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Mafi VIP, Soldera J. Palliative care for end-stage liver disease and acute on chronic liver failure: A systematic review. World J Methodol 2024; 14:95904. [DOI: 10.5662/wjm.v14.i4.95904] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2024] [Revised: 06/20/2024] [Accepted: 07/03/2024] [Indexed: 07/26/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND End stage liver disease (ESLD) represents a growing health concern characterized by elevated morbidity and mortality, particularly among individual ineligible for liver transplantation. The demand for palliative care (PC) is pronounced in patients grappling with ESLD and acute on chronic liver failure (ACLF). Unfortunately, the historical underutilization of PC in ESLD patients, despite their substantial needs and those of their family caregivers, underscores the imperative of seamlessly integrating PC principles into routine healthcare practices across the entire disease spectrum.
AIM To comprehensively investigate the evidence surrounding the benefits of incorporating PC into the comprehensive care plan for individuals confronting ESLD and/or ACLF.
METHODS A systematic search in the Medline (PubMed) database was performed using a predetermined search command, encompassing studies published in English without any restrictions on the publication date. Subsequently, the retrieved studies were manually examined. Simple descriptive analyses were employed to summarize the results.
RESULTS The search strategies yielded 721 references. Following the final analysis, 32 full-length references met the inclusion criteria and were consequently incorporated into the study. Meticulous data extraction from these 32 studies was undertaken, leading to the execution of a comprehensive narrative systematic review. The review found that PC provides significant benefits, reducing symptom burden, depressive symptoms, readmission rates, and hospital stays. Yet, barriers like the appeal of transplants and misconceptions about PC hinder optimal utilization. Integrating PC early, upon the diagnosis of ESLD and ACLF, regardless of transplant eligibility and availability, improves the quality of life for these patients.
CONCLUSION Despite the substantial suffering and poor prognosis associated with ESLD and ACLF, where liver transplantation stands as the only curative treatment, albeit largely inaccessible, PC services have been overtly provided too late in the course of the illness. A comprehensive understanding of PC's pivotal role in treating ESLD and ACLF is crucial for overcoming these barriers, involving healthcare providers, patients, and caregivers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vakaola I Pulotu Mafi
- Post-Graduate Program, Acute Medicine, University of South Wales, Cardiff CF37 1DL, United Kingdom
| | - Jonathan Soldera
- Post-Graduate Program, Acute Medicine, University of South Wales, Cardiff CF37 1DL, United Kingdom
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Manning ME, Fricker Z. Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation Outcomes and Trainee Perception of Code Status Discussions in Patients with Cirrhosis. Dig Dis Sci 2024; 69:2390-2400. [PMID: 38652391 DOI: 10.1007/s10620-024-08443-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2023] [Accepted: 04/09/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) outcomes among patients with cirrhosis are poor, but factors associated with outcomes and provider awareness remain under-evaluated. AIMS We retrospectively investigated in-hospital CPR mortality among patients with cirrhosis, and, using these results, undertook an educational study among providers to improve knowledge of CPR outcomes and code status in patients with cirrhosis. METHODS We identified patients with cirrhosis admitted from 2012 to 2022 who underwent CPR at our center; the primary outcome was survival-to-discharge. A brief video based on these results was presented online to Internal Medicine residents, along with paired pre/post-surveys assessing attitudes toward holding code status conversations and knowledge of CPR outcomes in patients with cirrhosis. RESULTS 97 cases of CPR were identified. 27 patients (28%) survived to discharge post-CPR. A history of liver decompensation was significantly associated with lower survival (OR 0.21, p < 0.05). 22 residents participated in the educational intervention; afterward, their estimation of survival after CPR for patients with cirrhosis significantly improved (p < 0.05). Mean confidence in answering patient questions about prognosis, measured from 1 to 5, also significantly improved (2.4-"a little confident" vs. 3.8-"confident", p < 0.05). 59% of surveyed residents identified impact on liver transplant candidacy as at least a "somewhat significant" barrier to code status conversations. CONCLUSIONS We identified significant trainee uncertainty about outcomes in patients with cirrhosis. These deficits improved after an educational intervention and gave providers more confidence in holding informed code status conversations with patients with cirrhosis, a population that faces barriers to adequate code discussions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Margot E Manning
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
- Internal Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, 55 Fruit Street, Boston, MA, 02114, USA.
| | - Zachary Fricker
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, & Nutrition, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA, USA
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3
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Becker G. [Palliative Care in patients with gastrointestinal cancer]. Dtsch Med Wochenschr 2024; 149:447-453. [PMID: 38565118 DOI: 10.1055/a-2060-2119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/04/2024]
Abstract
Comprehensive Cancer Care stands for a concept of broad care providing substantial benefits to cancer patients. Beside prevention of cancer as first pillar and curative therapy as second pillar, comprehensive care also encompasses palliative care representing a third pillar providing service for incurable cancer patients burdened with physical symptoms and psychological, social and spiritual needs. This article describes the integration of palliative medicine into comprehensive cancer care for patients with gastrointestinal cancer.
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Manning ME, Ufere NN. Improving palliative care access for patients with cirrhosis. Clin Liver Dis (Hoboken) 2024; 23:e0204. [PMID: 38860127 PMCID: PMC11164013 DOI: 10.1097/cld.0000000000000204] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2024] [Accepted: 04/12/2024] [Indexed: 06/12/2024] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Margot E. Manning
- Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Nneka N. Ufere
- Liver Center, Gastrointestinal Division, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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Shehadah A, Yu Naing L, Bapaye J, Malik S, Mohamed M, Khalid N, Munoz A, Jadhav N, Mushtaq A, Okolo P, Eskridge E. Early palliative care referral may improve end-of-life care in end-stage liver disease patients: A retrospective analysis from a non-transplant center. Am J Med Sci 2024; 367:35-40. [PMID: 37923293 DOI: 10.1016/j.amjms.2023.10.006] [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] [Received: 03/24/2023] [Revised: 06/22/2023] [Accepted: 10/30/2023] [Indexed: 11/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Patients with end-stage liver disease (ESLD) who are not transplant candidates often have a trajectory of rapid decline and death similar to patients with stage IV cancer. Palliative care (PC) services have been shown to be underutilized for such patients. Most studies examining the role of PC in ESLD have been done at transplant centers. Thus, determining the utilization and benefit of PC at a non-transplant tertiary center may help establish a standard of care in the management of patients with ESLD not eligible for transplant. METHODS We conducted a retrospective analysis of adult (>18 years) patients with ESLD admitted to Rochester Regional Health (RRH) system hospitals from 2012 to 2021. Patients were divided into groups based on the presence or absence of PC involvement. Baseline characteristics were recorded. The impact of PC was assessed by comparing the number of hospitalizations before and after the involvement of PC, comparing code status changes, health care proxy (HCP) assignments, Aspira catheter placements, and frequency of repeated paracentesis. RESULTS In our analysis of 576 patients, 41.1% (237 patients) received a PC consult (PC group), while 58.9% (339 patients) did not (no-PC group). Baseline characteristics were comparable. However, their mean number of admissions significantly decreased (15.66 vs. 3.49, p < 0.001) after PC involvement. Full code status was more prevalent in the no-PC group (67.8% vs. 18.6%, p < 0.001), while comfort care code status was more common in the PC group (59.9% vs. 20.6%, p < 0.001). Changes in code status were significantly higher in the PC group (77.6% vs. 29.2%, p < 0.001). The PC group had a significantly higher mortality rate (83.1% vs. 46.4%, p < 0.01). Patients in the PC group had a higher likelihood of having an assigned HCP (63.7% vs. 37.5%, p < 0.001). PC referral was associated with more frequent use of an Aspira catheter (5.9% vs. 0.9%, p < 0.001) and more frequent paracentesis (30.8% vs. 16.8%, p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS In conclusion, our study provides compelling evidence of the diverse advantages of palliative care for patients with end-stage liver disease, including reduced admissions, improved goals of care, code status modifications, enhanced healthcare proxy assignments, and targeted interventions. These findings highlight the potential significance of early integration of palliative care in the disease trajectory to provide comprehensive, patient-centered care that addresses the unique needs and preferences of individuals with advanced liver disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmed Shehadah
- Department of Internal Medicine, Rochester General Hospital, Rochester, New York, United States.
| | - Le Yu Naing
- Department of Internal Medicine, Rochester General Hospital, Rochester, New York, United States
| | - Jay Bapaye
- Department of Internal Medicine, Rochester General Hospital, Rochester, New York, United States
| | - Sheza Malik
- Department of Internal Medicine, Rochester General Hospital, Rochester, New York, United States
| | - Mohamed Mohamed
- Department of Internal Medicine, Rochester General Hospital, Rochester, New York, United States
| | - Nida Khalid
- Department of Gastroenterology, Rochester General Hospital, Rochester, New York, United States
| | - Anisleidys Munoz
- Department of Internal Medicine, Rochester General Hospital, Rochester, New York, United States
| | - Nagesh Jadhav
- Department of Internal Medicine, Rochester General Hospital, Rochester, New York, United States
| | - Asim Mushtaq
- Department of Gastroenterology, Rochester General Hospital, Rochester, New York, United States
| | - Patrick Okolo
- Department of Gastroenterology, Rochester General Hospital, Rochester, New York, United States
| | - Etta Eskridge
- Department of Palliative Care, Rochester General Hospital, Rochester, New York, United States
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Kearney A, Tiwari N, Cullen O, Legg A, Arbi I, Douglas C, Leggett B, Fenech M, Mina J, Hoey P, Skoien R. Improving palliative and supportive care in advanced cirrhosis: the HepatoCare model of integrated collaborative care. Intern Med J 2023; 53:1963-1971. [PMID: 37812158 DOI: 10.1111/imj.16248] [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] [Received: 04/01/2023] [Accepted: 08/29/2023] [Indexed: 10/10/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Patients with advanced cirrhosis experience an unpredictable disease trajectory but are infrequently referred to palliative care (PC) services and rarely undertake advance care planning (ACP). AIM We assessed whether a novel model of care increased provision of meaningful PC in advanced cirrhosis compared with standard of care (SOC). METHODS Thirty consecutive hepatology clinic outpatients with advanced cirrhosis, meeting one or more cirrhosis-related PC referral criteria, consented to treatment in the HepatoCare clinic (PC physician, specialist liver nurse, pharmacist) in parallel with usual specialist hepatology care. A control cohort of 30 consecutive outpatients with advanced cirrhosis undergoing SOC treatment was retrospectively identified for comparison. The primary outcome was provision of meaningful PC using HepatoCare versus SOC. Additional clinical outcomes were assessed over 12 months or until death and significant differences were identified. RESULTS The intervention and control cohorts had similarly advanced cirrhosis (mean Child-Pugh scores 8.7 vs 8.2, P = 0.46; mean model for end-stage liver disease scores 14.4 vs 14.6, P = 0.88) but a lower 12-month mortality rate (33% HepatoCare vs 67% SOC; P = 0.02). The intervention cohort experienced higher uptake of formal ACP (100% vs 25% for the control cohort) and outpatient PC referral (100% vs 40%), and were more likely to die at home or in a PC bed/hospice (80% vs 30%). The majority of the HepatoCare cohort (81%) had medications safely deprescribed and experienced fewer unplanned admission days (470 vs 794). CONCLUSIONS HepatoCare is a novel multidisciplinary model of care that integrates effective PC and specialist hepatology management to improve outcomes in advanced cirrhosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alison Kearney
- Department of Palliative and Supportive Care, Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital, Queensland, Herston, Australia
- School of Medicine, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, Queensland, Australia
| | - Neha Tiwari
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital, Queensland, Herston, Australia
| | - Olivia Cullen
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital, Queensland, Herston, Australia
| | - Amy Legg
- Department of Pharmacy, Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital, Queensland, Herston, Australia
| | - Ismail Arbi
- Department of Pharmacy, Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital, Queensland, Herston, Australia
| | - Carol Douglas
- Department of Palliative and Supportive Care, Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital, Queensland, Herston, Australia
- School of Medicine, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, Queensland, Australia
| | - Barbara Leggett
- School of Medicine, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, Queensland, Australia
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital, Queensland, Herston, Australia
| | - Mary Fenech
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital, Queensland, Herston, Australia
| | - Joanne Mina
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital, Queensland, Herston, Australia
| | - Paris Hoey
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital, Queensland, Herston, Australia
| | - Richard Skoien
- School of Medicine, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, Queensland, Australia
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital, Queensland, Herston, Australia
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Woodland H, Buchanan RM, Pring A, Dancox M, McCune A, Forbes K, Verne J. Inequity in end-of-life care for patients with chronic liver disease in England. Liver Int 2023; 43:2393-2403. [PMID: 37519025 DOI: 10.1111/liv.15684] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2022] [Revised: 06/05/2023] [Accepted: 07/17/2023] [Indexed: 08/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS The World Health Assembly recommends integration of palliative care into treatment of patients with any life-limiting condition, yet patients with non-malignant disease are less likely to receive specialist palliative care (SPC). This study compares SPC offered to patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) versus patients with chronic liver disease without HCC (CLD without HCC). METHODS Patients who died from CLD or HCC over 5 years (2013-2017) in England were identified using a dataset linking national data on all hospital admissions (Hospital Episode Statistics - HES) with national mortality data from the Office for National Statistics (HES - ONS). The primary outcome was the proportion of patients who received inpatient SPC in their last year of life (LYOL). Secondary outcomes were (1) early inpatient SPC input and (2) the proportion dying in a hospice. The outcomes were compared between patients with HCC and CLD without HCC. RESULTS 29 669 patients were identified, 8143 of whom had HCC. Patients with HCC were significantly more likely to receive inpatient SPC input-adjusted OR 3.74 (95% CI 3.52-3.97) and early inpatient SPC input-adjusted OR 7.26 (95% CI 6.38-8.25) and die in a hospice OR 8.23 (95% CI 7.33-9.24) than patients with CLD without HCC. CONCLUSIONS These data highlight the stark inequity in access to SPC services between patients with HCC and patients with CLD without HCC in England. Addressing these inequities will improve end-of-life care for patients with CLD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hazel Woodland
- Department of Population Health Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
- Gastrointestinal Unit, Salisbury NHS Foundation Trust, Salisbury, UK
| | - Ryan M Buchanan
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - Andy Pring
- Office for Health Improvement and Disparities, Department of Health and Social Care, London, UK
| | - Mark Dancox
- Office for Health Improvement and Disparities, Department of Health and Social Care, London, UK
| | - Anne McCune
- Department of Hepatology, University Hospitals Bristol and Weston NHS Foundation Trust, Bristol, UK
| | - Karen Forbes
- Department of Population Health Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Julia Verne
- Office for Health Improvement and Disparities, Department of Health and Social Care, London, UK
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Petersile M, Devuni D. Palliative Care and Advanced Directive Practices at Liver Transplant Centers in the United States. J Palliat Med 2023; 26:1327-1332. [PMID: 37155706 DOI: 10.1089/jpm.2022.0556] [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: 05/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Patients with cirrhosis have a decreased quality of life due to decompensations of their underlying disease. While liver transplantation (LT) has improved outcomes and quality of life for patients with cirrhosis, many patients die or are delisted before transplant. Despite high morbidity and mortality, palliative care (PC) services are underutilized for patients with cirrhosis. Methods: To evaluate current PC and advance care practices at LT centers, a survey was designed and sent to 115 U.S. LT centers. Results: Forty-two surveys were completed (37% response rate) with representation from all United Network for Organ Sharing regions. Nineteen institutions (46.3%) reported 100 or fewer waitlisted patients, while 22 (53.6%) reported more than 100. Twenty-five institutions (59.5%) reported 100 or fewer transplants performed in the last year and 17 (40.5%) reported more than 100. Nineteen transplant centers (45.2%) require patients to discuss advance directives as part of the LT evaluation, while 23 (54.8%) do not. Only 5 centers (12.2%) reported having a dedicated PC provider as part of their transplant team and only 2 reported requiring patients to meet with a PC provider as part of the LT evaluation process. Discussion: This study shows many LT centers do not engage their patients in advance directive discussions and highlights the underutilization of PC services in the LT evaluation process. Our results also show minimal advancement in the collaboration between PC and transplant hepatology over the last decade. Encouraging or requiring LT centers to hold advance directive discussions and incorporate PC providers into the transplant team is a recommended area for improvement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew Petersile
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology, University of Massachusetts Memorial Medical Center, Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Deepika Devuni
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology, University of Massachusetts Memorial Medical Center, Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
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Alhalabi MN, Khalaf IA, Zeilani RS, Bawadi HA, Musa AS, Nashwan AJ. Palliative care needs of Jordanian women's experience of living with stroke: a descriptive phenomenological study. BMC Palliat Care 2023; 22:106. [PMID: 37507696 PMCID: PMC10375733 DOI: 10.1186/s12904-023-01216-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2023] [Accepted: 06/27/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Stroke is a prevalent neurological disease that can have a profound impact on women's physical, psychosocial, and spiritual well-being. In many cases, women living with stroke may have marginalized palliative care needs that are often not adequately addressed by healthcare providers. Unfortunately, the experience of women with stroke and their specific palliative care needs have been largely overlooked in research conducted in Jordan. AIM The purpose of this study is to examine the specific palliative care needs of women who have experienced a stroke and are currently living in Jordan. By conducting this research, we aim to identify the various physical, emotional, social, and spiritual needs of women with stroke and gain a better understanding of how these needs can be addressed through palliative care interventions. METHODS This research utilized a phenomenological descriptive study approach to explore the experiences of twelve women recruited from the outpatient clinic of rehabilitation centers. The data was collected through semi-structured interviews. The analysis was conducted using the method of Colaizzi (1978), which involves identifying significant statements, extracting meanings, and formulating an exhaustive description of the phenomenon under study. RESULTS The study findings uncovered three primary themes that reflect the palliative care needs of women who are currently living with stroke in Jordan, including (1) Spiritual practices, beliefs, and needs; (2) Coping with distressing symptoms; and (3) Managing the delivery of unfavorable news. DISCUSSION This study provides valuable insights into the experiences of Jordanian women living with stroke, highlighting the far-reaching consequences of this condition on various aspects of their lives. The findings reveal that stroke has a significant impact on women's physical, emotional, social, and spiritual well-being, with many facing unmet palliative care needs. By illuminating these challenges, our study underscores the importance of taking a holistic approach to stroke care that addresses the multifaceted needs of women living with stroke. Healthcare providers must consider these findings and integrate palliative care interventions into treatment plans to improve the quality of life of women living with stroke in Jordan. CONCLUSION This study provides valuable insights into the palliative care needs of women who have experienced a stroke. Our findings highlight the importance of addressing women's physical, psychosocial, and spiritual needs as part of a comprehensive approach to stroke care. We recommend integrating palliative care interventions into rehabilitation programs to improve the quality of life of women living with stroke in Jordan. By doing so, we can address the pain and complications that can arise from stroke, while also providing holistic support to address the emotional and spiritual impact of the illness. This approach has the potential to improve outcomes for women living with stroke and enhance their overall well-being.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marwa Nayef Alhalabi
- Department of Adult Health Nursing, Faculty of Nursing, The University of Jordan, Amman, Jordan
| | - Inaam Abdulla Khalaf
- Department of Maternal and Child Health Nursing, Faculty of Nursing, The University of Jordan, Amman, Jordan
| | - Ruqayya Sayed Zeilani
- Department of Adult Health Nursing, Faculty of Nursing, The University of Jordan, Amman, Jordan
| | - Hala Ahmad Bawadi
- Department of Maternal and Child Health Nursing, Faculty of Nursing, The University of Jordan, Amman, Jordan
| | - Ahmad S Musa
- Department of Adult Health Nursing, Faculty of Nursing, Al Al-Bayt University, Mafraq, Jordan
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Miller K, Barman P, Kappus M. Palliative care and end of life care in decompensated cirrhosis. Clin Liver Dis (Hoboken) 2023; 22:10-13. [PMID: 37521186 PMCID: PMC10378809 DOI: 10.1097/cld.0000000000000044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2022] [Accepted: 03/09/2023] [Indexed: 08/01/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Kaela Miller
- Department of Internal Medicine, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Pranab Barman
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of California San Diego; San Diego, California, USA
| | - Matthew Kappus
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina, USA
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Johnson AW, Golzarri Arroyo L, Mahendraker N, Hosty J, Kroenke K. Hospital Opioid Usage and Adverse Events in Patients With End-Stage Liver Disease. J Pain Symptom Manage 2023; 65:326-334.e2. [PMID: 36496114 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpainsymman.2022.11.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2022] [Revised: 11/21/2022] [Accepted: 11/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT Patients with end-stage liver disease (ESLD) commonly experience pain and other symptoms that result in a poor quality of life. Few studies have examined opioid usage, adverse events (AEs), and other outcomes in ESLD patients receiving opioid analgesia. OBJECTIVES This study aimed to compare outcomes in ESLD patients who received opioids to those who did not and to determine risk factors for AEs. METHODS This was a retrospective case-cohort study of 270 hospitalized patients with ESLD that used administrative and clinical data from the electronic medical record. RESULTS Two-thirds of patients with ESLD admitted during the study period received at least one opioid analgesic. Patients who received opioids presented with a greater number of liver related complications and higher rates of anxiety (32% vs. 17%, P= 0.007), had substantially worse initial and average pain scores (both P< 0.001), and received more palliative care consultations. The opioid group had somewhat more respiratory (22.2% vs. 11.1%, P= 0.02) and gastrointestinal (38.5% vs. 25.2%, P= 0.03) AEs, but no increase in CNS adverse events which included hepatic encephalopathy. Anxiety and disease severity (i.e., the number of liver related complications) but not opioid administration were risk factors for the number of AEs. CONCLUSION Opioid administration was not an independent risk factor for the number of AEs in hospitalized patients with ESLD, whereas anxiety and more liver-related complications increased AE risk. Our findings suggest that opioids have an appropriate and reasonably safe role in alleviation of pain in patients with ESLD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy W Johnson
- Division of General Internal Medicine and Geriatrics (A.W.J,N.M.,K.K.), Indianapolis.
| | - Lilian Golzarri Arroyo
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics (L.G-A), School of Public Health, Bloomington
| | - Neetu Mahendraker
- Division of General Internal Medicine and Geriatrics (A.W.J,N.M.,K.K.), Indianapolis
| | - Jack Hosty
- Indiana University School of Medicine (J.H.), Indianapolis
| | - Kurt Kroenke
- Division of General Internal Medicine and Geriatrics (A.W.J,N.M.,K.K.), Indianapolis; Regenstrief Institute, Inc. (K.K.), Indianapolis, Indianapolis USA
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Philips CA, Kedarisetty CK. Palliative Care for Patients with End-Stage Liver Disease. J Clin Exp Hepatol 2023; 13:319-328. [PMID: 36950499 PMCID: PMC10025682 DOI: 10.1016/j.jceh.2022.08.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2022] [Accepted: 08/07/2022] [Indexed: 02/17/2023] Open
Abstract
End-stage liver disease (ESLD) is the culmination of progression of chronic liver disease to cirrhosis, decompensation, and chronic liver failure, featuring portal hypertension or hepatocellular failure-related complications. Liver transplantation offers improved long-term survival for these patients but is negatively influenced by donor availability, financial constraints in developing countries, active substance abuse, progression of disease or malignancy on wait-list, sepsis and extrahepatic organ involvement. In this context, palliative care (PC), an interdisciplinary medical practice that aim to prevent and relieve suffering, offers best possible quality of life and is not limited to end-of-life care. It also encompasses achievable goals such as symptom control and aggressive disease-modifying treatments or interventions that beneficially alter the natural course of the disease to offer curative intend. In this narrative review, we discuss the prognostic factors that define disease course in ESLD, various indications and challenges in PC for advanced cirrhosis and management options for major symptom burden in patients with ESLD based on evidence-based best practice.
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Key Words
- ACLF
- ACLF, acute-on-chronic liver failure
- CPT, Child–Pugh–Turcotte
- ESLD, end-stage liver disease
- HE, hepatic encephalopathy
- INR, international normalized ratio
- LSM, liver stiffness measurement
- LT, liver transplantation
- MELD, model for end stage liver disease
- PC, palliative care
- TE, transient elastography
- TIPS, transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt
- ascites
- cirrhosis
- end of life care
- hepatic encephalopathy
- hyponatremia
- portal hypertension
- sepsis
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Affiliation(s)
- Cyriac A. Philips
- Department of Clinical and Translational Hepatology and the Monarch Liver Laboratory, Rajagiri Hospital, Aluva, Kerala, India
| | - Chandan K. Kedarisetty
- Department of Hepatology and Liver Transplantation, Gleneagles Global Hospital, Hyderabad, India
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13
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Woelfel I, Faulkner D, Wong S, Washburn K, Schenk A. A “Return to Normalcy” or Establishing a “New Normal”: The Patient Experience of Liver Transplantation. JOURNAL OF LIVER TRANSPLANTATION 2023. [DOI: 10.1016/j.liver.2023.100149] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/14/2023] Open
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14
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Jaffe A, Taddei TH, Giannini EG, Ilagan-Ying YC, Colombo M, Strazzabosco M. Holistic management of hepatocellular carcinoma: The hepatologist's comprehensive playbook. Liver Int 2022; 42:2607-2619. [PMID: 36161463 PMCID: PMC10878125 DOI: 10.1111/liv.15432] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2022] [Revised: 08/26/2022] [Accepted: 09/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a common complication in patients with chronic liver disease and leads to significant morbidity and mortality. Liver disease and liver cancer are preventable by mitigating and managing common risk factors, including chronic hepatitis B and C infection, alcohol use, diabetes, obesity and other components of the metabolic syndrome. The management of patients with HCC requires treatment of the malignancy and adequate control of the underlying liver disease, as preserving liver function is critical for successful cancer treatment and may have a relevant prognostic role independent of HCC management. Hepatologists are the ideal providers to guide the care of patients with HCC as they are trained to identify patients at risk, apply appropriate surveillance strategies, assess and improve residual liver function, evaluate candidacy for transplant, provide longitudinal care to optimize and preserve liver function during and after HCC treatment, survey for cancer recurrence and manage its risk factors, and prevent and treat decompensating events. We highlight the need for a team-based holistic approach to the patient with liver disease and HCC and identify necessary gaps in current care and knowledge.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ariel Jaffe
- Liver Center, Department of Internal Medicine, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
- Smilow Cancer Hospital and Liver Cancer Program, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Tamar H. Taddei
- Liver Center, Department of Internal Medicine, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Edoardo G. Giannini
- Gastroenterology Unit, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Genoa, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genoa, Italy
| | - Ysabel C. Ilagan-Ying
- Liver Center, Department of Internal Medicine, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | | | - Mario Strazzabosco
- Liver Center, Department of Internal Medicine, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
- Smilow Cancer Hospital and Liver Cancer Program, New Haven, CT, USA
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15
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Drysdale K, Rance J, Cama E, Treloar C, Mao L. What is known about the care and support provided for an ageing population with lived experience of chronic viral hepatitis as they near end-of-life: A scoping review. HEALTH & SOCIAL CARE IN THE COMMUNITY 2022; 30:e3775-e3788. [PMID: 36259240 PMCID: PMC10092025 DOI: 10.1111/hsc.14066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2021] [Revised: 06/09/2022] [Accepted: 10/01/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Ageing with a chronic hepatitis B (HBV) or hepatitis C (HCV) infection is an emerging public health priority. For people living with chronic viral hepatitis, their disease progression into old age is both underpinned by their existing blood borne virus and the potential emergence of other infectious and non-infectious conditions. These twinned pathways bring additional challenges to the care and support for people as they near end of life. This scoping review sought to examine what is known about the experiences of the end-of-life phase of an increasing population ageing with HBV and HCV in studies conducted in high-income settings and published in peer reviewed literature (2010-2021). In interpreting this literature, we found that challenges in determining the end-of life phase for people with lived experience of HBV or HCV are exacerbated by the conflation of aetiologies into a singular diagnosis of end-stage liver disease. Studies overwhelmingly reported the clinical aspects of end-of-life care (i.e. prognosis assessment and symptom management) with less attention paid to educative aspects (i.e. advance care directives and surrogate decision makers, discussion of treatment options and determining goals of care). Psychosocial interventions (i.e. quality of life beyond symptom management, including emotional/spiritual support and family and bereavement support) received limited attention in the literature, though there was some recognition that psychosocial interventions should be part of end-of-life care provision. Given the focus on the prominent disease presentation of liver cirrhosis and/or end-stage liver disease, the social and cultural dimensions of these infections have received less attention in the literature on end-of-life in the context of chronic viral hepatitis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kerryn Drysdale
- Centre for Social Research in HealthUNSW SydneySydneyAustralia
| | - Jake Rance
- Centre for Social Research in HealthUNSW SydneySydneyAustralia
| | - Elena Cama
- Centre for Social Research in HealthUNSW SydneySydneyAustralia
| | - Carla Treloar
- Centre for Social Research in HealthUNSW SydneySydneyAustralia
| | - Limin Mao
- Centre for Social Research in HealthUNSW SydneySydneyAustralia
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16
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Hentschel F, Schwarz T, Lüth S, Schreyer AG. Psoas muscle index predicts time to rehospitalization in liver cirrhosis: An observational study. Medicine (Baltimore) 2022; 101:e30259. [PMID: 36086704 PMCID: PMC10980440 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000030259] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2022] [Accepted: 07/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Sarcopenia is frequent in liver cirrhosis (LC) where it is associated with morbidity and mortality. However, prognostic scores such as model for end-stage liver disease (MELD), MELD-sodium (MELD-Na), or Child-Turcotte-Pugh (CTP) do not contain sarcopenia as a variable. For this study, we utilized psoas muscle index (PMI) to objectively determine sarcopenia in hospitalized LC patients, and evaluated it as a predictor of time between discharge and readmission in LC. Abdominal computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging scans of 65 consecutive LC patients were retrospectively examined to determine PMI. MELD, MELD-Na, and CTP were calculated from clinical data. PMI was then combined with CTP to form an experimental score: CTP sarcopenia (CTPS). For PMI alone and for each score, correlation with time between discharge and readmission for liver-related complications was calculated. PMI was also tested for correlation with sex, body mass index (BMI), MELD, MELD-Na, and CTP. CTPS was most closely correlated with time to readmission (R = 0.730; P < .001), followed by CTP (R = 0.696; P < .001), MELD-Na (R = 0.405; P = .009), and PMI alone (R = 0.388; P = .01). Correlation with MELD (R = 0.354; P = .05) was lowest. Additionally, there were significant differences in PMI between male and female individuals (5.16 vs 4.54 cm2/m2; P = .04) and in BMI between sarcopenic and nonsarcopenic individuals (29.63 vs 25.88 kg/m2; P = .009). Sarcopenia is an independent short-term prognostic factor in LC. By combining data on sarcopenia with CTP, we created an experimental score that predicts time to readmission better than MELD, MELD-Na, or CTP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Florian Hentschel
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University Medical Center Brandenburg, Brandenburg, Germany
| | - Theresa Schwarz
- Brandenburg Medical School, University Medical Center Brandenburg, Brandenburg, Germany
| | - Stefan Lüth
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University Medical Center Brandenburg, Brandenburg, Germany
| | - Andreas G. Schreyer
- Department of Radiology, University Medical Center Brandenburg, Brandenburg, Germany
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17
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McPherson S, Armstrong MJ, Cobbold JF, Corless L, Anstee QM, Aspinall RJ, Barclay ST, Brennan PN, Cacciottolo TM, Goldin RD, Hallsworth K, Hebditch V, Jack K, Jarvis H, Johnson J, Li W, Mansour D, McCallum M, Mukhopadhya A, Parker R, Ross V, Rowe IA, Srivastava A, Thiagarajan P, Thompson AI, Tomlinson J, Tsochatzis EA, Yeoman A, Alazawi W. Quality standards for the management of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD): consensus recommendations from the British Association for the Study of the Liver and British Society of Gastroenterology NAFLD Special Interest Group. Lancet Gastroenterol Hepatol 2022; 7:755-769. [PMID: 35490698 PMCID: PMC7614852 DOI: 10.1016/s2468-1253(22)00061-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2021] [Revised: 02/16/2022] [Accepted: 02/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is common, affecting approximately 25% of the general population. The evidence base for the investigation and management of NAFLD is large and growing, but there is currently little practical guidance to support development of services and delivery of care. To address this, we produced a series of evidence-based quality standard recommendations for the management of NAFLD, with the aim of improving patient care. A multidisciplinary group of experts from the British Association for the Study of the Liver and British Society of Gastroenterology NAFLD Special Interest Group produced the recommendations, which cover: management of people with, or at risk of, NAFLD before the gastroenterology or liver clinic; assessment and investigations in secondary care; and management in secondary care. The quality of evidence for each recommendation was evaluated by the Grading of Recommendation Assessment, Development and Evaluation tool. An anonymous modified Delphi voting process was conducted individually by each member of the group to assess the level of agreement with each statement. Statements were included when agreement was 80% or greater. From the final list of statements, a smaller number of auditable key performance indicators were selected to allow services to benchmark their practice. It is hoped that services will review their practice against our recommendations and key performance indicators and institute service development where needed to improve the care of patients with NAFLD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stuart McPherson
- Liver Unit, The Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK; Translational and Clinical Research Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK.
| | - Matthew J Armstrong
- Liver Unit, Queen Elizabeth University Hospital Birmingham NHS Trust, Birmingham, UK; NIHR Biomedical Research Centre, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Jeremy F Cobbold
- Oxford Liver Unit, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, UK; UK NIHR Oxford Biomedical Research Centre, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Lynsey Corless
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Endoscopy, Hull University Teaching Hospitals, Hull, UK
| | - Quentin M Anstee
- Liver Unit, The Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK; Translational and Clinical Research Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | | | - Stephen T Barclay
- Walton Liver Clinic, Glasgow Royal Infirmary, NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde, Glasgow, UK
| | - Paul N Brennan
- Centre for Regenerative Medicine, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh BioQuarter, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Tessa M Cacciottolo
- Liver Unit, Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge, UK; Wellcome Trust/MRC Institute of Metabolic Science, Metabolic Research Laboratories, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Robert D Goldin
- Division of Digestive Diseases, Imperial College, London, UK
| | - Kate Hallsworth
- Liver Unit, The Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK; Translational and Clinical Research Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | | | - Kathryn Jack
- Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust, Nottingham, UK
| | - Helen Jarvis
- Population Health Sciences Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK; The Bellingham Practice, Northumberland, UK
| | - Jill Johnson
- Liver Unit, Queen Elizabeth University Hospital Birmingham NHS Trust, Birmingham, UK
| | - Wenhao Li
- Barts Liver Centre, Queen Mary University London and Barts Health NHS Trust, London, UK
| | - Dina Mansour
- Translational and Clinical Research Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK; Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Gateshead NHS Foundation Trust, Gateshead, UK
| | - Mary McCallum
- Digestive Disorders Department, Aberdeen Royal Infirmary, Aberdeen, UK
| | - Ashis Mukhopadhya
- Digestive Disorders Department, Aberdeen Royal Infirmary, Aberdeen, UK
| | - Richard Parker
- Leeds Liver Unit, St James's University Hospital Leeds, Leeds, UK
| | - Valerie Ross
- Barts Liver Centre, Queen Mary University London and Barts Health NHS Trust, London, UK
| | - Ian A Rowe
- Leeds Institute for Medical Research, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
| | - Ankur Srivastava
- North Bristol Liver Unit, Southmead Hospital, North Bristol Trust, Bristol, UK
| | | | - Alexandra I Thompson
- Centre for Liver and Digestive Disorders, The Royal Infirmary, Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Jeremy Tomlinson
- Oxford Centre for Diabetes, Endocrinology and Metabolism, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Emmanuel A Tsochatzis
- UCL Institute for Liver and Digestive Health, Royal Free Hospital and UCL, London, UK
| | - Andrew Yeoman
- Gwent Liver Unit, The Grange University Health Board, Anuerin Bevan Health Board, Wales, UK
| | - William Alazawi
- Barts Liver Centre, Queen Mary University London and Barts Health NHS Trust, London, UK
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18
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Kotha S, Berry P. The writing was on the wall: Decision making near the end of life in advanced liver disease. PROGRESS IN PALLIATIVE CARE 2022. [DOI: 10.1080/09699260.2022.2067702] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Sreelakshmi Kotha
- Department of Gastroenterology, Guy’s and St Thomas’ Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Philip Berry
- Department of Gastroenterology, Guy’s and St Thomas’ Foundation Trust, London, UK
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19
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Bowers SP, Clare K, Hagerty L, McColl K, Smith E, Brown-Kerr A, Ahmed A, Finlay F, Dillon JF, Barclay S. Predicting 1-year mortality among patients with decompensated cirrhosis: results of a multicentre evaluation of the Bristol Prognostic Score. BMJ Open Gastroenterol 2022; 9:bmjgast-2021-000822. [PMID: 35318191 PMCID: PMC8943768 DOI: 10.1136/bmjgast-2021-000822] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2021] [Accepted: 03/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective Chronic liver disease continues to be a significant cause of morbidity and mortality yet remains challenging to prognosticate. This has been one of the barriers to implementing palliative care, particularly at an early stage. The Bristol Prognostic Score (BPS) was developed to identify patients with life expectancy less than 12 months and to act as a trigger for referral to palliative care services. This study retrospectively evaluated the BPS in a cohort of patients admitted to three Scottish hospitals. Method Routinely collated healthcare data were used to obtain demographics, BPS and analyse 1-year mortality for patients with decompensated liver disease admitted to three gastroenterology units over two 90-day periods. Statistical analysis was undertaken to assess performance of BPS in predicting mortality. Results 276 patients were included in the final analysis. Participants tended to be late middle-aged men, socioeconomically deprived and have alcohol-related liver disease. A similar proportion was BPS+ve (>3) in this study compared with the original Bristol cohort though had more hospital admissions, higher ongoing alcohol use and poorer performance status. BPS performed poorer in this non-Bristol group with sensitivity 54.9% (72.2% in original study), specificity 58% (83.8%) and positive predictive value (PPV) 43.4% (81.3%). Conclusion BPS was unable to accurately predict mortality in this Scottish cohort. This highlights the ongoing challenge of prognostication in patients with chronic liver disease, furthering the call for more work in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Fiona Finlay
- Queen Elizabeth University Hospital, Glasgow, UK
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20
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Abstract
BACKGROUND Cirrhosis is the outcome of chronic liver disease of any etiology due to progressive liver injury and fibrosis. Consequently, cirrhosis leads to portal hypertension and liver dysfunction, progressing to complications like ascites, variceal bleeding, hepatic encephalopathy, hepatorenal syndrome, hepatopulmonary syndrome, cirrhotic cardiomyopathy, sarcopenia, hepatocellular carcinoma, and coagulation disorders. End-stage liver disease leads to an impaired quality of life, loss of social and economic productivity, and reduced survival. METHODS This narrative review explains the pathophysiology of complications of cirrhosis, the diagnostic approach and innovative management, with focus on data from India. A comprehensive literature search of the published data was performed in regard with the spectrum, diagnosis, and management of cirrhosis and its complications. RESULTS There is a change in the epidemiology of metabolic syndrome, lifestyle diseases, alcohol consumption and the spectrum of etiological diagnosis in patients with cirrhosis. With the advent of universal vaccination and efficacious long-term viral suppression agents for chronic hepatitis B, availability of direct-acting antiviral agents for chronic hepatitis C, and a booming liver transplantation programme across the country, the management of complications is essential. There are several updates in the standard of care in the management of complications of cirrhosis, such as hepatorenal syndrome, hepatocellular carcinoma, and hepatic encephalopathy, and new therapies that address supportive and palliative care in advanced cirrhosis. CONCLUSION Prevention, early diagnosis, appropriate management of complications, timely transplantation are cornerstones in the management protocol of cirrhosis and portal hypertension. India needs improved access to care, outreach of public health programmes for viral hepatitis care, health infrastructure, and disease registries for improved healthcare outcomes. Low-cost initiatives like immunization, alcohol cessation, awareness about liver diseases, viral hepatitis elimination, and patient focused decision-making algorithms are essential to manage liver disease in India.
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Key Words
- AIH, autoimmune hepatitis
- ALP, alkaline phosphatase
- AVB, acute variceal bleeding
- BMI, body mass index
- CLD, chronic liver disease
- CSPH, clinically significant portal hypertension
- CTP, Child Turcotte Pugh Score
- DAAs, direct-acting antiviral agents
- GGT, gamma glutamyl transpeptidase
- HBV, hepatitis B virus
- HCC, hepatocellular carcinoma
- HCV, hepatitis C virus
- HE, hepatic encephalopathy
- HR, hazard ratio
- HRQoL, health-related quality of life
- HVPG, hepatic vein pressure gradient
- MELD, Model for End Stage Liver disease
- MetS, metabolic syndrome
- NAFLD, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease
- NASH, non-alcoholic steatohepatitis
- NSBB, Non-selective beta blockers
- NVHCP, National Viral Hepatitis Control programme
- SAAG, Serum-ascites albumin gradient
- SBP, spontaneous bacterial peritonitis
- WHO, World Health Organization
- cirrhosis, ascites
- hepatic encephalopathy
- hepatocellular carcinoma
- portal hypertension
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21
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Zhu CH, Zhang DH, Zhu CW, Xu J, Guo CL, Wu XG, Cao QL, Di GH. Adult stem cell transplantation combined with conventional therapy for the treatment of end-stage liver disease: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Stem Cell Res Ther 2021; 12:558. [PMID: 34717737 PMCID: PMC8557537 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-021-02625-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2021] [Accepted: 10/11/2021] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
End-stage liver disease (ESLD) is characterized by the deterioration of liver function and a subsequent high mortality rate. Studies have investigated the use of adult stem cells to treat ESLD. Here, a systematic review and meta-analysis was conducted to determine the efficacy of a combination therapy with adult stem cell transplantation and traditional medicine for treating ESLD. Four databases-including PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, and Cochrane Library-were investigated for studies published before January 31, 2021. The main outcome indicators were liver function index, model for end-stage liver disease (MELD) scores, and Child‒Turcotte‒Pugh (CTP) scores. Altogether, 1604 articles were retrieved, of which eight met the eligibility criteria; these studies included data for 579 patients with ESLD. Combination of adult stem cell transplantation with conventional medicine significantly improved its efficacy with respect to liver function index, CTP and MELD scores, but this effect gradually decreased over time. Moreover, a single injection of stem cells was more effective than two injections with respect to MELD and CTP scores and total bilirubin (TBIL) and albumin (ALB) levels, with no significant difference in aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and alanine aminotransferase (ALT) levels. With respect to the TBIL levels, patients receiving mononuclear cells (MNCs) experienced a significantly greater therapeutic effect-starting from twenty-four weeks after the treatment-whereas with respect to ALB levels, CD34+ autologous peripheral blood stem cells (CD34+ APBSCs) and MNCs had similar therapeutic effects. Severe complications associated with adult stem cell treatment were not observed. Although the benefits of combination therapy with respect to improving liver function were slightly better than those of the traditional treatment alone, they gradually decreased over time.Systematic review registration: PROSPERO registration number: CRD42021238576.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chen-Hui Zhu
- School of Basic Medicine, Qingdao University, 308 Ningxia Road, Qingdao, 266071, China
| | - Dian-Han Zhang
- School of Basic Medicine, Qingdao University, 308 Ningxia Road, Qingdao, 266071, China
| | - Chen-Wei Zhu
- School of Basic Medicine, Qingdao University, 308 Ningxia Road, Qingdao, 266071, China
| | - Jing Xu
- School of Basic Medicine, Qingdao University, 308 Ningxia Road, Qingdao, 266071, China
| | - Chuan-Long Guo
- College of Chemical Engineering, Qingdao University of Science and Technology, Qingdao, China
| | - Xiang-Gen Wu
- College of Chemical Engineering, Qingdao University of Science and Technology, Qingdao, China
| | - Qi-Long Cao
- Qingdao Haier Biotech Co. Ltd, Qingdao, China
| | - Guo-Hu Di
- School of Basic Medicine, Qingdao University, 308 Ningxia Road, Qingdao, 266071, China.
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22
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Diaz-Aragon R, Coard MC, Amirneni S, Faccioli L, Haep N, Malizio MR, Motomura T, Kocas-Kilicarslan ZN, Ostrowska A, Florentino RM, Frau C. Therapeutic Potential of HNF4α in End-stage Liver Disease. Organogenesis 2021; 17:126-135. [PMID: 35114889 DOI: 10.1080/15476278.2021.1994273] [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: 10/25/2022] Open
Abstract
The prevalence of end-stage liver disease (ESLD) in the US is increasing at an alarming rate. It can be caused by several factors; however, one of the most common routes begins with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). ESLD is diagnosed by the presence of irreversible damage to the liver. Currently, the only definitive treatment for ESLD is orthotopic liver transplantation (OLT). Nevertheless, OLT is limited due to a shortage of donor livers. Several promising alternative treatment options are under investigation. Researchers have focused on the effect of liver-enriched transcription factors (LETFs) on disease progression. Specifically, hepatocyte nuclear factor 4-alpha (HNF4α) has been reported to reset the liver transcription network and possibly play a role in the regression of fibrosis and cirrhosis. In this review, we describe the function of HNF4α, along with its regulation at various levels. In addition, we summarize the role of HNF4α in ESLD and its potential as a therapeutic target in the treatment of ESLD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ricardo Diaz-Aragon
- Department of Pathology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Michael C Coard
- Department of Pathology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Sriram Amirneni
- Department of Pathology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Lanuza Faccioli
- Department of Pathology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Nils Haep
- Department of Pathology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Michelle R Malizio
- Department of Pathology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Takashi Motomura
- Department of Pathology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | | | - Alina Ostrowska
- Department of Pathology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA.,Pittsburgh Liver Research Center, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Rodrigo M Florentino
- Department of Pathology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Carla Frau
- Department of Pathology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
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23
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Chen H, Johnston A, Palmer A, Mickenbecker M, O'Sullivan T, Clark P. Too little, too late: Palliation and end-stage liver disease. J Gastroenterol Hepatol 2021; 36:2303-2306. [PMID: 33738858 DOI: 10.1111/jgh.15499] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2020] [Revised: 02/20/2021] [Accepted: 03/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/09/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIM End-stage liver disease is a leading cause of mortality. Fewer than 60% of patients with decompensated cirrhosis survive after 2 years, with patients often experiencing distressing symptoms impairing quality of life. Early advanced care planning and timely palliative care referral can improve quality of life and the end of life experience. We aimed to determine palliative care referral rates and patterns for patients admitted with decompensated cirrhosis, and to identify the factors associated with referral. METHODS This was a retrospective, single-center study undertaken at a metropolitan tertiary referral hospital. Patients admitted between the 1 June 2016 and 31 January 2019 with a Child-Pugh score of B or C, and a model for end-stage liver disease score ≥ 15 were included. We assessed survival and compared those referred and not referred to palliative care, adjusting for lag-time to referral (Kaplan-Meier analysis). RESULTS One-hundred and sixteen admissions met eligibility criteria for referral. The median age at admission was 59 years, with 76% male participants. Only a fifth of eligible patients (25/116) were referred to palliative care. The median survival (from referral) for those referred to palliative care was 20 days, versus 148 days for those not referred. CONCLUSIONS Despite benefits from timely referral, less than one quarter of palliative care eligible patients was referred. Referral appears reserved for those facing imminent death-surviving just under 3 weeks postreferral, yet mortality in nonreferred patients remained high (148-day median). Low rates and late referral are a missed opportunity to improve the end of life care for patients with end-stage liver disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hayley Chen
- Mater Adult Hospital, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia.,Logan Hospital, Meadowbrook, Queensland, Australia
| | | | - Andrew Palmer
- Mater Adult Hospital, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Matthew Mickenbecker
- Mater Adult Hospital, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia.,Logan Hospital, Meadowbrook, Queensland, Australia
| | | | - Paul Clark
- Mater Adult Hospital, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia.,Faulty of Medicine, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
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24
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Truitt K, Khan SS, Gregory DL, Chuzi S, VanWagner LB. Deaths from hepatocellular carcinoma are more likely to occur in medical facilities than deaths from other cancers: 2003-2018. Liver Int 2021; 41:1489-1493. [PMID: 33932082 PMCID: PMC8822953 DOI: 10.1111/liv.14915] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2020] [Revised: 03/09/2021] [Accepted: 04/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Place of death is a key indicator of quality of end-of-life care, and most people with a terminal diagnosis prefer to die at home. Home has surpassed the hospital as the most common location of all-cause and total cancer-related deaths in the United States. However, trends in place of death due to hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), which is uniquely comanaged by hepatologists and oncologists, have not been described. We analysed US death certificate data from 2003 to 2018 for the proportion of deaths over time at medical facilities, nursing facilities, hospice facilities and home, for HCC and non-HCC cancer. The proportion of deaths increased from 0.6% to 15.2% in hospice facilities (P trend < 0.0001) but did not change at home. In multivariable analysis, persons with HCC were more likely than persons with non-HCC cancer to die in medical facilities, while persons with HCC were less likely to die at home.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katie Truitt
- Department of Internal Medicine, Northwestern McGaw/Northwestern Hospital, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Sadiya S. Khan
- Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiology and Department of Preventive Medicine, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Dyanna L. Gregory
- Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Sarah Chuzi
- Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Lisa B. VanWagner
- Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology and Department of Preventive Medicine-Epidemiology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
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25
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Orman ES, Johnson AW, Ghabril M, Sachs GA. Hospice care for end stage liver disease in the United States. Expert Rev Gastroenterol Hepatol 2021; 15:797-809. [PMID: 33599185 PMCID: PMC8282639 DOI: 10.1080/17474124.2021.1892487] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Patients with end-stage liver disease (ESLD) have impaired physical, psychological, and social functions, which can diminish patient quality of life, burden family caregivers, and increase health-care utilization. For those with a life expectancy of less than six months, these impairments and their downstream effects can be addressed effectively through high-quality hospice care, delivered by multidisciplinary teams and focused on the physical, emotional, social, and spiritual wellbeing of patients and caregivers, with a goal of improving quality of life. AREAS COVERED In this review, we examine the evidence supporting hospice for ESLD, we compare this evidence to that supporting hospice more broadly, and we identify potential criteria that may be useful in determining hospice appropriateness. EXPERT OPINION Despite the potential for hospice to improve care for those at the end of life, it is underutilized for patients with ESLD. Increasing the appropriate utilization of hospice for ESLD requires a better understanding of patient eligibility, which can be based on predictors of high short-term mortality and liver transplant ineligibility. Such hospice criteria should be data-driven and should accommodate the uncertainty faced by patients and physicians.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric S. Orman
- Division of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, Indiana University School of Medicine,Corresponding author: Eric S. Orman, Address: Division of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, Indiana University School of Medicine, 702 Rotary Circle, Suite 225, Indianapolis, IN 46202,
| | - Amy W. Johnson
- Division of General Internal Medicine & Geriatrics, Indiana University School of Medicine
| | - Marwan Ghabril
- Division of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, Indiana University School of Medicine
| | - Greg A. Sachs
- Division of General Internal Medicine & Geriatrics, Indiana University School of Medicine,Indiana University Center for Aging Research, Regenstrief Institute, Inc
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Laube R, Sabih AH, Strasser SI, Lim L, Cigolini M, Liu K. Palliative care in hepatocellular carcinoma. J Gastroenterol Hepatol 2021; 36:618-628. [PMID: 32627853 DOI: 10.1111/jgh.15169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2020] [Revised: 06/29/2020] [Accepted: 07/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma is a common cancer with a poor prognosis, associated with high economic costs and a significant burden of disease. While it is often asymptomatic in the early stages, patients may experience great discomfort from advanced disease, treatment adverse effects, or decompensation of underlying cirrhosis. Palliative care has the potential to markedly improve quality of life, physical, and psychological symptoms in patients with end-stage liver disease, and has been shown to prolong survival in some nonhepatocellular carcinoma malignancies. However, this service is underutilized in hepatocellular carcinoma, and referrals are frequently late due to factors such as stigmatization, inadequate resources, lack of education for nonpalliative care physicians and inadequate modeling for integration of palliative and supportive care within liver disease services. In the future, education workshops, population-based awareness campaigns, increased funding and improved models of care, may improve the uptake of palliative care and subsequently optimize patient care, particularly towards the end of life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robyn Laube
- Department of Gastroenterology, Macquarie University Hospital, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Abdul-Hamid Sabih
- AW Morrow Gastroenterology and Liver Centre, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Simone I Strasser
- AW Morrow Gastroenterology and Liver Centre, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.,Sydney Medical School, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Lynn Lim
- Palliative Care Services, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Maria Cigolini
- Sydney Medical School, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.,Palliative Care Services, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Ken Liu
- AW Morrow Gastroenterology and Liver Centre, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.,Sydney Medical School, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.,Liver Injury and Cancer Program, Centenary Institute, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
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27
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Kaplan A, Fortune B, Ufere N, Brown RS, Rosenblatt R. National Trends in Location of Death in Patients With End-Stage Liver Disease. Liver Transpl 2021; 27:165-176. [PMID: 37160006 DOI: 10.1002/lt.25952] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2020] [Revised: 10/27/2020] [Accepted: 11/18/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Despite improvement in the care of patients with end-stage liver disease (ESLD), mortality is rising. In the United States, patients are increasingly choosing to die at hospice and home, but data in patients with ESLD are lacking. Therefore, this study aimed to describe the trends in location of death in patients with ESLD. We conducted a retrospective cross-sectional analysis using the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Wide-Ranging OnLine Data for Epidemiologic Research from 2003 to 2018. Death location was categorized as hospice, home, inpatient facility, nursing home, or other. Comparisons were made between sex, age, ethnicity, race, region, and other causes of death. Comparisons were also made between rates of change (calculated as annual percent change), proportion of deaths in 2018, and multivariable logistic regression. A total of 535,261 deaths were attributed to ESLD-most were male, non-Hispanic, and White. The proportion of deaths at hospice and home increased during the study period from 0.2% to 10.6% and 20.3% to 25.7%, respectively. Whites had the highest proportion of deaths in hospice and home. In multivariable analysis, elderly patients were more likely to die in hospice or home (odds ratio [OR], 1.20; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.07-1.35), whereas Black patients were less likely (OR, 0.58; 95% CI, 0.46-0.73). Compared with other causes of death, ESLD had the second highest proportion of deaths in hospice but lagged behind non-hepatocellular carcinoma malignancy. Deaths in patients with ESLD are increasingly common at hospice and home overall, and although the rates have been increasing among Black patients, they are still less likely to die at hospice or home. Efforts to improve this disparity, promote end-of-life care planning, and enhance access to death at hospice and home are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alyson Kaplan
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York Presbyterian Hospital, New York, NY
| | - Brett Fortune
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York Presbyterian Hospital, New York, NY
| | - Nneka Ufere
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA
| | - Robert S Brown
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York Presbyterian Hospital, New York, NY
| | - Russell Rosenblatt
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York Presbyterian Hospital, New York, NY
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Aithal GP, Palaniyappan N, China L, Härmälä S, Macken L, Ryan JM, Wilkes EA, Moore K, Leithead JA, Hayes PC, O'Brien AJ, Verma S. Guidelines on the management of ascites in cirrhosis. Gut 2021; 70:9-29. [PMID: 33067334 PMCID: PMC7788190 DOI: 10.1136/gutjnl-2020-321790] [Citation(s) in RCA: 156] [Impact Index Per Article: 52.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2020] [Revised: 08/27/2020] [Accepted: 09/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
The British Society of Gastroenterology in collaboration with British Association for the Study of the Liver has prepared this document. The aim of this guideline is to review and summarise the evidence that guides clinical diagnosis and management of ascites in patients with cirrhosis. Substantial advances have been made in this area since the publication of the last guideline in 2007. These guidelines are based on a comprehensive literature search and comprise systematic reviews in the key areas, including the diagnostic tests, diuretic use, therapeutic paracentesis, use of albumin, transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic stent shunt, spontaneous bacterial peritonitis and beta-blockers in patients with ascites. Where recent systematic reviews and meta-analysis are available, these have been updated with additional studies. In addition, the results of prospective and retrospective studies, evidence obtained from expert committee reports and, in some instances, reports from case series have been included. Where possible, judgement has been made on the quality of information used to generate the guidelines and the specific recommendations have been made according to the 'Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE)' system. These guidelines are intended to inform practising clinicians, and it is expected that these guidelines will be revised in 3 years' time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guruprasad P Aithal
- NIHR Nottingham Biomedical Research Centre, Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust and the University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
- Nottingham Digestive Diseases Centre, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Naaventhan Palaniyappan
- NIHR Nottingham Biomedical Research Centre, Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust and the University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
- Nottingham Digestive Diseases Centre, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Louise China
- Institute of Liver Disease and Digestive Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Suvi Härmälä
- Institute of Health Informatics, University College London, London, UK
| | - Lucia Macken
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Brighton and Sussex Medical School, Brighton, UK
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Brighton and Sussex University Hospitals NHS Trust, Brighton, UK
| | - Jennifer M Ryan
- Institute of Liver Disease and Digestive Health, University College London, London, UK
- Royal Free London NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Emilie A Wilkes
- Nottingham Digestive Diseases Centre, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
- Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust, Nottingham, UK
| | - Kevin Moore
- Institute of Liver Disease and Digestive Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Joanna A Leithead
- Liver Unit, Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge, UK
| | - Peter C Hayes
- Hepatology Department, Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Alastair J O'Brien
- Institute of Liver Disease and Digestive Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Sumita Verma
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Brighton and Sussex Medical School, Brighton, UK
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Brighton and Sussex University Hospitals NHS Trust, Brighton, UK
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Nartey YA, Awuku YA, Agyei-Nkansah A, Duah A, Bampoh SA, Ayawin J, Asibey SO, Björkström NK, Ye W, Afihene MY, Roberts LR, Plymoth A. Ambulatory end-stage liver disease in Ghana; patient profile and utility of alpha fetoprotein and aspartate aminotransferase: platelet ratio index. BMC Gastroenterol 2020; 20:428. [PMID: 33357229 PMCID: PMC7764526 DOI: 10.1186/s12876-020-01581-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2020] [Accepted: 12/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Background End-stage liver disease (ESLD) is a major burden on public health, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa, where hepatitis B virus (HBV) is an important risk factor. We aimed to describe clinical characteristics of ESLD from cirrhosis or hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and the performance of aspartate aminotransferase (AST)—platelet ratio index (APRI) and alpha fetoprotein (AFP) in Ghana.
Methods We performed an observational cross-sectional study in outpatient hepatology clinics at three teaching hospitals in Ghana, West Africa. One hundred and forty-one HCC, 216 cirrhosis and 218 chronic HBV patients were recruited by convenience sampling. Sociodemographic, history and examination, laboratory, and disease staging information were shown using descriptive statistics. Performance of the APRI score in diagnosis of cirrhosis and AFP in the diagnosis of HCC was determined using AUROC analysis. Results Median age at presentation was 44 years for HCC and 46 years for cirrhosis. HBV was found in 69.5% of HCC and 47.2% of cirrhosis cases, and HCV in 6.4% and 3.7% respectively. APRI cut-off of 2 had sensitivity of 45.4% and specificity of 95% in diagnosis of cirrhosis, and cut-off of 1 had sensitivity of 75.9% and specificity of 89%. AUC of AFP was 0.88 (95% CI 0.81–0.94) in diagnosis of HCC. Low monthly income was associated with lower odds of undertaking AFP. Thirty one percent of cirrhotic persons were Child–Pugh C, and 67.9% of HCC patients had advanced or terminal disease at presentation. Conclusions Our findings emphasize the young age of ESLD patients in Ghana and the advanced nature at presentation. It highlights shortcomings in surveillance and the need for policies to address the burden and improve outcomes in Ghana.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yvonne Ayerki Nartey
- Department of Medical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Karolinska Institutet, Nobels väg 12A, 17177, Stockholm, Sweden.
| | - Yaw Asante Awuku
- Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medical Sciences, University of Cape Coast, Cape Coast, Ghana
| | - Adwoa Agyei-Nkansah
- Department of Medicine and Therapeutics, University of Ghana Medical School and Korle Bu Teaching Hospital, Accra, Ghana
| | - Amoako Duah
- Department of Medicine, St. Dominic Hospital, Akwatia, Ghana
| | - Sally Afua Bampoh
- Department of Medicine, Greater Accra Regional Hospital, Accra, Ghana
| | - Joshua Ayawin
- Department of Medicine, Komfo-Anokye Teaching Hospital, Kumasi, Ghana
| | | | - Niklas K Björkström
- Department of Medicine Huddinge, Center for Infectious Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Weimin Ye
- Department of Medical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Karolinska Institutet, Nobels väg 12A, 17177, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Mary Yeboah Afihene
- Department of Medicine, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | | | - Amelie Plymoth
- Department of Medical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Karolinska Institutet, Nobels väg 12A, 17177, Stockholm, Sweden
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Lin JA, Gardner JM, Kolli KP, Cook AC. Surgical, Interventional, and Medical Palliation of Portal Hypertension. Am Surg 2020; 86:1467-1472. [PMID: 33153284 DOI: 10.1177/0003134820965947] [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: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Seriously ill surgical patients require complex and integrated surgical, interventional, and medical management to balance the risks and benefits that complicate decision-making. Palliative care principles can aid surgeons in these cases. To illustrate this, we describe a scenario of a patient with unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma with portal vein tumor thrombus causing portal hypertension. We discuss options for managing the sequelae of portal hypertension, including varices and ascites. We explore the interventional and surgical options for mitigating or palliating the underlying portal hypertension. Advances in interventional radiological techniques can facilitate the creation of transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunts (TIPSs), even with extensive portal vein thrombus. If interventional approaches are not possible, surgical shunts can be considered but carry significant risks that must be weighed against the benefits. To communicate effectively, we outline key steps to breaking bad news. To make shared decisions in challenging cases, we describe how to elicit a patient's hopes, expectations, concerns, and preferences; how to synthesize goals of care from these stated values; and how to use those goals to guide decision-making.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph A Lin
- Department of Surgery, 8785University of California San Francisco, CA, USA.,Division of Palliative Medicine, Department of Medicine, 8785University of California San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - James M Gardner
- Department of Surgery, 8785University of California San Francisco, CA, USA.,Diabetes Center, 8785University of California San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Kanti Pallav Kolli
- Interventional Radiology, Department of Radiology and Biomedical Imaging, 8785University of California San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Allyson C Cook
- Division of Palliative Medicine, Department of Medicine, 8785University of California San Francisco, CA, USA.,Critical Care Medicine, Department of Anesthesia, 8785University of California San Francisco, CA, USA
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Verma M, Kosinski AS, Volk ML, Taddei T, Ramchandran K, Bakitas M, Green K, Green L, Navarro V. Introducing Palliative Care within the Treatment of End-Stage Liver Disease: The Study Protocol of a Cluster Randomized Controlled Trial. J Palliat Med 2020; 22:34-43. [PMID: 31486722 DOI: 10.1089/jpm.2019.0121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Patients with end-stage liver disease (ESLD) suffer from myriad symptoms due to the systemic effects of the disease and unpredictable acute episodes, which contribute to progressive deterioration in quality of life (QOL). Despite clear evidence that palliative care (PC) improves QOL in other serious illnesses, PC is underutilized and delayed for ESLD patients. Through a comparative effectiveness trial of specialist led consultative PC (Model 1) versus trained hepatologist led PC (Model 2), we aim to build evidence on introducing PC into the routine outpatient care of ESLD patients. Objective: We hypothesize that trained hepatologist led PC model will have a better improvement in QOL compared to consultative PC model. Methods: This two-arm, multicenter cluster-randomized trial assesses the effectiveness of two PC models for patients with ESLD. Fourteen clinical centers will recruit 1260 patient-caregiver dyads. Each center is the unit of randomization. Hepatologists at sites randomized to the Model 2 have undergone web-based training in the principles of PC as pertained to ESLD. PC intervention is delivered over four visits (initial, one, two, and three months). Follow-up assessments occur at 6, 9, and 12 months. Eligible patients are those with new onset or ongoing complications of ESLD with a caregiver willing to participate. Outcomes: The primary outcome is change in patients' QOL from baseline to three months. Secondary outcomes include symptom burden, depression, distress, satisfaction with care, caregiver burden and QOL, goal concordant care, and health care utilization. Challenges and Contributions Engagement: A research advisory board has been developed with representatives from the participating centers, who have provided active feedback on the protocol, outcomes, study methods, and training program. Intervention Fidelity: Intervention fidelity will be maintained by adherence to a visit agenda and providers in both models completing a PC checklist after each study visit.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manisha Verma
- Department of Digestive Diseases and Transplantation, Einstein Healthcare Network, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Andrzej S Kosinski
- Department of Biostatistics, Duke Clinical Research Institute, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Michael L Volk
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, California
| | - Tamar Taddei
- Department of Digestive Diseases, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
| | | | - Marie Bakitas
- Center for Palliative and Support Care, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama
| | - Kenneth Green
- Research Advisory Board, Einstein Healthcare Network, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Lisa Green
- Research Advisory Board, Einstein Healthcare Network, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Victor Navarro
- Department of Digestive Diseases and Transplantation, Einstein Healthcare Network, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
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Peng JK, Chang HH, Higginson IJ, Gao W. Intensive care utilization in patients with end-stage liver disease: A population-based comparative study of cohorts with and without comorbid hepatocellular carcinoma in taiwan. EClinicalMedicine 2020; 22:100357. [PMID: 32462117 PMCID: PMC7240333 DOI: 10.1016/j.eclinm.2020.100357] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND End-of-life intensive care may be futile and can be a cause of distress to both patients and their families. This study aimed to understand the utilization of intensive care and its associated factors in patients with End-stage liver disease (ESLD) during terminal hospitalization. METHODS Population-based retrospective cohort study using the National Health Institute Research Database of Taiwan. All adult patients with ESLD who died during their hospitalization in 2010-2013 were included. FINDINGS Of the 14,247 patients with ESLD, the majority (60·8%) was comorbid with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Patients with ESLD only were younger, more deprived, more alcohol-related, and less likely to receive palliative care prior to terminal hospitalization (6·0% vs 29·2% with HCC). Compared to patients with comorbid HCC, relatively more patients without HCC were admitted to ICU (59·6% vs 22·3%), receiving CPR (11·1% vs 4·3%) and mechanical ventilation (36·3% vs 12·5%) during terminal hospitalization. Etiology of alcoholic hepatitis, esophageal varices, septicemia, pneumonia and respiratory failure, and renal failure were associated with a higher probability of ICU admission (adjusted rate ratio (aRR) range: 1·09-2·09). Prior palliative care was associated with lower probability of ICU admission (aRR range: 0·24-0·38). INTERPRETATION The intensive care utilization by patients with ESLD in their terminal hospitalization was substantial in Taiwan. Those who are not comorbid with HCC need more attention, especially in terms of their palliative care needs, choices regarding intensive care, and their healthcare utilization. FUNDING National Institute of Health Research Health Applied Research Collaboration (ARC) South London.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jen-Kuei Peng
- Cicely Saunders Institute of Palliative Care, Policy & Rehabilitation, King's College London, Address: Bessemer Road, London, SE5 9PJ, United Kingdom
- Department of Family Medicine, National Taiwan University College of Medicine, Address: No.1 Jen-Ai Road, Section 1, Taipei 100, Taiwan
- Department of Family Medicine, National Taiwan University Hospital, Address: No.7, Chung Shan South Road, Taipei 100, Taiwan
- Corresponding author: Tel.: 886-2-928595969
| | - Hao-Hsiang Chang
- Department of Family Medicine, National Taiwan University College of Medicine, Address: No.1 Jen-Ai Road, Section 1, Taipei 100, Taiwan
- Department of Family Medicine, National Taiwan University Hospital, Address: No.7, Chung Shan South Road, Taipei 100, Taiwan
| | - Irene J Higginson
- Cicely Saunders Institute of Palliative Care, Policy & Rehabilitation, King's College London, Address: Bessemer Road, London, SE5 9PJ, United Kingdom
| | - Wei Gao
- Cicely Saunders Institute of Palliative Care, Policy & Rehabilitation, King's College London, Address: Bessemer Road, London, SE5 9PJ, United Kingdom
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Woodland H, Hudson B, Forbes K, McCune A, Wright M. Palliative care in liver disease: what does good look like? Frontline Gastroenterol 2019; 11:218-227. [PMID: 32419913 PMCID: PMC7223359 DOI: 10.1136/flgastro-2019-101180] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2019] [Revised: 08/08/2019] [Accepted: 08/11/2019] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
The mortality rate from chronic liver disease in the UK is rising rapidly, and patients with advanced disease have a symptom burden comparable to or higher than that experienced in other life-limiting illnesses. While evidence is limited, there is growing recognition that care of patients with advanced disease needs to improve. Many factors limit widespread provision of good palliative care to these patients, including the unpredictable trajectory of chronic liver disease, the misconception that palliative care and end-of-life care are synonymous, lack of confidence in prescribing and lack of time and resources. Healthcare professionals managing these patients need to develop the skills to ensure effective delivery of core palliative care, with referral to specialist palliative care services reserved for those with complex needs. Core palliative care is best delivered by the hepatology team in parallel with active disease management. This includes ensuring that discussions about disease trajectory and advance care planning occur alongside active management of disease complications. Liver disease is strongly associated with significant social, psychological and financial hardships for patients and their carers; strategies that involve the wider multidisciplinary team at an early stage in the disease trajectory help ensure proactive management of such issues. This review summarises the evidence supporting palliative care for patients with advanced chronic liver disease, presents examples of current best practice and provides pragmatic suggestions for how palliative and disease-modifying care can be run in parallel, such that patients do not miss opportunities for interventions that improve their quality of life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hazel Woodland
- Department of Hepatology, University Hospitals Bristol NHS Foundation Trust, Bristol, UK
| | - Ben Hudson
- Department of Hepatology, Royal Devon and Exeter NHS Foundation Trust, Exeter, UK
| | - Karen Forbes
- Population Health Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Anne McCune
- Department of Liver Medicine, University Hospitals Bristol NHS Foundation Trust, Bristol, UK
| | - Mark Wright
- Department of Hepatology, University Hospital Southampton, Southampton, UK
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Fricker ZP, Serper M. Current Knowledge, Barriers to Implementation, and Future Directions in Palliative Care for End-Stage Liver Disease. Liver Transpl 2019; 25:787-796. [PMID: 30758901 DOI: 10.1002/lt.25434] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2018] [Accepted: 02/10/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
End-stage liver disease (ESLD) is associated with a high degree of morbidity and mortality as well as symptom burden. Despite this, the rate of consultation with palliative care (PC) providers remains low, and invasive procedures near the end of life are commonplace. Studies show that involvement of PC providers improves patient satisfaction, and evidence from other chronic diseases demonstrates reduced costs of care and potentially increased survival. Better integration of PC is imperative but hindered by patient and provider misconceptions about its role in the care of patients with ESLD, specifically among candidates for liver transplantation. Additionally, reimbursement barriers and lack of provider knowledge may contribute to PC underutilization. In this review, we discuss the benefits of PC in ESLD, the variability of its delivery, and key stakeholders' perceptions about its use. Additionally, we identify barriers to more widespread PC adoption and highlight areas for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zachary P Fricker
- Division of Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Marina Serper
- Division of Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA.,Leonard Davis Institute of Health Economics, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
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