cirrhotic patients, who experience hemodynamic changes due to portal hypertension. The term "hepatocardiorenal syndrome" is introduced to encapsulate the intricate interplay among the liver, heart, and kidneys. The narrative emphasizes the often-overlooked aspect of cardiac function in AKI assessments in cirrhosis, unveiling the prevalence of cirrhotic cardiomyopathy marked by impaired diastolic function. The conventional empiric approach involving volume expansion and vasopressors for hepatorenal syndrome is critically analyzed, highlighting potential risks and variable patient responses. We advocate for a nuanced algorithm for AKI evaluation in cirrhosis, prominently featuring point-of-care ultrasonography (POCUS). POCUS applications encompass assessing fluid tolerance, detecting venous congestion, and evaluating cardiac function.

Cardiac dysfunction in patients with cirrhosis and acute decompensation

The prevalence of cirrhotic cardiomyopathy (CCM) has been reported as high as 60%-70% in patients with liver cirrhosis and is associated with various negative outcomes. There has been a growing understanding of CCM over recent years. Indeed, the development of imaging techniques has enabled new diagnostic criteria to be proposed by the Cirrhotic Cardiomyopathy Consortium. However, important unanswered questions remain over pathophysiological mechanisms, optimal diagnostic modalities and potential treatment options. While there has been an increasing volume of literature evaluating CCM, there is a lack of clarity on its implications in acute decompensation, acute-on-chronic liver failure and following interventions such as transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt insertion and liver transplantation. This review aims to summarise the literature in these challenging domains and suggest where future research should focus. We conclude that systemic inflammation and structural myocardial changes are likely to be crucial in the pathophysiology of the disease, but the relative contribution of different components remains elusive. Furthermore, future studies need to use standardised diagnostic criteria for CCM as well as incorporate newer imaging techniques assessing both myocardial structure and function. Finally, while specific treatments are currently lacking, therapeutics targeting systemic inflammation, microbial dysbiosis and bacterial translocation are promising targets and warrant further research.

[Cirrhotic cardiomyopathy – Clinically fact or academic curiosity? Review: Part 1: definition, epidemiology, pathology and clinical manifestations]

Severe cirrhosis affecting myocardial function provokes a syndrome called Cirrhotic Cardiomyopathy, defined as cardiac disfunction associated with hepatic cirrhosis in the absence of other known cardiac disease. The prevalence is variable according different groups of investigation owing to the latent or subclinical course until a stressful situation unmask it such as surgery, hemorrhage, infection, hepatic transplant or transjugular intrahepatic porto-systemic shunt. We aimed to review the definition, pathology, pathophysiology, clinical manifestations, diagnostic criteria, images, clinical relevance, pharmacological treatment and hepatic transplantation.

The Contemporary Role of Speckle Tracking Echocardiography in Cirrhotic Cardiomyopathy

Cirrhotic cardiomyopathy (CCM) is characterized by elevated cardiac output at rest, an inability to further increase contractility under stress, and diastolic dysfunction. The diagnosis of CCM is crucial as it can lead to complications during liver transplantation. However, its recognition poses challenges with conventional echocardiography techniques. Speckle tracking echocardiography (STE), particularly global longitudinal strain (GLS), is a novel index that enhances the diagnostic efficacy of echocardiography for both ischemic and non-ischemic cardiomyopathies. GLS proves more sensitive in identifying early systolic dysfunction and is also influenced by advanced diastolic dysfunction. Consequently, there is an expanding scope for GLS utilization in cirrhotic cases, with newly updated diagnostic criteria for CCM incorporating GLS. Specifically, systolic dysfunction is now defined as either a left ventricular ejection fraction below 50% or an absolute GLS below 18%. However, conflicting data on GLS alterations in liver cirrhosis patients persist, as many individuals with advanced disease and a poor prognosis exhibit a hyperdynamic state with preserved or increased GLS. Consequently, the presence of CCM, according to the updated criteria, does not exhibit a significant association-in the majority of studies-with the severity of liver disease and prognosis. Furthermore, information on other indices measured with STE, such as left atrial and right ventricular strain, is promising but currently limited. This review aims to offer a critical assessment of the existing evidence concerning the application of STE in patients with liver cirrhosis.

Cardiomyopathy in cirrhosis: From pathophysiology to clinical care

Cirrhotic cardiomyopathy (CCM) is defined as systolic or diastolic dysfunction in the absence of prior heart disease or another identifiable cause in patients with cirrhosis, in whom it is an important determinant of outcome. Its underlying pathogenic/pathophysiological mechanisms are rooted in two distinct pathways: 1) factors associated with portal hypertension, hyperdynamic circulation, gut bacterial/endotoxin translocation and the resultant inflammatory phenotype; 2) hepatocellular insufficiency with altered synthesis or metabolism of substances such as proteins, lipids, carbohydrates, bile acids and hormones. Different criteria have been proposed to diagnose CCM; the first in 2005 by the World Congress of Gastroenterology, and more recently in 2019 by the Cirrhotic Cardiomyopathy Consortium. These criteria mainly utilised echocardiographic evaluation, with the latter refining the evaluation of diastolic function and integrating global longitudinal strain into the evaluation of systolic function, an important addition since the haemodynamic changes that occur in advanced cirrhosis may lead to overestimation of systolic function by left ventricular ejection fraction. Advances in cardiac imaging, such as cardiac magnetic resonance imaging and the incorporation of an exercise challenge, may help further refine the diagnosis of CCM. Over recent years, CCM has been shown to contribute to increased mortality and morbidity after major interventions, such as liver transplantation and transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt insertion, and to play a pathophysiologic role in the genesis of hepatorenal syndrome. In this review, we discuss the pathogenesis/pathophysiology of CCM, its clinical implications, and the role of cardiac imaging modalities including MRI. We also compare diagnostic criteria and review the potential diagnostic role of electrocardiographic QT prolongation. At present, no definitive medical therapy exists, but some promising potential treatment strategies for CCM are reviewed.

Study of Cardiac Dysfunction in Portal Hypertension: A Single-Center Experience From Eastern India

INTRODUCTION

Cardiac functional abnormalities are common in patients with cirrhosis of the liver. Nonetheless, the effect of portal hypertension and liver disorder on cardiac abnormalities is yet to be investigated. The current study evaluated the contribution of cirrhotic and non-cirrhotic portal hypertension as the potential cause of cardiac abnormalities.

METHODS

The present study was a cross-sectional observational study. After excluding known heart diseases, 128 patients with portal hypertension from different causes were enrolled in the study. Cardiac functional activity was assessed by electrocardiogram (ECG) and transthoracic echocardiography (TTE).  Results: This study included a total of 128 patients, out of which 24 had extrahepatic portal vein obstruction (EHPVO), four patients had Budd-Chiari syndrome and 100 had liver cirrhosis. Normal ventricular function was observed in patients with EHPVO and Budd-Chiari syndrome. Sixty-eight percent of cases had liver cirrhosis diastolic abnormalities. The mean QTc interval in patients with cirrhotic cardiomyopathy (CCM) was 0.49 ± 0.05 sec which was significantly increased when compared to patients without CCM with 0.432 ± 0.07 at p=0.0016. The Child Turcotte Pugh (CTP) score and MELD (Model for End-Stage Liver Disease) score in patients with CCM were significantly higher as compared to patients without CCM. All alcoholic cirrhotic and non-alcoholic cirrhotic patients had equal prevalence of diastolic dysfunction (p-value >0.05).

CONCLUSION

 Patients with Child class C or a high MELD score are associated with a higher prevalence rate of CCM while normal cardiac function was observed among patients having portal hypertension due to extrahepatic causes. We recommend cardiac evaluation by echocardiography in all cirrhotic patients. Institution of specific medical therapy and early referral for liver transplantation should be considered to improve survival in patients with decompensated cirrhosis.

How non-alcoholic fatty liver disease and cirrhosis affect the heart

Liver diseases affect the heart and the vascular system. Cardiovascular complications appear to be a leading cause of death in patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and cirrhosis. The predominant histological changes in the liver range from steatosis to fibrosis to cirrhosis, which can each affect the cardiovascular system differently. Patients with cirrhotic cardiomyopathy (CCM) and NAFLD are at increased risk of impaired systolic and diastolic dysfunction and for suffering major cardiovascular events. However, the pathophysiological mechanisms behind these risks differ depending on the nature of the liver disease. Accurate assessment of symptoms by contemporary diagnostic modalities is essential for identifying patients at risk, for evaluating candidates for treatment, and prior to any invasive procedures. This review explores current perspectives within this field.

Oxidative Mechanisms and Cardiovascular Abnormalities of Cirrhosis and Portal Hypertension

In patients with portal hypertension, there are many complications including cardiovascular abnormalities, hepatorenal syndrome, ascites, variceal bleeding, and hepatic encephalopathy. The underlying mechanisms are not yet completely clarified. It is well known that portal hypertension causes mesenteric congestion which produces reactive oxygen species (ROS). ROS has been associated with intestinal mucosal injury, increased intestinal permeability, enhanced gut bacterial overgrowth, and translocation; all these changes result in increased endotoxin and inflammation. Portal hypertension also results in the development of collateral circulation and reduces liver mass resulting in an overall increase in endotoxin/bacteria bypassing detoxication and immune clearance in the liver. Endotoxemia can in turn aggravate oxidative stress and inflammation, leading to a cycle of gut barrier dysfunction → endotoxemia → organ injury. The phenotype of cardiovascular abnormalities includes hyperdynamic circulation and cirrhotic cardiomyopathy. Oxidative stress is often accompanied by inflammation; thus, blocking oxidative stress can minimize the systemic inflammatory response and alleviate the severity of cardiovascular diseases. The present review aims to elucidate the role of oxidative stress in cirrhosis-associated cardiovascular abnormalities and discusses possible therapeutic effects of antioxidants on cardiovascular complications of cirrhosis including hyperdynamic circulation, cirrhotic cardiomyopathy, and hepatorenal syndrome.

Markers of cardiac injury in patients with liver cirrhosis

Liver cirrhosis is an increasing public health problem and a major cause of morbidity and mortality. Accordingly, cirrhotic cardiomyopathy, a frequently underdiagnosed condition, is becoming a growing health problem. In the last 20 years, cardioselective biomarkers have been investigated for their diagnostic and prognostic properties for numerous conditions. The aim of this article is to review the literature on the relationship between the most commonly used cardioselective biomarkers (cardiac troponins I and T, N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide, brain natriuretic peptide, and heart-type fatty-acid binding protein) and the presence, functional stage, and clinical outcomes of liver cirrhosis. Elevated plasma levels of these biomarkers have been reported in patients with liver cirrhosis, and there is mounting evidence on their predictive value for clinical outcomes in this disease. In addition, elevated plasma levels of these biomarkers have been reported in patients before, during, and after liver transplantation, but in fewer studies. Due to their predictive value for clinical outcomes, we advocate the use of these markers in patients with liver cirrhosis and cirrhotic cardiomyopathy, as well as in candidates for liver transplant.

Association Between End-Stage Liver Disease and Incident Heart Failure in an Integrated Health System

BACKGROUND

End-stage liver disease (ESLD) and heart failure (HF) often coexist and are associated with significant morbidity and mortality. However, the true incidence of HF among patients with ESLD remains understudied.

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to evaluate the association between ESLD and incident HF in a real-world clinical cohort.

DESIGN AND PARTICIPANTS

A retrospective electronic health records database analysis of individuals with ESLD and frequency-matched controls without ESLD in a large integrated health system.

MAIN MEASURES

The primary outcome was incident HF, which was defined by the International Classification of Disease codes and manually adjudicated by physician reviewers. The Kaplan-Meier method was used to estimate the cumulative incidence of HF. Multivariate proportional hazards models adjusted for shared metabolic factors (diabetes, hypertension, chronic kidney disease, coronary heart disease, body mass index) were used to compare the risk of HF in patients with and without ESLD.

KEY RESULTS

Of 5004 patients (2502 with ESLD and 2502 without ESLD), the median (Q1-Q3) age was 57.0 (55.0-65.0) years, 59% were male, and 18% had diabetes. Over a median (Q1-Q3) follow-up of 2.3 (0.6-6.0) years, 121 incident HF cases occurred. Risk for incident HF was significantly higher for patients with ESLD compared with the non-ESLD group (adjusted HR: 4.67; 95% CI: 2.82-7.75; p < 0.001), with the majority of the ESLD group (70.7%) having HF with preserved ejection fraction (ejection fraction ≥ 50%).

CONCLUSION

ESLD was significantly associated with a higher risk of incident HF, independent of shared metabolic risk factors, with the predominant phenotype being HF with preserved ejection fraction.

Physiologically based pharmacokinetic modeling of levetiracetam to predict the exposure in hepatic and renal impairment and elderly populations

Levetiracetam (LEV) is an anti-epileptic drug approved for use in various populations. The pharmacokinetic (PK) behavior of LEV may be altered in the elderly and patients with renal and hepatic impairment. Thus, dosage adjustment is required. This study was conducted to investigate how the physiologically-based PK (PBPK) model describes the PKs of LEV in adult and elderly populations, as well as to predict the PKs of LEV in patients with renal and hepatic impairment in both populations. The whole-body PBPK models were developed using the reported physicochemical properties of LEV and clinical data. The models were validated using data from clinical studies with different dose ranges and different routes and intervals of administration. The fit performance of the models was assessed by comparing predicted and observed blood concentration data and PK parameters. It is recommended that the doses be reduced to ~70%, 60%, and 45% of the adult dose for the mild, moderate, and severe renal impairment populations and ~95%, 80%, and 57% of the adult dose for the Child Pugh-A (CP-A), Child Pugh-B (CP-B), and Child Pugh-C (CP-C) hepatic impairment populations, respectively. No dose adjustment is required for the healthy elderly population, but dose reduction is required for the elderly with organ dysfunction accordingly, on a scale similar to that of adults. A PBPK model of LEV was successfully developed to optimize dosing regimens for special populations.

Cirrhotic Cardiomyopathy Following Bile Duct Ligation in Rats-A Matter of Time?

Cirrhotic patients often suffer from cirrhotic cardiomyopathy (CCM). Previous animal models of CCM were inconsistent concerning the time and mechanism of injury; thus, the temporal dynamics and cardiac vulnerability were studied in more detail. Rats underwent bile duct ligation (BDL) and a second surgery 28 days later. Cardiac function was assessed by conductance catheter and echocardiography. Histology, gene expression, and serum parameters were analyzed. A chronotropic incompetence (P_d31 < 0.001) and impaired contractility at rest and a reduced contractile reserve (P_d31 = 0.03, P_dob-d31 < 0.001) were seen 31 days after BDL with increased creatine (P_d35, P_d42, and P_d56 < 0.05) and transaminases (P_d31 < 0.001). A total of 56 days after BDL, myocardial fibrosis was seen (P_d56 < 0.001) accompanied by macrophage infiltration (CD68: P_group < 0.001) and systemic inflammation (TNFα: P_group < 0.001, white blood cell count: P_group < 0.001). Myocardial expression of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma coactivator 1-alpha (PGC1α) was increased after 31 (P_d31 < 0.001) and decreased after 42 (P_d42 < 0.001) and 56 days (P_d56 < 0.001). Caspase-3 expression was increased 31 and 56 days after BDL (P_d31 = 0.005; P_d56 = 0.005). Structural changes in the myocardium were seen after 8 weeks. After the second surgery (second hit), transient myocardial insufficiency with secondary organ dysfunction was seen, characterized by reduced contractility and contractile reserve.

Hematocrit Correction of Whole Blood Phosphatidylethanol Concentrations to Estimate Erythrocyte PEth Concentrations: Sensitivity, Specificity and Influence on Test Utility

Phosphatidylethanol (PEth) forms in erythrocyte membranes after alcohol consumption, offering a persisting biomarker, that is measurable in whole blood, washed erythrocytes and dried blood spots. For a predominantly erythrocyte-restricted analyte, erythrocyte concentrations seem to have most validity in patients who are anemic through alcoholism or other pathologies, despite preparation increasing assay complexity. Differences in specimen preparation alter PEth concentrations for the same patient, meaning that criteria for interpreting PEth results should relate to specimen type, presenting a barrier to achieving harmonization. We therefore tested whether erythrocyte PEth might be validly calculated by hematocrit correction of a whole blood PEth measurement. PEth testing primarily serves to distinguish drinkers from non-drinkers. In choosing between specimen types, it is important to compare their utility in separating those two groups. We therefore processed 281 blood samples from 17 non-drinkers and 61 drinkers, to prepare matched whole blood and washed erythrocyte specimens. These were assayed by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry and compared in identifying alcohol consumption. The erythrocyte PEth concentration in the whole blood specimens was also calculated by correcting whole blood concentration by the specimen's hematocrit, as an alternative to prepare washed erythrocytes. The hematocrit-corrected erythrocyte concentrations were included in these comparisons. Predictably, this work found that sensitivity was consistently better at the lower cut-off of 8 µg/L than at 20 µg/L. Sensitivities were also higher for washed erythrocytes than whole blood, explained by the lower erythrocyte mass in the same volume of whole blood. Hematocrit-corrected whole blood PEth concentrations correlated with erythrocyte concentrations, except for the four highest values, which did not influence comparative sensitivity. Specificity was 100% for washed erythrocytes, whole blood and hematocrit-corrected whole blood at either cut-off because non-drinkers had undetectable PEth. We conclude that hematocrit correction of whole blood PEth concentrations theoretically provides an alternative to the preparation of washed erythrocytes.

HFA-PEFF score as an independent predictor of 2-year mortality in liver cirrhosis patients

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Cardiovascular complications of liver cirrhosis include high cardiac output heart failure with reduced afterload and diastolic dysfunction. Heart Failure Association Pre-test assessment, Echocardiography and natriuretic peptide, Functional testing, Final etiology (HFA-PEFF) (values 0-6) is a diagnostic tool for heart failure. It is a cluster of echocardiographic and biochemical parameters. The purpose of this prospective study was to assess if HFA-PEFF score is associated with the severity of liver disease and to determine its prognostic significance in patients with cirrhosis.

METHODS

Patients with cirrhosis without an acute event were enrolled. A comprehensive echocardiography study was conducted, brain natriuretic peptide and N-terminal-pro-B-type Natriuretic Peptide levels were measured and HFA-PEFF score was calculated. All patients were prospectively followed up after enrollment. The study end-point was defined as the composite of all-cause death.

RESULTS

Seventy-two consecutive patients [median age 59 years (inter-quartile range: 52-65), 72.2% males, Model for End-stage Liver Disease (MELD) 12.9 (8.5-16.3)] were included. The 52.8% had a high HFA-PEFF score (5 or 6) and the 47.2% intermediate/low score (0-4). HFA-PEFF score was correlated with MELD score (rho = 0.566, P  < 0.001), but not with age, SBP and heart rate. The median follow-up was 24.2 (9.5-38.8) months. The 1- and 2-year cumulative mortality was higher in patients with high HFA-PEFF compared to those with intermediate/low (log-rank P  < 0.001 for both). The predicted 2-year probability of survival in high vs intermediate/low HFA-PEFF was found to be a prognostic factor of death even when adjusted for age, gender and MELD score [hazard ratio = 3.539 (1.134-11.046), P  = 0.029].

CONCLUSION

HFA-PEFF score is high among patients with liver cirrhosis, especially those with advanced liver disease. HFA-PEFF score is associated with survival even when adjusting for cirrhosis severity.

Subclinical cardiac abnormalities in children with biliary atresia correlate with outcomes after liver transplantation

Objective

There are subclinical cardiac abnormalities (SCA) in children with biliary atresia (BA). However, data on the consequences of these cardiac changes after liver transplantation (LT) remain controversial in the pediatric field. We aimed to determine the relationship between outcomes and the subclinical cardiac abnormalities in pediatric patients with BA based on two-dimensional echocardiography (2DE) parameters.

Methods

A total of 205 children with BA were enrolled in this study. The relationship between 2DE parameters and outcomes, including death and serious adverse events (SAE) after LT, was analyzed by regression analysis. Using receiver operator characteristic (ROC) curves to determine the optimal cut-off values of 2DE parameters for outcomes. Differences in the AUCs were compared using DeLong's test. The Kaplan -Meier method with log-rank testing was used to evaluate survival outcomes between groups.

Results

Left ventricular mass index (LVMI) and relative wall thickness (RWT) were found to be independently associated with SAE (OR: 1.112, 95% CI: 1.061 - 1.165, P < 0.001 and OR: 1.193, 95% CI: 1.078 - 1.320, P = 0.001, respectively). The cutoff value of LVMI for predicting the SAE was 68 g/m2.7 (AUC = 0.833, 95% CI 0.727-0.940, P < 0.001), and the cutoff value of RWT for predicting the SAE was 0.41 (AUC = 0.732, 95% CI 0.641-0.823, P < 0.001). The presence of subclinical cardiac abnormalities (LVMI > 68 g/m2.7, and/or RWT > 0.41) was associated with lower patient survival (1-year, 90.5% vs 100.0%; 3-year, 89.7% vs 100.0, log-rank P = 0.001). and higher incidence of SAE events.

Conclusions

Subclinical cardiac abnormalities were correlated with post-LT mortality and morbidity in children with BA. LVMI can predict the occurrence of death and serious adverse events after liver transplantation.

Cardiac dysfunction in patients with end-stage liver disease, prevalence, and impact on outcome: a comparative prospective cohort study

Background

Without firm diagnostic criteria, the exact prevalence of cirrhotic cardiomyopathy still remains unknown. Its estimation is rather a difficult task as the disease is generally latent and shows itself only when the patient is subjected to overt stress such as body position changes, exercise, drugs, hemorrhage, and surgery. In this study, we aim to assess cardiac dysfunction in patients with end-stage liver disease, study the correlation between cardiac dysfunction and Child-Pugh classification of patients with liver cell failure, and study the prevalence and impact of cardiac dysfunction on the clinical outcome of patients with child B and child C liver disease.

Results

Diastolic dysfunction was more prevalent among the patients’ group (p < 0.001). It was absent in 28 (70%) of control group, with grade 1 diastolic dysfunction in 12 (30%). Only one patient (2.5%) had no diastolic dysfunction, 21 patients (52.5%) had grade 1 diastolic dysfunction, 12 (30%) patients had grade 2 diastolic dysfunction, and 6 patients (15%) had grade 3 diastolic dysfunction. QTc interval was significantly prolonged in the patients’ group when compared to controls (p < 0.001). Echocardiographic parameters and QTc interval were comparable in child B and child C patients. All patients were followed up for a period of 3 months. Sixteen of 40 patients died in this period of time. Only child classification was found to significantly predict mortality, and patients with child C liver cirrhosis had worse survival when compared to patients with child B liver cirrhosis.

Conclusion

Most of the patients had cardiac dysfunction, mainly diastolic dysfunction (87.5%). The study detected the prevalence of diastolic dysfunction among end-stage liver disease when measuring E/É using TDI which proved to be more accurate than E/A ratio. Diastolic dysfunction is proved to be the most sensitive parameter in the diagnosis of cirrhotic cardiomyopathy, being the most parameter affected early. No correlation was found between cardiac dysfunction and the severity of hepatic illness, but the severity of hepatic illness affects the outcome rather than cardiac dysfunction.

Blunted cardiovascular effects of beta-blockers in patients with cirrhosis: Relation to severity?

Aims

Patients with cirrhosis and portal hypertension are at high risk of developing complications such as variceal hemorrhage, ascites, and cardiac dysfunction, the latter of which is known as cirrhotic cardiomyopathy. Since non-selective beta-blockers (NSBB) may aggravate hemodynamic complications we investigated the effect of real-time propranolol infusion on cardiac function in patients with varying degrees of cirrhosis.

Methods

Thirty-eight patients with Child-Pugh A (n = 17), B (n = 17) and C (n = 4) underwent liver vein catheterization and cardiac magnetic resonance imaging. We assessed the effect of real-time propranolol infusion on the hepatic venous pressure gradient, cardiac index, stroke volume, ejection fraction, heart rate, and contractility.

Results

Nineteen patients were classified as responders to beta-blocker therapy. In pooling Child-Pugh B and C patients, the reduction in cardiac index by beta-blockade was weaker than in Child-Pugh A patients (-8.5% vs. -20.5%, p = 0.043). The effect of NSBB on portal pressure was inversely correlated to changes in the left atrium where the left atrial volume changed by 4 mL±18 in responders compared to 15 mL±11 in non-responders (p = 0.03). Finally, the baseline ejection fraction correlated inversely with the reduction in portal pressure (r = -0.39, p = 0.02).

Conclusion

We found the effect of beta-blockade on cardiac index in patients with advanced cirrhosis to be less potent than in patients with early cirrhosis, indicating that underlying cirrhotic cardiomyopathy increases, and the cardiac compensatory reserve becomes more compromised, with disease progression. The differential effects of beta-blockade in the left atrium may be used to predict the effect of beta-blockers on portal pressure, but further studies are needed to investigate this possibility.

Cardiovascular manifestation of end-stage liver disease and perioperative echocardiography for liver transplantation: anesthesiologist’s view

Liver transplantation (LT) is the curative therapy for decompensated cirrhosis. However, anesthesiologists can find it challenging to manage patients undergoing LT due to the underlying pathologic conditions of patients with end-stage liver disease and the high invasiveness of the procedure, which is frequently accompanied by massive blood loss. Echocardiography is a non-invasive or semi-invasive imaging tool that provides real-time information about the structural and functional status of the heart and is considered to be able to improve outcomes by enabling accurate and detailed assessments. This article reviews the pathophysiologic changes of the heart accompanied by cirrhosis that mainly affect hemodynamics. We also present a comparative review of the diagnostic criteria for cirrhotic cardiomyopathy published by the World Congress of Gastroenterology in 2005 and the Cirrhotic Cardiomyopathy Consortium in 2019. This article discusses the conditions that could affect hemodynamic stability and postoperative outcomes, such as coronary artery disease, left ventricular outflow tract obstruction, portopulmonary hypertension, hepatopulmonary syndrome, pericardial effusion, cardiac tamponade, patent foramen ovale, and ascites. Finally, we cover a number of intraoperative factors that should be considered, including intraoperative blood loss, rapid reaccumulation of ascites, manipulation of the inferior vena cava, post-reperfusion syndrome, and adverse effects of excessive fluid infusion and transfusion. This article aimed to summarize the cardiovascular manifestations of cirrhosis that can affect hemodynamics and can be evaluated using perioperative echocardiography. We hope that this article will provide information about the hemodynamic characteristics of LT recipients and stimulate more active use of perioperative echocardiography.

A Prospective Study of Prevalence and Predictors of Cirrhotic Cardiomyopathy and Its Role in Development of Hepatorenal Syndrome

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Cirrhotic cardiomyopathy (CCM) is a term used to collectively describe abnormal structural and functional changes in heart of patients with cirrhosis. The present study was undertaken to find the prevalence of CCM in patients with liver cirrhosis and its predictors. We also followed these patients to evaluate the role of CCM in the development of hepatorenal syndrome (HRS).

MATERIALS & METHODS

This was a prospective study carried out in department of Gastroenterology, Sir Ganga Ram hospital, New Delhi. A total of 104 patients with liver cirrhosis were included. Liver cirrhosis was diagnosed on basis of clinical, biochemical, and imaging features. CCM was defined based on echocardiography. Dobutamine stress echocardiography and hepatic venous pressure gradient (HVPG) were performed in patients who gave consent. HRS was defined as per standard criteria. Patients with CCM were followed for development of HRS.

RESULTS

Fifty (48%) patients were diagnosed with CCM. All patients had diastolic dysfunction, and none had systolic dysfunction. Median age of patients with CCM was significantly higher (59 [31-78 y] vs. 52 [24-70 y], P < 0.05). Severity of liver disease (Child Turcotte Pugh score and model for end-stage liver disease score) and portal pressures (HVPG) did not differ in patients with or without CCM. Patients with CCM did not have increased incidence of HRS at the end of 6-month follow-up study.

CONCLUSION

The presence of CCM was not related with the severity of liver dysfunction or portal pressures. Age was a significant determinant of CCM. Diastolic cardiac dysfunction does not influence the occurrence of HRS.

Diagnosis and Management of Cirrhotic Cardiomyopathy

BACKGROUND

Cirrhotic cardiomyopathy refers to the structural and functional changes in the heart leading to either impaired systolic, diastolic, electrocardiographic, and neurohormonal changes associated with cirrhosis and portal hypertension. Cirrhotic cardiomyopathy is present in 50% of patients with cirrhosis and is clinically seen as impaired contractility, diastolic dysfunction, hyperdynamic circulation, and electromechanical desynchrony such as QT prolongation. In this review, we will discuss the cardiac physiology principles underlying cirrhotic cardiomyopathy, imaging techniques such as cardiac magnetic resonance imaging and scintigraphy, cardiac biomarkers, and newer echocardiographic techniques such as tissue Doppler imaging and speckle tracking, and emerging treatments to improve outcomes.

METHODS

We reviewed available literature from MEDLINE for randomized controlled trials, cohort studies, cross-sectional studies, and real-world outcomes using the search terms "cirrhotic cardiomyopathy," "left ventricular diastolic dysfunction," "heart failure in cirrhosis," "liver transplantation," and "coronary artery disease".

RESULTS

Cirrhotic cardiomyopathy is associated with increased risk of complications such as hepatorenal syndrome, refractory ascites, impaired response to stressors including sepsis, bleeding or transplantation, poor health-related quality of life and increased morbidity and mortality. The evaluation of cirrhotic cardiomyopathy should also guide the feasibility of procedures such as transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt, dose titration protocol of betablockers, and liver transplantation. The use of targeted heart rate reduction is of interest to improve cardiac filling and improve the cardiac output using repurposed heart failure drugs such as ivabradine. Liver transplantation may also reverse the cirrhotic cardiomyopathy; however, careful cardiac evaluation is necessary to rule out coronary artery disease and improve cardiac outcomes in the perioperative period.

CONCLUSION

More data are needed on the new diagnostic criteria, molecular and biochemical changes, and repurposed drugs in cirrhotic cardiomyopathy. The use of advanced imaging techniques should be incorporated in clinical practice.

The fundamental role of stress echo in evaluating coronary artery disease in specific patient populations

Stress echocardiography (SE) was initially used for assessing patients with known or suspected coronary heart disease by detecting and evaluating myocardial ischemia and viability. The implementation of SE has gradually been extended to several cardiovascular diseases beyond coronary artery disease, and SE protocols have been modified and adapted for the detection of coronary artery disease (CAD) or other cardiovascular diseases in specific patient populations. This review attempts to summarize current data concerning SE implementation and clinical value in these specific and diverse populations: patients with an intramural course of a coronary artery - known as a myocardial bridge, chronic severe or end-stage hepatic disease, chronic severe or end-stage kidney disease, cardiac allograft vasculopathy, patients scheduled for solid-organ transplantation and other intermediate and high-risk surgery and, finally, patients treated with anticancer drugs or radiotherapy.

Diastolic Dysfunction Is a Predictor of Poor Survival in Patients with Decompensated Cirrhosis

BACKGROUND

Left ventricular diastolic dysfunction (LVDD) appears to be the earliest cardiac disturbance in cirrhosis patients. There are many previous reports reporting the significance of severity of LVDD on the outcome of liver transplantation or TIPS insertion, a few Indian studies have addressed the role of LVDD on survival in decompensated cirrhosis. The objective of this study is to assess the effect of LVDD on the survival of decompensated cirrhotic patients.

METHODS

We prospectively evaluated 92 decompensated cirrhotic patients from April 2015 to March 2017 at IMS and SUM Hospital, Bhubaneswar, India. 2D echocardiography with tissue Doppler imaging was used to evaluate cardiac function, as per the American society of echocardiography guidelines. The primary endpoint was to evaluate the effect of LVDD on overall mortality.

RESULTS

Ninety-two decompensated cirrhotic patients were evaluated in this prospective cohort study. Twenty-eight out of 92 patients (30%) died due to liver-related complications after a follow-up of 24 months. The decompensated cirrhotic patients with MELD score ≥ 15 had a significantly higher E/e' ratio (11.94 ± 4.24 vs. 8.74 ± 3.32, p < 0.001) suggesting severe LV dysfunction in advanced cirrhosis. Patients with E/e' ratio > 10 had significantly higher MELD score and Child-Pugh score (19.88 ± 7.72 vs. 14.31 ± 5.83; 10.25 ± 1.74 vs. 9.02 ± 1.74, p < 0.01, respectively) as compared to theE/e' ratio < 10 group. In Cox proportional hazard multivariate analysis, E/e' ≥ 10 (HR 2.72, 95% CI 1.07-6.9, p = 0.03) and serum albumin (HR 0.32, 95% CI 0.14-0.7, p < 0.01) were found to be independent predictors of mortality in decompensated cirrhotic patients.

CONCLUSION

: The presence of LVDD and low serum albumin were independent predictors of mortality in decompensated cirrhotic patients. Hence, LVDD is an indicator of advanced cirrhosis and mortality.

Six-minute walking test performance is associated with survival in cirrhotic patients

BACKGROUND

Patients with cirrhosis are at risk of cirrhotic cardiomyopathy, with resulting cardiac dysfunction and exercise limitations. Six minute walking test (6MWT) assesses functional status and predicts morbidity and mortality in cardiopulmonary diseases.

AIM

To determine if it associates with mortality by analyzing 6MWT performance in patients with liver cirrhosis.

METHODS

A cohort of 106 cirrhotic patients was evaluated in the outpatient setting with echocardiogram and 6MWT and follow up for one year to document hepatic decompensation and mortality. The distance in meters was recorded at the end of 6 min (6MWD).

RESULTS

This cohort had a mean age of 51 years and 56% male; patients were staged as Child A in 21.7%, B 66% and C 12.3%. Walk distance inversely correlated with Child scores, and was significantly reduced as Child stages progresses. Patients who died (10.4%) showed shorter mean 6MWD (P = 0.006). Low 6MWD was an independent predictor of mortality (P = 0.01).

CONCLUSION

6MWT is a noninvasive inexpensive test whose result is related to Child scores and mortality. It is useful to identify patients with liver cirrhosis at high risk of mortality for closer monitoring and potential early intervention.

Relationship of Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease and Heart Failure With Preserved Ejection Fraction

Although there is an established bidirectional relationship between heart failure with reduced ejection fraction and liver disease, the association between heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) and liver diseases, such as nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), has not been well explored. In this paper, the authors provide an in-depth review of the relationship between HFpEF and NAFLD and propose 3 NAFLD-related HFpEF phenotypes (obstructive HFpEF, metabolic HFpEF, and advanced liver fibrosis HFpEF). The authors also discuss diagnostic challenges related to the concurrent presence of NAFLD and HFpEF and offer several treatment options for NAFLD-related HFpEF phenotypes. The authors propose that NAFLD-related HFpEF should be recognized as a distinct HFpEF phenotype.

Impact of nutritional status on prevalence of left ventricular hypertrophy in children undergoing liver transplant

OBJECTIVE

We sought to (1) determine the prevalence of cardiac changes in patients with ESLD awaiting OLT (2) determine relationship between nutritional indices and cardiac changes.

METHODS

Retrospective review of transthoracic ECHO, clinical and nutritional information of pediatric patients evaluated for OLT. ECHO was analyzed for LVH, defined as LVMI > 95 g/m^2.7 and/or RWT > 0.42. These findings were correlated with age, ESLD etiology, growth and nutritional parameters as well as pre- and post-OLT.

RESULTS

Sixty-five patients were included, all had normal left ventricular systolic function. Nine patients (14%) had LVMI > 95 g/m^2.7 , five patients (8%) had RWT > 0.42, none met both criteria. None had thickened interventricular septal wall. Fourteen patients (20%) had significant left ventricular dilation. Nutritional deprivation was modestly present-weight under third percentile in 22%, length under third percentile in 24%, and both weight and length under third percentile in 17%. There were 12 patients (17%) with MUAC below two standard deviations for age; of these one had an elevated LVMI and another had an RWT > 0.42.

CONCLUSIONS

In this contemporary cross-sectional evaluation, a smaller proportion of patients with ESLD had LVH in contrast to prior studies. Despite a comparable disease burden, our cohort had better nutritional status. Though there was a trend between nutritional and LVH indices, this correlation may be better assessed prospectively in a larger cohort.

Exercise Training Attenuates Cirrhotic Cardiomyopathy

Cirrhotic cardiomyopathy is a condition where liver cirrhosis is associated with cardiac dysfunction. Triggers and blockers of cirrhotic cardiomyopathy are poorly understood, which might compromise the prognosis of chronic liver disease patients. We tested whether exercise training would reduce liver damage induced by thioacetamide and prevent liver cirrhosis-associated cardiomyopathy. Wistar rats were divided into three groups: control, thioacetamide (TAA), or TAA plus exercise. Thioacetamide increased liver weight and serum alanine aminotransferase and aspartate aminotransferase levels. Also, TAA treatment was involved with hepatic nodule formation, fibrotic septa, inflammatory infiltration, and hepatocyte necrosis. The exercise group presented with a reduction in liver injury status. We found that liver injury was associated with disordered cardiac hypertrophy as well as diastolic and systolic dysfunction. Exercise training attenuated cirrhosis-associated cardiac remodeling and diastolic dysfunction and prevented systolic impairment. These results provided insights that exercise training can mitigate cirrhotic cardiomyopathy phenotype. Graphical Abstract Exercise training attenuated liver injury as well as cirrhosis-associated cardiac remodeling and diastolic dysfunction and prevented systolic impairment.

Relationship between QT interval prolongation and structural abnormalities in cirrhotic cardiomyopathy: A change in the current paradigm

It is postulated that cardiac structural abnormalities observed in cirrhotic cardiomyopathy (CCM) contribute to the electrophysiologic abnormality of QT interval (QTc) prolongation. We sought to evaluate whether QTc prolongation is associated with intrinsic abnormalities in cardiac structure and function that characterize CCM. Consecutive patients undergoing liver transplant work-up between 2010 and 2018 were included. Measures of cardiac function on stress testing including cardiac reserve and chronotropic incompetence were collected prospectively and a corrected QTc ≥ 440 ms was considered prolonged. Overall, 439 patients were included and 65.1% had a prolonged QTc. There were no differences in markers of left ventricular and atrial remodeling, or resting systolic and diastolic function across QTc groups. The proportion of patients that met the criteria for a low cardiac reserve (39.2 vs 36.6%, p = .66) or chronotropic incompetence (18.1 vs 21.3%, p = .52) was not different in those with a QTc ≥ 440 vs <440 ms. Further, there was no association between QTc prolongation and CCM by either the 2005 World College of Gastroenterology or modified 2020 Cirrhotic Cardiomyopathy Consortium criteria. QT interval prolongation was not associated with structural or functional cardiac abnormalities that characterize CCM. These findings suggest that CCM and QT interval prolongation in cirrhosis may be two separate entities with distinct pathophysiological origins.

Cirrhotic Cardiomyopathy: The Interplay Between Liver and Cardiac Muscle. How Does the Cardiovascular System React When the Liver is Diseased?

It is widely known that liver cirrhosis, regardless of the etiologies is accompanied by severe hemodynamic changes. The principal pathophysiological mechanisms are the hyperdynamic circulation with increased cardiac output, heart rate along with reduced systemic vascular resistance. Thus, counteractive mechanisms may develop that eventually lead to systolic as well as diastolic dysfunction and rhythm disturbances, in order to keep a steady homeostasis in the human body.

Literally, blunted contractile responsiveness to physical or pharmacological stress, impaired diastolic relaxation and electrophysiological changes, primarily QT interval prolongation, do occur progressively in a cirrhotic patient with no known preexisting cardiac disease. This condition is identified as cirrhotic cardiomyopathy (CCM), an entity different from that seen in alcoholic cardiac muscle disease.

For the past decades, clinicians did study and attempt to understand the pathophysiology and clinical significance of this process. Indeed, various factors have been identified acting at the molecular and cellular level.

Electrocardiography, echocardiography and various serum biomarkers are the main tools that help healthcare practitioners to point to the correct diagnosis.

Noteworthy, the subjects that suffer from cirrhotic cardiomyopathy may progress to heart failure during invasive procedures such as surgery, insertion of a transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunting (TIPS) and liver transplantation. Besides, several studies have illustrated that CCM is a contributing factor, or even a precipitant, of hepatorenal syndrome (HRS), a conceivable reversible kidney failure in patients with liver cirrhosis and ascites.

The treatment is the same as it is in the patients with liver cirrhosis and heart failure and there is no particular treatment for cirrhotic cardiomyopathy. Hence, it is of utmost importance to clearly comprehend the pathophysiology of this disease in order to design more accurate diagnostic tools and definitive treatments in a way to prevent the complications of cirrhosis and overt heart failure.

The objective of this review is to describe in a comprehensive way the pathological alterations that occur in the cardiovascular system of cirrhotic patients. It will also point the limitations that remain in the diagnosis and treatment strategies and more importantly, this review will alert the clinicians in the modern era to further observe and record additional pathological changes in this subset of patients.

Applications of Physiologically Based Pharmacokinetic Modeling of Rivaroxaban-Renal and Hepatic Impairment and Drug-Drug Interaction Potential

The non–vitamin K antagonist oral anticoagulant rivaroxaban is used in several thromboembolic disorders. Rivaroxaban is eliminated via both metabolic degradation and renal elimination as unchanged drug. Therefore, renal and hepatic impairment may reduce rivaroxaban clearance, and medications inhibiting these clearance pathways could lead to drug‐drug interactions. This physiologically based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) study investigated the pharmacokinetic behavior of rivaroxaban in clinical situations where drug clearance is impaired. A PBPK model was developed using mass balance and bioavailability data from adults and qualified using clinically observed data. Renal and hepatic impairment were simulated by adjusting disease‐specific parameters, and concomitant drug use was simulated by varying enzyme activity in virtual populations (n = 1000) and compared with pharmacokinetic predictions in virtual healthy populations and clinical observations. Rivaroxaban doses of 10 mg or 20 mg were used. Mild to moderate renal impairment had a minor effect on area under the concentration‐time curve and maximum plasma concentration of rivaroxaban, whereas severe renal impairment caused a more pronounced increase in these parameters vs normal renal function. Area under the concentration‐time curve and maximum plasma concentration increased with severity of hepatic impairment. These effects were smaller in the simulations compared with clinical observations. AUC and C_max increased with the strength of cytochrome P450 3A4 and P‐glycoprotein inhibitors in simulations and clinical observations. This PBPK model can be useful for estimating the effects of impaired drug clearance on rivaroxaban pharmacokinetics. Identifying other factors that affect the pharmacokinetics of rivaroxaban could facilitate the development of models that approximate real‐world pharmacokinetics more accurately.

Non-selective beta-blockers impair global circulatory homeostasis and renal function in cirrhotic patients with refractory ascites

BACKGROUND & AIMS

The safety of non-selective β-blockers (NSBBs) has been questioned in refractory ascites (RA). We studied the effects of NSBBs on cardiac systolic function, systemic hemodynamics, and renal perfusion pressure (RPP) and function in patients with diuretic-responsive ascites (DRA) and RA.

METHODS

We performed a prospective pre-post repeated-measures study in cirrhotic patients, 18 with DRA and 20 with RA on NSBBs for variceal bleeding prophylaxis. Systolic function (by ejection intraventricular pressure difference [EIVPD]), hepatic venous pressure gradient (HVPG), cardiopulmonary pressures, RPP, and sympathetic activation were measured at baseline and after 4 weeks of propranolol.

RESULTS

EIVPD was elevated at baseline (RA 4.5 [2.8-5.7] and DRA 4.2 [3.1-5.7] mmHg; normal 2.4-3.6 mmHg) and directly related to the severity of vasodilation and sympathetic activation. NSBBs led to similar reductions in heart rate and HVPG in both groups. NSBBs reduced EIPVD in RA but not in DRA (-20% vs. -2%, p <0.01). In RA, the NSBB-induced reduction in EIPVD correlated with the severity of vasodilation and with higher plasma nitric oxide, norepinephrine and IL-6 (r >0.40, all p <0.05). NSBBs reduced RPP in both groups, but impaired renal function only in patients with RA. Reduced EIPVD correlated with decreases in RPP and estimated glomerular filtration rate (r >0.40, all p <0.01). After NSBB treatment, RPP dropped below the threshold of renal flow autoregulation in 11 of the 20 (55%) patients with RA, including the 4 fulfilling the criteria for HRS-AKI.

CONCLUSION

Renal perfusion and function depend critically on systolic function and sympathetic hyperactivation in RA. NSBBs blunt the sympathetic overdrive, hamper cardiac output, lower RPP below the critical threshold and impair renal function. β-blockade should be used cautiously or even avoided in patients with RA.

LAY SUMMARY

We have identified the mechanisms by which non-selective beta-blockers could impair survival in patients with refractory ascites. We show that peripheral vasodilation and sympathetic activation lead to increased left ventricle systolic function in patients with cirrhosis and ascites, which acts as an adaptive mechanism to maintain renal perfusion. When ascites becomes refractory, this compensatory cardiac response to vasodilation is critically dependent on sympathetic hyperactivation and is hardly able to maintain renal perfusion. In this setting, β-blockade blunts the sympathetic overdrive of cardiac function, hampers cardiac output, lowers renal perfusion pressure below the critical threshold and impairs renal function.

Cirrhotic Cardiomyopathy - A Veiled Threat

Cirrhotic cardiomyopathy (CCM) is defined as cardiac dysfunction in patients with liver cirrhosis without pre-existing cardiac disease. According to the definition established by the World Congress of Gasteroenterology in 2005, the diagnosis of CCM includes criteria reflecting systolic dysfunction, impaired diastolic relaxation, and electrophysiological disturbances. Because of minimal or even absent clinical symptoms and/or echocardiographic signs at rest according to the 2005 criteria, CCM diagnosis is often missed or delayed in most clinically-stable cirrhotic patients. However, cardiac dysfunction progresses in time and contributes to the pathogenesis of hepatorenal syndrome and increased morbidity and mortality after liver transplantation, surgery or other invasive procedures in cirrhotic patients. Therefore, a comprehensive cardiovascular assessment using newer techniques for echocardiographic evaluation of systolic and diastolic function, allowing the diagnosis of CCM in the early stage of subclinical cardiovascular dysfunction, should be included in the screening process of liver transplant candidates and patients with cirrhosis in general. The present review aims to summarize the most important pathophysiological aspects of CCM, the usefulness of contemporary cardiovascular imaging techniques and parameters in the diagnosis of CCM, the current therapeutic options, and the importance of early diagnosis of cardiovascular impairment in cirrhotic patients.

Blunted blood pressure response to exercise and isolated muscle metaboreflex activation in patients with cirrhosis

We sought to test the hypothesis that the cardiovascular responses to isolated muscle metaboreflex activation would be blunted in patients with cirrhosis. Eleven patients with cirrhosis and 15 healthy controls were evaluated. Blood pressure (BP; oscillometric method), contralateral forearm blood flow (FBF; venous occlusion plethysmography), and heart rate (HR; electrocardiogram) were measured during baseline, isometric handgrip at 30% of maximal voluntary contraction followed by postexercise ischemia (PEI). Forearm vascular conductance (FVC) was calculated as follows: (FBF / mean BP) × 100. Changes in HR during handgrip were similar between groups but tended to be different during PEI (controls: Δ 0.5 ± 1.1 bpm vs. cirrhotic patients: Δ 3.6 ± 1.0 bpm, P = 0.057). Mean BP response to handgrip (controls: Δ 20.9 ± 2.7 mm Hg vs. cirrhotic patients: Δ 10.6 ± 1.5 mm Hg, P = 0.006) and PEI was attenuated in cirrhotic patients (controls: Δ 16.1 ± 1.9 mm Hg vs. cirrhotic patients: Δ 7.2 ± 1.4 mm Hg, P = 0.001). In contrast, FBF and FVC increased during handgrip and decreased during PEI similarly between groups. These results indicate that an abnormal muscle metaboreflex activation explained, at least partially, the blunted pressor response to exercise exhibited by cirrhotic patients. Novelty: Patients with cirrhosis present abnormal muscle metaboreflex activation. BP response was blunted but forearm vascular response was preserved. HR response was slightly elevated.

Global Longitudinal Strain at Rest as an Independent Predictor of Mortality in Liver Transplant Candidates: A Retrospective Clinical Study

Speckle tracking echocardiography enables the detection of subclinical left ventricular dysfunction at rest in many heart diseases and potentially in severe liver diseases. It could also possibly serve as a predictor for survival. In this study, 117 patients evaluated for liver transplantation in a single center between May 2010 and April 2016 with normal left ventricular ejection fraction were included according to clinical characteristics of their liver disease: (1) compensated (n = 29), (2) clinically significant portal hypertension (n = 49), and (3) decompensated (n = 39). Standard echocardiography and speckle tracking echocardiography were performed at rest and during dobutamine stress. Follow-up amounted to three years to evaluate survival and major cardiac events. Altogether 67% (78/117) of the patients were transplanted and 32% (31/96 patients) died during the three-year follow-up period. Global longitudinal strain (GLS) at rest was significantly increased (became more negative) with the severity of liver disease (p < 0.001), but reached comparable values in all groups during peak stress. Low (less negative) GLS values at rest (male: >−17/female: >−18%) could predict patient survival in a multivariate Cox regression analysis (p = 0.002). GLS proved valuable in identifying transplant candidates with latent systolic dysfunction.

Cardiac baroreflex function and vascular reactivity recovery after aerobic exercise in patients with early cirrhosis

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the effects of aerobic exercise on the cardiac baroreflex function and vascular reactivity in patients with cirrhosis.

METHODS

Thirteen patients with cirrhosis were submitted to exercise and control intervention. At baseline and at 30 and 60 min following intervention, we evaluated cardiac baroreflex sensitivity (cBRS) and the baroreflex effectiveness index (BEI) using sequence technique. Vascular reactivity was assessed inducing reactive hyperemia before and 60 min after intervention.

RESULTS

At baseline, there was no difference (P interaction = 0.848) between exercise (from 3.0 ± 0.34 to 14.60 ± 1.06 ml/100ml/min) and control sessions (from 2.38 ± 0.10 to 13.73 ± 1.05 ml/100ml/min) regarding the increase in forearm blood flow during reactive hyperemia. However, this response was higher postexercise (from 3.38 ± 0.31 to 16.58 ± 1.58 ml/100ml/min) than postcontrol intervention (from 2.04 ± 0.23 to 11.98 ± 1.16 ml/100ml/min, P interaction < 0.001). BEI increased at 30- and 60-min postexercise (from 32 ± 7 to 42 ± 7 and 46 ± 7%), but not after control intervention (from 33 ± 6 to 31 ± 5 and 33 ± 7%, P interaction = 0.014). In contrast, cBRS decreased at 30-min postexercise (from 10.3 ± 1.9 to 8.2 ± 1.4 and 10.3 ± 2.1 ms/mmHg) and increased postcontrol intervention (from 7.9 ± 0.9 to 10.5 ± 1.5 and 10.3 ± 1.3 ms/mmHg, P interaction = 0.012).

CONCLUSION

The results suggest that a single bout of aerobic exercise improved cardiac baroreflex function and increased vascular reactivity in patients with early-stage cirrhosis.

Cirrhotic Cardiomyopathy

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Cirrhotic cardiomyopathy is a syndrome of depressed cardiac function in patients with cirrhosis. We aimed to review the historical background, pathophysiology and pathogenesis, diagnostic definitions, clinical relevance, and management of this syndrome.

RECENT FINDINGS

An inflammatory phenotype underlies the pathogenesis: gut bacterial translocation with endotoxemia stimulates cytokines and cardiodepressant factors, such as nitric oxide and endocannabinoids. Cardiomyocyte plasma membrane biochemical and biophysical changes also play a pathogenic role. These factors lead to impaired beta-adrenergic function. Proposed new echocardiographic criteria for the diagnosis of cirrhotic cardiomyopathy include systolic global longitudinal strain and indices of diastolic dysfunction. Cardiac dysfunction participates in the pathogenesis of hepatorenal syndrome and increased morbidity/mortality of cirrhotic patients to hemorrhage, infection, and surgery, including liver transplantation. There is no specific treatment, although β-adrenergic blockade and supportive management have been proposed, but it needs further study. Cirrhotic cardiomyopathy is a clinically relevant syndrome afflicting patients with established cirrhosis. Optimum management remains unclear, and further study is needed in this area.

Systolic anterior motion of mitral chordae tendineae: prevalence and clinical implications in liver transplantation

Background

Although systolic anterior motion (SAM) of the mitral valve anterior leaflet is well-known to cause hemodynamic perturbation in many anesthetic situations, the prevalence and clinical implication of SAM of mitral chordae tendineae (chordal SAM) in liver transplantation (LT) has not been evaluated. We aimed to assess the impact of chordal SAM on intraoperative postreperfusion syndrome and short and long-term all-cause mortality.

Methods

We retrospectively evaluated 1751 LT recipients from January 2011 to June 2017 who had preoperative echocardiography. Echocardiography-derived parameters and the prevalence of post-reperfusion syndrome between those with chordal SAM and without chordal SAM were compared. The cumulative mortality rate according to the presence of chordal SAM was evaluated by the Kaplan-Meier survival curve.

Results

Of the enrolled recipients, 21 (1.2%) had chordal SAM in preoperative echocardiography. Compared to those without chordal SAM, patients with chordal SAM had a smaller end-systolic volume index (median 18 ml/m² vs. 22 ml/m², P = 0.015) and end-diastolic volume index (median 52 ml/m² vs. 63 ml/m², P = 0.011). However, there was no difference in systolic and diastolic function in echocardiography. The prevalence of intraoperative post-reperfusion syndrome did not show any difference (42.9% vs. 45.3%, P = 1.000). Over the mean 4.8-year follow-up, cumulative 90-day and overall mortality also did not show a difference (Log rank P > 0.05, both).

Conclusions

Preoperative screening of echocardiography in LT recipients detects 1.2% of chordal SAM. It is found with small left ventricular volume, but is not related with intraoperative post-reperfusion syndrome and short- and long-term postoperative all-cause mortality in LT.

Exercise and physical activity in cirrhosis: opportunities or perils

Reduced exercise capacity and impaired physical performance are observed in nearly all patients with liver cirrhosis. Physical activity and exercise are physiological anabolic stimuli that can reverse dysregulated protein homeostasis or proteostasis and potentially increase muscle mass and contractile function in healthy subjects. Cirrhosis is a state of anabolic resistance, and unlike the beneficial responses to exercise reported in physiological states, there are few systematic studies evaluating the response to exercise in cirrhosis. Hyperammonemia is a mediator of the liver-muscle axis with net skeletal muscle ammonia uptake in cirrhosis causing signaling perturbations, mitochondrial dysfunction with decreased ATP content, modifications of contractile proteins, and impaired ribosomal function, all of which contribute to anabolic resistance in cirrhosis and have the potential to impair the beneficial responses to exercise. English language-publications in peer-reviewed journals that specifically evaluated the impact of exercise in cirrhosis were reviewed. Most studies evaluated responses to endurance exercise, and readouts included peak or maximum oxygen utilization, grip strength, and functional capacity. Endurance exercise for up to 12 wk is clinically tolerated in well-compensated cirrhosis. Data on the safety of resistance exercise are conflicting. Nutritional supplements enhance the benefits of exercise in healthy subjects but have not been evaluated in cirrhosis. Whether the beneficial physiological responses with endurance exercise and increase in muscle mass with resistance exercise that occur in healthy subjects also occur in cirrhotics is not known. Specific organ-system responses, changes in body composition, or improved long-term clinical outcomes with exercise in cirrhosis need evaluation.

Impaired Cardiac Reserve on Dobutamine Stress Echocardiography Predicts the Development of Hepatorenal Syndrome

OBJECTIVES

Cardiac dysfunction has been implicated in the genesis of hepatorenal syndrome (HRS). It is unclear whether a low cardiac output (CO) or attenuated contractile response to hemodynamic stress can predict its occurrence. We studied cardiovascular hemodynamics in cirrhosis and assessed whether a diminished cardiac reserve with stress testing predicted the development of HRS on follow-up.

METHODS

Consecutive patients undergoing liver transplant workup with dobutamine stress echocardiography (DSE) were included. CO was measured at baseline and during low-dose dobutamine infusion at 10 μg/kg/min. HRS was diagnosed using guideline-based criteria.

RESULTS

A total of 560 patients underwent DSE, of whom 488 were included after preliminary assessment. There were 64 (13.1%) patients with established HRS. The HRS cohort had a higher baseline CO (8.0 ± 2 vs 6.9 ± 2 L/min; P < 0.001) and demonstrated a blunted response to low-dose dobutamine (ΔCO 29 ± 22% vs 44 ± 32%, P < 0.001) driven primarily by inotropic incompetence. Optimal cutpoint for ΔCO in patients with HRS was determined to be <25% and was used to define a low cardiac reserve. Among the 424 patients without HRS initially, 94 (22.1%) developed HRS over a mean follow-up of 1.5 years. Higher proportion with a low cardiac reserve developed HRS (52 [55.0%] vs 56 [16.9%]; hazard ratio 4.5; 95% confidence interval 3.0-6.7; P < 0.001). In a Cox multivariable model, low cardiac reserve remained the strongest predictor for the development of HRS (hazard ratio 3.9; 95% confidence interval 2.2-7.0; P < 0.001).

DISCUSSION

Patients with HRS demonstrated a higher resting CO and an attenuated cardiac reserve on stress testing. On longitudinal follow-up, low cardiac reserve was an independent predictor for the development of HRS. Assessment of cardiac reserve with DSE may provide a novel noninvasive risk marker for developing HRS in patients with advanced liver disease.HRS is a life-threatening complication of liver disease. We studied whether an inability to increase cardiac contraction in response to stress can assist in the prediction of HRS. We demonstrate that patients with liver disease who exhibit cardiac dysfunction during stress testing had a 4-fold increased risk of developing HRS. This may improve our ability for early diagnosis and treatment of patients at a higher risk of developing HRS.

Protective role of cardiac-specific overexpression of caveolin-3 in cirrhotic cardiomyopathy

Cirrhotic cardiomyopathy is a clinical syndrome in patients with liver cirrhosis characterized by blunted cardiac contractile responses to stress and/or heart rate-corrected QT (QTc) interval prolongation. Caveolin-3 (Cav-3) plays a critical role in cardiac protection and is an emerging therapeutic target for heart disease. We investigated the protective role of cardiac-specific overexpression (OE) of Cav-3 in cirrhotic cardiomyopathy. Biliary fibrosis was induced in male Cav-3 OE mice and transgene negative (TG_neg) littermates by feeding a diet containing 3,5-diethoxycarbonyl-1,4-dihydrocollidine (DDC; 0.1%) for 3 wk. Liver pathology and blood chemistries were assessed, and stress echocardiography, telemetry, and isolated heart perfusion studies to assess adrenergic responsiveness were performed. Cav-3 OE mice showed a similar degree of hyperdynamic contractility, pulmonary hypertension, and QTc interval prolongation as TG_neg mice after 3 wk of DDC diet. Blunted systolic responses were shown in both DDC-fed Cav-3 OE and TG_neg hearts after in vivo isoproterenol challenge. However, QTc interval prolongation after in vivo isoproterenol challenge was significantly less in DDC-fed Cav-3 OE hearts compared with DDC-fed TG_neg hearts. In ex vivo perfused hearts, where circulatory factors are absent, isoproterenol challenge showed hearts from DDC-fed Cav-3 OE mice had better cardiac contractility and relaxation compared with DDC-fed TG_neg hearts. Although Cav-3 OE in the heart did not prevent cardiac alterations in DDC-induced biliary fibrosis, cardiac expression of Cav-3 reduced QTc interval prolongation after adrenergic stimulation in cirrhosis.NEW & NOTEWORTHY Prevalence of cirrhotic cardiomyopathy is up to 50% in cirrhotic patients, and liver transplantation is the only treatment. However, cirrhotic cardiomyopathy is associated with perioperative morbidity and mortality after liver transplantation; therefore, management of cirrhotic cardiomyopathy is crucial for successful liver transplantation. This study shows cardiac myocyte specific overexpression of caveolin-3 (Cav-3) provides better cardiac contractile responses and less corrected QT prolongation during adrenergic stress in a cirrhotic cardiomyopathy model, suggesting beneficial effects of Cav-3 expression in cirrhotic cardiomyopathy.

Autonomic and diastolic dysfunction association with quality of life impairment in cirrhotic patients

BACKGROUND AND STUDY AIMS

Cirrhosis is a multisystem disorder characterized by hyperdynamic circulation which can progress to multiple organ dysfunctions. Recent studies have demonstrated autonomic dysfunction and cirrhotic cardiomyopathy including diastolic dysfunction, systolic dysfunction with electrophysiologic abnormalities in patients with cirrhosis. Due to the long and complicated course of the disease, health related quality of life is affected. We aimed to evaluate the frequency of diastolic dysfunction and autonomic dysfunction in cirrhosis, and the effects on health-related quality of life.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Hundred cirrhotic patients were enrolled in the study. According to the Child-Pugh classification 35 patients were of Child A, 36 of Child B and 29 of Child C. The proportion of autonomic dysfunction was 52%, and diastolic dysfunction 51%. Autonomic dysfunction was diagnosed using bedside maneuvers and tests; diastolic dysfunction was diagnosed using the E/A ratio in echocardiographic findings. Health-related quality of life measurements was obtained from an SF-36 questionnaire.

RESULTS

Patients with advanced Child-Pugh classifications were found to have significantly lower health-related quality of life values (p < 0.05). Likewise, health-related quality of life values were observed to be significantly lower in patients with autonomic dysfunction (p < 0.05). No significant difference was found in health related quality of life measurements between patients with and without diastolic dysfunction.

CONCLUSION

Our study showed that autonomic dysfunction and diastolic dysfunction are found in patients with cirrhosis. Further studies are needed to assess the effects of autonomic dysfunction and diastolic dysfunction on health-related quality of life.

Cardiac Imaging in Liver Transplantation Candidates: Current Knowledge and Future Perspectives

Cardiovascular dysfunction in cirrhotic patients is a recognized clinical entity commonly referred to as cirrhotic cardiomyopathy. Systematic inflammation, autonomic dysfunction, and activation of vasodilatory factors lead to hyperdynamic circulation with high cardiac output and low peripheral vascular resistance. Counter acting mechanisms as well as direct effects on cardiac cells led to systolic or diastolic dysfunction and electromechanical abnormalities, which are usually masked at rest but exposed at stress situations. While cardiovascular complications and mortality are common in patients undergoing liver transplantation, they cannot be adequately predicted by conventional cardiac examination including transthoracic echocardiography. Newer echocardiography indices and other imaging modalities such as cardiac magnetic resonance have shown increased diagnostic accuracy with predictive implications in cardiovascular diseases. The scope of this review was to describe the role of cardiac imaging in the preoperative assessment of liver transplantation candidates with comprehensive analysis of the future perspectives anticipated by the use of newer echocardiography indices and cardiac magnetic resonance applications.

Association of Autoimmune Hepatitis and Cardiovascular Disease

BACKGROUND

Autoimmune Hepatitis is a chronic liver disease while Cardiovascular Disease is seen in inflammatory states. This study sought to determine if Cardiovascular Disease was associated with Autoimmune Hepatitis.

METHODS

The National Inpatient Sample selected patients with a primary diagnosis of Autoimmune Hepatitis and secondary diagnosis of Cardiovascular Disease in 2014. The primary outcome was the association of Autoimmune Hepatitis with Cardiovascular Disease. Secondary outcomes evaluated the hospital burden with Cardiovascular Disease.

RESULTS

16,375 patients with Autoimmune Hepatitis were included in the study. There was a decreased association between Autoimmune Hepatitis and Cardiovascular Disease (aOR 0.77, 95% CI 0.69-0.85, p < 0.00), Coronary Artery Disease, (aOR 0.75, 95% CI 0.67-0.85, p < 0.00), and Peripheral Vascular Disease (aOR 0.75, 95% CI 0.60-0.93, p = 0.01). Moreover, Coronary Artery Disease comprises 84% of the overall Cardiovascular Disease cohort and did not demonstrate significantly increased length of stay (aOR -0.53, 95% CI -1.16 to 0.12, p = 0.11) or hospitalization cost (aOR -6711, 95% CI -14336 to 912, p = 0.08).

DISCUSSION

The decreased association between Autoimmune Hepatitis and Cardiovascular Disease is likely multifactorial in etiology. Consequently, this observation requires further examination with prospective trials.

Frailty, Sarcopenia, and Malnutrition in Cirrhotic Patients

Sarcopenia, frailty, and malnutrition are prevalent complications in patients with end-stage liver disease (ESLD) and are associated with increased risk of morbidity and mortality. It is valuable to measure nutritional status, sarcopenia, and frailty over time in order to create interventions tailored to individuals with ESLD. Evaluating sarcopenia and frailty in patients with ESLD is challenging. Further work is needed to perfect these assessments so that clinicians can incorporate these assessments into their decision-making and management plans for cirrhotic patients.