1
|
Management of splanchnic vein thrombosis. JHEP Rep 2023; 5:100667. [PMID: 36941824 PMCID: PMC10023986 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhepr.2022.100667] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2022] [Revised: 12/11/2022] [Accepted: 12/23/2022] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
The expression splanchnic vein thrombosis encompasses Budd-Chiari syndrome and portal vein thrombosis. These disorders have common characteristics: they are both rare diseases which can cause portal hypertension and its complications. Budd-Chiari syndrome and portal vein thrombosis in the absence of underlying liver disease share many risk factors, among which myeloproliferative neoplasms represent the most common; a rapid comprehensive work-up for risk factors of thrombosis is needed in these patients. Long-term anticoagulation is indicated in most patients. Portal vein thrombosis can also develop in patients with cirrhosis and in those with porto-sinusoidal vascular liver disease. The presence and nature of underlying liver disease impacts the management of portal vein thrombosis. Indications for anticoagulation in patients with cirrhosis are growing, while transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt is now a second-line option. Due to the rarity of these diseases, studies yielding high-grade evidence are scarce. However, collaborative studies have provided new insight into the management of these patients. This article focuses on the causes, diagnosis, and management of patients with Budd-Chiari syndrome, portal vein thrombosis without underlying liver disease, or cirrhosis with non-malignant portal vein thrombosis.
Collapse
Key Words
- BCS, Budd-Chiari syndrome
- CALR, calreticulin
- Cavernoma
- DOACs, direct-acting oral anticoagulants
- Direct oral anticoagulants
- EHPVO, extrahepatic portal vein obstruction
- GFR, glomerular filtration rate
- JAK2, Janus kinase 2
- LMWH, low-molecular-weight heparin
- MPN, myeloproliferative neoplasm
- MTHFR, methylene-tetrahydrofolate reductase
- PNH, paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria
- PVT, portal vein thrombosis
- Portal biliopathy
- Portal vein recanalisation
- SVT, splanchnic vein thrombosis
- TIPS, transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt
- VKAs, vitamin K antagonists
- Vascular liver diseases
Collapse
|
2
|
Implications of anaemia and response to anaemia treatment on outcomes in patients with cirrhosis. JHEP Rep 2023; 5:100688. [PMID: 36926273 PMCID: PMC10011825 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhepr.2023.100688] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2022] [Revised: 12/29/2022] [Accepted: 01/12/2023] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Background & Aims Anaemia is frequently observed in patients with cirrhosis and was identified as a predictor of adverse outcomes, such as increased mortality and occurrence of acute-on-chronic liver failure. To date, the possible effects of iron supplementation on these adverse outcomes are not well described. We therefore aimed to assess the role of iron supplementation in patients with cirrhosis and its capability to improve prognosis. Methods Laboratory diagnostics were performed in consecutive outpatients with cirrhosis admitted between July 2018 and December 2019 to the University Hospital Essen. Associations with transplant-free survival were assessed in regression models. Results A total of 317 outpatients with cirrhosis were included, of whom 61 received a liver transplant (n = 19) or died (n = 42). In multivariate Cox regression analysis, male sex (hazard ratio [HR] = 3.33, 95% CI [1.59, 6.99], p = 0.001), model for end-stage liver disease score (HR = 1.19, 95% CI [1.11, 1.27], p <0.001) and the increase of haemoglobin levels within 6 months (ΔHb6) (HR = 0.72, 95% CI [0.63, 0.83], p <0.001) were associated with transplant-free survival. Regarding the prediction of haemoglobin increase, intake of rifaximin (beta = 0.50, SD beta = 0.19, p = 0.007) and iron supplementation (beta = 0.79, SD beta = 0.26, p = 0.003) were significant predictors in multivariate analysis. Conclusions An increase of haemoglobin levels is associated with improvement of transplant-free survival in patients with cirrhosis. Because the prediction of haemoglobin increase significantly depends on rifaximin and iron supplementation, application of these two medications can have an important impact on the outcome of these patients. Impact and implications Anaemia is very common in patients with cirrhosis and is known to be a predictor of negative outcomes, but little is known about the effect of iron substitution in these individuals. In our cohort, increase of haemoglobin levels improved transplant-free survival of patients with cirrhosis. The increase of haemoglobin levels was mainly induced by iron supplementation and was even stronger in the case of concomitant use of iron and rifaximin. Clinical trial registration UME-ID-10042.
Collapse
Key Words
- ACLF, acute-on-chronic liver failure
- AIH, autoimmune hepatitis
- ALT, alanine aminotransferase
- AP, alkaline phosphatase
- AST, aspartate aminotransferase
- CRP, C-reactive protein
- Haemoglobin
- INR, international normalised ratio
- Iron deficiency
- Iron supplementation
- LT, liver transplantation
- Liver transplantation
- MELD, model for end-stage liver disease
- NASH, non-alcoholic steatohepatitis
- NSBBs, non-selective beta blockers
- PBC, primary biliary cholangitis
- PSC, primary sclerosing cholangitis
- Rifaximin
- SSC, secondary sclerosing cholangitis
- TIPS, transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt
- aPTT, activated partial thromboplastin time
- ΔHb3, difference of haemoglobin levels after 3 months
- ΔHb6, difference of haemoglobin levels after 6 months
Collapse
|
3
|
Palliative Care for Patients with End-Stage Liver Disease. J Clin Exp Hepatol 2023; 13:319-328. [PMID: 36950499 PMCID: PMC10025682 DOI: 10.1016/j.jceh.2022.08.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2022] [Accepted: 08/07/2022] [Indexed: 02/17/2023] Open
Abstract
End-stage liver disease (ESLD) is the culmination of progression of chronic liver disease to cirrhosis, decompensation, and chronic liver failure, featuring portal hypertension or hepatocellular failure-related complications. Liver transplantation offers improved long-term survival for these patients but is negatively influenced by donor availability, financial constraints in developing countries, active substance abuse, progression of disease or malignancy on wait-list, sepsis and extrahepatic organ involvement. In this context, palliative care (PC), an interdisciplinary medical practice that aim to prevent and relieve suffering, offers best possible quality of life and is not limited to end-of-life care. It also encompasses achievable goals such as symptom control and aggressive disease-modifying treatments or interventions that beneficially alter the natural course of the disease to offer curative intend. In this narrative review, we discuss the prognostic factors that define disease course in ESLD, various indications and challenges in PC for advanced cirrhosis and management options for major symptom burden in patients with ESLD based on evidence-based best practice.
Collapse
Key Words
- ACLF
- ACLF, acute-on-chronic liver failure
- CPT, Child–Pugh–Turcotte
- ESLD, end-stage liver disease
- HE, hepatic encephalopathy
- INR, international normalized ratio
- LSM, liver stiffness measurement
- LT, liver transplantation
- MELD, model for end stage liver disease
- PC, palliative care
- TE, transient elastography
- TIPS, transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt
- ascites
- cirrhosis
- end of life care
- hepatic encephalopathy
- hyponatremia
- portal hypertension
- sepsis
Collapse
|
4
|
Treatment Options for Hepatic Venous Outflow Tract Obstruction: Is the Scale Tipping in Favor of TIPS? J Clin Exp Hepatol 2022; 12:1403-1405. [PMID: 36340299 PMCID: PMC9630011 DOI: 10.1016/j.jceh.2022.09.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2022] [Accepted: 09/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
|
5
|
Long-Term Improvement in Liver Function Following Transjugular Intrahepatic Portosystemic Shunt in Patients With Budd-Chiari Syndrome. J Clin Exp Hepatol 2022; 12:1474-1479. [PMID: 36340317 PMCID: PMC9630014 DOI: 10.1016/j.jceh.2022.07.251] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2022] [Accepted: 07/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) relieves hepatic venous obstruction in Budd-Chiari syndrome (BCS), but the effect on liver function is unclear, particularly outside the immediate post-treatment period. This study aims to evaluate the long-term impact of TIPS on liver function and outcomes in BCS patients. Methods Twenty patients with BCS who underwent TIPS from 1999 to 2018 were included. Demographic data and clinical data at the time of TIPS procedure, 6 months, 12 months, 2 years, 5 years, and 10 years post-TIPS were collected. Results There were 13 (13/20, 65%) women and 7 (7/20, 35%) men with a mean age at the time of TIPS of 42.6 ± 12.8 years. The median time from BCS diagnosis to TIPS was 41 (IQR: 4-165) days. The number of patients with severe ascites decreased significantly from 10/17 (58.8%) at the time of TIPS, to 1/16 (7.7%), 1/13 (7.7%), 2/16 (12.5%), 1/14 (7.1%), and 0/8 (0%) at 6 months, 12 months, 2 years, 5 years and 10 years post-TIPS, respectively. 4/20 (20%) patients developed new hepatic encephalopathy post-TIPS procedure. Child-Pugh score significantly decreased from a score of 9.4 ± 1.8 pre-TIPS to 7.6 ± 1.8 at 6 months, 7.4 ± 1.5 at 12 months, 7.3 ± 1.6 at 2 years, 6.8 ± 1.5 at 5 years, and 6.4 ± 0.7 at 10 years post-TIPS. Fifteen (15/20, 75%) patients required TIPS revision including 4 (4/15, 26.7%) within 30 days, 2 (2/15, 13.3% within 1 month to 1 year, and 9 (9/15, 60%) at more than 1 year. Eight (8/20, 40%) patients underwent liver transplantation (LT) at median time of 7.3 (IQR 3.2-12.9) years after TIPS. Conclusion TIPS placement for BCS results in sustained resolution of symptoms and improved liver function. Despite the frequent need for revisions, the long-term durability of TIPS can forgo the need for LT in the majority of patients.
Collapse
|
6
|
Abstract
Portal hypertension is the cause of the clinical complications associated with cirrhosis. The primary complications of portal hypertension are ascites, acute variceal bleed, and hepatic encephalopathy. Hepatic venous pressure gradient measurement remains the gold standard test for diagnosing cirrhosis-related portal hypertension. Hepatic venous pressure gradient more than 10 mmHg is associated with an increased risk of complications and is termed clinically significant portal hypertension (CSPH). Clinical, laboratory, and imaging methods can also aid in diagnosing CSPH non-invasively. Recently, deep learning methods have been demonstrated to diagnose CSPH effectively. The management of portal hypertension is always individualized and is dependent on the etiology, the availability of therapies, and the degree of portal hypertension complications. In this review, we discuss the diagnosis and management of cirrhosis-related portal hypertension in detail. Also, we highlight the history of portal hypertension and future research areas in portal hypertension.
Collapse
Key Words
- ACLF, acute-on-chronic liver failure
- AKI, acute kidney injury
- APRI, AST to platelet ratio
- AST, aspartate transaminase
- BB, Beta blocker
- BRTO, balloon occluded retrograde transvenous obliteration
- CKD, chronic kidney disease
- CSPH, clinically significant portal hypertension
- CT, computed tomography
- GFR, glomerular filtration rate
- GOV, gastrpoesopahegal varices
- HE, hepatic encephalopathy
- HRS, hepatorenal syndrome
- HVPG, hepatic venous pressure gradient
- ICG, indocyanine green
- LOLA, l-ornithine l-aspartate
- NAFLD, Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease
- SBP, spontaneous bacterial peritonitis
- SGLT2I, sodium glucose co-transporter 2 inhibitors
- SSM, splenic stiffness measurement
- TE, transient elastography
- TIPS, transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt
- VITRO, von Willebrand factor to platelet counts
- acute kidney injury
- ascites
- hemodynamics
- history
- vasoconstrictors
Collapse
|
7
|
Clinical Implications, Evaluation, and Management of Hyponatremia in Cirrhosis. J Clin Exp Hepatol 2022; 12:575-594. [PMID: 35535075 PMCID: PMC9077240 DOI: 10.1016/j.jceh.2021.09.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2021] [Accepted: 09/06/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Hyponatremia is the most common electrolyte abnormality in patients with decompensated cirrhosis on Liver Transplantation (LT) waiting list. Most of these patients have dilutional or hypervolemic hyponatremia secondary to splanchnic vasodilatation. Excessive secretion of the antidiuretic hormone also plays an important role. Hypervolemic hyponatremia is commonly associated with refractory ascites, spontaneous bacterial peritonitis, and hepatic encephalopathy. Although uncommon, the use of diuretics and laxatives can cause hypovolemic hyponatremia that is characterized by the striking absence of ascites or pedal edema. Clinical features are often nonspecific and depend on the acuity of onset rather than the absolute value of serum sodium. Symptoms may be subtle, including nausea, lethargy, weakness, or anorexia. However, rarely patients may present with confusion, seizures, psychosis, or coma. Treatment includes discontinuation of diuretics, beta-blockers, and albumin infusion. Hypertonic saline (3%) infusion may be used in patients with very low serum sodium (<110 mmol/L) or when patients present with seizures or coma. Short-term use of Vasopressin (V2) receptor antagonists may also be used to normalize sodium levels prior to LT. However, all these measures may be futile, and LT remains the definite treatment in these patients to improve survival. In this review, we describe the classification, pathogenesis of hyponatremia, and its clinical implications in patients with cirrhosis. Approach to these patients along with management will also be discussed briefly.
Collapse
Key Words
- ACE, angiotensin-converting enzyme
- ACLF, acute-on-chronic liver failure
- ACTH, adrenocorticotropic hormone
- ADH
- ADH, antidiuretic hormone
- AKI, acute kidney injury
- AVP, arginine vasopressin
- CLIF, chronic liver failure
- CNS, central nervous system
- CTP, Child-Turcotte-Pugh
- CVVHD, continuous venovenous hemofiltration
- DAMP, damage-associated molecular patterns
- EABV, effective arterial blood volume
- FENa, fractional excretion of sodium
- HE, hepatic encephalopathy
- HRS, hepatorenal syndrome
- LT, liver transplantation
- LVP, large volume paracentesis
- MAP, mean arterial pressure
- MELD, model of end-stage liver disease
- NO, nitric oxide
- NSBB, nonselective beta-blockers
- PAMP, pathogen-associated molecular patterns
- PICD, paracentesis-induced circulatory dysfunction
- PPCD, post-paracentesis circulatory dysfunction
- PRA, plasma renin activity
- RA, refractory ascites
- RAAS, renin-angiotensin-aldosterone-system
- RAI, relative adrenal insufficiency
- RBF, renal blood flow
- SBP, spontaneous bacterial peritonitis
- SIADH, syndrome of inappropriate ADH secretion
- SMT, standard medical treatment
- SNS, sympathetic nervous system
- TBW, total body water
- TIPS, transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt
- advanced cirrhosis
- albumin
- hyponatremia
- liver transplantation
- sNa, serum sodium
Collapse
|
8
|
Abstract
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.
Collapse
Key Words
- 2-AG, 2-arachidonylglycerol
- 2D, two-dimensional
- AEA, Anandamide
- ANP, Atrial Natriuretic Peptide
- ASE, the American Society of Echocardiography
- AUC, area under the curve
- BA, bile acid
- BNP, Brain natriuretic peptide
- CAD, coronary artery disease
- CB-1, cannabinoid −1
- CCM, Cirrhotic Cardiomyopathy
- CMR, cardiovascular magnetic resonance imaging
- CO, cardiac output
- CT, computed tomography
- CTP, Child–Turcotte–Pugh
- CVP, central venous pressure
- DT, deceleration Time
- ECG, electrocardiogram
- ECV, extracellular volume
- EF, Ejection fraction
- EMD, electromechanical desynchrony
- ESLD, end-stage liver disease
- FXR, Farnesoid X receptor
- GI, gastrointestinal
- GLS, Global Longitudinal strain
- HCN, Hyperpolarization-activated cyclic nucleotide–gated
- HE, hepatic encephalopathy
- HF, heart failure
- HO, Heme oxygenase
- HPS, hepatopulmonary syndrome
- HR, heart rate
- HRS, hepatorenal syndrome
- HVPG, hepatic venous pressure gradient
- HfmrEF, heart failure with mid-range ejection fraction
- HfrEF, heart failure with reduced ejection fraction
- IVC, Inferior Vena Cava
- IVCD, IVC Diameter
- IVS, intravascular volume status
- L-NAME, NG-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester
- LA, left atrium
- LAVI, LA volume index
- LGE, late gadolinium enhancement
- LT, liver transplant
- LV, left ventricle
- LVDD, left ventricular diastolic dysfunction
- LVEDP, left ventricular end-diastolic pressure
- LVEDV, LV end diastolic volume
- LVEF, left ventricular ejection fraction
- LVESV, LV end systolic volume
- LVOT, left ventricular outflow tract
- MAP, mean arterial pressure
- MELD, Model for End-Stage Liver Disease
- MR, mitral regurgitation
- MRI, Magnetic resonance imaging
- MV, mitral valve
- NAFLD, Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease
- NO, nitric oxide
- NOS, Nitric oxide synthases
- NTProBNP, N-terminal proBNP
- PAP, pulmonary artery pressure
- PCWP, pulmonary capillary wedged pressure
- PHT, portal hypertension
- PWD, Pulsed-wave Doppler
- RV, right ventricle
- RVOT, right ventricular outflow tract
- SA, sinoatrial
- SD, standard deviation
- SV, stroke volume
- SVR, Systemic vascular resistance
- TDI, tissue Doppler imaging
- TIPS, transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt
- TR, Tricuspid valve
- TRPV1, transient receptor potential cation channel subfamily V member 1
- TTE, transthoracic echocardiography
- USG, ultrasonography
- VTI, velocity time integral
- beta blocker
- cirrhotic cardiomyopathy
- hemodynamics in cirrhosis
- left ventricular diastolic dysfunction
Collapse
|
9
|
Reply to: "Prophylactic blood products transfusion in post-endoscopic band ligation bleeding - 'tag in TEG' ". JHEP Rep 2022; 4:100394. [PMID: 34934935 PMCID: PMC8661545 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhepr.2021.100394] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2021] [Accepted: 11/09/2021] [Indexed: 10/19/2022] Open
|
10
|
Abstract
Acute variceal bleeding is the major cause of mortality in patients with cirrhosis. The standard medical and endoscopic treatment has reduced the mortality of variceal bleeding from 50% to 10-20%. The refractory variceal bleed is either because of failure to control the bleed or failure of secondary prophylaxis. The patients refractory to standard medical therapy need further interventions. The rescue therapies include balloon tamponade, self-expanding metal stents (SEMS) placement, shunt procedures, including transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS), balloon-occluded retrograde transvenous obliteration (BRTO), and endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) guided coiling. In cases where endoscopic variceal ligation (EVL) has failed and the variceal bleeding continues, temporary measures like balloon tamponade can be used to achieve hemostasis and as a bridge to definitive measures. SEMS being in use for refractory bleed is preferred over balloon tamponade due to the reduced complication rate. The shunting procedures are highly effective in reducing portal pressure and represent the gold standard for uncontrolled variceal bleeding. The surgical shunts, as well as nonshunt surgeries such as devascularization have become less popular with the increasing use of minimally invasive techniques like TIPS. TIPS have high success rates in controlling refractory variceal bleeding. The mortality rate is greater in high-risk patients undergoing salvage TIPS, and hence, pre-emptive TIPS should be considered in these patients. BRTO is an interventional radiologic procedure used in the management of bleeding gastric and ectopic varices. The availability of gastrorenal or splenorenal shunts is required for the BRTO procedure, which helps to reach and obliterate the cardiofundal varices through the femoral or jugular vein approach. The EUS guided coiling and glue injection have shown promising results, and further randomized controlled trials are required to establish their efficacy for refractory variceal bleeding.
Collapse
Key Words
- BAATO, balloon-assisted antegrade transvenous obliteration
- BRTO
- BRTO, balloonoccluded retrograde transvenous obliteration
- DIPS, direct intrahepatic portacaval shunt
- EUS guided coiling
- EUS, endoscopic ultrasound
- EVL, endsocopic variceal ligation
- HVPG, hepatic venous pressure gradient
- PARTO, plug-assisted retrograde transvenous obliteration
- PTFE, polytetrafluoroethylene
- PVT, portal vein thrombosis
- TIPS, transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt
- TIPSS
- portal hypertension
- refractory variceal bleed
Collapse
|
11
|
A new choice of stent for transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt creation: Viabahn ePTFE covered stent/bare metal stent combination. J Interv Med 2021; 4:32-38. [PMID: 34805945 PMCID: PMC8562232 DOI: 10.1016/j.jimed.2020.10.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2020] [Revised: 09/29/2020] [Accepted: 10/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives To compare the clinical outcomes in terms of structure and function between the insertion of a transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) created with the Viabahn ePTFE covered stent/bare metal stent (BMS) combination and the Fluency ePTFE covered stent/BMS combination. Methods A total of 101 consecutive patients who received a TIPS from February 2016 to August 2018 in our center were retrospectively analyzed. Sixty-four subjects were enrolled in the Viabahn group and 37 were enrolled in the Fluency group. The geometry characteristics of the TIPS were calculated, and the associated occurrence of shunt dysfunction, survival, overt hepatic encephalopathy, and variceal rebleeding were evaluated. Results The technical success rate was 100%. After the insertion of the TIPS, the rate of shunt dysfunction during the first 3 months was significantly different between the Viabahn and Fluency groups (1.6% and 13.5%, respectively; p = 0.024). Multivariate analysis indicated that the angle of portal venous inflow (α) was the only independent risk factor for shunt dysfunction (hazard ratio = 1.060, 95% confidence interval = 1.009–1.112, p = 0.020). In addition, 3 months after the TIPS insertion, the α angle distinctly increased from 20.9° ± 14.3°–26.9° ± 20.1° (p = 0.005) in the Fluency group but did not change significantly in the Viabahn group (from 21.9° ± 15.1°–22.9° ± 17.6°, p = 0.798). Conclusions Shunt dysfunction was related to the α angle owing to the slight effect on the α angle after the implantation of the TIPS. The Viabahn ePTFE covered stent/BMS combination was more stable in structure and promised higher short-term stent patency compared with the Fluency ePTFE covered stent/BMS combination.
Collapse
|
12
|
Histological activity despite normal ALT and IgG serum levels in patients with autoimmune hepatitis and cirrhosis. JHEP Rep 2021; 3:100321. [PMID: 34381983 PMCID: PMC8333110 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhepr.2021.100321] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2020] [Revised: 05/14/2021] [Accepted: 05/31/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS In autoimmune hepatitis (AIH), normal levels of transaminases and IgG define biochemical remission and are considered the best surrogate markers for histological remission. This study assessed whether this also applies to patients with AIH cirrhosis. METHODS In this European multicentric study, we included 125 biopsies from 113 patients with AIH and histologically proven cirrhosis; 105 biopsies from 104 patients with AIH without cirrhosis served as controls. Biochemical parameters were available within 4 weeks of biopsy. AIH activity was graded according to the modified Hepatitis Activity Index (mHAI), with mHAI ≥4/18 considered to indicate risk of disease progression. RESULTS In total, 47 out of 125 liver biopsies were obtained from patients with AIH cirrhosis and normal ALT levels at time of biopsy. Only 26% (12/47) of those livers showed histological remission (mHAI <4/18), whereas 36% (17/47) showed moderate to high histological activity (mHAI ≥6/18). In patients with noncirrhotic AIH, 88% (46/52 biopsies) of cases with normal ALT levels had histological remission and only 4% (2/52) had an mHAI ≥6/18 (p <0.001). The addition of IgG to define complete biochemical remission only slightly improved the association with histological remission in the limited number of patients with AIH cirrhosis available for analysis [29% (5/17) of biopsies with mHAI <4/18]. ALT correlated closely with mHAI in AIH without cirrhosis but poorly in AIH with cirrhosis. CONCLUSIONS In contrast to patients with noncirrhotic AIH, in patients with AIH cirrhosis, who are at risk of disease progression, normal ALT levels and potentially also complete biochemical remission are poor surrogate markers of histological remission. Thus, new biomarkers are needed to monitor disease activity and progression in patients with AIH cirrhosis. LAY SUMMARY Autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) is an inflammatory disease of the liver that usually responds to immunosuppressive therapy. Serum transaminases and IgG levels within the normal ranges define complete biochemical remission and are considered as surrogate markers for histological disease activity. Here, we show that those biochemical markers are not sufficient to indicate low disease activity in patients with AIH and already established cirrhosis. Consequently, until better biomarkers for disease activity are found, only liver biopsy can reliably indicate disease activity in the presence of cirrhosis. Additional investigations, such as measurements of liver stiffness, should be undertaken to monitor non-invasively for disease progression in patients with AIH and established cirrhosis.
Collapse
Key Words
- AIH, autoimmune hepatitis
- ALD, alcoholic liver disease
- ALP, alkaline phosphatase
- ALT, alanine aminotransferase
- AST, aspartate aminotransferase
- Autoimmune hepatitis
- Biochemical remission
- Cirrhosis
- EASL, European Association for the Study of the Liver
- Histological activity
- ICC, intraclass correlation coefficient
- INR, international normalised ratio
- LLN, lower limit of normal
- Liver biopsy
- MELD, model for end-stage liver disease
- NAFLD, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease
- TE, transient elastography
- TIPS, transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt
- ULN, upper limit of normal
- gamma-GT, gamma glutamyl transferase
- mHAI
- mHAI, modified Hepatitis Activity Index
Collapse
|
13
|
Portal hypertension in cirrhosis: Pathophysiological mechanisms and therapy. JHEP Rep 2021; 3:100316. [PMID: 34337369 PMCID: PMC8318926 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhepr.2021.100316] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2020] [Revised: 04/19/2021] [Accepted: 05/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Portal hypertension, defined as increased pressure in the portal vein, develops as a consequence of increased intrahepatic vascular resistance due to the dysregulation of liver sinusoidal endothelial cells (LSECs) and hepatic stellate cells (HSCs), frequently arising from chronic liver diseases. Extrahepatic haemodynamic changes contribute to the aggravation of portal hypertension. The pathogenic complexity of portal hypertension and the unsuccessful translation of preclinical studies have impeded the development of effective therapeutics for patients with cirrhosis, while counteracting hepatic and extrahepatic mechanisms also pose a major obstacle to effective treatment. In this review article, we will discuss the following topics: i) cellular and molecular mechanisms of portal hypertension, focusing on dysregulation of LSECs, HSCs and hepatic microvascular thrombosis, as well as changes in the extrahepatic vasculature, since these are the major contributors to portal hypertension; ii) translational/clinical advances in our knowledge of portal hypertension; and iii) future directions.
Collapse
Key Words
- ACE2, angiogenesis-converting enzyme 2
- ACLF, acute-on-chronic liver failure
- AT1R, angiotensin II type I receptor
- CCL2, chemokine (C-C motif) ligand 2
- CCl4, carbon tetrachloride
- CLD, chronic liver disease
- CSPH, clinically significant portal hypertension
- Dll4, delta like canonical Notch ligand 4
- ECM, extracellular matrix
- EUS, endoscopic ultrasound
- FXR
- FXR, farnesoid X receptor
- HCC, hepatocellular carcinoma
- HRS, hepatorenal syndrome
- HSC
- HSCs, hepatic stellate cells
- HVPG, hepatic venous pressure gradient
- Hsp90, heat shock protein 90
- JAK2, Janus kinase 2
- KO, knockout
- LSEC
- LSEC, liver sinusoidal endothelial cells
- MLCP, myosin light-chain phosphatase
- NET, neutrophil extracellular trap
- NO
- NO, nitric oxide
- NSBB
- NSBBs, non-selective beta blockers
- PDE, phosphodiesterase
- PDGF, platelet-derived growth factor
- PIGF, placental growth factor
- PKG, cGMP-dependent protein kinase
- Rho-kinase
- TIPS
- TIPS, transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt
- VCAM1, vascular cell adhesion molecule 1
- VEGF
- VEGF, vascular endothelial growth factor
- angiogenesis
- eNOS, endothelial nitric oxide synthase
- fibrosis
- liver stiffness
- statins
- β-Arr2, β-arrestin 2
- β1-AR, β1-adrenergic receptor
- β2-AR, β2-adrenergic receptor
Collapse
|
14
|
Controlled underdilation using novel VIATORR® controlled expansion stents improves survival after transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt implantation. JHEP Rep 2021; 3:100264. [PMID: 34013182 PMCID: PMC8113713 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhepr.2021.100264] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2021] [Revised: 02/11/2021] [Accepted: 02/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Background & Aims Smaller 8-mm diameter transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunts (TIPS) appear to be more beneficial than larger 10-mm TIPS stent-grafts, but lack the ability for secondary dilation in cases of clinical ineffectiveness. Underdilated VIATORR® TIPS stent grafts (VTS) expand passively, whereas novel VIATORR Controlled Expansion (VCX) stent grafts do not. This study evaluated the impact on survival of underdilated VCX compared with VTS in patients with decompensated cirrhosis. Methods This was a prospective case-control study including patients with cirrhosis receiving TIPS using 10-mm VCX underdilated to 8 mm. Patients with cirrhosis receiving 10-mm VTS underdilated to 8 mm were matched for age, sex, indication for TIPS, and liver function. Results A total of 114 patients (47 VCX, 47 VTS, and 20 fully dilated VCX/VTS) were included. After TIPS implantation, underdilated VCX diameter was 8.0 (7.8-9.2) mm at a median time of 359 (87-450) days, compared with VTS at 9.9 (9.7-10.0) mm (p <0.001). The portosystemic pressure gradient immediately after TIPS procedure and after 7 days did not change significantly in VCX [mean 9.4 (± 0.8) vs. 10.4 (± 0.7) mmHg, p = 0.115). Hospital readmission rates for hepatic encephalopathy were 23% (n = 11) vs 51% (n = 24) for VCX and VTS (p <0.001), respectively. Patients with VCX had significantly lower rates of large-volume paracentesis (n = 5 [11%] vs. n = 10 [21%], p = 0.017) and heart failure (n = 1 [2%] vs. n = 7 [15%], p = 0.015). One-year mortality for underdilated VCX and VTS was 15% (n = 7) and 30% (n = 14) and, for fully dilated VCX/VTS, was 45% (n = 9) (log-rank p = 0.008), respectively. Conclusions This study demonstrated that VCX stent grafts underdilated to 8 mm do not passively expand to nominal diameter and suggests reduced hospital readmissions because of hepatic encephalopathy, uncontrolled ascites, and heart failure, and improved 1-year survival compared with underdilated VTS. Lay summary Transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) improves survival in selected patients with liver cirrhosis and acute variceal bleeding or refractory ascites. Smaller 8-mm diameter TIPS stent grafts appear to improve patient outcome compared with larger 10-mm diameter stent grafts. Novel VIATORR® Controlled Expansion (VCX) stent grafts facilitate safe and stable underdilation to 8 mm of large 10-mm diameter stent grafts with improved patient outcome (survival, hepatic encephalopathy, ascites and heart failure) compared with legacy VIATORR TIPS stent graft (VTS). Thus, the use of underdilated VCX could preserve heart function. Clinical Trials Registration The study is registered at Clinicaltrials.govNCT03628807.
Collapse
Key Words
- Acute decompensation
- Ascites
- CT, computed tomography
- Cirrhosis
- HE, hepatic encephalopathy
- HF, heart failure
- Hepatic encephalopathy
- LV, left ventricular
- LV-GLS, LV global longitudinal strain
- LVP, large-volume paracentesis
- Liver
- MELD, model of end-stage liver disease
- NEPTUN, Non-invasive Evaluation Program for TIPS and follow Up Network
- PSPG, portosystemic pressure gradient
- PTFE, polytetrafluorethylene
- RA, recurrent/refractory ascites
- RAAS, renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system
- SPSS, spontaneous portosystemic shunt
- TIPS
- TIPS, transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt
- TTE, transthoracic echocardiography
- Transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt
- VB, variceal bleeding
- VCX, VIATORR controlled expansion
- VTS, VIATORR TIPS stent
Collapse
|
15
|
Real-world experience with obeticholic acid in patients with primary biliary cholangitis. JHEP Rep 2021; 3:100248. [PMID: 33681748 PMCID: PMC7930359 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhepr.2021.100248] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2020] [Revised: 11/23/2020] [Accepted: 01/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Background & aims Obeticholic acid (OCA) is the second-line treatment approved for patients with primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) and an inadequate response or intolerance to ursodeoxycholic acid. We aimed to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of OCA under real-world conditions. Methods Patients were recruited into the Italian PBC Registry, a multicentre, observational cohort study that monitors patients with PBC at national level. The primary endpoint was the biochemical response according to Poise criteria; the secondary endpoint was the biochemical response according to normal range criteria, defined as normal levels of bilirubin, alkaline phosphatase (ALP), and alanine aminotransferase (ALT) at 12 months. Safety and tolerability were also assessed. Results We analysed 191 patients until at least 12 months of follow-up. Median age was 57 years, 94% female, 61 (32%) had cirrhosis, 28 (15%) had histologically proven overlap with autoimmune hepatitis (PBC-AIH). At 12 months, significant median reductions of ALP (-32.3%), ALT (-31.4%), and bilirubin (-11.2%) were observed. Response rates were 42.9% according to Poise criteria, and 11% by normal range criteria. Patients with cirrhosis had lower response than patients without cirrhosis (29.5% vs. 49.2%, p = 0.01), owing to a higher rate of OCA discontinuation (30% vs. 12%, p = 0.004), although with similar ALP reduction (29.4% vs. 34%, p = 0.53). Overlap PBC-AIH had a similar response to pure PBC (46.4% vs. 42.3%, p = 0.68), with higher ALT reduction at 6 months (-38% vs. -29%, p = 0.04). Thirty-three patients (17%) prematurely discontinued OCA because of adverse events, of whom 11 experienced serious adverse events. Treatment-induced pruritus was the leading cause of OCA discontinuation (67%). Conclusions Effectiveness and safety of OCA under real-world conditions mirror those in the Poise trial. Patients with cirrhosis had lower tolerability. Overlap PBC-AIH showed higher ALT reduction at 6 months compared with patients with pure PBC. Lay summary Obeticholic acid (OCA) was shown to be effective in more than one-third of patients not responding to ursodeoxycholic acid in a real-world context in Italy. Patients with cirrhosis had more side effects with OCA, and this led to suspension of the drug in one-third of patients. OCA was also effective in patients who had overlap between autoimmune hepatitis and primary biliary cholangitis.
Collapse
Key Words
- AIH, autoimmune hepatitis
- ALP, alkaline phosphatase
- ALT, alanine transferase
- AMA, antimitochondrial antibodies
- ANA, antinuclear antibodies
- AST, aspartate transferase
- Autoimmunity
- CRFs, case record forms
- Cholestasis
- Cirrhosis
- EDC, electronic data capture
- GGT, gamma-glutamyl transferase
- OC, Overall cohort
- OCA, obeticholic acid
- Overlap PBC-AIH
- PBC, primary biliary cholangitis
- QC, quality control
- RCT, randomised controlled trial
- RR, risk ratio
- TCC, Treatment Completer Cohort
- TIPS, transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt
- UDCA, ursodeoxycholic acid
- ULN, upper limit of normal
- aRR, adjusted risk ratio
Collapse
|
16
|
|
17
|
Profiling circulating microRNAs in patients with cirrhosis and acute-on-chronic liver failure. JHEP Rep 2021; 3:100233. [PMID: 33665588 PMCID: PMC7902550 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhepr.2021.100233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2020] [Revised: 12/02/2020] [Accepted: 12/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background & Aims MicroRNAs (miRNAs) circulate in several body fluids and can be useful biomarkers. The aim of this study was to identify blood-circulating miRNAs associated with cirrhosis progression and acute-on-chronic liver failure (ACLF). Methods Using high-throughput screening of 754 miRNAs, serum samples from 45 patients with compensated cirrhosis, decompensated cirrhosis, or ACLF were compared with those from healthy individuals (n = 15). miRNA levels were correlated with clinical parameters, organ failure, and disease progression and outcome. Dysregulated miRNAs were evaluated in portal and hepatic vein samples (n = 33), liver tissues (n = 17), and peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) (n = 16). Results miRNA screening analysis revealed that circulating miRNAs are dysregulated in cirrhosis progression, with 51 miRNAs being differentially expressed among all groups of patients. Unsupervised clustering and principal component analysis indicated that the main differences in miRNA expression occurred at decompensation, showing similar levels in patients with decompensated cirrhosis and those with ACLF. Of 43 selected miRNAs examined for differences among groups, 10 were differentially expressed according to disease progression. Moreover, 20 circulating miRNAs were correlated with model for end-stage liver disease and Child-Pugh scores. Notably, 11 dysregulated miRNAs were associated with kidney or liver failure, encephalopathy, bacterial infection, and poor outcomes. The most severely dysregulated miRNAs (i.e. miR-146a-5p, miR-26a-5p, and miR-191-5p) were further evaluated in portal and hepatic vein blood and liver tissue, but showed no differences. However, PBMCs from patients with cirrhosis showed significant downregulation of miR-26 and miR-146a, suggesting a extrahepatic origin of some circulating miRNAs. Conclusions This study is a repository of circulating miRNA data following cirrhosis progression and ACLF. Circulating miRNAs were profoundly dysregulated during the progression of chronic liver disease, were associated with failure of several organs and could have prognostic utility. Lay summary Circulating miRNAs are small molecules in the blood that can be used to identify or predict a clinical condition. Our study aimed to identify miRNAs for use as biomarkers in patients with cirrhosis or acute-on-chronic liver failure. Several miRNAs were found to be dysregulated during the progression of disease, and some were also related to organ failure and disease-related outcomes. Circulating miRNAs are dysregulated with cirrhosis progression and in patients with ACLF. Patient decompensation is associated with important changes in the levels of circulating miRNAs. A total of 11 circulating miRNAs were identified as associated with organ failure and 7 with poor outcome. The miRNAs most dysregulated during cirrhosis progression were miR-146a, miR-26a, and miR-191. miR-146a was dysregulated in PBMCs of patients with decompensated cirrhosis vs. compensated cirrhosis.
Collapse
Key Words
- ACLF, acute-on-chronic liver failure
- ALT, alanine aminotransferase
- AST, aspartate aminotransferase
- Biomarkers
- CXCL10, C-X-C motif chemokine ligand 10
- Chronic liver disease
- EF CLIF, European Foundation for the Study of Chronic Liver Failure
- FoxO, forkhead box O
- INR, International Normalised Ratio
- LDH, lactate dehydrogenase
- Liver decompensation
- MAPK, mitogen-activated protein kinase
- MELD, model for end-stage liver disease
- NASH, non-alcoholic steatohepatitis
- Non-coding RNAs
- PBMCs, peripheral blood mononuclear cells
- PCA, principal component analysis
- TGF, transforming growth factor
- TIPS, transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt
- qPCR, quantitative PCR
Collapse
|
18
|
Balance between macrophage migration inhibitory factor and sCD74 predicts outcome in patients with acute decompensation of cirrhosis. JHEP Rep 2020; 3:100221. [PMID: 33659891 PMCID: PMC7890204 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhepr.2020.100221] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2020] [Revised: 11/18/2020] [Accepted: 12/03/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Background & Aims Macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF) is an inflammatory cytokine and an important regulator of innate immune responses. We hypothesised that serum concentrations of MIF are associated with disease severity and outcome in patients with decompensated cirrhosis and acute-on-chronic liver failure (ACLF). Methods Circulating concentrations of MIF and its soluble receptor CD74 (sCD74) were determined in sera from 292 patients with acute decompensation of cirrhosis defined as new onset or worsening of ascites requiring hospitalisation. Of those, 78 (27%) had ACLF. Short-term mortality was assessed 90 days after inclusion. Results Although serum concentrations of MIF and sCD74 did not correlate with liver function parameters or ACLF, higher MIF (optimum cut-off >2.3 ng/ml) and lower concentrations of sCD74 (optimum cut-off <66.5 ng/ml) both indicated poorer 90-day transplant-free survival in univariate analyses (unadjusted hazard ratio [HR] 2.01 [1.26-3.22]; p = 0.004 for MIF; HR 0.59 [0.38-0.92]; p = 0.02 for sCD74) and after adjustment in multivariable models. Higher MIF concentrations correlated with surrogates of systemic inflammation (white blood cells, p = 0.005; C-reactive protein, p = 0.05) and were independent of genetic MIF promoter polymorphisms. Assessment of MIF plasma concentrations in portal venous blood and matched blood samples from the right atrium in a second cohort of patients undergoing transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt insertion revealed a transhepatic MIF gradient with higher concentrations in the right atrial blood. Conclusions Serum concentrations of MIF and its soluble receptor CD74 predict 90-day transplant-free survival in patients with acute decompensation of cirrhosis. This effect was independent of liver function and genetic predispositions, but rather reflected systemic inflammation. Therefore, MIF and sCD74 represent promising prognostic markers beyond classical scoring systems in patients at risk of ACLF. Lay summary Inflammatory processes contribute to the increased risk of death in patients with cirrhosis and ascites. We show that patients with high serum levels of the inflammatory cytokine macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF) alongside low levels of its binding receptor sCD74 in blood indicate an increased mortality risk in patients with ascites. The cirrhotic liver is a relevant source of elevated circulating MIF levels.
Collapse
Key Words
- ACLF, acute-on-chronic liver failure
- ALT, alanine aminotransferase
- AST, aspartate aminotransferase
- Acute-on-chronic liver failure
- Biomarker
- CRP, C-reactive protein
- CXCL10, C-X-C motif chemokine
- HCC, hepatocellular carcinoma
- Inflammation
- Liver cirrhosis
- MELD, model for end-stage liver disease
- MIF, macrophage migration inhibitory factor
- SBP, spontaneous bacterial peritonitis
- SDC, stable decompensated cirrhosis
- SHR, subdistribution hazard ratio
- SNP, single nucleotide polymorphism
- Survival
- TIPS, transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt
- UDC, unstable decompensated cirrhosis
- WBC, white blood cell count
- sCD74, soluble receptor CD74
Collapse
|
19
|
Where does TIPS fit in the management of patients with cirrhosis? JHEP Rep 2020; 2:100122. [PMID: 32671331 PMCID: PMC7347999 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhepr.2020.100122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2019] [Revised: 04/20/2020] [Accepted: 05/11/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
In this review, we summarise the current knowledge on the indications and contraindications of transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) placement for the treatment of the complications of portal hypertension in cirrhosis, specifically variceal haemorrhage and ascites. Moreover, we discuss the role of TIPS for the treatment of portal vein thrombosis (PVT) and the prevention of complications after extrahepatic surgery ('preoperative TIPS') in patients with cirrhosis. The position of TIPS in the treatment hierarchy depends on the clinical setting and on patient characteristics. In acute variceal haemorrhage, preemptive TIPS is indicated in patients at a high risk of failing standard therapy, that is those with a Child-Pugh score of 10-13 points or Child-Pugh B with active bleeding at endoscopy, although the survival benefit in the latter group still remains to be established. Non-preemptive TIPS is a second-line therapy for the prevention of recurrent variceal haemorrhage and for the treatment of ascites. Of note, TIPS may also improve sarcopenia. Contraindications to TIPS placement, independent of clinical setting, include very advanced disease (Child-Pugh >13 points), episodes of recurrent overt hepatic encephalopathy without an identifiable precipitating factor, heart failure, and pulmonary hypertension. In patients with PVT, TIPS placement not only controls complications of portal hypertension, but also promotes portal vein recanalisation. Although the severity of portal hypertension correlates with poor outcomes after extrahepatic surgery, there is no evidence to recommend preoperative TIPS placement.
Collapse
Key Words
- ACLF, acute-on-chronic liver failure
- AKI, acute kidney injury
- ARR, absolute risk reduction
- AVB, acute variceal bleeding
- Ascites
- BNP, brain natriuretic peptide
- BRTO, balloon-occluded retrograde transvenous obliteration
- Bleeding
- CHF, chronic heart failure
- CLD, chronic liver disease
- CSPH, clinically significant portal hypertension
- Cirrhosis
- EVL, endoscopic variceal ligation
- GOV, gastro-oesophageal varices
- HCC, hepatocellular carcinoma
- HE, hepatic encephalopathy
- HVPG, hepatic venous pressure gradient
- Haemorrhage
- ICA, International Club of Ascites
- IGV, isolated gastric varices
- INR, international normalised ratio
- ISMN, isosorbide mononitrate
- LVP+A, LVP with albumin
- LVP, large-volume paracenteses
- MELD, model for end-stage liver disease
- NNT, number needed to treat
- NSBB, non-selective beta blocker
- OS, overall survival
- PCI, percutaneous coronary intervention
- PFTE, polytetrafluoroethylene
- PLT, platelet count
- PSE, portosystemic encephalopathy
- PV, portal vein
- PVT, portal vein thrombosis
- Portal hypertension
- Portal vein thrombosis
- RA, refractory ascites
- RCTs, randomised controlled trials
- SBP, spontaneous bacterial peritonitis
- SEMS, self-expandable metallic stent
- TFS, transplant-free survival
- TIPS, transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt
- Transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt
Collapse
|
20
|
Hepatobiliary MR contrast agents are useful to diagnose hepatocellular carcinoma in patients with Budd-Chiari syndrome. JHEP Rep 2020; 2:100097. [PMID: 32435753 PMCID: PMC7232085 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhepr.2020.100097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2020] [Accepted: 02/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Hepatobiliary phase (HBP) images can discriminate between benign and malignant liver lesions, but it is unclear if this approach can be used in patients with Budd-Chiari syndrome (BCS). Thus, we aimed to assess the diagnostic utility of HBP images in patients with BCS. METHODS This retrospective study included all patients admitted to our institution with a diagnosis of BCS and focal liver lesions on hepatobiliary contrast agent-enhanced MR imaging (HBCA-MRI) from 2000 to 2019. MR images were reviewed by 2 radiologists blinded to the diagnosis of the lesions. Patient and lesion characteristics were recorded, focusing on HBP imaging features. RESULTS Twenty-six patients (mean 35 ± 11 years old [13-65]; 21 women [81%] 35 ± 12 years old [13-65]; 5 men [19%] 36 ± 10 years old [19-44]) with 99 benign liver lesions and 12 hepatocellular carcinomas (HCCs) were analyzed. Patients with HCC were significantly older than those with benign lesions (mean 50 ± 10 vs. 33 ± 9 years old, p = 0.003), with higher alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) levels (3/4 [75%] vs. 1/22 [5%] with AFP >15 ng/ml, p <0.001). Homogeneous hypointense signals were identified on HBP in 14 lesions, including 12/12 (100%) HCCs, and 2/99 (2%) benign lesions (p <0.001). Most benign liver lesions showed either peripheral (n = 52/99 [53%]) or homogeneous hyperintensity (n = 23/99 [23%]) on HBP. Lesions with signal hypointensity on HBP in patients with AFP serum levels >15 ng/ml were all HCCs. CONCLUSION Most benign lesions showed homogeneous or peripheral hyperintensity on HBP images while all HCCs were homogeneously hypointense. HBP images are helpful to differentiate between benign lesions and HCCs and outperform other sequences. They should be systematically acquired for the characterization of focal lesions in patients with BCS. LAY SUMMARY Hepatobiliary phase imaging is an approach that has recently been shown to discriminate between benign and malignant lesions in the liver. However, it was not known whether this imaging approach could be used effectively in patients with Budd-Chiari syndrome. Herein, we have shown that hepatobiliary phase imaging appears to be useful for differentiating between benign and malignant liver lesions in patients with Budd-Chiari syndrome.
Collapse
Key Words
- AFP, alpha-fetoprotein
- APHE, arterial phase hyperenhancement
- BCS, Budd-Chiari syndrome
- FNH, focal nodular hyperplasia-like
- HBP, hepatobiliary phase
- HCC
- HCC, hepatocellular carcinoma
- Imaging
- LR, likelihood ratio
- MRI
- OATP, organic anionic transporting polypeptides
- T1-w, T1-weighted imaging
- TIPS, transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt
- WO, washout
- liver cancer
- non-invasive
- tumor
- vascular liver disease
Collapse
|
21
|
Beta-blockers in cirrhosis: Evidence-based indications and limitations. JHEP Rep 2020; 2:100063. [PMID: 32039404 PMCID: PMC7005550 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhepr.2019.12.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2019] [Revised: 11/29/2019] [Accepted: 12/03/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Non-selective beta-blockers (NSBBs) are the mainstay of treatment for portal hypertension in the setting of liver cirrhosis. Randomised controlled trials demonstrated their efficacy in preventing initial variceal bleeding and subsequent rebleeding. Recent evidence indicates that NSBBs could prevent liver decompensation in patients with compensated cirrhosis. Despite solid data favouring NSBB use in cirrhosis, some studies have highlighted relevant safety issues in patients with end-stage liver disease, particularly with refractory ascites and infection. This review summarises the evidence supporting current recommendations and restrictions of NSBB use in patients with cirrhosis.
Collapse
Key Words
- ACLF
- ACLF, acute-on-chronic liver failure
- AKI, acute kidney injury
- ALD, alcohol-related liver disease
- ARD, absolute risk difference
- AV, atrioventricular
- EBL, endoscopic band ligation
- GOV, gastroesophageal varices
- HRS, hepatorenal syndrome
- HVPG, hepatic venous pressure gradient
- IGV, isolated gastric varices
- IRR, incidence rate ratio
- ISMN, isosorbide mononitrate
- MAP, mean arterial pressure
- NASH, non-alcoholic steatohepatitis
- NNH, number needed to harm
- NNT, number needed to treat
- NR, not reported
- NSBBs
- NSBBs, non-selective beta-blockers
- OR, odds ratio
- PH, portal hypertension
- PHG, portal hypertensive gastropathy
- RCT, randomised controlled trials
- RR, risk ratio
- SBP, spontaneous bacterial peritonitis
- SCL, sclerotherapy
- TIPS, transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt
- ascites
- cirrhosis
- portal hypertension
- spontaneous bacterial peritonitis
- varices
Collapse
|
22
|
Left Ventricular Diastolic Dysfunction is Associated with Renal Dysfunction, Poor Survival and Low Health Related Quality of Life in Cirrhosis. J Clin Exp Hepatol 2019; 9:324-333. [PMID: 31360025 PMCID: PMC6637070 DOI: 10.1016/j.jceh.2018.08.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2018] [Accepted: 08/22/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The presence of left ventricular diastolic dysfunction (LVDD) in patients with cirrhosis leads to a restriction of activities and a poor health related quality of life (HRQoL), which should be taken into consideration when treating them for liver and cardiac complications. AIMS The prevalence, complications, predictors of HRQoL and survival in cirrhotic patients with LVDD were studied. METHODS We report a prospective cohort study of 145 consecutive cirrhotic patients with LVDD who were evaluated for cardiac functional status at enrollment and followed up for hepatic complications, cardiac events, outcome and HRQoL using the Minnesota Living With Heart Failure Questionnaire (MLHFQ) over a period of 2 years. RESULTS In total, 145 (mean age 61 years, 59% male) patients were included. Seventeen patients died with 10.5%, 22.5% and 40% mortality rates in patients with Grades 1, 2 and 3 LVDD respectively over 24 months. The parameters that were significant for predicting mortality on bivariate analysis were MELD, MELDNa, hepatic venous pressure gradient, MLHFQ, and left ventricular (LV) diastolic function (e' and E/e' ratio), but only MELD, MELDNa and E/e' remained significant on multivariate analysis. The E/e' ratio (8.7 ± 3.3 in survivors vs. 9.1 ± 2.3 in non-survivors) predicted outcome. On univariate analysis, the predictors of poor HRQoL were the Child-Pugh score ≥9.8 (OR 2.6; 95% confidence intervals (CI) 2.3-9.1, P = 0.041), MELD score ≥ 15.7 (OR 2.48; 95% CI 1.4-3.9, P = 0.029), refractory ascites (OR 1.9; 95% CI 1.1-6.1, P = 0.050), and E/e' ratio ≥7.6 (OR 1.9; 95% CI 1.8-7.1, P = 0.036) The presence of Class II/III (P = 0.046) symptoms of heart failure and MLHFQ≥ 45 (P = 0.042) were predictors of mortality at 24 months. CONCLUSION The grade of LVDD correlates with liver function, clinical events, risk of renal dysfunction and HRQoL. Evaluation of novel therapies which target symptomatic improvement in LVDD, should be done with suitable outcome measures, including HRQoL assessment.
Collapse
Key Words
- 2D, two-dimensional
- A, atrial wave-filling peak
- ASE, the American Society of Echocardiography
- AUC, area under the curve
- BNP, brain natriuretic peptide
- CI, confidence interval
- CO, cardiac output
- DT, deceleration time
- E, E-wave transmitral peak early filling
- E/A, early diastolic mitral inflow velocity/late diastolic
- E/e′ ratio, E-wave transmitral/early diastolic mitral annular velocity
- FHVP, free hepatic venous pressure
- GI, gastrointestinal
- HE, hepatic encephalopathy
- HR, heart rate
- HRS, hepatorenal syndrome
- HVPG, hepatic venous pressure gradient
- Health related Quality of Life
- Heart Failure
- IVRT, isovolumetric relaxation time
- LT, liver transplantation
- LV, left ventricular
- LVDD, left ventricular diastolic dysfunction
- LVEF, left ventricular ejection fraction
- MAP, mean arterial pressure
- MELD, Model for End-Stage Liver Disease
- MLHFQ, Minnesota Living with Heart Failure questionnaire
- OR, Odds Ratio
- PAP, pulmonary artery pressure
- PCWP, pulmonary capillary wedged pressure
- PH, portal hypertension
- RAP, right atrial pressure
- RR, relative risk
- SBP, spontaneous bacterial peritonitis
- SD, standard deviation
- TDI, tissue Doppler imaging
- TIPS, transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt
- TTE, transthoracic echocardiography
- USG, ultrasonography
- WHVP, wedged hepatic venous pressures
- cirrhosis
- cirrhotic cardiomyopathy
- e′, early diastolic mitral annular velocity
- left ventricular diastolic dysfunction
Collapse
|
23
|
Race and Gradient Difference Are Associated with Increased Risk of Hepatic Encephalopathy Hospital Admission After Transjugular Intrahepatic Portosystemic Shunt Placement. J Clin Exp Hepatol 2018; 8:256-261. [PMID: 30302042 PMCID: PMC6175770 DOI: 10.1016/j.jceh.2017.12.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2017] [Accepted: 12/23/2017] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND/AIMS Hepatic encephalopathy (HE) is a well-recognized complication of transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) placement. The aim of this investigation was to evaluate incidence and predictors of post-TIPS HE necessitating hospital admission in a non-clinical trial setting. METHODS We performed a retrospective cohort study identifying 273 consecutive patients undergoing TIPS from 2010 to 2015 for any indication; 210 met inclusion/exclusion criteria. The primary endpoint was incidence of post-TIPS HE defined as encephalopathy with no other identifiable cause requiring hospitalization within 90 days of TIPS. Clinical demographics and procedural variables were collected and analyzed to determine predictors of readmission for post-TIPS HE. Categorical variables were analyzed using Fisher's exact test; continuous variables were compared using Levene's t-test and student's t-test; P < 0.05, significant. RESULTS Forty-two of 210 patients (20%) developed post-TIPS HE requiring hospitalization within 90 days. On analysis of cohorts (post-TIPS HE vs. no post-TIPS HE): non-white race (31.0% vs. 17.5%, P = 0.022) and increased hepatic venous pressure gradient (HVPG) difference during TIPS (10.5 vs. 8.9 mmHg, P = 0.030) were associated with an increased incidence of HE requiring readmission within 90 days. CONCLUSIONS HE remains a common complication of TIPS. Non-Caucasian race is a significant clinical demographic associated with increased risk for readmission. Independent of initial or final HVPG, HVPG difference appears to be a significant modifiable technical risk factor. In the absence of clear preventative strategies for post-TIPS encephalopathy, non-Caucasians with HVPG reductions >9 mmHg may require targeted follow up evaluation to prevent hospital readmission.
Collapse
|
24
|
Endoscopic Cyanoacrylate Glue Injection in Management of Gastric Variceal Bleeding: US Tertiary Care Center Experience. J Clin Exp Hepatol 2018; 8:181-187. [PMID: 29892182 PMCID: PMC5992314 DOI: 10.1016/j.jceh.2017.11.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2017] [Accepted: 11/09/2017] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND/AIMS Although endoscopic cyanoacrylate glue injection (ECGI) is recommended as first-line treatment for bleeding gastric varices (GV) there is still limited experience with this method in the US. Our aim was to analyze our 10-year experience of ECGI for treatment and prophylaxis of gastric variceal bleeding. METHODS Records of patients undergoing ECGI of GV at our US tertiary care center between 6/2005 and 5/2015 were reviewed. Assessed outcomes were primary hemostasis, early rebleeding during hospitalization, recurrent bleeding during follow-up, eradication and recurrence of GV. RESULTS Prophylactic ECGI was performed in 16 patients with large GV. Eradication was achieved in 15 (94%). During the median follow-up of 27 (IQR 7-47) months, 4 patients (26.6%) had variceal bleeding; all were treated successfully with ECGI. Fifty-seven patients underwent ECGI for GV bleeding. Primary hemostasis was achieved in all. Early rebleeding occurred in 2 (3.5%) and durable hemostasis could not be achieved. Follow-up beyond initial hospitalization was available in 41 patients. Bleeding recurred in 8 (19.5%) patients during a median follow-up of 12 (IQR, 3-51) months. Eradication of GV was achieved in 92% of patients but recurrent varices were found in 44% during a median follow up period of 33 months. CONCLUSION ECGI is effective in achieving hemostasis of bleeding GV and their eradication. Recurrent bleeding and recurrence of varices after complete obliteration however are not infrequent and continued surveillance is advisable.
Collapse
Key Words
- BRTO, balloon-occluded retrograde transvenous obliteration
- CT, computed tomography
- ECGI, endoscopic cyanoacrylate glue injection
- GV, gastric varices
- ICD-9CM, International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision, Clinical Modification
- IQR, interquartile range
- TIPS, transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt
- US, United States
- endoscopic cyanoacrylate glue injection
- gastric varices
- hemostasis
- variceal bleeding
Collapse
|
25
|
Prevalence of and Factors Associated With Minimal Hepatic Encephalopathy in Patients With Cirrhosis of Liver. J Clin Exp Hepatol 2018; 8:156-161. [PMID: 29892178 PMCID: PMC5992259 DOI: 10.1016/j.jceh.2017.06.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2017] [Accepted: 06/12/2017] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES Minimal hepatic encephalopathy (MHE), though highly prevalent, is a frequently underdiagnosed complication of cirrhosis of the liver. Because lack of time is reported as the major reason for non-testing, identifying patients at high risk of MHE would help in targeting them for screening. We aimed to determine the factors associated with MHE to help identify patient subgroups with a higher risk of MHE for targeted screening. METHODS Patients with cirrhosis of liver presenting between April 2015 and November 2016 were included. Those with a Psychometric Hepatic Encephalopathy Score (PHES) of ≤-5 points on psychometric testing were diagnosed to have MHE. Various demographic, clinical and laboratory parameters were included in a univariate and later multiple logistic regression models. RESULTS Of the 180 (male = 166, 92.2%) patients included 94 (52.2%) had MHE. Though serum albumin, serum total bilirubin, serum aspartate aminotransferase, international normalized ration, Child-Turcotte-Pugh and Model-For-End-Stage-Liver-Disease scores were significant on univariate analysis, only CTP score was found to be significantly associated with MHE (P = 0.002) on multivariate analysis. A higher CTP class was associated with a higher risk of the presence of MHE. The Odds ratio for having MHE was higher with CTP classes of B (P ≤ 0.001) and C (P ≤ 0.001) compared to class A. CONCLUSIONS MHE is a common complication in patients with cirrhosis of liver and higher CTP scores independently predict the presence of MHE. Patients with CTP class B and C have a higher risk of suffering from MHE than CTP class A. Screening of patients in CTP class B and C is likely to increase the MHE detection rates while saving time, although select CTP class A patients may also need screening in view of public safety or poor quality of life.
Collapse
Key Words
- AASLD, The American Association for Study of Liver disease
- ALT, alanine transaminase
- AST, aspartate transaminase
- C.I., confidence interval
- CTP, Child Turcotte Pugh
- Child Turcotte Pugh score
- DST, digit symbol test
- FCT, figure connection test
- HE, hepatic encephalopathy
- HRQOL, health-related quality of life
- INR, international normalized ratio
- ISHEN, International Society For Hepatic Encephalopathy and Nitrogen Metabolism
- K+, potassium
- Ltt, line tracing test
- MELD, Model For End-Stage Liver Disease
- MHE, minimal hepatic encephalopathy
- NCT, number connection test
- Na+, sodium
- OR, odds ratio
- PHES, psychometric hepatic encephalopathy score
- Q1,Q3, quartile 1 and quartile 3
- SD, standard deviation
- SDT, serial dotting test
- SPSS, Statistics Package for Social Sciences
- TIPS, transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt
- WBC, white blood cells
- cirrhosis of liver hepatic encephalopathy
- psychometric hepatic encephalopathy score
Collapse
|
26
|
Gastric Varices in Cirrhosis vs. Extrahepatic Portal Venous Obstruction and Response to Endoscopic N-butyl-2-cyanoacrylate Injection. J Clin Exp Hepatol 2017; 7:97-101. [PMID: 28663672 PMCID: PMC5478943 DOI: 10.1016/j.jceh.2016.09.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2016] [Accepted: 09/04/2016] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Gastric varices (GV) are found in patients with portal hypertension. Incidence of bleeding from GV is relatively low, but is severe, and associated with higher mortality. AIMS AND OBJECTIVES To compare the types of GV in cirrhosis vs. extrahepatic portal venous obstruction (EHPVO) and the results of endoscopic N-butyl-2-cyanoacrylate (NBC, glue) injection. METHODS Four hundred and fifty-four patients undergone glue injection of GV for primary prophylaxis or control of bleeding for first episode of bleeding from GV between August 2010 and August 2015 were analyzed. RESULTS Of 454 patients, 64% (n = 292) were cirrhotics and 36% (n = 162) had EHPVO. Types of GV were GOV1 in 16.4% (n = 48) of cirrhotics vs. 7.4% (n = 12) of EHPVO, GOV2 in 76.7% (n = 224) of cirrhotics vs. 53.1% (n = 86) of EHPVO, Isolated gastric Varices (IGV1) in 39.5% (n = 64) of patients with EHPVO vs. 6.8% (n = 20) cirrhotics. The patients were treated with NBC injections. The mean volume of glue injected was 2.89 ± 1.59 ml over a median of 1 session (range: 1-7). The total volume of glue required was lower in cirrhotics (2.44 ± 1.17 ml vs. 3.69 ± 1.91 ml, P < 0.05) than in EHPVO patients. One hundred and seventeen (40.1%) of cirrhotics required >1 sessions of glue injection as compared to 102 (63%) of EHPVO patients. Over mean follow up of 14.7 ± 6.46 months, rebleeding (10% vs. 13%) was similar in patients with cirrhosis and EHPVO and mortality (15.4% vs. 2.5%) was higher in cirrhotics than EHPVO. CONCLUSION In patients with bleeding from GV, GOV2 are more common in cirrhotics and IGV1 in patients with EHPVO. Patients with EHPVO required higher total volume of glue and more glue sessions for GV obturation.
Collapse
|
27
|
Management Patterns of Hepatic Encephalopathy: A Nationwide Survey in India. J Clin Exp Hepatol 2015; 5:199-203. [PMID: 26628837 PMCID: PMC4632100 DOI: 10.1016/j.jceh.2015.06.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2015] [Accepted: 06/30/2015] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION AND AIM Hepatic encephalopathy (HE) is a common complication of cirrhosis. There is no standard practice for its management. This survey was done to determine the diagnostic and therapeutic practices of physicians treating patients with HE in patients with cirrhosis. MATERIAL AND METHOD We designed a 21-item questionnaire, which was given to physicians working in academic and non-academic institutes and regularly treating patients with HE. RESULTS Of 500 printed questionnaires, we received 451 questionnaires [323 (72%) general physicians and 128 (28%) gastroenterologists] from academic and non-academic institutes. Commonest precipitating event of HE was upper gastrointestinal bleed (47%), constipation (18%) and spontaneous bacterial peritonitis (12%). Arterial ammonia was always measured at admission by 156 (35%) physicians, never measured by 128 (28%) and sometimes by 167 (37%). Prophylactic antibiotics were used by 54% of physicians on the day of admission irrespective of any precipitating event, and 13% used antibiotics only if cultures were positive while others used antibiotics only if patient needs intubation or had variceal bleed as the cause of precipitation of HE. Disaccharides remained the mainstay of treatment in the management of HE and were always used by 87% (n = 391) followed by LOLA (n = 297, 66%) and rifaximin (n = 276, 61%). Combination of therapy was used by 84% of respondents. Lactulose enema was used in patients with HE by 280 (62%) physicians and was thought to be as good as giving lactulose by mouth or nasogastric tube in the treatment of HE. Regarding the recovery of HE with the present mode of therapy, of 451 responses, only 11% (n = 49) got 90-100% response to present therapy for the recovery of HE, while 70-90% response was seen by n = 152 (34%) and 50-70% response was seen by n = 183 (41%). Lactulose was prescribed as secondary prophylaxis agent more by gastroenterologists than non-gastroenterologists (76% vs 41%, P = 0.001). Similarly, rifaximin was more prescribed by gastroenterologists at discharge compared to non-gastroenterologists (32% vs 17%, P = 0.001). CONCLUSION Non-absorbable disaccharides are the most commonly prescribed treatment for HE and for secondary prophylaxis of HE. Combination of therapy (lactulose and LOLA or lactulose and rifaximin) was commonly used by treating physicians.
Collapse
|
28
|
Abstract
Hepatic encephalopathy (HE) is an important complication of cirrhosis with significant morbidity and mortality. Management of HE primarily involves avoidance of precipitating factors and administration of various ammonia-lowering therapies such as non-absorbable disaccharides, antimicrobial agents like rifaximin and l-ornithine l-aspartate. The non-absorbable disaccharides which include lactulose and lactitol are considered the first-line therapy for the treatment of HE and in primary and secondary prophylaxis of HE. Lactitol is comparable to lactulose in the treatment of HE with fewer side effects. Rifaximin is effective in treatment of HE and recent systemic reviews found it comparable to disaccharides and is effective in secondary prophylaxis of HE. Many agents like l-ornithine l-aspartate, probiotics, zinc, sodium benzoate have been tried either alone or in combination with lactulose for the treatment of HE. Combination therapy of disaccharides either with rifaximin, l-ornithine l-aspartate, probiotics for the treatment of HE needs further validation in large studies.
Collapse
|
29
|
Abstract
Portal vein thrombosis is an important cause of portal hypertension. PVT occurs in association with cirrhosis or as a result of malignant invasion by hepatocellular carcinoma or even in the absence of associated liver disease. With the current research into its genesis, majority now have an underlying prothrombotic state detectable. Endothelial activation and stagnant portal blood flow also contribute to formation of the thrombus. Acute non-cirrhotic PVT, chronic PVT (EHPVO), and portal vein thrombosis in cirrhosis are the three main variants of portal vein thrombosis with varying etiological factors and variability in presentation and management. Procoagulant state should be actively investigated. Anticoagulation is the mainstay of therapy for acute non-cirrhotic PVT, with supporting evidence for its use in cirrhotic population as well. Chronic PVT (EHPVO) on the other hand requires the management of portal hypertension as such and with role for anticoagulation in the setting of underlying prothrombotic state, however data is awaited in those with no underlying prothrombotic states. TIPS and liver transplant may be feasible even in the setting of PVT however proper selection of candidates and type of surgery is warranted. Thrombolysis and thrombectomy have some role. TARE is a new modality for management of HCC with portal vein invasion.
Collapse
Key Words
- ACLA, anti-cardiolipin antibody
- AFP, alpha feto protein
- BCS, Budd-Chiari syndrome
- CDUS, color doppler ultrasonography
- CT, computed tomography
- CTP, Child Turcotte Pugh
- EHPVO, extra hepatic portal venous obstruction
- EST, endoscopic sclerotherapy
- HCC, hepatocellular carcinoma
- HVPG, hepatic venous pressure gradient
- IGF-1, insulin like growth factor-1
- IGFBP-3, insulin like growth factor binding protein-3
- INR, international normalized ratio
- JAK-2, Janus kinase 2
- LA, lupus anticoagulant
- LMWH, low molecular weight heparin
- MELD, model for end stage liver disease
- MPD, myeloproliferative disorder
- MRI, magnetic resonance imaging
- MTHFR, methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase
- MVT, mesenteric vein thrombosis
- OCPs, oral contraceptive pills
- PAI-1 4G-4G, plasminogen activator inhibitor type 1- 4G/4G genotype
- PNH, paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria
- PV, portal vein
- PVT
- PVT, portal vein thrombosis
- PWUS, Pulsed Wave ultrasonography
- RFA, radio frequency ablation
- SMA, superior mesenteric artery
- SMV, superior mesenteric vein
- TAFI, thrombin activatable fibrinolysis inhibitor
- TARE, Trans arterial radioembolization
- TB, tuberculosis
- TIPS, transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt
- UFH, unfractionated heparin
- acute and chronic
- anticoagulation
- imaging
- prothrombotic
- rtPA, recombinant tissue plasminogen activator
Collapse
|
30
|
Abstract
Portal vein thrombosis (PVT) is being increasingly recognized in patients with advanced cirrhosis and in those undergoing liver transplantation. Reduced flow in the portal vein is probably responsible for clotting in the spleno-porto-mesenteric venous system. There is also increasing evidence that hypercoagulability occurs in advanced liver disease and contributes to the risk of PVT. Ultrasound based studies have reported a prevalence of PVT in 10-25% of cirrhotic patients without hepatocellular carcinoma. Partial thrombosis of the portal vein is more common and may not have pathophysiological consequences. However, there is high risk of progression of partial PVT to complete PVT that may cause exacerbation of portal hypertension and progression of liver insufficiency. It is thus, essential to accurately diagnose and stage PVT in patients waiting for transplantation and consider anticoagulation therapy. Therapy with low molecular weight heparin and vitamin K antagonists has been shown to achieve complete and partial recanalization in 33-45% and 15-35% of cases respectively. There are however, no guidelines to help determine the dose and therapeutic efficacy of anticoagulation in patients with cirrhosis. Anticoagulation therapy related bleeding is the most feared complication but it appears that the risk of variceal bleeding is more likely to be dependent on portal pressure rather than solely related to coagulation status. TIPS has also been reported to restore patency of the portal vein. Patients with complete PVT currently do not form an absolute contraindication for liver transplantation. Thrombectomy or thromboendovenectomy is possible in more than 75% of patients followed by anatomical end-to-end portal anastomosis. When patency of the portal vein and/or superior mesenteric vein is not achieved, only non-anatomical techniques (reno-portal anastomosis or cavo-portal hemitransposition) can be performed. These techniques, which do not fully reverse portal hypertension, are associated with higher morbidity and mortality risks in the short term.
Collapse
Key Words
- DVT, deep vein thrombosis
- EVL, endoscopic variceal ligation
- INR, international normalized ratio
- IVC, inferior vena cava
- LMWH, low molecular weight heparin
- MELD, model for end stage liver disease
- MTHFR, methylene-tetrahydrofolate reductase
- PE, pulmonary embolism
- PT, prothrombin time
- PVT, portal vein thrombosis
- SMV, superior mesenteric vein
- TEG, thromboelastography
- TIPS, transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt
- US, ultrasonography
- VKA, vitamin K antagonists
- anticoagulation
- cirrhosis
- portal vein thrombosis
- portocaval hemitransposition
Collapse
|
31
|
Abstract
Mesenteric vein thrombosis is increasingly recognized as a cause of mesenteric ischemia. Acute thrombosis commonly presents with abdominal pain and chronic type with features of portal hypertension. Contrast enhanced CT scan of abdomen is quite accurate for diagnosing and differentiating two types of mesenteric venous thrombosis. Prothrombotic state, hematological malignancy, and local abdominal inflammatory conditions are common predisposing conditions. Over the last decade, JAK-2 (janus kinase 2) mutation has emerged as an accurate biomarker for diagnosis of myeloproliferative neoplasm, an important cause for mesenteric venous thrombosis. Anticoagulation is the treatment of choice for acute mesenteric venous thrombosis. Thrombolysis using systemic or transcatheter route is another option. Patients with peritoneal signs or refractory to initial measures require surgical exploration. Increasing recognition of mesenteric venous thrombosis and use of anticoagulation for treatment has resulted in reduction in the need for surgery with improvement in survival.
Collapse
|
32
|
Endoscopic management of portal cavernoma cholangiopathy: practice, principles and strategy. J Clin Exp Hepatol 2014; 4:S67-76. [PMID: 25755598 PMCID: PMC4244828 DOI: 10.1016/j.jceh.2013.08.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2013] [Accepted: 08/24/2013] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Portal cavernoma cholangiopathy (PCC) is the presence of typical cholangiographic changes in patients with a portal cavernoma due to chronic portal vein thrombosis, in the absence of other biliary tract diseases. Probably due to biliary stasis related to the cavernoma, there is a high incidence of biliary sludge and calculi in PCC, which trigger symptoms that resolve with appropriate interventions. Persistent and troublesome symptoms are usually due to biliary stenoses or strictures, which may occur with or without biliary calculi and may be short or long, solitary or multifocal, extrahepatic or intrahepatic. Experience with endoscopic interventions in PCC over the last twenty years has shown that it is the procedure of choice for bile duct calculi. Plastic stenting with repeated, timely, stent exchanges is the first line intervention for jaundice or cholangitis due to biliary strictures. If biliary obstruction does not resolve, portosystemic shunt surgery (PSS) or transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic stent shunt (TIPS) is performed to decompress the portal cavernoma. However, for patients with non-shuntable veins or blocked shunts, repeated plastic stent exchanges are the only option though there are reports of the use of biliary self-expandable metal stents in this situation. If symptomatic biliary obstruction persists after successful PSS or TIPS, second stage biliary surgery may be necessary. Recent experience suggests that treating biliary strictures in PCC on the lines of postoperative benign biliary strictures with balloon dilatation and repeated exchanges of plastic stent bundles may be effective therapy. Endoscopic management appears to be associated with an increased frequency of hemobilia, which usually responds to standard management. Recurrent cholangitis with formation of sludge and concretions may be a problem with repeated stent exchanges, especially if patient compliance is poor. In conclusion, the current understanding is that symptomatic PCC is best managed jointly by the endoscopist and surgeon with sequential interventions designed initially to establish and maintain biliary drainage, then to decompress the portal cavernoma and, finally, if required, second stage biliary surgery or endotherapy for biliary strictures. Endoscopic therapy occupies a central role in management before, during and after surgical therapy. Paradigms of endoscopic therapy continue to evolve as knowledge of pathogenesis and natural history improves and newer approaches and techniques are applied.
Collapse
|
33
|
Gastric Varices in Cirrhosis versus Extrahepatic Portal Venous Obstruction and Response to Endoscopic N-Butyl-2-cyanoacrylate Injection. J Clin Exp Hepatol 2013; 3:19-23. [PMID: 25755467 PMCID: PMC3940531 DOI: 10.1016/j.jceh.2013.01.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2012] [Accepted: 01/15/2013] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Gastric varices are found in patients with portal hypertension. Incidence of bleeding from gastric varices is relatively low, but tends to be more severe, and is associated with higher mortality than esophageal variceal bleeding. AIMS AND OBJECTIVES To compare the prevalence and types of gastric varices in cirrhosis versus extrahepatic portal venous obstruction (EHPVO) and the results of endoscopic N-butyl-2-cyanoacrylate (NBC, glue) injection. METHODS Eighty six patients presenting with bleeding from gastric varices between August 2010 and August 2011 were retrospectively analyzed. RESULTS Of 86 patients, 65% (n = 56) were cirrhotics and 35% (n = 30) had EHPVO. Distribution of types of gastric varices showed GOV1 in 14% (n = 8) of cirrhotics vs. 7% (n = 2) of EHPVO, GOV2 in 80% (n = 45) of cirrhotics vs. 53% (n = 16) of EHPVO, IGV1 in 40% (n = 12) of patients with EHPVO vs. 4% (n = 2) cirrhotics. The patients were treated with NBC injections. The mean volume of glue injected was 3.7 ± 2.58 ml over a median of 1 session (range: 1-8). The total volume of glue required was lower in cirrhotics (3.2 ± 2 ml vs. 4.7 ± 3.1 ml, p < 0.05) than in EHPVO patients. Twenty (36%) of cirrhotics required >1 sessions of glue injection as compared to 17 (57%) of EHPVO patients. Over mean follow up of 12 months, rebleeding (9% vs. 10%) and mortality (11% vs. 3%) were similar in patients with cirrhosis and EHPVO. CONCLUSIONS In patients with bleeding from gastric varices, GOV2 is more common in cirrhotics and IGV1 in patients with EHPVO. Patients with EHPVO required higher total volume of glue and more glue sessions for gastric varix obturation.
Collapse
Key Words
- EHPVO, extrahepatic portal venous obstruction
- EVL, endoscopic variceal ligation
- GOV, gastroesophageal varices
- GV, gastric varices
- GVH, gastric variceal hemorrhage
- IGV, isolated gastric varices
- NBC, N-butyl-2-cyanoacrylate
- PHT, portal hypertension
- SPSS, Statistical Package for Social Sciences
- TIPS, transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt
- endoscopic variceal ligation
- extrahepatic portal venous obstruction
- gastroesophageal varices
- isolated gastric varix
Collapse
|
34
|
Abstract
Surgery is often needed in patients with concurrent liver disease. The multiple physiological roles of the liver places these patients at an increased risk of morbidity and mortality. Diseases necessitating surgery like gallstones and hernia are more common in patients with cirrhosis. Assessment of severity of liver dysfunction before surgery is important and the risk benefit of the procedure needs to be carefully assessed. The disease severity may vary from mild transaminase rise to decompensated cirrhosis. Surgery should be avoided if possible in the emergency setting, in the setting of acute and alcoholic hepatitis, in a patient of cirrhosis who is child class C or has a MELD score more than 15 or any patient with significant extrahepatic organ dysfunction. In this subset of patients, all possible means to manage these patients conservatively should be attempted. Modified Child-Pugh scores and model for end-stage liver disease (MELD) scores can predict mortality after surgery fairly reliably including nonhepatic abdominal surgery. Pre-operative optimization would include control of ascites, correction of electrolyte imbalance, improving renal dysfunction, cardiorespiratory assessment, and correction of coagulation. Tests of global hemostasis like thromboelastography and thrombin generation time may be more predictive of the risk of bleeding compared with the conventional tests of coagulation in patients with cirrhosis. Correction of international normalized ratio with fresh frozen plasma does not necessarily mean reduction of bleeding risk and may increase the risk of volume overload and lung injury. International normalized ratio liver may better reflect the coagulation status. Recombinant factor VIIa in patients with cirrhosis needing surgery needs further study. Intra-operatively, safe anesthetic agents like isoflurane and propofol with avoidance of hypotension are advised. In general, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAIDs) and benzodiazepines should not be used. Intra-abdominal surgery in a patient with cirrhosis becomes more challenging in the presence of ascites, portal hypertension, and hepatomegaly. Uncontrolled hemorrhage due to coagulopathy and portal hypertension, sepsis, renal dysfunction, and worsening of liver failure contribute to the morbidity and mortality in these patients. Steps to reduce ascitic leaks and infections need to be taken. Any patient with cirrhosis undergoing major surgery should be referred to a specialist center with experience in managing liver disease.
Collapse
Key Words
- ABG, arterial blood gas
- ASA, American Society of Anesthesiologists
- Anesthesia
- BNP, brain natriuretic peptide
- COPD, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
- CTP, Child–Turcotte–Pugh
- CVP, central venous pressure
- Child–Pugh score
- FDP, fibrin degradation products
- FFP, fresh frozen plasma
- HPS, hepatopulmonary syndrome
- ICG, indocyanine green
- ICU, intensive care unit
- INR, international normalized ratio
- MELD, model for end-stage liver disease
- NSAID, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug
- PICD, paracentesis-induced circulatory dysfunction
- PT, prothrombin time
- PTT, partial thromboplastin time
- SBP, spontaneous bacterial peritonitis
- TEG, thromboelastogram
- TIPS, transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt
- cirrhosis
- coagulopathy
- hepatic
Collapse
|
35
|
Progression of noncirrhotic portal hypertension in a pediatric population. J Clin Exp Hepatol 2011; 1:169-76. [PMID: 25755382 PMCID: PMC3940171 DOI: 10.1016/s0973-6883(11)60234-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2011] [Accepted: 12/05/2011] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES The optimal management of children with noncirrhotic portal hypertension is controversial. Some groups suggest early and aggressive surgical intervention, while others report long-term success with conservative management. METHODS We conducted a retrospective study of 26 patients with noncirrhotic portal hypertension treated at our institution. We compared platelet counts, white blood cell (WBC) counts, spleen size, hospital admissions, gastrointestinal bleeds, and longitudinal trends of specific clinical parameters using standard univariate and time-trend analytic techniques. RESULTS Mean age at the time of diagnosis was 5.2 years. Portal vein thrombosis was found in 84.6% of patients (n=22). There was one mortality related to malignancy. There was not a progression of hypersplenism in patients that did not receive a shunt and conversely, we did not notice a significant decrease in spleen size following shunt surgery (P=0.2). Platelet and WBC counts trended downward among patients managed medically, while platelets increased and WBC counts remained stable in surgical patients. There was a significant decrease in hospital admissions for gastrointestinal bleeding following surgical intervention in the shunt group compared with nonshunt (P=0.0009). CONCLUSION While our analysis was limited given small sample sizes and selection bias, it suggests that the majority of pediatric patients with noncirrhotic portal hypertension will do well long-term without surgical intervention.
Collapse
|