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Ohikere K, Wong RJ. Hepatic Encephalopathy: Clinical Manifestations. Clin Liver Dis 2024; 28:253-263. [PMID: 38548437 DOI: 10.1016/j.cld.2024.01.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/02/2024]
Abstract
Hepatic encephalopathy (HE) can occur as a complication of chronic liver disease as well as acute liver failure. HE is associated with significantly increased morbidity and worse patient outcomes. The clinical manifestation of HE ranges from early less-severe presentations that may only be accurately detected on dedicated psychomotor diagnostic testing to overt alterations in cognition and mental status to the most severe form of coma. Greater awareness of the clinical manifestations of HE across the spectrum of symptom severity is critical for early identification and timely initiation of appropriate therapy to improve patient outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kabiru Ohikere
- Value Based Care Department, San Francisco Health Network / Zuckerberg San Francisco General Hospital and Trauma Center
| | - Robert J Wong
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Stanford University School of Medicine; Gastroenterology Section, Veterans Affairs Palo Alto Healthcare System, Palo Alto, CA, USA.
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2
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Swansson WD, Anderson BM, Yeoh SW, Lewis DJ. Management of minimal and overt hepatic encephalopathy with branched-chain amino acids: a review of the evidence. Eur J Gastroenterol Hepatol 2023; 35:812-821. [PMID: 37395232 DOI: 10.1097/meg.0000000000002595] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/04/2023]
Abstract
Hepatic encephalopathy (HE) is a challenging complication of liver disease that is associated with substantial morbidity and mortality. Branched-chain amino acid (BCAA) supplementation in the management of HE is a debated topic. This narrative review aims to provide an up-to-date review of the topic and includes studies featuring patients with hepatocellular carcinoma. A review of the literature was performed using the online databases MEDLINE and EMBASE for studies between 2002 and December 2022. Keywords 'branched-chain amino acids', 'liver cirrhosis' and 'hepatic encephalopathy' were used. Studies were assessed for inclusion and exclusion criteria. Of 1045 citations, 8 studies met the inclusion criteria. The main outcomes reported for HE was changed in minimal HE (MHE) (n = 4) and/or incidence of overt HE (OHE) (n = 7). Two of the 4 studies reporting on MHE had improvement in psychometric testing in the BCAA group, but there was no change in the incidence of OHE in any of the 7 papers in the BCAA group. There were few adverse effects of BCAA supplementation. This review found weak evidence for BCAA supplementation for MHE, and no evidence for BCAAs for OHE. However, given the relative paucity and methodological heterogeneity of the current research, there is scope for future studies to examine the effects of varying timing, dosage, and frequency of BCAAs on outcomes such as HE. Importantly, research is also needed to examine BCAAs in conjunction with standard therapies for HE such as rifaximin and/or lactulose.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Sern Wei Yeoh
- Melbourne Medical School, The University of Melbourne
- Department of Gastroenterology, Northern Health, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Diana J Lewis
- Melbourne Medical School, The University of Melbourne
- Department of Gastroenterology, Northern Health, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
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Thornburg B. Hepatic Encephalopathy following Transjugular Intrahepatic Portosystemic Shunt Placement. Semin Intervent Radiol 2023; 40:262-268. [PMID: 37484451 PMCID: PMC10359131 DOI: 10.1055/s-0043-1769770] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/25/2023]
Abstract
Hepatic encephalopathy (HE) is a complex condition that arises as a complication of chronic liver disease and portosystemic shunting. Its pathophysiology involves several factors, including impaired ammonia metabolism, portosystemic shunting, sarcopenia, and systemic inflammation. The symptoms of HE can vary significantly, with manifestations ranging from subclinical signs to a comatose state. The West Haven classification system is most commonly used to grade the severity of HE. There is a broad differential for the presenting symptomatology of HE and other causes of altered mental status must be excluded during the workup. HE is a well-known complication of transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) placement. Even though newer stent designs help reduce the risk of HE with smaller diameter shunts, it is essential that patients are counseled regarding this potential risk prior to the procedure. Once a diagnosis of HE has been confirmed, the mainstay of therapy is lactulose and rifaximin. In cases where a patient has received a TIPS placement and continues to experience refractory HE despite medical therapy, it may be necessary to consider shunt reduction or closure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bartley Thornburg
- Department of Radiology, Section of Interventional Radiology, Northwestern Memorial Hospital, Chicago, Illinois
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4
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Nardelli S, Gioia S, Ridola L, Carlin M, Cioffi AD, Merli M, Spagnoli A, Riggio O. Risk of falls in patients with cirrhosis evaluated by timed up and go test: Does muscle or brain matter more? Dig Liver Dis 2022; 54:371-377. [PMID: 34233863 DOI: 10.1016/j.dld.2021.06.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2021] [Revised: 06/20/2021] [Accepted: 06/21/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Minimal hepatic encephalopathy (MHE) is considered a risk factor for falls in patients with liver cirrhosis. However, MHE is prevalent in patients with muscle alterations (sarcopenia and myosteatosis) probably due to the role of muscle in ammonia handling. AIM To assess the respective role of muscle alterations and MHE on the risk of falls in cirrhotic patients. METHODS Fifty cirrhotics were studied for MHE detection by using Psychometric Hepatic Encephalopathy Score (PHES) and Animal Naming Test (ANT). CT scan was used to quantify the skeletal muscle index (SMI) and muscle attenuation, as a measure of myosteatosis. The risk of falls was evaluated by the Timed Up&Go test (TUG). The occurrence of falls during follow up was also detected. RESULTS 32 patients (64%) had an abnormal TUG (< 14 s). In the group with TUG ≥ 14 s, MHE (72vs31%, p<0.005) and myosteatosis (94vs50%, p = 0.002) were significantly more frequent than in patients with TUG<14 s. At multivariate the variables independently associated to TUG ≥ 14 s were myosteatosis, MHE and chronic beta-blockers use. During a mean follow-up of 25±16.9 months, 12 patients fell; the percentage of falls was significantly higher in patients with TUG ≥ 14 s (50%vs9%, p = 0.001) as well as in patients with myosteatosis (33%vs6%, p = 0.03), but similar in patients with or without MHE (35%vs15%, NS). CONCLUSION In cirrhotic patients both muscle alterations and cognitive impairment, as well as chronic beta-blockers use, are associated to the risk of falls.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Nardelli
- Department of Translational and Precision Medicine, "Sapienza" University of Rome, Rome 00185, Italy.
| | - Stefania Gioia
- Department of Translational and Precision Medicine, "Sapienza" University of Rome, Rome 00185, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Ridola
- Department of Translational and Precision Medicine, "Sapienza" University of Rome, Rome 00185, Italy
| | - Michele Carlin
- Department of Translational and Precision Medicine, "Sapienza" University of Rome, Rome 00185, Italy
| | - Antonio Davide Cioffi
- Department of Translational and Precision Medicine, "Sapienza" University of Rome, Rome 00185, Italy
| | - Manuela Merli
- Department of Translational and Precision Medicine, "Sapienza" University of Rome, Rome 00185, Italy
| | - Alessandra Spagnoli
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, "Sapienza" University of Rome, Rome 00185, Italy
| | - Oliviero Riggio
- Department of Translational and Precision Medicine, "Sapienza" University of Rome, Rome 00185, Italy
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Di Cola S, Nardelli S, Ridola L, Gioia S, Riggio O, Merli M. Ammonia and the Muscle: An Emerging Point of View on Hepatic Encephalopathy. J Clin Med 2022; 11:jcm11030611. [PMID: 35160063 PMCID: PMC8836353 DOI: 10.3390/jcm11030611] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2021] [Revised: 01/14/2022] [Accepted: 01/24/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
In the last years the link between the presence of muscular alterations and hepatic encephalopathy (HE), both minimal and overt, has been deeply studied. The pathophysiological background supporting the relationship between muscle depletion, and HE is characterized by an imbalance between the capacity of muscle in ammonia metabolism and trafficking and the inability of the liver in removing ammonia through urea synthesis due to liver failure and/or the presence of porto-systemic shunts. This review will focus on the clinical burden, the physio pathological mechanisms understanding the liver muscle axis and principles of management of muscular alterations in cirrhosis.
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Mohamed AS, Elmeteini MA, Mohamed GAE, Elserafy DM, Elmadani AA, Hashem RE. Cognitive impairment in recipients of liver transplantation and relation to hepatic encephalopathy. MIDDLE EAST CURRENT PSYCHIATRY 2022. [DOI: 10.1186/s43045-022-00175-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Background
Liver transplantation (LT) helped to save the life of end stage liver disease (ESLD) patients; however, there is a debate on the persistence of cognitive impairment. The study aimed to evaluate cognitive functions in patients with ESLD before and after liver transplantation and to assess its relation to hepatic encephalopathy (HE). Thirty recipients 47.6 ± 11 years undergone living donor liver transplantation at the transplantation center of both Ain Shams Center for Organ Transplant and Egypt air organ transplant unit were prospectively assessed by Trail Making Test, Wechsler Memory Scale–Revised, Benton Visual Retention—for the evaluation of cognitive functions before and 3 months after transplantation.
Results
The mean age of the patients was 47.6 ± 11 years, 17 males and 13 females. Eight out of 30 (26.7%) had past history of hepatic encephalopathy. The study reported significant improvement in the post-operative 3 months scores of Trail Making Test part (A), the digit span forward test, digit span backward test and the correct score difference of the Benton Visual Retention, as p value was (0.02), (0.01) (0.02), and (0.01) respectively, compared to the pre-operative scores. However, there was no difference in the scores of part (B), verbal association I, II, information subtest of WMS. Cognitive performance showed no significant difference between patients with or without history of HE.
Conclusions
Patients with ESLD have significant cognitive impairment that showed improvement after LT; HE did not correlate with cognitive function. Hence, transplantation has a favorable outcome on the cognitive impairment.
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Coubard OA, Ober KM, Gaumet M, Urbanski M, Amato JN, Chapron V, Weiss N, Kinugawa K, Weissenborn K, Thabut D. Standardization of the psychometric hepatic encephalopathy score in a French population. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0257136. [PMID: 34506569 PMCID: PMC8432843 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0257136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2020] [Accepted: 08/24/2021] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
The Psychometric Hepatic Encephalopathy Score (PHES) has previously been standardized in thirteen countries on three continents, confirming its status of gold standard test to detect minimal hepatic encephalopathy (MHE). In the meantime, performance has also been shown to vary with variables such as age, education, and barely sex. The present study aimed at standardizing the PHES in a French population. One hundred and ninety-six French healthy participants completed a French version of the paper-and-pencil PHES, involving five tests and six measures. Importantly, the balance was perfect between all levels of the three controlled factors, which were sex, age (seven decade-levels from 20–29 to 80–89 years), and education (two levels below or above 12 years of education). Raw measures were transformed to fit the normal distribution. ANOVAs on transformed variables showed no effect of sex, but an effect of age on all measures, and of education on five measures. Multiple or simple regressions were completed to build up normograms. Thorough analysis of variability within each test failed to find outliers that may bias the results. Comparison between French and seminal German data showed that they highly fitted though cultural and cognitive style specificities could be observed. This is the first study to standardize the PHES in a French population and to extensively explore the effects of sex, age and education using perfectly balanced samples. Subtle differences between countries of the same continent emphasize the need to build up normative data in each country to get accurate PHES in patients.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Kinga M. Ober
- The Neuropsychological Laboratory, CNS-Fed, Paris, France
| | - Marie Gaumet
- The Neuropsychological Laboratory, CNS-Fed, Paris, France
| | - Marika Urbanski
- Service de Médecine et de Réadaptation Gériatrique et Neurologique, Hôpitaux de Saint-Maurice, Saint-Maurice, France
| | | | | | - Nicolas Weiss
- Department of Neurology & Institut de Cardiométabolisme et Nutrition, Neurological Intensive Care Unit, Groupe Hospitalier Pitié-Salpêtrière, AP-HP, Sorbonne Université, Paris, France
- Brain Liver Pitié-Salpêtrière (BLIPS) Study Group, Groupe Hospitalier Pitié-Salpêtrière, AP-HP, Sorbonne Université, Paris, France
- Centre de Recherche Saint-Antoine, UMR_S 938 INSERM-Sorbonne Université, Paris, France
| | - Kiyoka Kinugawa
- Functional Explorations and Sleep Investigation Unit for Older Patients, AP-HP, Ivry-sur-Seine, France
- Biological Adaptation and Aging, UMR 8256, CNRS-Sorbonne Université, Paris, France
| | | | - Dominique Thabut
- Brain Liver Pitié-Salpêtrière (BLIPS) Study Group, Groupe Hospitalier Pitié-Salpêtrière, AP-HP, Sorbonne Université, Paris, France
- Centre de Recherche Saint-Antoine, UMR_S 938 INSERM-Sorbonne Université, Paris, France
- Service d’Hépato-gastro-entérologie, Groupe Hospitalier Pitié-Salpêtrière, AP-HP, Sorbonne Université, Paris, France
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Abstract
Hepatic encephalopathy (HE) occurs in patients with acute-on-chronic liver disease. It has a wide progression of symptoms, with its initial presentation being subtle. The symptoms of HE mainly affect mental status, the musculoskeletal system, and mood/behavior. Its severity ranges from minor disturbances in sleep-wake cycle to the patient being comatose. HE is categorized based on 4 main features: the underlying disease, the severity of manifestations, the time course, and whether precipitating factors are present. The severity of the manifestations is classically identified using the West Haven Criteria. There are several other clinical tests, but they require further validation.
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Watson H, Guevara M, Vilstrup H, Ginès P. Improvement of hyponatremia in cirrhosis is associated with improved complex information processing. J Gastroenterol Hepatol 2019; 34:1999-2003. [PMID: 30965392 DOI: 10.1111/jgh.14683] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2019] [Revised: 03/21/2019] [Accepted: 04/05/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIM Hyponatremia, a cause of brain dysfunction and risk factor for hepatic encephalopathy, is frequent in patients with advanced cirrhosis and ascites. The interdependence of liver failure and hyponatremia makes it difficult to separate the effects of each on cognitive function. The objective was to assess whether an increase in plasma sodium in patients with cirrhosis and ascites leads to an improvement in cognitive function. METHODS This is a post-hoc analysis of 250 cirrhosis patients without overt hepatic encephalopathy randomized to receive either placebo or satavaptan, a vasopressin V2 antagonist. The exposure was plasma sodium, and the outcome was the trail-making test (TMT) parts A and B, which assesses speed of information processing, performed before the study starts and after 14 days. The results were analyzed by initial and change to final sodium concentration. RESULTS At entry, the patients with normonatremia exhibited better results on both the TMT-A (median 56 vs 77.5 s for patients with sodium ≤ 130 mmol/L [P = 0.0059]) and the TMT-B (median 127 vs 170 s for patients with sodium ≤ 130 mmol/L [P = 0.0066]), unrelated to age. Improvement of hyponatremia was more common in patients who received satavaptan (59.7%) than placebo (18.5%). Correction of hyponatremia did not shorten the simple TMT-A but markedly improved the complex TMT-B by an average of 20 s compared with 6.5 s in those with continuing hyponatremia (P = 0.02). Liver status measures remained stable during the period reported. CONCLUSIONS These data suggest that improvement of hyponatremia in patients with cirrhosis leads to an increase in the speed of complex information processing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hugh Watson
- Infectious Diseases Research, Sanofi-Aventis R&D, Marcy l'Etoile, France.,Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Monica Guevara
- Liver Unit, Hospital Clinic of Barcelona, University of Barcelona, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi I Sunyer (IDIBAPS), and Centro de Investigaciones en Red Hepatologia y Digestivas (CIBEReHD), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Hendrik Vilstrup
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Pere Ginès
- Liver Unit, Hospital Clinic of Barcelona, University of Barcelona, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi I Sunyer (IDIBAPS), and Centro de Investigaciones en Red Hepatologia y Digestivas (CIBEReHD), Barcelona, Spain
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10
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Nardelli S, Gioia S, Faccioli J, Riggio O, Ridola L. Sarcopenia and cognitive impairment in liver cirrhosis: A viewpoint on the clinical impact of minimal hepatic encephalopathy. World J Gastroenterol 2019; 25:5257-5265. [PMID: 31558871 PMCID: PMC6761233 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v25.i35.5257] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2019] [Revised: 08/08/2019] [Accepted: 08/24/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Minimal hepatic encephalopathy (MHE) represents the mildest type of hepatic encephalopathy (HE). MHE is considered as a preclinical stage of HE and is part of a wide spectrum of typical neurocognitive alterations characteristic of patients with liver cirrhosis, particularly involving the areas of attention, alertness, response inhibition, and executive functions. MHE can be detected by testing the patients’ psychometric performance, attention, working memory, psychomotor speed, and visuospatial ability, as well as by means of electrophysiological and other functional brain measures. MHE is very frequent, affecting from 20% up to 80% of patients tested, depending of the diagnostic tools used. Although subclinical, MHE is considered to be clinically relevant. In fact, MHE has been related to the patients’ falls, fitness to drive, and working ability. As a consequence, MHE affects the patients and caregivers lives by altering their quality of life and even their socioeconomic status. Recently sarcopenia, a very common condition in patients with advanced liver disease, has been shown to be strictly related to both minimal and overt HE. Aim of this review is to summarize the most recently published evidences about the emerging relationship between sarcopenia and cognitive impairment in cirrhotic patients and provide suggestions for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Nardelli
- Department of Translational and Precision Medicine, “Sapienza” University of Rome, Rome 00185, Italy
| | - Stefania Gioia
- Department of Translational and Precision Medicine, “Sapienza” University of Rome, Rome 00185, Italy
| | - Jessica Faccioli
- Department of Translational and Precision Medicine, “Sapienza” University of Rome, Rome 00185, Italy
| | - Oliviero Riggio
- Department of Translational and Precision Medicine, “Sapienza” University of Rome, Rome 00185, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Ridola
- Department of Translational and Precision Medicine, “Sapienza” University of Rome, Rome 00185, Italy
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11
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Liver fibrosis is associated with cognitive impairment in people living with HIV. Infection 2019; 47:589-593. [PMID: 30784024 DOI: 10.1007/s15010-019-01284-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2018] [Accepted: 02/14/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Our aim was to better explore the association between liver fibrosis (LF) and neurocognitive impairment (NCI) in people living with HIV (PLWH). METHODS We performed a cross-sectional cohort study by consecutively enrolling PLWH at two clinical centers. All subjects underwent a comprehensive neuropsychological battery; NCI was defined as having a pathological performance (1.5 SD below the normative mean) on at least two cognitive domains. LF was explored using FIB4 index; in a subgroup of PLWH, LF was also assessed by transient elastography. RESULTS A total of 386 subjects were enrolled, of whom 17 (4.4%) had FIB4 > 3.25. In the subgroup of PLWH (N = 127) performing also liver transient elastography, 14 (11%) had liver stiffness > 14 kPa. Overall, 47 subjects (12%) were diagnosed with NCI. At multivariate regression analyses, participants with FIB4 > 1.45 showed a higher risk of NCI in comparison with those with lower values (aOR 3.04, p = 0.044), after adjusting for education (aOR 0.71, p < 0.001), past AIDS-defining events (aOR 2.91, p = 0.014), CD4 cell count, past injecting drug use (IDU), HIV-RNA < 50 copies/mL, and HCV co-infection. Also a liver stiffness > 14 kPa showed an independent association with a higher risk of NCI (aOR 10.13, p = 0.041). Analyzing any single cognitive domain, a higher risk of abnormal psychomotor speed was associated with a liver stiffness > 14 kPa (aOR 223.17, p = 0.019) after adjusting for education (aOR 0.57, p = 0.018), HIV-RNA < 50 copies/mL (aOR 0.01, p = 0.007), age, past IDU, and HCV co-infection. CONCLUSIONS In PLWH, increased LF, estimated through non-invasive methods, was associated to a higher risk of NCI independently from HCV status.
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Liver Transplant Recipients Older Than 60 Years Show Executive and Memory Function Improvement Comparable to Younger Recipients. PSYCHOSOMATICS 2019; 60:488-498. [PMID: 30772017 DOI: 10.1016/j.psym.2019.01.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2018] [Revised: 01/21/2019] [Accepted: 01/21/2019] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Increasing numbers of patients over the age of 60 are undergoing liver transplantation. OBJECTIVE We sought to determine whether age or clinical morbidities were associated with pre- and post-transplant executive and memory performance using the Brief Test of Adult Cognition by Telephone (BTACT). METHODS Participants included 36 recipients with n = 20 in the older group (>60 y) and n = 16 in the younger group (≤60 years). The BTACT was administered an average of 3 months before transplant, and at follow-up post-transplant intervals of 3, 6, and 9 months. BTACT composite scores for memory and executive function with age and education norms were obtained. RESULTS Older recipients were more likely to have hepatocellular carcinoma, a lower biological MELD score at transplant, less cellular rejection, and fewer post-operative hospital days. Older and younger recipients showed comparable pre-transplant executive and memory function and comparable post-transplant improvement. Both older and younger patients showed statistically significant improvement in executive function scores at 3 months post-transplant and maintained improvement at 6 and 9 months. Memory function improved significantly in older patients by 6 months post-transplant but did not improve significantly in the younger group. CONCLUSION Older liver transplant recipients were more likely to have hepatocellular carcinoma and a lower biological MELD score than younger recipients, but both age groups showed comparable pre-transplant cognitive performance and post-transplant cognitive improvement. Additionally, a normed telephone test can be used to effectively screen and track executive and memory function post-transplant.
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13
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Logge WB, Morley KC, Haber PS, Baillie AJ. Executive Functioning Moderates Responses to Appetitive Cues: A Study in Severe Alcohol Use Disorder and Alcoholic Liver Disease. Alcohol Alcohol 2018; 54:38-46. [DOI: 10.1093/alcalc/agy083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2018] [Accepted: 10/31/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Warren B Logge
- Department of Psychology, NHMRC Centre of Research Excellence in Mental Health and Substance Use, Macquarie University, NSW, Australia
| | - Kirsten C Morley
- Discipline of Addiction Medicine, NHMRC Centre of Research Excellence in Mental Health and Substance Use, University of Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Paul S Haber
- Discipline of Addiction Medicine, NHMRC Centre of Research Excellence in Mental Health and Substance Use, University of Sydney, NSW, Australia
- Drug Health Services, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, NSW, Australia
| | - Andrew J Baillie
- Department of Psychology, NHMRC Centre of Research Excellence in Mental Health and Substance Use, Macquarie University, NSW, Australia
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14
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García-García R, Cruz-Gómez ÁJ, Urios A, Mangas-Losada A, Forn C, Escudero-García D, Kosenko E, Torregrosa I, Tosca J, Giner-Durán R, Serra MA, Avila C, Belloch V, Felipo V, Montoliu C. Learning and Memory Impairments in Patients with Minimal Hepatic Encephalopathy are Associated with Structural and Functional Connectivity Alterations in Hippocampus. Sci Rep 2018; 8:9664. [PMID: 29941971 PMCID: PMC6018225 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-27978-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2017] [Accepted: 06/13/2018] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Patients with minimal hepatic encephalopathy (MHE) show mild cognitive impairment associated with alterations in attentional and executive networks. There are no studies evaluating the relationship between memory in MHE and structural and functional connectivity (FC) changes in the hippocampal system. This study aimed to evaluate verbal learning and long-term memory in cirrhotic patients with (C-MHE) and without MHE (C-NMHE) and healthy controls. We assessed the relationship between alterations in memory and the structural integrity and FC of the hippocampal system. C-MHE patients showed impairments in learning, long-term memory, and recognition, compared to C-NMHE patients and controls. Cirrhotic patients showed reduced fimbria volume compared to controls. Larger volumes in hippocampus subfields were related to better memory performance in C-NMHE patients and controls. C-MHE patients presented lower FC between the L-presubiculum and L-precuneus than C-NMHE patients. Compared to controls, C-MHE patients had reduced FC between L-presubiculum and subiculum seeds and bilateral precuneus, which correlated with cognitive impairment and memory performance. Alterations in the FC of the hippocampal system could contribute to learning and long-term memory impairments in C-MHE patients. This study demonstrates the association between alterations in learning and long-term memory and structural and FC disturbances in hippocampal structures in cirrhotic patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raquel García-García
- Laboratory of Neurobiology, Centro Investigación Príncipe Felipe, Valencia, Spain
| | | | - Amparo Urios
- Laboratory of Neurobiology, Centro Investigación Príncipe Felipe, Valencia, Spain
- Fundacion Investigacion Hospital Clinico Valencia. INCLIVA, Valencia, Spain
| | - Alba Mangas-Losada
- Fundacion Investigacion Hospital Clinico Valencia. INCLIVA, Valencia, Spain
| | - Cristina Forn
- Departamento Psicologia Basica, Clinica y Psicobiologia. Universitat Jaume I, Castellon, Spain
| | | | - Elena Kosenko
- Institute of Theoretical and Experimental Biophysics, Pushchino, Russia
| | | | - Joan Tosca
- Unidad de Digestivo-Hospital Clínico. Departamento Medicina, Universidad Valencia, Valencia, Spain
| | | | - Miguel Angel Serra
- Unidad de Digestivo-Hospital Clínico. Departamento Medicina, Universidad Valencia, Valencia, Spain
| | - César Avila
- Departamento Psicologia Basica, Clinica y Psicobiologia. Universitat Jaume I, Castellon, Spain
| | | | - Vicente Felipo
- Laboratory of Neurobiology, Centro Investigación Príncipe Felipe, Valencia, Spain
| | - Carmina Montoliu
- Fundacion Investigacion Hospital Clinico Valencia. INCLIVA, Valencia, Spain.
- Departamento Patología, Facultad Medicina, Universidad Valencia, Valencia, Spain.
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Ridola L, Cardinale V, Riggio O. The burden of minimal hepatic encephalopathy: from diagnosis to therapeutic strategies. Ann Gastroenterol 2018; 31:151-164. [PMID: 29507462 PMCID: PMC5825945 DOI: 10.20524/aog.2018.0232] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2017] [Accepted: 11/29/2017] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Minimal hepatic encephalopathy (MHE) is the mildest form of hepatic encephalopathy (HE). It affects the performance of psychometric tests focused on attention, working memory, psychomotor speed, and visuospatial ability, as well as electrophysiological and other functional brain measures. MHE is a frequent complication of liver disease, affecting up to 80% of tested patients. By being related to falls, an impairment in fitness to drive and the development of overt HE, MHE severely affects the lives of patients and caregivers by altering their quality of life and their socioeconomic status. MHE is detected in clinically asymptomatic patients using appropriate psychometric tests and neurophysiological methods that highlight neuropsychological alterations, such as video-spatial orientation deficits, attention disorders, memory, reaction times, electroencephalogram slowing, prolongation of latency-evoked cognitive potentials, and reduction in the critical flicker frequency. Several treatments have been proposed for MHE treatment, including non-absorbable disaccharides, poorly absorbable antibiotics such as rifaximin, probiotics and branched-chain amino acids. However, because of the multiple diagnosis methods, the various endpoints of treatment trials and the variety of agents used in trials, the treatment of MHE is not currently recommended as routine, but only on a case-by-case basis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lorenzo Ridola
- Department of Medico-Surgical Sciences and Biotechnologies (Lorenzo Ridola, Vincenzo Cardinale), Sapienza University of Rome, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Cardinale
- Department of Medico-Surgical Sciences and Biotechnologies (Lorenzo Ridola, Vincenzo Cardinale), Sapienza University of Rome, Italy
| | - Oliviero Riggio
- Department of Clinical Medicine (Oliviero Riggio), Sapienza University of Rome, Italy
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16
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Burroughs TK, Wade JB, Ellwood MS, Fagan A, Heuman DM, Fuchs M, Bajaj JS. Effect of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder on Cognitive Function and Covert Hepatic Encephalopathy Diagnosis in Cirrhotic Veterans. Dig Dis Sci 2018; 63:481-485. [PMID: 29313245 PMCID: PMC5797488 DOI: 10.1007/s10620-017-4894-2] [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: 05/17/2017] [Accepted: 12/18/2017] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In veterans, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is often associated with substance abuse, which in turn can lead to cirrhosis. Cirrhotic patients are prone to cognitive impairment, which is typically due to covert hepatic encephalopathy (CHE), but can also be affected by PTSD. The aim was to define the impact of PTSD on cognitive performance and the diagnosis of CHE in cirrhotic patients. METHODS Outpatient veterans with cirrhosis underwent two separate modalities for CHE cognitive testing [Psychometric Hepatic Encephalopathy Scale (PHES) and Inhibitory Control Test (ICT)]. ICT tests for inhibitory control and response inhibition, while PHES tests for attention and psychomotor speed. Comparisons were made between patients with/without PTSD. Multivariable logistic regression with CHE on PHES and CHE on ICT as dependent variables including prior OHE, demographics, PTSD and psychotropic medications was performed. RESULTS Of 402 patients with cirrhosis, 88 had evidence of PTSD. Fifty-five of these were on psychoactive medications, 15 were undergoing psychotherapy, while no specific PTSD-related therapy was found in 28 patients. Cirrhotic patients with/without PTSD were statistically similar on demographics and cirrhosis severity, but cirrhotic subjects with PTSD had a higher frequency of alcoholic cirrhosis etiology and psychotropic drug use. PTSD cirrhosis had higher ICT lure and switching errors (NCT-B response), but on regression, there was no significant impact of PTSD on CHE diagnosis using either the ICT or PHES. CONCLUSIONS Veterans with cirrhosis and PTSD have a higher frequency of psychotropic drug use and alcoholic cirrhosis etiology. CHE diagnosis using PHES or ICT is not affected by concomitant PTSD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas K. Burroughs
- Mental Illness Research, Education, and Clinical Center, Hunter Holmes McGuire VA Medical Center, Hunter Holmes McGuire VA Medical Center, Richmond, Virginia
| | - James B. Wade
- Psychiatry, Virginia Commonwealth University Medical Center, Richmond, Virginia
| | - Michael S. Ellwood
- Mental Illness Research, Education, and Clinical Center, Hunter Holmes McGuire VA Medical Center, Hunter Holmes McGuire VA Medical Center, Richmond, Virginia
| | - Andrew Fagan
- Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Virginia Commonwealth University Medical Center and McGuire VA Medical Center, Richmond, Virginia
| | - Douglas M Heuman
- Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Virginia Commonwealth University Medical Center and McGuire VA Medical Center, Richmond, Virginia
| | - Michael Fuchs
- Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Virginia Commonwealth University Medical Center and McGuire VA Medical Center, Richmond, Virginia
| | - Jasmohan S. Bajaj
- Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Virginia Commonwealth University Medical Center and McGuire VA Medical Center, Richmond, Virginia
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17
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Multi-Sensory Integration Impairment in Patients with Minimal Hepatic Encephalopathy. Sci Rep 2017; 7:14947. [PMID: 29097814 PMCID: PMC5668322 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-15113-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2017] [Accepted: 10/20/2017] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Paper-and-pencil-based psychometric tests are the gold standard for diagnosis of cognitive dysfunction in liver disease. However, they take time, can be affected by demographic factors, and lack ecological validity. This study explored multi-sensory integration ability to discriminate cognitive dysfunction in cirrhosis. Thirty-two healthy controls and 30 cirrhotic patients were recruited. The sensory integration test presents stimuli from two different modalities (e.g., image/sound) with a short time lag, and subjects judge which stimuli appeared first. Repetitive tests reveal the sensory integration capability. Performance in the sensory integration test, psychometric tests, and functional near-infrared spectroscopy for patients was compared to controls. Sensory integration capability, the perceptual threshold to discriminate the time gap between an image and sound stimulus, was significantly impaired in cirrhotic patients with minimal hepatic encephalopathy (MHE) compared to controls (p < 0.01) and non-MHE patients (p < 0.01). Sensory integration test showed good correlation with psychometric tests (NCT-A, r = 0.383, p = 0.002; NCT-B, r = 0.450, p < 0.01; DST-F, r = -0.322, p = 0.011; DST- B, r = -0.384, p = 0.002; ACPT, r = -0.467, p < 0.01). Psychometric tests were dependent on age and education level, while the sensory integration test was not affected. The sensory integration test, where a cut-off value for the perceptual threshold was 133.3ms, recognized MHE patients at 90% sensitivity and 86.5% specificity.
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Abstract
OBJECTIVE Because HIV impairs gut barriers to pathogens, HIV-infected adults may be vulnerable to minimal hepatic encephalopathy in the absence of cirrhosis. BACKGROUND Cognitive disorders persist in up to one-half of people living with HIV despite access to combination antiretroviral therapy. Minimal hepatic encephalopathy occurs in cirrhotic patients with or without HIV infection and may be associated with inflammation. DESIGN/METHODS A cross-sectional investigation of liver fibrosis severity using the aspartate aminotransferase to platelet ratio index (APRI) and neuropsychological testing performance among women from the Women's Interagency HIV Study. A subset underwent liver transient elastography (FibroScan, n = 303). RESULTS We evaluated 1479 women [mean (SD) age of 46 (9.3) years]: 770 (52%) only HIV infected, 73 (5%) only hepatitis C virus (HCV) infected, 235 (16%) HIV/HCV coinfected, and 401 (27%) uninfected. Of these, 1221 (83%) exhibited APRI ≤0.5 (no or only mild fibrosis), 206 (14%) exhibited APRI >0.5 and ≤1.5 (moderate fibrosis), and 52 (3%) exhibited APRI >1.5 (severe fibrosis). Having moderate or severe fibrosis (APRI >0.5) was associated with worse performance in learning, executive function, memory, psychomotor speed, fluency, and fine motor skills. In these models that adjusted for fibrosis, smaller associations were found for HIV (learning and memory) and HCV (executive functioning and attention). The severity of fibrosis, measured by FibroScan, was associated with worse performance in attention, executive functioning, and fluency. CONCLUSIONS Liver fibrosis had a contribution to cognitive performance independent of HCV and HIV; however, the pattern of neuropsychological deficit associated with fibrosis was not typical of minimal hepatic encephalopathy.
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19
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Suraweera D, Sundaram V, Saab S. Evaluation and Management of Hepatic Encephalopathy: Current Status and Future Directions. Gut Liver 2017; 10:509-19. [PMID: 27377741 PMCID: PMC4933409 DOI: 10.5009/gnl15419] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2015] [Accepted: 08/31/2015] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatic encephalopathy is a spectrum of neurocognitive manifestations often seen in patients with liver injury or rarely in patients with portosystemic shunting without liver injury. It can be divided into minimal (covert) hepatic encephalopathy and overt hepatic encephalopathy, depending on the severity. Patients with hepatic encephalopathy have compromised clinical outcomes, decreased quality of life, and increased healthcare utilization, often resulting in a heavy financial and personal burden on caregivers. The diagnosis remains largely clinical, with the exclusion of possible other causes for the altered mental status. Current treatment strategies include nonabsorbable disaccharides and antibiotics. This review will focus on the diagnosis, management and clinical impact of hepatic encephalopathy.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Vinay Sundaram
- Department of Medicine, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Sammy Saab
- Department of Medicine, University of California at Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA.,Department of Surgery, University of California at Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
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20
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Abstract
Hepatic encephalopathy (HE) is a reversible syndrome of impaired brain function occurring in patients with advanced liver diseases. The precise pathophysiology of HE is still under discussion; the leading hypothesis focus on the role of neurotoxins, impaired neurotransmission due to metabolic changes in liver failure, changes in brain energy metabolism, systemic inflammatory response and alterations of the blood brain barrier. HE produces a wide spectrum of nonspecific neurological and psychiatric manifestations. Minimal HE is diagnosed by abnormal psychometric tests. Clinically overt HE includes personality changes, alterations in consciousness progressive disorientation in time and space, somnolence, stupor and, finally, coma. Except for clinical studies, no specific tests are required for diagnosis. HE is classified according to the underlying disease, the severity of manifestations, its time course and the existence of precipitating factors. Treatment of overt HE includes supportive therapies, treatment of precipitating factors, lactulose and/or rifaximin. Routine treatment for minimal HE is only recommended for selected patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter Ferenci
- Department of Internal Medicine III, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
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21
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Abstract
Alcoholic liver disease is the second most common indication for orthotopic liver transplantation in western countries. The majority of patients with alcoholic liver disease, however, are not referred for transplant evaluation. If evaluated, a 6 month period of sobriety is required before waitlisting for transplant. The consequences of relapse to alcohol use in patients on the waitlist are usually removal from the list. Therefore, identification and treatment of alcohol use disorder in patients with end-stage liver disease greatly impacts quality of life, treatment options and survival in patients’ course with this grave illness. Psychosocial and behavioral interventions prior to transplant appear to reduce drinking in the period before the surgery as well as reduce relapse rates post-transplant. Only one of the three medications approved by the Food and Drug Administration, acamprosate, seems feasible for use in patients with end-stage liver disease, while several other medications currently under investigation for the treatment of alcohol use disorder can be considered for use in this population. While only baclofen has been formally studied in alcoholic patients with end-stage liver disease with positive results for safety and efficacy, other medications also hold promise to treat alcohol use disorder in this population. Transplant programs with addictions specialists who function as an integral part of the treatment team may offer better outcomes to patients in terms of success of maintaining sobriety both pre- and post-transplant.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mary R. Lee
- Section on Clinical Psychoneuroendocrinology and Neuropsychopharmacology, National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism and National Institute on Drug Abuse, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD
| | - Lorenzo Leggio
- Section on Clinical Psychoneuroendocrinology and Neuropsychopharmacology, National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism and National Institute on Drug Abuse, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD,Center for Alcohol and Addiction Studies, Department of Behavioral and Social Sciences, Brown University, Providence, RI,Contact information: Lorenzo Leggio, M.D., Ph.D., M.Sc., Section on Clinical Psychoneuroendocrinology and Neuropsychopharmacology, NIAAA & NIDA, NIH, 10 Center Drive (10CRC/15330) MSC 1108; Room 1-5429, Bethesda, MD 20892-1108, Phone: +1 301 435 9398; Fax: + 1 301 402 0445,
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22
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Madan A, Borckardt JJ, Balliet WE, Barth KS, Delustro LM, Malcolm RM, Koch D, Willner I, Baliga P, Reuben A. Neurocognitive status is associated with all-cause mortality among psychiatric, high-risk liver transplant candidates and recipients. Int J Psychiatry Med 2015; 49:279-95. [PMID: 26078395 DOI: 10.1177/0091217415589304] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Judicious selection of potential liver transplant candidates and close monitoring of progress are essential to successful outcomes. Pretransplant psychosocial evaluations are the norm, but the relationship between psychosocial (and neurocognitive status) and longer term medical outcomes is understudied. This exploratory study sought to examine the relationship between objective measures of pretransplant psychosocial and neurocognitive status and service utilization, transplant status, and all-cause mortality. METHODS This retrospective chart review examined outcomes among 108 psychiatric, high-risk liver transplant candidates up to four years following initial evaluation. Predictor variables of outcomes included demographic, medical, neurocognitive, psychological, and mental health treatment variables. RESULTS Transplant status and neurocognitive functioning were independently associated with all-cause mortality. None of the other variables were associated with outcomes. CONCLUSIONS Better neurocognitive functioning in high-risk liver transplant candidates may allow for greater involvement in medical care and/or compliance with treatment recommendations. More aggressive assessment and management of neurocognitive dysfunction may improve outcomes. Objective measures identified significant psychopathology typical of liver transplant candidates but were not associated with outcomes; engagement in specialized mental health care may have attenuated this relationship. Further study is needed to better understand the relationship between psychosocial functioning and outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Madan
- The Menninger Clinic, Houston, TX, USA Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - J J Borckardt
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, USA
| | - W E Balliet
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, USA
| | - K S Barth
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, USA
| | - L M Delustro
- Department of Psychology, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, TN, USA
| | - R M Malcolm
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, USA
| | - D Koch
- Department of Medicine, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, USA
| | - I Willner
- Department of Medicine, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, USA
| | - P Baliga
- Department of Surgery, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, USA
| | - A Reuben
- Department of Medicine, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, USA
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Cheng Y, Huang L, Zhang X, Zhong J, Ji Q, Xie S, Chen L, Zuo P, Zhang LJ, Shen W. Liver transplantation nearly normalizes brain spontaneous activity and cognitive function at 1 month: a resting-state functional MRI study. Metab Brain Dis 2015; 30:979-88. [PMID: 25703240 DOI: 10.1007/s11011-015-9657-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2014] [Accepted: 02/06/2015] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
To investigate the short-term brain activity changes in cirrhotic patients with Liver transplantation (LT) using resting-state functional MRI (fMRI) with regional homogeneity (ReHo) method. Twenty-six cirrhotic patients as transplant candidates and 26 healthy controls were included in this study. The assessment was repeated for a sub-group of 12 patients 1 month after LT. ReHo values were calculated to evaluate spontaneous brain activity and whole brain voxel-wise analysis was carried to detect differences between groups. Correlation analyses were performed to explore the relationship between the change of ReHo with the change of clinical indexes pre- and post-LT. Compared to pre-LT, ReHo values increased in the bilateral inferior frontal gyrus (IFG), right inferior parietal lobule (IPL), right supplementary motor area (SMA), right STG and left middle frontal gyrus (MFG) in patients post-LT. Compared to controls, ReHo values of post-LT patients decreased in the right precuneus, right SMA and increased in bilateral temporal pole, left caudate, left MFG, and right STG. The changes of ReHo in the right SMA, STG and IFG were correlated with change of digit symbol test (DST) scores (P < 0.05 uncorrected). This study found that, at 1 month after LT, spontaneous brain activity of most brain regions with decreased ReHo in pre-LT was substantially improved and nearly normalized, while spontaneous brain activity of some brain regions with increased ReHo in pre-LT continuously increased. ReHo may provide information on the neural mechanisms of LT' effects on brain function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yue Cheng
- Department of Radiology, Tianjin First Central Hospital, No.24 Fu Kang Road, Nan Kai District, Tianjin, 300192, China
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24
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Kimer N, Krag A, Bendtsen F, Møller S, Gluud LL. Rifaximin for people with hepatic encephalopathy. THE COCHRANE DATABASE OF SYSTEMATIC REVIEWS 2015. [DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd011585] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Nina Kimer
- Medical Division, Copenhagen University Hospital Hvidovre; Gastrounit; Kettegaards Alle 30 Hvidovre Denmark
| | - Aleksander Krag
- Odense University Hospital; Department of Gastroenterology S; Sdr. Boulevard 29, indgang 126 Odense C Denmark 5000
| | - Flemming Bendtsen
- Copenhagen University Hospital Hvidovre; Gastrounit, Medical Division; Kettegårds alle 30 Hvidovre Denmark DK-2650
| | - Søren Møller
- Centre for Functional and Diagnostic Imaging and Research; Department of Clinical Physiology and Nuclear Medicine; Copenhagen University Hospital Hvidovre Copenhagen Denmark
| | - Lise Lotte Gluud
- Copenhagen University Hospital Hvidovre; Gastrounit, Medical Division; Kettegårds alle 30 Hvidovre Denmark DK-2650
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25
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Ferenci P, Litwin T, Seniow J, Czlonkowska A. Encephalopathy in Wilson disease: copper toxicity or liver failure? J Clin Exp Hepatol 2015; 5:S88-95. [PMID: 26041965 PMCID: PMC4442862 DOI: 10.1016/j.jceh.2014.09.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2014] [Accepted: 09/01/2014] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatic encephalopathy (HE) is a complex syndrome of neurological and psychiatric signs and symptoms that is caused by portosystemic venous shunting with or without liver disease irrespective of its etiology. The most common presentation of Wilson disease (WD) is liver disease and is frequently associated with a wide spectrum of neurological and psychiatric symptoms. The genetic defect in WD leads to copper accumulation in the liver and later in other organs including the brain. In a patient presenting with Wilsonian cirrhosis neuropsychiatric symptoms may be caused either by the metabolic consequences of liver failure or by copper toxicity. Thus, in clinical practice a precise diagnosis is a great challenge. Contrary to HE in neurological WD consciousness, is very rarely disturbed and pyramidal signs, myoclonus dominate. Asterixis and many other clinical symptoms may be present in both disease conditions and are quite similar. However details of neurological assessment as well as additional examinations could help in differential diagnosis.
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Key Words
- AHD, acquired hepatocerebral-degeneration
- Cho, choline
- EEG, electroencephalography
- Glx, glutamine and glutamate
- HE, hepatic encephalopathy
- MHE, minimal hepatic encephalopathy
- MI, myoinositol
- MRI, magnetic resonance imaging
- MRS, magnet resonance spectroscopy
- NAA, N-acetyl-aspartate
- WD, Wilson disease
- Wilson disease
- ammonia
- copper
- hepatic encephalopathy
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter Ferenci
- Internal Medicine 3, Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Medical University of Vienna, Austria,Address for correspondence: Peter Ferenci, Department of Internal Medicine III, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Medical University of Vienna, Austria, Waehringer Guertel 18-20, 1090 Vienna, Austria. Tel.: +43 1 40400 4741; fax: +43 1 40400 4735.
| | - Tomasz Litwin
- 2nd Department of Neurology, Institute of Psychiatry and Neurology, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Joanna Seniow
- 2nd Department of Neurology, Institute of Psychiatry and Neurology, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Anna Czlonkowska
- 2nd Department of Neurology, Institute of Psychiatry and Neurology, Warsaw, Poland,Department of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
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Hassan EA, Abd El-Rehim AS, Seifeldein GS, Shehata GA. Minimal hepatic encephalopathy in patients with liver cirrhosis: magnetic resonance spectroscopic brain findings versus neuropsychological changes. Arab J Gastroenterol 2014; 15:108-13. [PMID: 25459346 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajg.2014.09.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2013] [Revised: 02/24/2014] [Accepted: 09/14/2014] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND STUDY AIM Minimal hepatic encephalopathy (MHE) is a subtle complication of cirrhosis that may have a detrimental effect on daily functioning and may progress to overt hepatic encephalopathy (HE). The aims of this study were to identify MHE and assess neuropsychological changes in those patients. PATIENTS AND METHODS A case-control study was conducted in 35 cirrhotic patients. MHE was identified by brain (hydrogen-1) magnetic resonance spectroscopy ((1)H-MRS). Neuropsychological changes were evaluated using cognitive abilities screening instrument (CASI) test, Hamilton depression scale, and soft neurological sign assessment. RESULTS Of the patients, 16 (45.7%) had significant brain (1)H-MRS findings suggesting MHE in the form of decreased myo-Inositol/creatine (mI/Cr) and choline/creatine (Cho/Cr) ratios and increased glutamine-glutamate/creatine (Glx/Cr) ratios in white and grey matters compared to patients without MHE and healthy controls. Patients with MHE had significantly lower abstract thinking subset and total CASI score in comparison to patients without MHE (p=0.03 and p=0.05, respectively) and controls (p=0.003 and p=0.02, respectively). No statistically significant differences were observed amongst different groups regarding other CASI subsets, depression, and soft neurological assessment in spite of a tendency towards increased values in patients with MHE. CONCLUSION MHE associated with neurophysiological changes demonstrated by (1)H-MRS preceded neuropsychological changes. Thus, (1)H-MRS may be considered as a potential tool for diagnosis of cirrhosis-associated cerebral dysfunction and a promising method for prioritisation of subjects awaiting liver transplantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elham A Hassan
- Department of Tropical Medicine and Gastroenterology, Faculty of Medicine, Assiut University, Assiut, Egypt.
| | - Abeer S Abd El-Rehim
- Department of Tropical Medicine and Gastroenterology, Faculty of Medicine, Assiut University, Assiut, Egypt
| | - Gehan S Seifeldein
- Department of Radiology, Faculty of Medicine, Assiut University, Assiut, Egypt
| | - Ghaydaa A Shehata
- Department of Neurology, Faculty of Medicine, Assiut University, Assiut, Egypt
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Hepatic encephalopathy in chronic liver disease: 2014 practice guideline by the European Association for the Study of the Liver and the American Association for the Study of Liver Diseases. J Hepatol 2014; 61:642-59. [PMID: 25015420 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2014.05.042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 287] [Impact Index Per Article: 28.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2014] [Accepted: 05/28/2014] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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28
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Vilstrup H, Amodio P, Bajaj J, Cordoba J, Ferenci P, Mullen KD, Weissenborn K, Wong P. Hepatic encephalopathy in chronic liver disease: 2014 Practice Guideline by the American Association for the Study of Liver Diseases and the European Association for the Study of the Liver. Hepatology 2014; 60:715-35. [PMID: 25042402 DOI: 10.1002/hep.27210] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1266] [Impact Index Per Article: 126.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2014] [Accepted: 04/28/2014] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Hendrik Vilstrup
- Department of Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
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29
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Hepatic Encephalopathy: From the Pathogenesis to the New Treatments. ISRN HEPATOLOGY 2014; 2014:236268. [PMID: 27335836 PMCID: PMC4890879 DOI: 10.1155/2014/236268] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2013] [Accepted: 01/28/2014] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Hepatic encephalopathy is a frequent and serious complication of liver cirrhosis; the pathophysiology of this complication is not fully understood although great efforts have been made during the last years. There are few prospective studies on the epidemiology of this complication; however, it is known that it confers with high short-term mortality. Hepatic encephalopathy has been classified into different groups depending on the degree of hepatic dysfunction, the presence of portal-systemic shunts, and the number of episodes. Due to the large clinical spectra of overt EH and the complexity of cirrhotic patients, it is very difficult to perform quality clinical trials for assessing the efficacy of the treatments proposed. The physiopathology, clinical manifestation, and the treatment of HE is a challenge because of the multiple factors that converge and coexist in an episode of overt HE.
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30
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Corrias M, Turco M, Rui MD, Gatta A, Angeli P, Merkel C, Amodio P, Schiff S, Montagnese S. Covert hepatic encephalopathy: does the mini-mental state examination help? J Clin Exp Hepatol 2014; 4:89-93. [PMID: 25755545 PMCID: PMC4116703 DOI: 10.1016/j.jceh.2013.12.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2013] [Accepted: 12/31/2013] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES The Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) has been utilized for the diagnosis of hepatic encephalopathy (HE). However, its threshold of abnormality has not been formally tested in patients with cirrhosis and its diagnostic/prognostic validity remains unknown. The aim of this study was to assess it in a large group of well-characterized outpatients with cirrhosis and no overt HE. METHODS One-hundred-and-ninety-one patients underwent clinical assessment, MMSE, electroencephalography (EEG) and paper-and-pencil psychometry (PHES); 117 were followed up for 8 ± 5 months in relation to the occurrence of HE-related hospitalizations. RESULTS On the day of study, 81 patients (42%) had abnormal EEG and 67 (35%) abnormal PHES; 103 (60%) had a history of HE. Average MMSE was 26.6 ± 3.5; 22 (19%) patients had abnormal MMSE based on the standard threshold of 24. Patients with abnormal EEG/PHES/history of HE had worse MMSE performance than their counterparts with normal tests/negative history (25.7 ± 4.2 vs. 27.3 ± 2.7; P < 0.01; 25.5 ± 3.2 vs. 27.9 ± 1.8, P < 0.0001; 26.3 ± 3.7 vs. 27.4 ± 2.6, P < 0.05, respectively). Based on the above results, MMSE thresholds of 26 and 27 were tested against abnormalities in clinical/EEG/PHES indices and significant associations were observed. An MMSE threshold of 26 was also a predictor of HE-related hospitalization (Cox-Mantel: P = 0.001); patients with MMSE <26 were significantly older than those with MMSE ≥26 but comparable in terms of liver dysfunction and ammonia levels. When MMSE items were considered separately, those which correlated most significantly with standard HE indices where spatial orientation and writing. CONCLUSION In conclusion, an MMSE <26 identifies older patients with cirrhosis who are more prone to manifest HE signs.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Sara Montagnese
- Address for correspondence: Sara Montagnese, Dipartimento di Medicina, University of Padova, Via Giustiniani, 2, Padova 35128, Italy. Tel.: +39 (0) 49 8218675; fax: +39 (0) 49 7960903.
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Marquine MJ, Umlauf A, Rooney AS, Fazeli PL, Gouaux BD, Paul Woods S, Letendre SL, Ellis RJ, Grant I, Moore DJ. The veterans aging cohort study index is associated with concurrent risk for neurocognitive impairment. J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr 2014; 65:190-7. [PMID: 24442225 PMCID: PMC3907119 DOI: 10.1097/qai.0000000000000008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The Veterans Aging Cohort Study (VACS) Index is predictive of mortality and combines age, traditional HIV biomarkers (HIV-1 plasma RNA and current CD4 count), and non-HIV biomarkers (indicators of renal and liver function, anemia, and hepatitis C coinfection). We examined the association between the VACS Index and HIV-associated neurocognitive impairment (NCI). DESIGN AND METHODS Participants included 601 HIV-infected adults enrolled in cohort studies at the University of California, San Diego, HIV Neurobehavioral Research Program (ages: 18-76 years; 88% male; 63% white; median current CD4 = 364 cells/mm; 63% on antiretroviral therapy; AIDS = 64%). Biomarkers used in calculating the VACS Index were measured in prospectively collected blood samples using conventional laboratory methods. NCI was defined using global and seven domain deficit scores. RESULTS Higher VACS Index scores were associated with concurrent risk for global NCI [P < 0.001; odds ratio = 1.21, confidence interval (CI): 1.12 to 1.32], even when adjusting for psychiatric comorbidities. This relation was statistically significant for most cognitive domains in adjusted models. Furthermore, the VACS Index predicted concurrent NCI beyond nadir CD4 and estimated duration of infection. Older age, lower hemoglobin, and lower CD4 counts were the VACS components most strongly linked to NCI. CONCLUSIONS The findings extend previous research on the potential usefulness of the VACS Index in predicting HIV-associated outcomes to include NCI. Although the effect size was relatively small, our findings suggest that demographic information, HIV-disease factors, and common comorbidities might each play important roles in the clinical manifestation of cognitive impairment among HIV-infected individuals. Additional research is needed to determine if a more sensitive and specific index can be developed.
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Affiliation(s)
- María J Marquine
- Departments of *Psychiatry; †Medicine; and ‡Neurosciences, University of California, San Diego, San Diego, CA
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Singh S, Trigun S. Low grade cirrhosis induces cognitive impairment and motor dysfunction in rats: Could be a model for minimal hepatic encephalopathy. Neurosci Lett 2014; 559:136-40. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neulet.2013.11.058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2013] [Revised: 11/27/2013] [Accepted: 11/30/2013] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
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Suh SJ, Yim HJ, Yoon EL, Lee BJ, Hyun JJ, Jung SW, Koo JS, Kim JH, Kim KJ, Choung RS, Seo YS, Yeon JE, Um SH, Byun KS, Lee SW, Choi JH, Ryu HS. Is propofol safe when administered to cirrhotic patients during sedative endoscopy? Korean J Intern Med 2014; 29:57-65. [PMID: 24574834 PMCID: PMC3932396 DOI: 10.3904/kjim.2014.29.1.57] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2013] [Revised: 06/18/2013] [Accepted: 07/18/2013] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND/AIMS In patients with liver cirrhosis, drugs acting on the central nervous system can lead to hepatic encephalopathy and the effects may be prolonged. Recently, misuse of propofol has been reported and the associated risk of death have become an issue. Propofol is commonly used during sedative endoscopy; therefore, its safety in high-risk groups must be further investigated. We performed a pilot study of the safety and efficacy of propofol during endoscopy in Korean patients with cirrhosis. METHODS Upper gastrointestinal endoscopy was performed under sedation with propofol along with careful monitoring in 20 patients with liver cirrhosis and 20 control subjects. The presence or development of hepatic encephalopathy was assessed using the number connection test and neurologic examination. RESULTS Neither respiratory depression nor clinically significant hypotension were observed. Immediate postanesthetic recovery at 5 and 10 minutes after the procedure was delayed in the cirrhotic patients compared with the control group; however, at 30 minutes, the postanesthetic recovery was similar in both groups. Baseline psychomotor performance was more impaired in cirrhotic patients, but propofol was not associated with deteriorated psychomotor function even in cirrhotic patients with a minimal hepatic encephalopathy. CONCLUSIONS Sedation with propofol was well tolerated in cirrhotic patients. No newly developed hepatic encephalopathy was observed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sang Jun Suh
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Korea University Ansan Hospital, Ansan, Korea
| | - Hyung Joon Yim
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Korea University Ansan Hospital, Ansan, Korea
| | - Eileen L. Yoon
- Division of Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Korea University Guro Hospital, Seoul, Korea
| | - Beom Jae Lee
- Division of Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Korea University Guro Hospital, Seoul, Korea
| | - Jong Jin Hyun
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Korea University Ansan Hospital, Ansan, Korea
| | - Sung Woo Jung
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Korea University Ansan Hospital, Ansan, Korea
| | - Ja Seol Koo
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Korea University Ansan Hospital, Ansan, Korea
| | - Ji Hoon Kim
- Division of Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Korea University Guro Hospital, Seoul, Korea
| | - Kyung Jin Kim
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Korea University Ansan Hospital, Ansan, Korea
| | - Rok Son Choung
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Korea University Ansan Hospital, Ansan, Korea
| | - Yeon Seok Seo
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Korea University Anam Hospital, Seoul, Korea
| | - Jong Eun Yeon
- Division of Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Korea University Guro Hospital, Seoul, Korea
| | - Soon Ho Um
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Korea University Anam Hospital, Seoul, Korea
| | - Kwan Soo Byun
- Division of Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Korea University Guro Hospital, Seoul, Korea
| | - Sang Woo Lee
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Korea University Ansan Hospital, Ansan, Korea
| | - Jai Hyun Choi
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Korea University Ansan Hospital, Ansan, Korea
| | - Ho Sang Ryu
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Korea University Anam Hospital, Seoul, Korea
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Amodio P, Cordoba J. Smart applications for assessing minimal hepatic encephalopathy: novelty from the app revolution. Hepatology 2013; 58:844-6. [PMID: 23532934 DOI: 10.1002/hep.26416] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2013] [Revised: 03/13/2013] [Accepted: 03/17/2013] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
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Use of ImPACT to diagnose minimal hepatic encephalopathy: an accurate, practical, user-friendly internet-based neuropsychological test battery. Dig Dis Sci 2013; 58:2673-81. [PMID: 23625285 DOI: 10.1007/s10620-013-2668-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2012] [Accepted: 03/27/2013] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS An effective, user-friendly neurocognitive test to diagnose minimal hepatic encephalopathy (MHE) is needed. Immediate Post-concussion Assessment and Cognitive Testing (ImPACT) is a brief, validated, Web-based, neuropsychological test battery resulting in four composite scores [Verbal Memory (VrbM), Visual Memory, Visual Motor Speed (VMS), Reaction Time (RT)]. We compared ImPACT to traditional paper-and-pencil tests in patients at risk for MHE versus controls. METHODS Ninety cirrhotic patients with no history of overt hepatic encephalopathy were compared with 131 controls on standard psychometric tests (SPT) [Trail Making Test-A, Trail Making Test-B, Digit Symbol Test], 4 ImPACT composite scores, and the Sickness Impact Profile (SIP). MHE+ was defined by a score 2 SD below the normative mean on at least one of the SPT. ImPACT (ImP+) scores of patients were defined as 2 SD from the control mean. RESULTS Cirrhotic patients scored more poorly than controls on 3/4 of ImPACT scores: VrbM (78.88 vs. 71.37, p<0.001), VMS (26.47 vs. 22.68, p<0.001) and RT (0.89 vs. 1.00, p<0.01), as well as on all 3 SPT. Of the 90 cirrhotics, 16 (18%) were MHE+, who performed more poorly (p<0.001) than patients without MHE on VrbM (58.13 vs. 74.19), VMS (16.77 vs. 23.95) and RT (1.24 vs. 0.95). Of the 90 cirrhotics, 25 (27.8%) were ImP+. MHE+ and ImP+ patients had increased SIP scores versus controls (p<0.001). CONCLUSIONS Compared to paper-and-pencil testing, ImPACT provides a brief, user-friendly, neuropsychological evaluation of MHE. ImPACT could become a new standard for MHE diagnosis.
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Stewart CA, Enders FTB, Mitchell MM, Felmlee-Devine D, Smith GE. The cognitive profile of depressed patients with cirrhosis. Prim Care Companion CNS Disord 2013; 13:10m01090. [PMID: 21977378 DOI: 10.4088/pcc.10m01090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2010] [Accepted: 11/22/2010] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine whether patients with cirrhosis and depressive symptoms have a different neuropsychological cognitive profile from patients with cirrhosis without depressive symptoms in order to show that cirrhosis may not be the only cause for cognitive decline in patients with cirrhosis. METHOD Adult outpatients with a diagnosis of cirrhosis based on histologic findings and clinical characteristics, who did not have clinically overt hepatic encephalopathy and who were being treated in the advanced liver disease and liver transplant clinics, were recruited for the study from May 2003 to May 2006. Patients underwent neuropsychological testing and evaluation for depression using the Beck Depression Inventory-II (BDI-II). Age-adjusted standard neuropsychological domain scores were compared between depressed (BDI-II score ≥ 14) and nondepressed (BDI-II score < 14) patients. RESULTS Seventy-five subjects were included in the study. The 23 patients with depression were similar to the 52 nondepressed patients in level of education, age, and race; the laboratory parameters of international normalized ratio, bilirubin, creatinine, and albumin concentration; and Model for End-Stage Liver Disease scores. There was a higher percentage of women in the depressed group than in the nondepressed group, with a trend toward significance (52% vs 29%; P = .07). No etiology of liver disease was associated with depression. In linear regression analyses, decreases in cognitive function were associated with higher BDI-II scores for the domains of working memory (P = .026), with a trend toward significance for visual-perception (P = .056). Approximately 7% of the variability in working memory score was predicted using the BDI score. CONCLUSIONS Depressive symptoms are associated with worsened cognitive function in cirrhosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charmaine A Stewart
- The Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
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Frota NAF, Barbosa ER, Porto CS, Lucato LT, Ono CR, Buchpiguel CA, Caramelli P. Cognitive impairment and magnetic resonance imaging correlations in Wilson's disease. Acta Neurol Scand 2013; 127:391-8. [PMID: 23215772 DOI: 10.1111/ane.12037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/02/2012] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To evaluate the cognitive performance of a group of patients with Wilson's disease (WD) and to correlate the cognitive findings with changes in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). METHODS All patients with WD consecutively attended in a Movement Disorders Clinic between September 2006 and October 2007 were invited to participate in the study, together with a group of matched healthy controls. Patients and controls were submitted to comprehensive neuropsychological assessment. MRI was performed in all patients, and abnormalities (high-intensity signal, low-intensity signal and atrophy) were semi-quantitatively rated. Performance of patients and controls in each cognitive test was compared, and correlations between cognitive scores and MRI changes were investigated within the patients' group. RESULTS Twenty patients with WD (11 men) and 20 controls (nine men) were evaluated. Mean age in the WD and control groups was 30.05 ± 7.25 and 32.15 ± 5.37 years, respectively. Mean schooling years were 11.15 ± 3.73 among WD cases and 10.08 ± 2.62 among controls. Patients with WD performed significantly worse than controls in the Mini-Mental State Examination, Dementia Rating Scale, phonemic verbal fluency (FAS), verb generation, digit span forward, Stroop test, Frontal Assessment Battery and in the Brief Cognitive Screening Battery. A significant correlation emerged between global cognitive impairment and MRI scale (r = 0.535), being higher for high-intensity signal plus atrophy (r = 0.718). CONCLUSION Patients with WD presented cognitive impairment, especially in executive functions, with good correlation between cognitive abnormalities and MRI changes.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - E. R. Barbosa
- Department of Neurology; University of São Paulo School of Medicine; São Paulo; São Paulo; Brazil
| | - C. S. Porto
- Department of Neurology; University of São Paulo School of Medicine; São Paulo; São Paulo; Brazil
| | - L. T. Lucato
- Department of Radiology; University of São Paulo School of Medicine; São Paulo,; Brazil
| | - C. R. Ono
- Department of Radiology; University of São Paulo School of Medicine; São Paulo,; Brazil
| | - C. A. Buchpiguel
- Department of Radiology; University of São Paulo School of Medicine; São Paulo,; Brazil
| | - P. Caramelli
- Department of Internal Medicine; Faculty of Medicine; Federal University of Minas Gerais; Belo Horizonte; Minas Gerais; Brazil
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Ciećko-Michalska I, Wójcik J, Senderecka M, Wyczesany M, Binder M, Szewczyk J, Dziedzic T, Słowik A, Mach T. Cognitive functions in patients with liver cirrhosis: a tendency to commit more memory errors. Med Sci Monit 2013; 19:283-8. [PMID: 23598598 PMCID: PMC3659153 DOI: 10.12659/msm.883890] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Minimal hepatic encephalopathy (MHE) is the mildest form of hepatic encephalopathy (HE). For diagnostic purposes, 2 alternative batteries of psychometric screening tests are recommended. They differ from each other in terms of the cognitive domains assessed. The research was designed to provide a profile of cognitive functioning in patients with liver cirrhosis, using an assessment that covers a wider range of cognitive functions than the usual screening battery. Material/Methods We examined 138 persons, including 88 with liver cirrhosis and 50 healthy volunteers. The Mini Mental State Examination (MMSE) was used for screening and excluding advanced cognitive impairment. Then, to assess cognitive functions in more detail, the following tests were used: Auditory Verbal Learning Test (AVLT), Letter and Semantic Fluency Tests (LF and SF), Trail Making Test (TMT A&B), Digit Symbol Test (DST), Block Design Test (BDT), and Mental Rotation Test (MRT). The MRT task has not been used in MHE diagnosis so far. Finally, 57 patients and 48 controls took part in the entire study. Results Patients with liver cirrhosis commit significantly more errors of intrusions in the AVLT during the delayed free recall trial. Results significantly deviating from the norm in at least 2 tests were found only in 7 cirrhosis patients. Conclusions The results do not provide any specific profile of cognitive disturbances in MHE, but suggest that cirrhosis patients have a tendency to commit more memory errors, probably due to subtle impairments of executive function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irena Ciećko-Michalska
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Infectious Diseases, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Krakow, Poland.
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Abstract
Hepatic encephalopathy (HE) represents a continuum of transient and reversible neurologic and psychiatric dysfunction. It is a reversible state of impaired cognitive function or altered consciousness in patients with liver disease or portosystemic shunting. Over the last several years, high-quality studies have been conducted on various pharmacologic therapies for HE; as more data emerge, it is hoped that HE will become a more easily treated complication of decompensated liver disease. In the interim, it is important that physicians continue to screen for minimal HE and treat patients early in addition to continuing to provide current treatments of overt HE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vandana Khungar
- Department of Medicine, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA.
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Neuropsychological functioning in patients with alcohol-related liver disease before and after liver transplantation. Transplantation 2012; 92:1371-7. [PMID: 22075529 DOI: 10.1097/tp.0b013e3182375881] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cognitive dysfunction is common in both end-stage liver disease and chronic alcohol misuse. The impact of orthotopic liver transplantation (OLT) on neuropsychological function is poorly documented. This prospective study examined changes in cognitive function pre- and post-OLT in patients with alcohol-related liver disease (ALD). METHODS Comprehensive neuropsychological assessment was conducted with 92 abstinent patients with ALD scheduled for OLT. Forty-two patients were available for reassessment 12 months post-OLT. RESULTS Posttransplantation, cognitive performance on all measures fell within normal limits. Greatest improvement occurred in visuomotor speed, complex visual attention processes, and the ability to solve visually presented problems. Performance on memory assessment tasks also improved posttransplantation. Applying a more robust assessment of change (Reliable Change Index), approximately half improved reliably on overall cognitive function. One quarter improved in memory performance. With the exception of the Full-Scale Intelligence Quotient scales, discriminant analysis was unable to successfully predict which patients reliably improved. CONCLUSIONS Overall improvement in cognitive function occurs after liver transplantation in ALD. It was not possible to identify which patient characteristics were associated with reliable change.
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Sunmonu TA, Adekanle O, Komolafe MA, Ndububa DA. Cognitive function in patients with liver cirrhosis without overt hepatic encephalopathy: assessment using an automated neuropsychological test battery. Arab J Gastroenterol 2012; 13:4-8. [PMID: 22560817 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajg.2012.02.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2011] [Revised: 12/22/2011] [Accepted: 02/15/2012] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND STUDY AIMS A wide range of neuropsychiatric disorders occur in patients with liver cirrhosis without overt hepatic encephalopathy. Cognitive dysfunctions do occur and these tend to impair patients' vocational and social life as well as activities of daily living. The aim of this study is to evaluate cognitive functions in patients with liver cirrhosis without overt HE in Nigeria. PATIENTS AND METHODS Thirty-four patients with liver cirrhosis and 41 normal subjects as control were studied. Medical history and general physical/neurological examinations were carried out on all the subjects. Blood samples were obtained for viral serological markers and liver functions tests. The 'Fepsy' automated neuropsychological test battery was performed for the assessment of auditory reaction time (psychomotor speed). Recognition memory test (memory), binary choice reaction task (psychomotor speed/attention) and vigilance task were also administered. The data were analysed with the aid of Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 15.0 software. RESULTS The mean age of patients with liver cirrhosis was 45.00 ± 13.83 years, while that of control subjects was 41.88 ± 139.49 years. The visual/auditory reaction time, binary choice reaction time and computerised visual reaction time were prolonged in patients with liver cirrhosis when compared with control subjects. However, there were differences in the recognition memory test and vigilance performances between the two groups. The patients with liver cirrhosis who had hepatitis C virus infection had poor psychomotor speed when compared with patients who were hepatitis C virus negative, but there was no statistical significant correlation between other aspects of liver function tests and cognitive functions in patients with cirrhosis. CONCLUSION Patients with liver cirrhosis had similar cognitive functions on measures of memory and vigilance when compared with normal control subjects. However, there were significant differences in other aspects of cognitive functions between the two groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taofiki A Sunmonu
- Neurology Unit, Department of Medicine, Federal Medical Centre, Owo, Ondo State, Nigeria.
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Abstract
Practice guidelines for hepatic encephalopathy were developed and published in 2001 for overall management in adults. Hepatic encephalopathy is caused by nitrogenous substances from the gastrointestinal tract that adversely affect brain function. Hepatic encephalopathy is a diagnosis of exclusion. The West Haven criteria are recommended for staging the disease. Treatment goals are providing supportive care, identifying and removing precipitating factors, reducing nitrogenous load, and assessing long-term therapy needs. Data from some trials published before 2001 are not included in the guidelines. In addition, since the publication of the guidelines, new data have become available regarding treatment interventions and outcomes. Newer, nonabsorbed agents, such as rifaximin, alone or in conjunction with lactulose, may enhance compliance and adherence with therapy, and provide better treatment outcomes. New updated practice guidelines need to be developed for hepatic encephalopathy, along with treatment algorithms for patients with both minimal hepatic encephalopathy and overt hepatic encephalopathy.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Richard Thompson
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, Lipscomb University College of Pharmacy, Nashville, Tennessee 37204-3951, USA.
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Abstract
HIV-associated neurocognitive dysfunction persists in the highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) era and may be exacerbated by comorbidities, including substance use and hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection. However, the neurocognitive impact of HIV, HCV, and substance use in the HAART era is still not well understood. In the current study, 115 HIV-infected and 72 HIV-seronegative individuals with significant rates of lifetime substance dependence and HCV infection received comprehensive neuropsychological assessment. We examined the effects of HIV serostatus, HCV infection, and substance use history on neurocognitive functioning. We also examined relationships between HIV disease measures (current and nadir CD4, HIV RNA, duration of infection) and cognitive functioning. Approximately half of HIV-infected participants exhibited neurocognitive impairment. Detectable HIV RNA but not HIV serostatus was significantly associated with cognitive functioning. HCV was among the factors most consistently associated with poorer neurocognitive performance across domains, while substance use was less strongly associated with cognitive performance. The results suggest that neurocognitive impairment continues to occur in HIV-infected individuals in association with poor virologic control and comorbid conditions, particularly HCV coinfection.
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Sarma MK, Huda A, Nagarajan R, Hinkin CH, Wilson N, Gupta RK, Frias-Martinez E, Sayre J, Guze B, Han SH, Thomas MA. Multi-dimensional MR spectroscopy: towards a better understanding of hepatic encephalopathy. Metab Brain Dis 2011; 26:173-84. [PMID: 21698453 PMCID: PMC3181227 DOI: 10.1007/s11011-011-9250-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2011] [Accepted: 06/06/2011] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Hepatic encephalopathy (HE) is normally diagnosed by neuropsychological (NP) tests. The goals of this study were to quantify cerebral metabolites, separate glutamate (Glu) from glutamine (Gln) in patients with minimal hepatic encephalopathy (MHE) as well as healthy subjects using the prior-knowledge fitting (ProFit) algorithm on data acquired by two-dimensional (2D) localized correlated spectroscopy (L-COSY) on two different MR scanners, and to correlate the metabolite changes with neuropsychological (NP) tests. We studied 14 MHE patients and 18 healthy controls using a GE 1.5 T Signa MR scanner. Another group of 16 MHE patients and 18 healthy controls were studied using a Siemens 1.5 T Avanto MR scanner. The following parameters were used for L-COSY: TR/TE = 2 s/30 ms, 3 × 3 × 3 cm(3) voxel size, 96 Δt(1) increments with 8 averages per Δt(1). Using the ProFit algorithm, we were able to differentiate Gln from Glu on the GE 1.5 T data in the medial frontal white/gray matter. The ratios of myo-inositol (mI), Glu, total choline, scyllo-inositol (sI), phosphoethanolamine (PE), and total N-acetyl aspartate (NAA) showed statistically significant decline in HE patients compared to healthy controls, while the ratio of Gln was significantly increased. Similar trend was seen in the ProFit quantified Siemens 1.5 T data in the frontal and occipito-parietal white/gray regions. Among the NP domain scores, motor function, cognitive speed, executive function and the global scores showed significant differences. Excellent correlations between various NP domains and metabolite ratios were also observed. ProFit based cerebral metabolite quantitation enhances the understanding and basis of the current hypothesis of MHE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manoj K. Sarma
- Department of Radiological Sciences, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Amir Huda
- Department of Radiological Sciences, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, California, USA
- Department of Physics, California State University, Fresno, California, USA
| | - Rajakumar Nagarajan
- Department of Radiological Sciences, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Charles H. Hinkin
- Department of Psychiatry, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, California, USA
- VA Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Neil Wilson
- Department of Radiological Sciences, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Rakesh K. Gupta
- Department of Radiology, Sanjay Gandhi Post-Graduate Institute of Medical Sciences, Lucknow, India
| | - Enrique Frias-Martinez
- Department of Radiological Sciences, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - James Sayre
- Department of Radiological Sciences, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Barry Guze
- Department of Psychiatry, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Steven-Huy Han
- Department of Hepatology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - M. Albert Thomas
- Department of Radiological Sciences, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, California, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, California, USA
- Correspondence: M. Albert Thomas PhD, Department of Radiological Sciences, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, CHS BL 428, 10833 Le Conte Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90095-1721, USA, Tel: +1-310-206-4191, Fax: +1-310-825-5837,
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Gad YZ, Zaher AA, Moussa NH, El-desoky AEE, Al-Adarosy HA. Screening for minimal hepatic encephalopathy in asymptomatic drivers with liver cirrhosis. Arab J Gastroenterol 2011; 12:58-61. [PMID: 21684474 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajg.2011.04.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2010] [Revised: 12/08/2010] [Accepted: 04/02/2011] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND STUDY AIMS Minimal hepatic encephalopathy (MHE) represents a part of the spectrum of hepatic encephalopathy (HE). It can have a far-reaching impact on quality and ability to function in daily life and may progress to overt HE. This study was designed to screen for MHE in drivers with liver cirrhosis in Mansoura, a city in the Nile delta in Egypt. PATIENTS AND METHODS A total of 174 consecutive drivers with positive serology for viral markers and cirrhosis were screened for MHE. Questionnaires and standard psychometric tests and well-informed consent were performed at the same setting. The diagnosis of MHE was made when one or both symbol digit test (SDT) and number connection test (NCT) appeared abnormal. Beck's inventory and Mini Mental State Examination questionnaires were performed for those diagnosed as MHE. After overnight fasting, venous blood samples were taken for haematologic tests and routine liver function tests by conventional methods. Arterial ammonia was also measured. RESULTS A total of 66 patients showed evidence for MHE out of 139 patients who fulfilled the inclusion criteria. No significant differences were present, apart from a significantly elevated arterial ammonia level (p-value <0.001) and a bad self-reported driving history (p<0.05) in the MHE-positive group when compared with the MHE-negative group. Multivariate logistic regression revealed that advanced Child-Pugh grade (p<0.001), hepatitis B virus (HBV)-related aetiology (p<0.001) and smoking are significant risk factors for MHE. MHE is significantly commoner among Child-Pugh C patients (p<0.05) when compared with the other Child-Pugh grades. CONCLUSION Our data revealed a high prevalence of MHE (47%) among Egyptian drivers with liver cirrhosis. It is hence recommended to include the driving history as well as regular pencil-paper standard psychometric testing in evaluating those at risk, especially in the outpatient setting, for early detection and proper management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yahia Z Gad
- Internal Medicine Department, Mansoura Specialized Medical Hospital, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt.
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Les I, Doval E, García-Martínez R, Planas M, Cárdenas G, Gómez P, Flavià M, Jacas C, Mínguez B, Vergara M, Soriano G, Vila C, Esteban R, Córdoba J. Effects of branched-chain amino acids supplementation in patients with cirrhosis and a previous episode of hepatic encephalopathy: a randomized study. Am J Gastroenterol 2011; 106:1081-8. [PMID: 21326220 DOI: 10.1038/ajg.2011.9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 117] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Protein intake impacts on nutritional status and may determine the recurrence of hepatic encephalopathy (HE). A low-protein diet has been considered the standard treatment after an episode of HE, while branched-chain amino acids (BCAA) have been shown to improve minimal HE. We performed a study to investigate the long-term effects of supplementing a protein-controlled diet with BCAA. METHODS A randomized, double-blind, multicenter study that included 116 patients with cirrhosis and a previous episode of HE was conducted in four tertiary care hospitals. All patients received a standard diet of 35 kcal/kg per day and 0.7 g of proteins/kg per day and a supplement of 30 g of BCAA (BCAA group) or maltodextrin (MDX group) during 56 weeks. RESULTS The actuarial risk of remaining free of HE did not differ between groups (BCAA=47%, MDX=34%, P=0.274), but patients in the BCAA group exhibited a better outcome on two neuropsychological tests and an increase in the mid-arm muscle circumference. Recurrence was associated with low plasma albumin at baseline and a decrease in sodium and an increase in creatinine during follow-up. Patients with recurrence of HE exhibited a lack of improvement in global cognitive function. CONCLUSIONS Diet supplementation with BCAA after an episode of HE does not decrease recurrence of HE. However, supplementation with BCAA improves minimal HE and muscle mass. Identification of risk factors for recurrence of HE may allow the development of new preventive therapies that could decrease the neuropsychological sequelae of repeated episodes of HE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iñigo Les
- Servei de Medicina Interna-Hepatologia, Hospital Vall d'Hebron, Barcelona, Spain
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Córdoba J. New assessment of hepatic encephalopathy. J Hepatol 2011; 54:1030-40. [PMID: 21145874 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2010.11.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 160] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2010] [Revised: 11/22/2010] [Accepted: 11/23/2010] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Hepatic encephalopathy (HE) is a common complication of cirrhosis that requires careful appraisal of the clinical manifestations, evaluation of the underlying neurological disorders, and assessment of liver function and the portal-systemic circulation. This article reviews recent developments in the assessment of HE and discusses the controversy regarding the use of a categorical or a continuous approach in measuring the severity of this condition. New scales facilitate effective monitoring and assessment of episodic HE. Neuropsychological test batteries and neurophysiological tests are of value for evaluating cognitive function in outpatients and can establish the diagnosis of minimal HE, and the severity of low-grade HE. These tools allow better evaluation of the origin of cognitive complaints and help in estimating the risk of accidents. It is now possible to complete the evaluation with measurement of the effects of cognitive impairment on daily living. In difficult cases, imaging of the brain and portal-systemic circulation with magnetic resonance imaging is especially helpful. Based on these studies, neurological signs and symptoms can be attributed to HE in patients with mild liver disease and in those with complex neurological manifestations. The new methods presented are also valuable for investigating the neurological manifestations occurring after liver transplantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan Córdoba
- Servei de Medicina Interna-Hepatologia, Hospital Vall d'Hebron, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona and Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBEREHD), Paseo Vall d'Hebron 119, Barcelona 08035, Spain.
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Garcia-Martinez R, Rovira A, Alonso J, Jacas C, Simón-Talero M, Chavarria L, Vargas V, Córdoba J. Hepatic encephalopathy is associated with posttransplant cognitive function and brain volume. Liver Transpl 2011; 17:38-46. [PMID: 21254343 DOI: 10.1002/lt.22197] [Citation(s) in RCA: 111] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Hepatic encephalopathy (HE) is a common complication of cirrhosis that is associated with brain atrophy and may participate in impaired cognitive function after liver transplantation. This study analyzes the relationship of HE with cognitive function and brain volume after transplantation. A total of 52 consecutive patients with cirrhosis (24 alcohol abuse, 24 prior HE, 14 diabetes mellitus) completed a neuropsychological assessment before liver transplantation and again, 6 to 12 months after transplantation. In 24 patients who underwent the posttransplant assessment, magnetic resonance imaging was performed in addition, with measurement of brain volume and relative concentration of N-acetylaspartate (NAA) and creatine/phosphocreatine (Cr), a neuronal marker, by magnetic resonance spectroscopy. Neuropsychological assessment prior to transplantation identified minimal HE in 28 patients. All cognitive indexes improved after liver transplantation, but 7 patients (13%) showed persistent mild cognitive impairment. Global cognitive function after transplantation was poorer in patients with the following variables before liver transplantation: alcohol etiology, diabetes mellitus, and HE. Brain volume after transplantation was smaller in patients with prior HE. Brain volume correlated to NAA/Cr values (r = 0.498, P = 0.013) and poor motor function (r = 0.41, P = 0.049). In conclusion, the association of HE with cognitive function and brain volume suggests that having experienced HE before liver transplantation impairs the posttransplantation neurological outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rita Garcia-Martinez
- Internal Medicine Hepatology Service, Hospital Universitari Vall d'Hebron, Barcelona, Spain
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Singhal A, Nagarajan R, Hinkin CH, Kumar R, Sayre J, Elderkin-Thompson V, Huda A, Gupta RK, Han SH, Thomas MA. Two-dimensional MR spectroscopy of minimal hepatic encephalopathy and neuropsychological correlates in vivo. J Magn Reson Imaging 2010; 32:35-43. [PMID: 20578008 DOI: 10.1002/jmri.22216] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To evaluate regional cerebral metabolic and structural changes in patients with minimal hepatic encephalopathy (MHE) using two-dimensional (2D) MR spectroscopy (MRS) and T( (1) )-weighted MRI, to correlate the observed MR changes with neuropsychological (NP) test scores, and to compare the diagnostic accuracy of MRI, 2D MRS, and NP tests in discriminating between patients and healthy subjects. MATERIALS AND METHODS Thirty-three MHE patients and 30 healthy controls were investigated. The 2D localized correlated spectroscopy (L-COSY) was performed in the frontal and occipital brain on a 1.5 Tesla (T) MR scanner. The NP test battery included 15 tests, grouped into 6 cognitive domains. Globus pallidus signal intensities were calculated from T(1)-weighted images. RESULTS The 2D MRS showed significant differences in ratios of the following metabolite(s) peaks with respect to creatine (Cr): decreased myo-inositol (mI), choline (Ch), mICh, and increased (glutamate plus glutamine) (Glx) in patients compared with healthy subjects in both occipital and frontal lobes. Frontal lobe taurine also showed a decline in patients. The NP test results revealed declines in cognitive speed, motor function, executive function, and global cognitive status. Significant correlations were found between the altered metabolites and NP tests. Alteration in the mICh/Cr ratio was noted as a powerful discriminant between healthy subjects and the patients. CONCLUSION The study demonstrates that relative metabolite levels determined by 2D MRS, in particular mICh/Cr, provide the best diagnostic prediction for MHE. The results suggest that depletions of myo-inositol, choline and taurine with respect to creatine correlate with measures of neuropsychological impairment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aparna Singhal
- Department of Radiological Sciences, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, California 90095-1721, USA
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