Postoperative outcomes in older patients living with frailty and multimorbidity in the UK: SNAP-3, a snapshot observational study

BACKGROUND

Older surgical patients experience longer hospital stays and a higher risk of morbidity and mortality than their younger counterparts. Frailty (19.6% of cohort) and multimorbidity (63.1% of cohort) increase these risks. The 3rd Sprint National Anaesthesia Project (SNAP-3) describes the impact of frailty and multimorbidity on postoperative outcomes.

METHODS

We conducted a prospective observational cohort study over 5 days in 2022 aiming to recruit all UK patients aged ≥60 yr undergoing surgery (excluding minor procedures). Data included patient characteristics, clinical variables, Clinical Frailty Scale (CFS), multimorbidity (two or more comorbidities), length of stay (LOS), postoperative delirium, morbidity, and mortality. Quantile regression and mixed effects logistic regression were used to analyse relationships.

RESULTS

We recruited 7129 patients from 214 hospitals. Increasing frailty was associated with longer LOS, higher odds of delirium, morbidity, and mortality ≥1 yr, with a clear increase noted from CFS of 4 (19.0% of cohort). Amongst those without multimorbidity, individuals with CFS score of 4 had longer admissions than non-frail individuals (median LOS 0.75 days longer, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.34-1.16), increasing to 2.69 days longer for CFS 5 (95% CI 0.76-4.62). Multimorbidity increased the odds of postoperative morbidity by 46% (adjusted odds ratio 1.46, 95% CI 1.24-1.73), but there was no evidence for multimorbidity impacting LOS, delirium, or mortality.

CONCLUSIONS

SNAP-3 highlights the impact of frailty on postoperative outcomes. Multimorbidity had less impact, with an effect on postoperative morbidity the only one to have strong statistical evidence. The impact of these conditions must be discussed with older patients considering surgical intervention.

Metabolic reprogramming in cancer therapy-related cardiovascular toxicity: Mechanisms and intervention strategies

Cancer therapy-related cardiovascular toxicity (CTR-CVT) poses a major challenge in managing cancer patients, contributing significantly to morbidity and mortality among survivors. CTR-CVT includes various cardiovascular issues, such as cardiomyopathy, myocardial ischemia, arrhythmias, and vascular dysfunction, which significantly impact patient prognosis and quality of life. Metabolic reprogramming, characterized by disruptions in glucose, lipid, and amino acid metabolism, represents a shared pathophysiological feature of cancer and cardiovascular diseases; however, the precise mechanisms underlying CTR-CVT remain inadequately understood. In recent years, strategies targeting metabolic pathways have shown promise in reducing cardiovascular risks while optimizing cancer treatment efficacy. This review systematically summarizes metabolic reprogramming characteristics in both cancer and cardiovascular diseases, analyzes how anticancer therapies induce cardiovascular toxicity through metabolic alterations, and explores emerging therapeutic strategies targeting metabolic dysregulation. By integrating current research advancements, this review aims to enhance the understanding of CTR-CVT and provide groundwork for the development of safer and more effective cancer approaches.

Time required to achieve optimum viral load suppression with Ravidasvir/sofosbuvir in chronic hepatitis C patients with or without compensated cirrhosis

A study indicated that ravidasvir (RDV) has excellent safety and tolerability when used with sofosbuvir (SOF) to treat chronic HCV infection. The aim of this study was to determine the time taken by RDV/SOF to achieve optimum viral load suppression in chronic hepatitis C patients with or without compensated cirrhosis. Data from the open-label, multicentre, single-arm, phase II/III clinical trial (STORM-C-1) were utilized. Time‒to-event analysis via Kaplan-Meier curves was performed to determine the time required to achieve optimum viral load suppression in both the cirrhotic and noncirrhotic groups. Multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed to identify potential predictors of achieving suppression within four and eight weeks. The time to achieve optimum viral load suppression ranged from six to 85 days and from five to 148 days among noncirrhotic and cirrhotic patients, respectively. Among noncirrhotic patients, 80.6% achieved optimum viral load suppression within 4 weeks, and 92.6% achieved this within 8 weeks. Among cirrhotic patients, 76.1% and 90.4% achieved optimum viral load suppression within 4 and 8 weeks, respectively. Notably, optimum viral load suppression differs from sustained virological response (SVR12), which is defined as undetectable HCV RNA 12 weeks after treatment completion. While the study demonstrates promising early viral suppression, it does not evaluate the efficacy of a shortened regimen. Further research is needed to assess whether shorter treatment durations maintain high SVR12 rates without compromising treatment success.

Predictive Factors of Post-ERCP Hepatic Decompensation in Patients with Cirrhosis: A Retrospective Case-Control Study

BACKGROUND AND AIM

Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) is a crucial diagnostic and therapeutic procedure in patients with cirrhosis; however, it carries the risk of post-procedural hepatic decompensation. This study aims to identify predictive factors associated with post-ERCP hepatic decompensation in patients with cirrhosis to better inform clinical decision-making and minimize adverse outcomes.

METHODS

A retrospective analysis was conducted on patients with cirrhosis undergoing ERCP. Clinical, biochemical, and procedural variables were evaluated to determine their association with hepatic decompensation. Multivariate analysis was performed to identify independent predictors.

RESULTS

A total of 277 patients with cirrhosis who underwent an ERCP were included. The cohort had a mean age of 63.4 years, with a male predominance (65.3%) and various etiologies of cirrhosis, including alcohol-related (39.3%) and hepatitis C (11.4%). Post-ERCP complications occurred in 26.7% of patients. The most common complications were hepatic decompensation events (18.4%), sepsis (10.8%), and cholangitis (6.1%). Patients with complications had significantly higher baseline MELD scores, INR, chronic kidney disease (CKD) and history of ascites, hepatic encephalopathy, and hepatorenal syndrome (HRS). A Multivariate analysis revealed that factors such as higher MELD score, ascites, hepatic encephalopathy, and stent placement were associated with post-ERCP complications. Subgroup analyses indicated that patients who developed hepatic decompensation events (ascites, SBP, or HRS) had a more severe liver dysfunction at baseline, as reflected by a higher MELD score and INR, and prior episodes of ascites and hepatic encephalopathy.

CONCLUSION

Pre-procedural liver function parameters and procedural factors are crucial predictors of post-ERCP hepatic decompensation in patients with cirrhosis. Key risk factors include higher MELD score, CKD, history of ascites, and hepatic encephalopathy. Careful pre-procedural evaluation and management are essential to reduce these risks.

Trends in Clinical Outcomes After Major Emergency Abdominal Surgery in Denmark, Data From 2002-2022

Importance

Major emergency abdominal surgery is associated with high morbidity and mortality. Understanding trends in outcomes over time can reveal critical practice-changing improvements, identify gaps in postoperative care, and establish a large-scale benchmark for future research.

Objective

To investigate trends in morbidity and mortality after major emergency abdominal surgery in Denmark.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This was a nationwide, population-based cohort study. Analyses were performed based on data from Danish nationwide administrative registries. Within the public health care system in Denmark, all adult patients undergoing major emergency abdominal surgery from 2002 to 2022 were included. Major emergency abdominal surgeries included laparotomy or laparoscopy due to intra-abdominal pathologies, including intestinal perforation, ischemia, bowel obstruction, abscess, or bleeding.

Exposure

Major emergency abdominal surgery.

Main Outcomes and Measures

The primary outcome was the trend in 30- and 90-day mortality after major emergency abdominal surgery over time.

Results

A total of 61 476 patients (mean [SD] age, 66.2 [16.3] years; 34 827 female [56.7%]) were included. The annual number of surgeries remained constant, with a mean (SD) of 3044 (165) surgeries per year. The 30- and 90-day mortality was reduced from 25% and 33%, respectively, to 13% and 18%, respectively (P < .001). Median (IQR) hospital length of stay was decreased from 10 (5-17) days to 6 (4-13) days (P < .001). The rate of 30-day postoperative complications (classified Clavien-Dindo ≥3a) was reduced from 49% to 44% (P <.001) and the 90-day rate was reduced from 53% to 48% (P <.001), however, with a tendency toward more patients undergoing earlier intervention. The 30- and 90-day readmission rate increased drastically from 9% and 13%, respectively, to 25% and 33%, respectively (P < .001).

Conclusions and Relevance

Results of this cohort study suggest notable reductions in mortality and hospital length of stay after major emergency abdominal surgery. A marked increased readmission rate and a persistently high rate of postoperative complications were found. These shifts underscore the need for enhanced postoperative monitoring and postdischarge follow-up.

Treatments and cancer: implications for radiologists

This review highlights the critical role of radiologists in personalized cancer treatment, focusing on the evaluation of treatment outcomes using imaging tools like Computed Tomography (CT), Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), and Ultrasound. Radiologists assess the effectiveness and complications of therapies such as chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and ablative treatments. Understanding treatment mechanisms and consistent imaging protocols are essential for accurate evaluation, especially in managing complex cases like liver cancer. Collaboration between radiologists and oncologists is key to optimizing patient outcomes through precise imaging assessments.

Matrix Dynamics and Microbiome Crosstalk: Matrix Metalloproteinases as Key Players in Disease and Therapy

Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are key enzymes involved in extracellular matrix (ECM) remodeling, regulating a wide range of cellular and immune processes in both homeostatic and pathological conditions. Host-microbiota interactions play a critical role in maintaining ECM balance; however, during dysbiosis, this regulation is disrupted, leading to compromised barrier integrity, pathogen translocation into circulation, and the development of systemic diseases and cancer. This review highlights the bidirectional relationship between MMP expression/activity and microbiota dysbiosis, emphasizing tissue-specific alterations in MMP activity that contribute to disease progression. In addition, it integrates interdisciplinary evidence to illustrate the MMP-dependent mechanisms underlying various pathologies associated with oral and gut microbiome dysbiosis, including long-range effects through the gut-skin and gut-brain axes. Thus, this review introduces the emerging field of MatrixBiome, which explores the complex interactions between the ECM, microbiota, and host tissues. Finally, it also outlines therapeutic strategies to modulate MMP levels, either indirectly through microbiome-targeted approaches (e.g., prebiotics, probiotics, and postbiotics) or directly using MMP inhibitors, offering promising avenues for future clinical interventions.

Digital Decision Support for Perioperative Care of Patients With Type 2 Diabetes: A Call to Action

Unlabelled

Type 2 diabetes mellitus affects over 500 million people globally, with 10%-20% requiring surgery. Patients with diabetes are at increased risk for perioperative complications, including prolonged hospital stays and higher mortality, primarily due to perioperative hyperglycemia. Managing blood glucose during the perioperative period is challenging, and conventional monitoring is often inadequate to detect rapid fluctuations. Clinical decision support systems (CDSS) are emerging tools to improve perioperative diabetes management by providing real-time glucose data and medication recommendations. This viewpoint examines the role of CDSS in perioperative diabetes care, highlighting their benefits and limitations. CDSS can help manage blood glucose more effectively, preventing both hyperglycemia and hypoglycemia. However, technical and integration challenges, along with clinician acceptance, remain significant barriers.

Perioperative risk assessment for emergency general surgery in those with multimorbidity or frailty

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

This review explores advances in risk stratification tools and their applicability in identifying and managing high-risk emergency general surgery (EGS) patients.

RECENT FINDINGS

Traditional risk assessment tools have several limitations when applied to complex EGS patients as comorbidities are generally treated in a binary, linear and sequential fashion. Additionally, some tools are only usable in the postoperative period, and some require multidisciplinary involvement and are not suitable in an emergency setting. Frailty in particular - for which there are multiple calculators-maladaptively influences outcomes. Artificial intelligence tools, such as the machine-learning-based POTTER calculator, demonstrate superior performance by addressing nonlinear interactions among patient factors, offering a dynamic and more accurate approach to risk prediction.

SUMMARY

Integrating advanced, data-driven risk assessment tools into clinical practice can help identify and manage high-risk patients as well as forecast outcomes for EGS patients. Such tools are intended to trigger preoperative interventions as well as discussions that ensure goal-concordant care, align expectations with anticipated outcomes and support both facility and patient-relevant outcomes.

Acute-on-Chronic Liver Failure: Steps Towards Consensus

Acute-on-chronic liver failure (ACLF) is a clinical syndrome characterized by organ failure and high short-term mortality. Since its first definition in 2013, many international organizations have defined this syndrome and, till now, there has been no agreement regarding definitions and diagnostic criteria. Although the precise mechanism of ACLF is unknown, precipitant factors and the systemic inflammation response play a major role. Specific management of this high-mortality syndrome is still under development, but a general consensus in the diagnosis and management of ACLF is needed.

Valproic acid levels in neurodevelopmental disorders: correlation with CYP and SULT genes using LC-MS/MS

BACKGROUND

Valproic acid (VPA) is one of the most widely prescribed antiepileptic drugs worldwide, which is used to treat migraines, bipolar disorder, and anxiety. However, VPA is associated with a wide range of side effects. This study evaluates therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM) in individuals with neurodevelopmental disorders. It explores the correlation between valproic acid (VPA) plasma levels and genetic polymorphisms in cytochrome P450 (CYP) enzymes and cytosolic sulfotransferase (SULT) genes.

METHODS

A simple and accurate LC-MS/MS method was developed, validated, and applied in the TDM of 14 individuals on VPA therapy. Plasma VPA levels were measured, and genotyped genes SULT1A1, CYP2D64, CYP2D610, CYP3A5, and CYP2C19*2. Statistical analyses were conducted using SPSS.

RESULTS

Of the fourteen participants, two had toxic plasma VPA levels (≥ 100 µg/mL), one had a sub-therapeutic level (< 50 µg/mL), and eleven were within or slightly above the therapeutic range (50-100 µg/mL). No significant correlation was observed between VPA plasma concentrations and genotypes of SULT1A1 (p = 0.522), CYP2C192 (p = 0.288), CYP2D64 (p = 0.895), or CYP2D6*10 (p = 0.067). While no direct associations were found, genotype-guided drug therapy remains a promising strategy for optimizing drug efficacy and minimizing toxicity.

CONCLUSIONS

This study highlights the complexity of valproic acid (VPA) therapy in individuals with neurodevelopmental disorders and the limited influence of common genetic polymorphisms in CYP and SULT genes on VPA plasma levels. While therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM) remains an invaluable tool for optimizing VPA therapy, the lack of significant correlations between genetic variants and VPA concentrations suggests that routine pharmacogenetic testing for these specific variants may not be warranted in clinical practice. However, the observed toxic and sub-therapeutic VPA levels emphasize the importance of regular TDM to mitigate risks associated with overdose or insufficient dosing.

Prognosis algorithms for acute decompensation of cirrhosis and ACLF

Accurate prediction of survival in patients with cirrhosis is crucial, as patients who are unlikely to survive in the short-term need to be oriented to liver transplantation and to novel therapeutic approaches. Patients with acute decompensation of cirrhosis without or with organ dysfunction/failure, the so-called acute-on-chronic liver failure (ACLF), have a particularly high short-term mortality. Recognizing the specificity of this clinical situation, dedicated classifications and scores have been developed over the last 15 years, including variables (e.g. organ failures and systemic inflammation) not part of the formerly available cirrhosis severity scores, namely Child-Pugh score or MELD. For patients with acute decompensation of cirrhosis, it led to the development of a dedicated score, the Clif-C-AD score, independently validated. For more severe patients, three different scoring systems have been proposed, by European, Asian and North American societies namely Clif-C-ACLF, AARC score and NASCELD-ACLF respectively. These scores have been validated, and are widely used across the world. The differences and similarities between these scores, as well as their validation and limitations are discussed here. Even if these scores and classifications have been a step forward in favouring homogeneity between studies, and in helping making decisions for individual patients, their predictive value for mortality can still be improved as their area under the ROC curve does not exceed .8. Novel scores including biomarkers reflecting the pathophysiology of acute decompensation of cirrhosis might help reach that goal.

Definition, diagnosis and epidemiology of acute-on-chronic liver failure

This narrative review addresses the definition of acute-on-chronic liver failure, a condition associated with high short-term mortality in patients with chronic liver disease and/or cirrhosis. We provide two major points of view: the East and the West perspective. Both definitions vary regarding the underlying patient population and organ failure(s) definition. Nevertheless, all the definitions have their clinical utility: from the core concept of having the "liver" as a conditio sine qua non, the syndrome cannot exist (Asian Pacific Association for the Study of the Liver); a data-driven, robust definition (European Association for the Study of the Liver); a bedside tool that can quickly identify patients at high risk of dying (North American Consortium for the Study of End-stage Liver Disease [NACSELD]). In each section, we provide the overall definitions, the criteria of organ failure(s), and some epidemiological data illustrating how these apply in each area of the world.

Utility of Serum Prolactin Levels as a Marker for Disease Severity and Short-term Prognosis in Patients with Cirrhosis: A Prospective Observational Study

Background

Cirrhosis, a leading cause of global mortality, necessitates an accurate assessment of disease severity and prognosis. While traditional scoring systems like Child-Turcotte-Pugh (CTP) and model for end-stage liver disease (MELD) are used to assess the severity, specific biomarkers are lacking. This study explores serum prolactin levels as a potential biomarker for evaluating cirrhosis severity and predicting short-term mortality.

Methods

A prospective observational study was conducted from December 2021 to December 2023. After a thorough clinical examination, serum prolactin levels were measured. The correlation between prolactin levels and established severity scores [CTP, MELD, chronic liver failure consortium organ failure (CLIF-C OF), and MELD-sodium (MELD-Na)] was analyzed. The study also evaluated the prognostic value of prolactin levels in predicting 28-day and 90-day mortality.

Results

A total of 90 patients with liver cirrhosis were included. There were 82% men, with a mean age of 47.6 years. Alcohol was the most common cause of cirrhosis (73%). The median (interquartile range (IQR)) serum prolactin level was 29 (10-54) ng/mL, with higher levels correlating with increased disease severity: CTP (r = 0.73), MELD (r = 0.64), MELD-Na (r = 0.67), and CLIF-C OF (r = 0.82) scores. Elevated prolactin levels were significantly associated with increased mortality, with an area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of 0.83 for predicting 28-day mortality and 0.79 for 90-day mortality. A prolactin cut-off of 35.12 ng/mL demonstrated high sensitivity (93% and 77%, respectively) and specificity (63% and 72%, respectively) for 28-day and 90-day mortality prediction.

Conclusion

Serum prolactin levels significantly correlated with the severity of cirrhosis and also effectively predicted the short-term mortality. Prolactin may offer a noninvasive and cost-effective adjunct for severity assessment and short-term prognosis in cirrhosis.

How to cite this article

Singh R, Ramadoss R, Mohan P, Vairappan B. Utility of Serum Prolactin Levels as a Marker for Disease Severity and Short-term Prognosis in Patients with Cirrhosis: A Prospective Observational Study. Indian J Crit Care Med 2025;29(3):244-250.

Efficacy of Different Combinations of Direct-Acting Antivirals Against Different Hepatitis C Virus-Infected Population Groups: An Experience in Tertiary Care Hospitals in West Bengal, India

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) is a global public health problem, but advancements in HCV treatment have improved the cure rate. This study evaluated the effectiveness of direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) in HCV-infected patients from May 2021 to April 2023 in collaboration with tertiary care hospitals in West Bengal. The HCV viral load was monitored via qRT-PCR. Sanger sequencing was performed to determine the HCV genotypes. The clinicians prescribed the patient treatment regime. The maximum number of patients in the study population (N = 398) were compensated cirrhosis patients (46.28%). The overall SVR rate of the study population was 94.47%. The decompensated cirrhosis patients experienced the lowest SVR rate (88.89%). The maximum number of patients were prescribed sofosbuvir/daclatasvir (63.77%), and the lowest SVR rate (93.23%) was observed with this treatment regime. In the study population, GT-3 was the predominant (67.43%) circulating genotype, followed by GT-1 and -4. Among 398 patients, 22 (5.53%) were non-responsive to DAA treatment. Out of these 22 non-responder patients, 77.27% (n = 17) were GT-3-infected (3a:10; 3b:07), followed by GT-1 (1c: 04; 1b: 01). Thus, increasing numbers of DAA non-responsive cases among HCV GT-3-infected and decompensated cirrhosis patients may pose serious threats in the future.

Proteomics-guided Biomarker Discovery, Validation, and Pathway Perturbation in Infection-related Acute Decompensation of Cirrhosis

BACKGROUND & AIMS

Inappropriate treatment of infections fuels drug resistance, organ failures, and costs in cirrhosis. We explored proteomics to improve infection diagnosis and management in acutely decompensated (AD) cirrhosis.

METHODS

We enrolled 391 patients with AD cirrhosis (92% males, median-age: 41 years), 84 in the discovery cohort (54 infected, 30 non-infected), 147 in the validation cohort I (106 infected, 41 non-infected), and 160 in the validation cohort II (108 infected, 52 non-infected). High-throughput proteomics identified biomarkers in the discovery cohort, validated through enzyme-linked immunoassay in subsequent cohorts. A model for infection was evaluated through discrimination, calibration, and decision curves and was externally validated.

RESULTS

Infected patients exhibited higher leucocyte counts, procalcitonin, organ failures, Model for End-stage Liver Disease scores, and 30-day mortality (P < .001 each). Proteomics identified 516 proteins, 27 upregulated and 38 downregulated, in infections. LGALS3BP, PLTP, CFP, and GPX3 were independently linked to infections (adjusting for severity and systemic inflammatory response syndrome), with composite area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) of 0.854 (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.787-0.922) in validation cohort I. A PACIFY model (LGALS3BP + procalcitonin + CLIF-COF + lactate) predicted infections with AUC of 0.965 (95% CI, 0.933-0.997) and 0.906 (95% CI, 0.860-0.952) in validation cohorts I and II, outperforming procalcitonin, systemic inflammatory response syndrome, white blood cell, neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio, neutrophil %, and composite models (P < .001). The model demonstrated fair calibration, with decision curves indicating a net benefit of the model in treating infections and reducing unnecessary antimicrobial use. Consistent findings were observed on external validation (AUC, 0.949; 95% CI, 0.916-0.982), re-enforcing the accuracy and clinical utility of the model. A deployable app was developed for infection risk estimation, enhancing practical applicability. Impaired phagocytosis, complement functions, hypocoagulation, hypofibrinolysis, dysregulated carbohydrate metabolism, autophagy, heightened cell death, and proteolysis were key perturbed pathways in infections.

CONCLUSION

The study identifies novel protein signatures and pathways linked with infections in AD cirrhosis. A biomarker-guided treatment of infections can limit unnecessary antimicrobial use and the burden of drug resistance in cirrhosis.

[Multimorbidity in liver surgery]

Multimorbidity is characterized by the presence of at least 3 chronic diseases with a prevalence of more than 50% of patients over 60 years old. The Charlson comorbidity index (CCI) enables a description of the severity of the multimorbidity and also provides a correlation with the postoperative outcome after liver resection. According to this, multimorbid patients are at increased risk of morbidity and mortality after liver resection, mostly due to postoperative liver failure. In particular, open major liver resection with biliary reconstruction and primary liver tumors linked to metabolic associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) pose an increased risk for multimorbid patients. In contrast, minimally invasive resection leads to a clear reduction in postoperative morbidity and mortality. Preconditioning of the liver and the implementation of perioperative strategies according to the enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) concept can also lead to an improvement of the postoperative outcome.

Drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms (DRESS) associated with the use of antiseizure medications-An overview of clinical data

The United States Food and Drug Administration (US FDA) released a warning regarding Drug Reactions with Eosinophilia and Systemic Symptoms (DRESS) linked to the use of antiseizure drugs, including levetiracetam and clobazam, on November 28, 2023. Hence, our review focuses on DRESS associated with the use of antiseizure drugs, including Levetiracetam, Clobazam, Carbamazepine, Phenytoin, Phenobarbital, Valproate, Oxcarbazepine, and Lamotrigine. The online databases, such as Medline/Pubmed/PMC, Scopus, Web of Science, Google Scholar, Science Direct, Ebsco, Embase, and reference lists, were searched for relevant publications. Several case reports and reviews of pharmacovigilance data by different regulatory bodies were published regarding DRESS associated with antiseizure drugs. Management strategies for DRESS may include immediate discontinuation of offending medication, administration of systemic corticosteroids, and administration of cyclosporine and intravenous immunoglobulin in cases that are not responding to systemic corticosteroids. Early detection and treatment of DRESS by healthcare professionals is necessary to lower mortality and improve outcomes. The US FDA advises healthcare professionals to be aware of the connection between DRESS and specific antiseizure medications. Patients should be informed by medical professionals about the symptoms and signs of DRESS as well as the risks associated with it. In conclusion, DRESS syndrome, though rare, is a serious hypersensitivity reaction linked to antiseizure drugs like levetiracetam and clobazam. Early detection and discontinuation of the offending drug, coupled with systemic corticosteroids, are essential for effective management. Healthcare professionals must be vigilant in identifying DRESS to reduce mortality and improve patient outcomes.

Neuroglia in hepatic encephalopathy

Neuroglia contribute to the pathophysiology of hepatic encephalopathy (HE) either beneficially or detrimentally. Pathogenesis of HE is linked to damage triggered by blood-derived toxins, with ammonia being the main causative factor. Neuroglial cells, especially astrocytes and microglia, respond to HE-associated systemic and central signals and undergo complex and variable changes in their metabolism, morphology, and function, which include ion and water dyshomeostasis in conjunction with neurotransmission imbalance and neuroinflammation. HE-induced alterations of astrocytes are defined as astrocytopathy, with aberrant astrocytes resulting in either gain or loss of functions. In the chronic HE, the presence of Alzheimer type II cells is a histologic hallmark, with asthenic astrocytes emerging as a newcomer. In acute HE, rapid swelling of astrocytes is a primary cause of cerebral edema and mortality. This chapter reviews the dominant role of astrocytes in the pathogenesis of HE resulting from acute and chronic liver failure, mainly in experimental models. The focus is on the loss of homeostatic function bearing upon the functioning of the glymphatic system, aberrant neurotransmission as a consequence of astrocyte-neuron miscommunication, and the concordant neuroinflammatory response of astrocytes and microglia. The chapter concludes with a delineation of concepts for future research.

Growing challenge of multimorbidity in patients undergoing surgery

As populations age, the incidence of multimorbidity rises, posing significant challenges for surgical and perioperative healthcare systems. Emerging evidence suggests multimorbidity can lead to worse patient outcomes. Healthcare providers must consider multimorbidity as a critical factor when planning surgical interventions with patients. The potential for surgical pathways in addressing multimorbidity needs further exploration.

Matrix metalloproteinases in kidney homeostasis and diseases: an update

Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are zinc-dependent endopeptidases with important roles in kidney homeostasis and pathology. While capable of collectively degrading each component of the extracellular matrix, MMPs also degrade nonmatrix substrates to regulate inflammation, epithelial plasticity, proliferation, apoptosis, and angiogenesis. More recently, intriguing mechanisms that directly alter podocyte biology have been described. There is now irrefutable evidence for MMP dysregulation in many types of kidney disease including acute kidney injury, diabetic and hypertensive nephropathy, polycystic kidney disease, and Alport syndrome. This updated review will detail the complex biology of MMPs in kidney disease.

Serum microRNA 143 and 223 Gene Expression Profiles as Potential Biomarkers in Individuals with Hepatitis and COVID-19

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) can act as biomarkers and descriptors of the association between infections and other diseases, such as hepatitis and COVID-19. This study aims to investigate the role of miRNA serum expression according to laboratory data concerning hepatitis and COVID-19. Seventy individuals recruited in Southern and Southeastern Brazil donated serum samples and were divided into four groups: (i) 20 negative subjects, (ii) 20 presenting hepatitis, (iii) 19 with COVID-19 and (iv) 11 with hepatitis and COVID-19. Three miRNAs (miR-122, miR-143 and miR-223) were evaluated using real-time PCR. Hematological and biochemical markers were also analyzed. MiR-143 and miR-223 were downregulated among the hepatitis/COVID-19 group (p < 0.05). A positive correlation was observed between miR-223 and lymphocytes. There was a negative correlation between alanine transaminase (ALT) and aspartate transaminase (AST) for miR-143 and miR-223 and gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT), alkaline phosphatase (AP) and neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio (NLR) only for miR-223 (p < 0.05). For hepatic fibrosis (FIB-4), miR-122 and miR-143 had a greater association and miR-223 was more associated with a history of vaccination against COVID-19. MicroRNAs 143 and 223 could be useful as biomarkers for hepatitis coinfection with COVID-19.

Definitions, Etiologies, and Outcomes of Acute on Chronic Liver Failure: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

BACKGROUND & AIMS

Acute-on-chronic liver failure (ACLF) is a major public health concern. We aimed to assess the definitions, etiologic spectrum, organ failure (OF), and outcomes of ACLF globally.

METHODS

Three databases were searched for studies on ACLF from 1990 until September 2022. Information regarding definitions, acute precipitants, underlying chronic liver disease (CLD), OF, and mortality were extracted. Meta-analyses were performed for pooled prevalence rates (95% confidence interval [CI]) using random-effects model for each definition of ACLF.

RESULTS

Of the 11,451 studies identified, 114 articles (142 cohorts encompassing 210,239 patients) met the eligibility criteria. Most studies (53.2%) used the European Association for the Study of the Liver (EASL) definition, followed by Asia-Pacific Association for the Study of the Liver (APASL) (33.3%). Systemic infection was the major acute precipitant, and alcohol use was the major cause of CLD in EASL-defined studies, whereas alcohol was both the major acute precipitant and cause of CLD in APASL-defined studies. Liver failure was the major OF in APASL-based studies, whereas renal failure was predominant in EASL-based studies. Thirty-day mortality varied across definitions: APASL: 38.9%, 95% CI, 31.2%-46.9%; EASL: 47.9%, 95% CI, 42.2%-53.5%; and NACSELD: 52.2%, 95% CI, 51.9%-52.5%. Diagnostic overlap between definitions ranged from 7.7% to 80.2%. Meta-regression suggested that the World Health Organization region influenced 30-day mortality in studies using EASL definition.

CONCLUSIONS

Heterogeneity in the definition of ACLF proposed by different expert societies and regional preferences in its use result in differences in clinical phenotype and outcomes. A uniform definition would enhance the comparability and interpretation of global data.

Clinical significance of upregulated Rho GTPase activating protein 12 causing resistance to tyrosine kinase inhibitors in hepatocellular carcinoma

BACKGROUND

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a major health challenge with high incidence and poor survival rates in China. Systemic therapies, particularly tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs), are the first-line treatment for advanced HCC, but resistance is common. The Rho GTPase family member Rho GTPase activating protein 12 (ARHGAP12), which regulates cell adhesion and invasion, is a potential therapeutic target for overcoming TKI resistance in HCC. However, no studies on the expression of ARHGAP12 in HCC and its role in resistance to TKIs have been reported.

AIM

To unveil the expression of ARHGAP12 in HCC, its role in TKI resistance and its potential associated pathways.

METHODS

This study used single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) to evaluate ARHGAP12 mRNA levels and explored its mechanisms through enrichment analysis. CellChat was used to investigate focal adhesion (FA) pathway regulation. We integrated bulk RNA data (RNA-seq and microarray), immunohistochemistry and proteomics to analyze ARHGAP12 mRNA and protein levels, correlating with clinical outcomes. We assessed ARHGAP12 expression in TKI-resistant HCC, integrated conventional HCC to explore its mechanism, identified intersecting FA pathway genes with scRNA-seq data and evaluated its response to TKI and immunotherapy.

RESULTS

ARHGAP12 mRNA was found to be highly expressed in malignant hepatocytes and to regulate FA. In malignant hepatocytes in high-score FA groups, MDK-[integrin alpha 6 (ITGA6) + integrin β-1 (ITGB1)] showed specificity in ligand-receptor interactions. ARHGAP12 mRNA and protein were upregulated in bulk RNA, immunohistochemistry and proteomics, and higher expression was associated with a worse prognosis. ARHGAP12 was also found to be a TKI resistance gene that regulated the FA pathway. ITGB1 was identified as a crossover gene in the FA pathway in both scRNA-seq and bulk RNA. High expression of ARHGAP12 was associated with adverse reactions to sorafenib, cabozantinib and regorafenib, but not to immunotherapy.

CONCLUSION

ARHGAP12 expression is elevated in HCC and TKI-resistant HCC, and its regulatory role in FA may underlie the TKI-resistant phenotype.

Management of Gastric Variceal Bleed by Endoscopic Cyanoacrylate Injection: A Case Series

Background and aims Cyanoacrylate glue (CAG) is the standard of care for gastric varices (GVs) but has serious complications too. The literature is scarce on determining the safe and effective amount of glue before the procedure objectively. Our study aimed to fill this gap.  Methods It was an interventional case series, from January to December 2022. Patients with GVs, in whom CAG was injected, were included. Demographic, clinical, and endoscopic data with emphasis on cumulative variceal diameter (CVD, sum of maximum diameter of each varix), the total amount of glue injected (GTotal), outcomes (technical and clinical success), and complications intra- and post-procedural) were noted. Results Among 467, 18 (4%) patients had gastric varices. Glue was injected in six (1%) patients. Five had type 2 gastro-esophageal varices (GOV2) and one had type 1 isolated gastric varix (IGV1). Four had a history of upper GI bleed. Numbers of GVs ranged between 1 and 4, sizes 0.5-2.5 cm, and CVDs between 3.5 and 5.0 cm. GTotal ranged between 2 and 4 ml, the number of aliquots was one to two, and the maximum amount of glue in each aliquot was between 2 and 3 ml. The calculated relationship between CVD and GTotal ranged was CVD minus 0.5 to 1. Clinical and technical success was achieved in all. Two patients had intra-procedural, self-subsiding bleeding, and one patient had severe abdominal pain, which subsided with analgesics. None of them had fatal complications, transfusion requirements, or prolonged hospital stays. Conclusions CVD is a potential determinant factor for the total amount of glue injected during the endotherapy of GVs to achieve favorable clinical and technical outcomes.

The pharmacological management of alcohol-related cirrhosis: what's new?

INTRODUCTION

Alcohol use disorder (AUD) is present in the majority of patients with alcohol-associated liver disease (ALD), which leads to about 50% of cirrhosis-related hospitalizations and over 25% of deaths worldwide. Patients with ALD often present at an advanced stage, like cirrhosis with its complications and alcohol-associated hepatitis (AH), which has high short-term mortality. Current treatments are limited, with the limited benefit of glucocorticoids only in the short-term among patients with AH, highlighting an urgent need for novel therapies.

AREAS COVERED

This review applies the PIRO (Predisposition, Injury, Response, Organ dysfunction) concept to ALD, understanding an ongoing process of liver damage, and opportunities to address and halt the progression. We also highlight the significance of treating AUD to improve long-term outcomes in ALD.

EXPERT OPINION

Personalized therapies targeting specific genetic profiles and multiple pathogenic pathways are crucial in managing ALD. Emerging therapies like gut-liver-brain axis modulators like fecal microbiota transplant and probiotics, interleukin-22, granulocyte-colony stimulating factor (G-CSF) and stem cells, epigenetic regulators of inflammation and regeneration are encouraging with the potential of efficacy in patients with ALD. Liver transplantation (LT) is a definitive therapy for advanced cirrhosis with increasing impetus on early LT select patients with active alcohol use.

Efficacy and Safety of Terlipressin Infusion in Hepatorenal Syndrome-Acute Kidney Injury (HRS-AKI): A Retrospective Observational Study

Background Hepatorenal syndrome-acute kidney injury (HRS-AKI) is an event that occurs in chronic liver disease (CLD) and is associated with high morbidity and mortality. Terlipressin, a vasopressin analog, is used for the treatment of portal hypertension-related gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding and is found to be effective in the management of HRS-AKI. Continuous infusion of terlipressin maintains a high mean arterial pressure while reducing adverse events. It is better tolerated and equally effective at lower doses than intravenous boluses in patients with HRS-AKI. Aim of the study This study aimed to evaluate the safety and efficacy of terlipressin infusion at the rate of 4 mg/day in the treatment of HRS-AKI. Methods This retrospective study included patients who had HRS-AKI according to the modified International Club of Ascites (ICA) definition. Patients were started on a continuous intravenous infusion. The included patients received terlipressin 1 mg stat followed by a 4 mg infusion over 24 hours, and the infusion was continued until specific response criteria were met or for a maximum of seven days. Results In total, 136 patients were included in this study. The mean age of the study group was 45 years, the mean Child-Turcotte-Pugh (CTP) score was 11, the mean model for end-stage liver disease (MELD) score was 30, and the mean serum creatinine was 2.46 mg/dl. A response to treatment in the form of reduction of serum creatinine was observed in 94 (69.1%) patients, 30 (22%) patients showed no response, and worsening of creatinine was seen in 12 (8.8%) patients. The mean duration of hospital stay was 7.6 days, the mean serum creatinine was 1.17 mg/dl at the end of treatment, and the mean CTP and MELD scores in treatment responders were nine and 27, respectively. A total of 29 (21.3%) of 136 patients had adverse events during the terlipressin infusion therapy.  Conclusion Terlipressin infusion has sustained effects on splanchnic hemodynamics with fewer and less severe adverse events than intravenous bolus doses. Terlipressin infusion at a dose of 4 mg/day appeared to be well tolerated, with similar outcomes to that of 2 mg/day with a significantly lower albumin dose. These findings emphasize the importance of optimizing treatment protocols, particularly those favoring infusion methods, to enhance efficacy and minimize adverse effects.

Prevalence of Acute on Chronic Liver Failure in Autoimmune Hepatitis, Treatment Response and Mortality Burden Assessment: A Region-Predominant Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Acute-on-chronic liver failure (ACLF) is a global health problem. Little scientific evidence exists on its prevalence in autoimmune hepatitis. Treatment response and mortality outcomes have also been reported differently. The study was conducted to estimate the overall prevalence of ACLF among patients with autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) and determine the associated treatment response and mortality. We scrutinized wide literature in Scopus, PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and Cochrane, and assessed published articles completely, studies performed and reported from around the globe, until December 07, 2023, according to the PROSPERO registered protocol (CRD42023412176). Studies (retrospective and prospective cohort study type) that stated the ACLF development among established AIH cases were considered. Features of the study, duration of follow-up, and numeric patient information were retrieved from the studies included. The research paper quality was checked for risk of bias. Random effect meta-analysis with metaregression and subsection scrutinies were performed with R. The main outcome was the collective prevalence of ACLF in the AIH patients, whereas treatment response and mortality in AIH-associated ACLF were secondary outcomes. Six studies were involved with confirmed diagnoses in 985 AIH patients for the data synthesis. The pooled prevalence of ACLF in the explored patients was 12% (95% CI: 8-17) ( P =0.01). Heterogeneity was found to be high in the present meta-analysis ( I2 =72%; P < 0.01). For the secondary endpoint analysis, the pooled prevalence of complete remission at 1-year follow-up was 71% (0.52; 0.85), and mortality from the ACLF-AIH patient population was 32% (95% CI: 18-50). Sensitivity analysis showed no influence on the overall estimations of the pooled prevalence of ACLF by omitting studies one by one. One in 10 AIH patients likely present with ACLF. The response to treatment is seen in two-thirds of patients, and mortality is high.

Comparison of a Novel Score "NOD-ACLF" to Other Established Prognostic Scores for Prediction of Mortality in APASL-ACLF Patients: A Cohort Study from a Tertiary Care Center of North India

Background

Commonly used prognostic scores for acute on-chronic liver failure (ACLF) have complex calculations. We tried to compare the simple counting of numbers and types of organ dysfunction to these scores, to predict mortality in ACLF patients.

Methods

In this prospective cohort study, ACLF patients diagnosed on the basis of Asia Pacific Association for Study of the Liver (APASL) definition were included. Severity scores were calculated. Prognostic factors for outcome were analysed. A new score, the Number of Organ Dysfunctions in Acute-on-Chronic Liver Failure (NOD-ACLF) score was developed.

Results

Among 80 ACLF patients, 74 (92.5%) were male, and 6 were female (7.5%). The mean age was 41.0±10.7 (18-70) years. Profile of acute insult was; alcohol 48 (60%), sepsis 30 (37.5%), variceal bleeding 22 (27.5%), viral 8 (10%), and drug-induced 3 (3.8%). Profiles of chronic insults were alcohol 61 (76.3%), viral 20 (25%), autoimmune 3 (3.8%), and non-alcoholic steatohepatitis 2 (2.5%). Thirty-eight (47.5%) were discharged, and 42 (52.5%) expired. The mean number of organ dysfunction (NOD-ACLF score) was ->4.5, simple organ failure count (SOFC) score was >2.5, APASL ACLF Research Consortium score was >11.5, Model for End-Stage Liver Disease-Lactate (MELD-LA) score was >21.5, and presence of cardiovascular and respiratory dysfunctions were significantly associated with mortality. NOD-ACLF and SOFC scores had the highest area under the receiver operating characteristic to predict mortality among all these.

Conclusion

The NOD-ACLF score is easy to calculate bedside and is a good predictor of mortality in ACLF patients performing similar or better to other scores.

Review article: Evaluation and care of the critically ill patient with cirrhosis

BACKGROUND

The increase in prevalence of liver disease globally will lead to a substantial incremental burden on intensive care requirements. While liver transplantation offers a potential life-saving intervention, not all patients are eligible due to limitations such as organ availability, resource constraints, ongoing sepsis or multiple organ failures. Consequently, the focus of critical care of patients with advanced and decompensated cirrhosis turns to liver-centric intensive care protocols, to mitigate the high mortality in such patients.

AIM

Provide an updated and comprehensive understanding of cirrhosis management in critical care, and which includes emergency care, secondary organ failure management (mechanical ventilation, renal replacement therapy, haemodynamic support and intensive care nutrition), use of innovative liver support systems, infection control, liver transplantation and palliative and end-of life care.

METHODS

We conducted a structured bibliographic search on PubMed, sourcing articles published up to 31 March 2024, to cover topics addressed. We considered data from observational studies, recommendations of society guidelines, systematic reviews, and meta-analyses, randomised controlled trials, and incorporated our clinical expertise in liver critical care.

RESULTS

Critical care management of the patient with cirrhosis has evolved over time while mortality remains high despite aggressive management with liver transplantation serving as a crucial but not universally available resource.

CONCLUSIONS

Implementation of organ support therapies, intensive care protocols, nutrition, palliative care and end-of-life discussions and decisions are an integral part of critical care of the patient with cirrhosis. A multi-disciplinary approach towards critical care management is likely to yield better outcomes.

Clinical impact of multidrug-resistant bacterial infections in patients with cirrhosis

Aim: Recently, the emergency of multidrug-resistant organisms (MDRO) has complicated the management of bacterial infections (BI) in cirrhosis. We aimed to assess their clinical impact on patients with decompensated cirrhosis. Methods: A retrospective study included consecutive cirrhotic patients hospitalized for acute decompensation (AD) between January 2010 and December 2019. Results: A total of 518 AD admissions in 219 patients were included, with 260 BI episodes (50.2%). MDRO prevalence was 38.2% of the total isolates. Recent antibiotic use (OR = 4.91), nosocomial infection (OR = 2.95), and healthcare-associated infection (OR = 3.45) were their main risk factors. MDROs were associated with empiric treatment failure (OR = 23.42), a higher prevalence of sepsis (OR = 4.93), ACLF (OR = 3.42) and mortality. Conclusion: The clinical impact of MDROs was pejorative, with an increased risk of empiric treatment failure, organ failure and death.

Fecal Carriage of Multidrug-Resistant Organisms Increases the Risk of Hepatic Encephalopathy in Cirrhotic Patients: Insights from Gut Microbiota and Metabolite Features

Background

Impact of fecal colonization by multidrug-resistant organisms (MDROs) on changes in gut microbiota and associated metabolites, as well as its role in cirrhosis-associated outcomes, has not been thoroughly investigated.

Methods

Eighty-eight cirrhotic patients and 22 healthy volunteers were prospectively enrolled with analysis conducted on plasma metabolites, fecal MDROs, and microbiota. Patients were followed for a minimum of one year. Predictive factors for cirrhosis-associated outcomes were identified using Cox proportional hazards regression models, and risk factors for fecal MDRO carriage were assessed using logistic regression model. Correlations between microbiota and metabolic profiles were evaluated through Spearman's rank test.

Results

Twenty-nine (33%) cirrhotic patients exhibited MDRO carriage, with a notably higher rate of hepatic encephalopathy (HE) in MDRO carriers (20.7% vs. 3.2%, p = 0.008). Cox regression analysis identified higher serum lipopolysaccharide levels and fecal MDRO carriage as predictors for HE development. Logistic regression analysis showed that MDRO carriage is an independent risk factor for developing HE. Microbiota analysis showed a significant dissimilarity of fecal microbiota between cirrhotic patients with and without MDRO carriage (p = 0.033). Thirty-two metabolites exhibiting significantly different expression levels among healthy controls, cirrhotic patients with and without MDRO carriage were identified. Six of the metabolites showed correlation with specific bacterial taxa expression in MDRO carriers, with isoaustin showing significantly higher levels in MDRO carriers experiencing HE compared to those who did not.

Conclusion

Fecal MDRO carriage is associated with altered gut microbiota, metabolite modulation, and an elevated risk of HE occurrence within a year.

Assessing the predictive value of serum phosphate for short-term mortality in acute-on-chronic liver failure patients: An observational study at a non-transplant tertiary care centre

Aim of the study

The gradual clinical worsening of acute-on-chronic liver failure (ACLF) leads to a high 28-day mortality rate. There are several prognostication scores for predicting early mortality in ACLF. Serum phosphate, which is the main component of adenosine tri-phosphate (ATP) synthesis, is utilized for liver synthetic functions, leading to subnormal or decreased serum phosphate levels. Hence more than normal levels of serum phosphate can be used as a marker of decreased liver cell reserve. Hence, we aimed to compare serum phosphate levels with available prognostic scores to assess mortality among ACLF patients.

Material and methods

100 consecutive ACLF patients according to the Asia Pacific Association for Study of the Liver (APASL) definition were studied. The baseline blood workups and determination of viral bio-markers, serum phosphate, and lactate levels on days 1, 3, and 7 were carried out and prospectively followed up, and the baseline serum phosphate levels were compared with the usual scores to predict the 28-day mortality.

Results

CLIF-SOFA (accuracy 76-91%) followed by CLIF-C score (accuracy 73-84%) and AARC score (accuracy 70-85%) had the statistically significantly highest accuracy as compared with CTP, MELD, and MELD-Na on all three days. Serum phosphate values (accuracy 69-86%) on all three days were not better than the CLIF-SOFA score but better than all other prognostic scores on days 3 and 7.

Conclusions

The high serum phosphate levels on day 3 with a value of more than 6.4 mg/dl showed almost comparable accuracy with CLIF-SOFA for screening short-term mortality. Hence serum phosphate measurement can be used as a simple bedside laboratory investigation to predict mortality in ACLF patients and early interventions in low-resource settings.

COVID-19, Possible Hepatic Pathways and Alcohol Abuse-What Do We Know up to 2023?

The pandemic period due to coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) revolutionized all possible areas of global health. Significant consequences were also related to diverse extrapulmonary manifestations of this pathology. The liver was found to be a relatively common organ, beyond the respiratory tract, affected by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2). Multiple studies revealed the essential role of chronic liver disease (CLD) in the general outcome of coronavirus infection. Present concerns in this field are related to the direct hepatic consequences caused by COVID-19 and pre-existing liver disorders as risk factors for the severe course of the infection. Which mechanism has a key role in this phenomenon-previously existing hepatic disorder or acute liver failure due to SARS-CoV-2-is still not fully clarified. Alcoholic liver disease (ALD) constitutes another not fully elucidated context of coronavirus infection. Should the toxic effects of ethanol or already developed liver cirrhosis and its consequences be perceived as a causative or triggering factor of hepatic impairment in COVID-19 patients? In the face of these discrepancies, we decided to summarize the role of the liver in the whole picture of coronavirus infection, paying special attention to ALD and focusing on the pathological pathways related to COVID-19, ethanol toxicity and liver cirrhosis.

Clinical Profile, Short-term Prognostic Accuracies of CLIF-C ACLF Score and Serial CLIF-C OF Scores in Acute-on-chronic Liver Failure Patients: A Prospective Observational Study

Background

Acute-on-chronic liver failure (ACLF) is a recently defined entity that carries high short-term mortality. The European Association for Study of Liver (EASL) has given a different definition for ACLF and derived two scores called Chronic Liver Failure-Consortium Organ Failure (CLIF-C OF) and CLIF-C ACLF to diagnose and predict the short-term outcome, respectively.

Materials and methods

This was the prospective observational study, included 40 ACLF patients diagnosed as per the EASL definition and calculated CLIF-C ACLF as well as other scores (CTP, MELD, MELD-Na, CLIF-C OF) on admission. Serial CLIF-C OF scores were also calculated (Day 3 and Day 7). The 28-day and 90-day mortality was recorded.

Results

Alcohol was the predominant etiology of cirrhosis (32 patients-80%). Infection was the chief precipitating factor in 19 patients (47.5%). The 28-day and 90-day mortality was 45% and 52.5%. Mean (SD) of CLIF-C ACLF scores of survivors and non-survivors on Day-90 were 44.11(6.62) and 53.86 (7.83). The prognostic accuracy of the CLIF-C ACLF score (Area Under Receiver Operating Characteristic Curve-AUROC) to predict 28-day and 90-day mortality was 0.86 and 0.84, respectively. MELD-Na and CLIF-C ACLF scores had higher AUROC for predicting 28-day and 90-day mortality, respectively. The AUROC of the CLIF-C OF score on Day 3 was found to be higher than the values of Day 1 and Day 7, but it was not statistically significant.

Conclusion

CLIF-C ACLF has good short-term prognostic accuracy and it is as good as other available scores. Serial CLIF-C OF scores were equally good in predicting in short-term mortality.

How to cite this article

Hareesh GJ, Ramadoss R. Clinical Profile, Short-term Prognostic Accuracies of CLIF-C ACLF Score and Serial CLIF-C OF Scores in Acute-on-chronic Liver Failure Patients: A Prospective Observational Study. Indian J Crit Care Med 2024;28(2):126-133.

Pre-transplant multidrug-resistant infections in liver transplant recipients-epidemiology and impact on transplantation outcome

BACKGROUND

Cirrhotic patients are highly exposed to healthcare services and antibiotics. Although pre-liver transplantation (LT) infections are directly related to the worsening of liver function, the impact of these infections on LT outcomes is still unclear. This study aimed to identify the effect of multidrug-resistant microorganism (MDRO) infections before LT on survival after LT.

METHODS

Retrospective study that included patients who underwent LT between 2010 and 2019. Variables analyzed were related to patients' comorbidities, underlying diseases, time on the waiting list, antibiotic use, LT surgery, and occurrences post-LT. Multivariate analyses were performed using logistic regression, and Cox regression for survival analysis.

RESULTS

A total of 865 patients were included; 351 infections were identified in 259 (30%) patients, of whom 75 (29%) had ≥1 pre-LT MDRO infection. The most common infection was spontaneous bacterial peritonitis (34%). The agent was identified in 249(71%), 53(15%) were polymicrobial. The most common microorganism was Klebsiella pneumoniae (18%); the most common MDRO was ESBL-producing Enterobacterales (16%), and carbapenem-resistant (CR) Enterobacterales (10%). Factors associated with MDRO infections before LT were previous use of therapeutic cephalosporin (p = .001) and fluoroquinolone (p = .001), SBP prophylaxis (p = .03), ACLF before LT (p = .03), and days of hospital stay pre-LT (p < .001); HCC diagnosis was protective (p = .01). Factors associated with 90-day mortality after LT were higher MELD on inclusion to the waiting list (p = .02), pre-LT MDRO infection (p = .04), dialysis after LT (p < .001), prolonged duration of LT surgery (p < .001), post-LT CR-Gram-negative bacteria infection (p < .001), and early retransplantation (p = .004).

CONCLUSION

MDRO infections before LT have an important impact on survival after LT.

Endoscopic Therapy of Gastric Varices: Safety and Efficacy of N-Butyl-2-Cyanoacrylate Injection

Background Upper gastrointestinal bleeding (UGIB) is a common medical emergency that results in significant morbidity, mortality, and socioeconomic burden. Both types of cardio-fundal varices, gastro-esophageal varix 2 (GOV2) and isolated gastric varices type 1 (IGV1), can cause massive bleeding and often are difficult to treat compared to the other types of gastric varices. Endoscopic variceal band ligation (EVBL) is a less effective treatment modality for gastric varices than esophageal varices and is associated with high re-bleeding rates. N-butyl-2-cyanoacrylate (Histoacryl) injection is an effective and potential treatment option for fundal varices. This study aims to evaluate the safety and efficacy of n-butyl-2-cyanoacrylate injection therapy in cardio-fundal varices. Objective To assess the efficacy and safety of n-butyl-2-cyanoacrylate injection therapy for fundal varices. Methods This retrospective observational cohort study was conducted at the Department of Gastroenterology, Allied Teaching Hospital, Gujranwala, over one year. All patients, irrespective of age and gender, presenting with UGIB and in whom fundal varices were diagnosed on gastroscopy followed by n-butyl 2-cyanoacrylate injection therapy were included in this study. The efficacy and safety of Histoacryl therapy were assessed by analyzing successful hemostasis, frequency of re-bleeding, obliteration, and regression of fundal varices on repeat endoscopy. Adverse events such as re-bleeding and mortality related to fundal variceal treatment were documented. Results A total of 60 patients were included in the study. Of these, 70% had IGV1, while the remaining 30% had GOV2. Hemostasis was achieved in 100% of patients following n-butyl-2-cyanoacrylate injection. Successful obliteration with regression of varices was observed in 91.3% of patients. Various adverse events were observed, with abdominal pain being the most common observed complication in 18.3% of participants. However, only 8.3% of participants developed re-bleeding due to ulcer formation at the injection site, and no death occurred directly due to fundal variceal treatment. Conclusion N-butyl-2-cyanoacrylate injection therapy is a lifesaving, effective, and safe intervention for controlling bleeding from cardio-fundal varices, leading to improved health status and a consequent decrease in episodes of recurrent bleeding. Its side effects are few and infrequent. However, larger-scale studies are needed to further evaluate the safety and effectiveness of n-butyl-2-cyanoacrylate injection therapy. These studies will be crucial in establishing comprehensive guidelines for the management of fundal varices.

Predictors of Short-term Mortality in Patients of Cirrhosis of Liver Presenting as Acute Kidney Injury: An In-hospital Prospective Observational Study

Background

Acute kidney injury (AKI) is known to be associated with increased short-term mortality among cirrhotic patients. On this background, we designed this study to evaluate various causes of AKI among admitted patients with cirrhosis of liver and predictors of 90-day mortality.

Methods

One hundred and two consecutive adult patients with cirrhosis of liver with AKI hospitalized between November 2016 and March 2018 were enrolled in this prospective study. Their detailed clinical profile, including biochemical parameters, the etiology of AKI, and their clinical outcome of survival or mortality at 90-days, were recorded.

Results

The most common causes of AKI were infections, followed by hypovolemia, seen in 55.88% and 31.37% of the patients, respectively. Hepatorenal syndrome (HRS) was seen in 10.78%, while parenchymal renal disease was the least common (1.9%). The in-hospital mortality rate was 28.4%, while 90-day mortality was 39.21%. The HRS group had a high 90-day mortality rate of 54.54%. ROC analysis of various biochemical parameters revealed that serum creatinine (sCr), Model for End-Stage Liver Disease (MELD), International Normalized Ratio (INR), and Neutrophil-Lymphocyte ratio (NLR), followed by Child Turcotte Pugh (CTP), had high area under the curves of 0.785, 0.773, 0.747, 0.740, and 0.718, respectively, for the prediction of 90-day mortality.

Conclusion

Infection is the commonest cause of AKI in cirrhosis; however, mortality in patients with HRS-AKI is higher than that in those with infection-related AKI. Serum creatinine at admission, INR, NLR, and CTP scores predict short-term mortality among patients with AKI in cirrhosis. Further, large prospective studies are needed to confirm these findings.

Prevalence, Risk Factors, and Impact of Bacterial or Fungal Infections in Acute Liver Failure Patients from India

BACKGROUND

We evaluated the prevalence, risk factors, and impact of bacterial/fungal infections in acute liver failure (ALF) patients.

METHODS

We analyzed clinical, biochemical, and microbiological data of ALF patients with and without bacterial/fungal infections admitted at an institute over the last 5 years.

RESULTS

We enrolled 143 patients, 50% males, median age 25 years, with acute viral hepatitis (32.2%), drug-induced injury (18.2%), and tropical illness (14%) as aetiologies of ALF. 110 patients (76.9%) developed bacterial/fungal infections [Bacterial infection: MDR: 70%, PDR: 7%, ESBL: 40%, CRE: 30%, CRAB: 26.6%, MDR-EF: 13.3% and fungal infection: 19 (17.3%)]. On univariable analysis, SIRS (33.6% vs.3%), ICU admission (78.2% vs. 45.5%), mechanical ventilation (88.2% vs. 51.5%), inotropes (39.1% vs. 6.1%), invasive catheters (91.8% vs. 39.4%), and prolonged catheterization (6 days vs. 0 days) were significant risk factors for infections (p < 0.05, each). In contrast, SIRS and catheterization independently predicted infection on multivariable regression. Organ failures [3 (2-4) vs. 1 (0-2)], grade-III-IV HE (67.3% vs. 33.3%), circulatory failure (39.1% vs. 6.1%), coagulopathy (INR > 2.5: 58.2% vs. 33.3%), renal injury (28.2% vs. 6.1%) (p < 0.05), MELD (32.9 ± 8.2 vs. 26.7 ± 8.3) and CPIS [3(2-4) vs. 2(0-2)] were higher in infected vs. non-infected patients (p < 0.001). 30-day survival was significantly lower in infected vs. non-infected patients (17.3% vs. 75.8%, p < 0.001), while no patient survived with fungal infections. Refractory septic shock was the commonest cause of mortality in patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Infections due to MDR organisms are high, fungal infections are fatal, and refractory septic shock is the dominant reason for mortality, implying bacterial and fungal infections as the major killer in ALF patients.