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Chen Y, Ming W, Chen J, Wang X, He G. The impact of restrictive blood transfusion on the safety of patients with esophageal varices after endoscopic variceal ligation: A single-center retrospective study. Medicine (Baltimore) 2024; 103:e39407. [PMID: 39151488 PMCID: PMC11332775 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000039407] [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: 01/22/2024] [Revised: 07/31/2024] [Accepted: 08/01/2024] [Indexed: 08/19/2024] Open
Abstract
An investigation was conducted to examine the impact of restrictive blood transfusion on the safety of early rebleeding following endoscopic variceal ligation (EVL) in patients with liver cirrhosis. Data were collected from patients with cirrhosis and esophageal varices who underwent EVL at the Affiliated Hospital of North Sichuan Medical College between September 2021 and March 2023. Clinical information, including serum albumin levels, hemoglobin (Hb) levels, liver function classification, and the occurrence of early rebleeding, was recorded. Patients were divided into 2 groups based on their Hb levels: 60 g/L to 90 g/L (restrictive blood transfusion) or Hb ≥ 90 g/L after EVL. The impact of restrictive transfusion on the post-ligation safety of EVL was observed. A total of 246 cirrhotic patients were included in the analysis. Significant differences were found in Hb levels, liver function classification, early rebleeding rates, length of hospital stay, and hospitalization expenses between the restrictive transfusion and Hb ≥ 90 g/L groups. The early rebleeding rate was significantly varied between the groups with different Hb levels after EVL. Multivariate logistic analysis revealed that restrictive blood transfusion (OR = 4.61, 95% CI: 1.06-19.99; P = .041), Hb (OR = 0.96, 95% CI: 0.95-0.97; P < .001), and Child-Pugh class C (OR = 6.37, 95% CI: 1.28-31.67; P = .024) were identified as independent factors influencing early rebleeding. Our findings suggest that the risk of early rebleeding in cirrhotic patients after EVL may be increased by restrictive blood transfusion, and this should be further investigated in future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yufeng Chen
- Department of Gastroenterology, Affiliated Hospital of North Sichuan Medical College, Nanchong, Sichuan, China
| | - Wen Ming
- Department of Gastroenterology, Affiliated Hospital of North Sichuan Medical College, Nanchong, Sichuan, China
| | - Jingjing Chen
- Department of Gastroenterology, Affiliated Hospital of North Sichuan Medical College, Nanchong, Sichuan, China
| | - Xi Wang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Affiliated Hospital of North Sichuan Medical College, Nanchong, Sichuan, China
| | - Guobin He
- Department of Gastroenterology, Affiliated Hospital of North Sichuan Medical College, Nanchong, Sichuan, China
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2
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Ma AT, Juanola A, Solé C, Ginès P. Shortening the albumin challenge from 48 to 24 hours may lead to overdiagnosis of hepatorenal syndrome-acute kidney injury and overtreatment with terlipressin. J Hepatol 2024:S0168-8278(24)02422-X. [PMID: 39084469 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2024.07.015] [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: 07/17/2024] [Accepted: 07/17/2024] [Indexed: 08/02/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Ann T Ma
- Toronto Centre for Liver Disease, University Health Network, Toronto, Canada; Liver Unit, Hospital Clínic de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Adrià Juanola
- Liver Unit, Hospital Clínic de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain; Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Barcelona, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBEReHD), Madrid, Spain
| | - Cristina Solé
- Departament of Gastroenterology and Hepatology. Parc Tauli Hospital Universitari. Institut d'Investigació i Innovació Parc Taulí (I3PT-CERCA). Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Sabadell, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBEReHD), Madrid, Spain
| | - Pere Ginès
- Liver Unit, Hospital Clínic de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain; Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Barcelona, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBEReHD), Madrid, Spain; School of Medicine and Health Sciences. University of Barcelona. Barcelona, Spain.
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Nadim MK, Kellum JA, Forni L, Francoz C, Asrani SK, Ostermann M, Allegretti AS, Neyra JA, Olson JC, Piano S, VanWagner LB, Verna EC, Akcan-Arikan A, Angeli P, Belcher JM, Biggins SW, Deep A, Garcia-Tsao G, Genyk YS, Gines P, Kamath PS, Kane-Gill SL, Kaushik M, Lumlertgul N, Macedo E, Maiwall R, Marciano S, Pichler RH, Ronco C, Tandon P, Velez JCQ, Mehta RL, Durand F. Acute kidney injury in patients with cirrhosis: Acute Disease Quality Initiative (ADQI) and International Club of Ascites (ICA) joint multidisciplinary consensus meeting. J Hepatol 2024; 81:163-183. [PMID: 38527522 PMCID: PMC11193657 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2024.03.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2023] [Revised: 02/28/2024] [Accepted: 03/07/2024] [Indexed: 03/27/2024]
Abstract
Patients with cirrhosis are prone to developing acute kidney injury (AKI), a complication associated with a markedly increased in-hospital morbidity and mortality, along with a risk of progression to chronic kidney disease. Whereas patients with cirrhosis are at increased risk of developing any phenotype of AKI, hepatorenal syndrome (HRS), a specific form of AKI (HRS-AKI) in patients with advanced cirrhosis and ascites, carries an especially high mortality risk. Early recognition of HRS-AKI is crucial since administration of splanchnic vasoconstrictors may reverse the AKI and serve as a bridge to liver transplantation, the only curative option. In 2023, a joint meeting of the International Club of Ascites (ICA) and the Acute Disease Quality Initiative (ADQI) was convened to develop new diagnostic criteria for HRS-AKI, to provide graded recommendations for the work-up, management and post-discharge follow-up of patients with cirrhosis and AKI, and to highlight priorities for further research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mitra K Nadim
- Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, USA
| | - John A Kellum
- Center for Critical Care Nephrology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Lui Forni
- School of Medicine, University of Surrey and Critical Care Unit, Royal Surrey Hospital Guildford UK
| | - Claire Francoz
- Hepatology & Liver Intensive Care, Hospital Beaujon, Clichy, Paris, France
| | | | - Marlies Ostermann
- King's College London, Guy's & St Thomas' Hospital, Department of Critical Care, London, UK
| | - Andrew S Allegretti
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Javier A Neyra
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Jody C Olson
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | - Salvatore Piano
- Unit of Internal Medicine and Hepatology, Department of Medicine - DIMED, University and Hospital of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Lisa B VanWagner
- Division of Digestive and Liver Diseases, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA
| | - Elizabeth C Verna
- Division of Digestive and Liver Diseases, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Ayse Akcan-Arikan
- Department of Pediatrics, Divisions of Critical Care Medicine and Nephrology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Paolo Angeli
- Unit of Internal Medicine and Hepatology, University and Teaching Hospital of Padua, Italy
| | - Justin M Belcher
- Section of Nephrology, Department of Internal Medicine, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA; VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, CT, USA
| | - Scott W Biggins
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Akash Deep
- Pediatric Intensive Care Unit, King's College Hospital, London, UK
| | - Guadalupe Garcia-Tsao
- Digestive Diseases Section, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA; VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, CT, USA
| | - Yuri S Genyk
- Division of Abdominal Organ Transplantation and Hepatobiliary Surgery, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA; Division of Abdominal Organ Transplantation at Children's Hospital of Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Pere Gines
- Liver Unit, Hospital Clínic de Barcelona, University of Barcelona, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi-Sunyer and Ciber de Enfermedades Hepàticas y Digestivas, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
| | - Patrick S Kamath
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Sandra L Kane-Gill
- Department of Pharmacy and Therapeutics, School of Pharmacy, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Manish Kaushik
- Department of Renal Medicine, Singapore General Hospital, Singapore
| | - Nuttha Lumlertgul
- Excellence Centre in Critical Care Nephrology and Division of Nephrology, Faculty of Medicine, King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Etienne Macedo
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, University of California San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Rakhi Maiwall
- Department of Hepatology, Institute of Liver and Biliary Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | | | - Raimund H Pichler
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Claudio Ronco
- International Renal Research Institute of Vicenza, Department of Nephrology, Dialysis and Transplantation, San Bortolo Hospital, Vicenza-Italy
| | - Puneeta Tandon
- Division of Gastroenterology (Liver Unit), University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Juan-Carlos Q Velez
- Department of Nephrology, Ochsner Health, New Orleans, LA, USA; Ochsner Clinical School, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Ravindra L Mehta
- Division of Nephrology-Hypertension, Department of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - François Durand
- Hepatology & Liver Intensive Care, Hospital Beaujon, Clichy, Paris, France; University Paris Cité, Paris, France.
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Bielawski AM, Frishman WH. A Review of Terlipressin in Hepatorenal Syndrome: Targeting Endothelial Dysfunction and Subsequent Cardiovascular Adverse Events. Cardiol Rev 2024:00045415-990000000-00249. [PMID: 38832784 DOI: 10.1097/crd.0000000000000697] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/05/2024]
Abstract
Hepatorenal syndrome (HRS) is a serious complication of decompensated liver cirrhosis that results in acute kidney injury (AKI). The mortality rate is high. Endothelial dysfunction secondary to liver cirrhosis is a key driver of the development of portal hypertension, which is eventually complicated by ascites and HRS. Ultimately, splanchnic vasodilation and excess gut lymph production result in ascites, low effective arterial blood volume, and maladaptive compensatory mechanisms that contribute to renal hypoperfusion and injury. While the only curative treatment is liver transplantation, vasoconstrictors and albumin have been the mainstay of treatment for candidates who are ineligible or waiting for transplantation. On September 14, 2022, terlipressin, a V1 vasopressin receptor agonist, was approved by the Food and Drug Administration for the treatment of HRS-AKI. In clinical trials, terlipressin plus albumin have been superior to albumin alone and equivocal to noradrenaline plus albumin in renal function improvement. Terlipressin, however, does not improve survival, is costly, and is associated with severe adverse events-including severe cardiac and vascular complications. The aim of this review is to provide an overview of terlipressin pharmacology, adverse events-with a focus on cardiovascular complications-and comparative randomized controlled trials that resulted in the Food and Drug Administration's approval of terlipressin. New literature since its approval and ongoing clinical trials will also be highlighted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adrienne M Bielawski
- From the Department of Medicine, Montefiore Medical Center/Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY
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Tanaka T, Vander Weg M, Jones MP, Wehby G. Assessment of the 2021 AASLD Practice Guidance for Albumin Infusion in Elective Therapeutic Paracentesis: A Regression Discontinuity Design. Am J Gastroenterol 2024:00000434-990000000-01078. [PMID: 38501671 DOI: 10.14309/ajg.0000000000002767] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2023] [Accepted: 03/01/2024] [Indexed: 03/20/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The 2021 American Association for the Study of Liver Disease (AASLD) Practice Guidance recommends albumin infusion when removing ≥5 L of ascites to prevent post-paracentesis circulatory dysfunction. However, the optimal criteria and scenarios for initiating albumin infusion subsequent to therapeutic paracentesis (TP) have been subject to limited scientific inquiry. METHODS We conducted a retrospective cohort study at a US academic healthcare center. Participants received elective, outpatient TP between July 2019 and December 2022. Patients with spontaneous bacterial peritonitis, post-TP clinical adjustments, and/or hospitalization were excluded. The institution strictly followed the AASLD Guidance. We used a sharp regression discontinuity (RD) design to estimate the effect of albumin infusion at the AASLD Guidance-recommended cutoff of 5 L on serum creatinine and sodium trajectory after TP. RESULTS Over the study period, 1,457 elective TPs were performed on 235 unique patients. Albumin infusion at the threshold of 5 L of ascites removal reduced serum creatinine levels by 0.046 mg/dL/d (95% confidence interval 0.003-0.116, P = 0.037) and increased serum sodium levels by 0.35 mEq/L/d (95% confidence interval 0.15-0.55, P = 0.001) compared with those who did not receive albumin infusion. The RD plots indicated worsened serum creatine/sodium levels after draining 3 L of fluid, approaching levels similar to or worse than with albumin infusion at 5 L or more. DISCUSSION Our RD models supported the 2021 AASLD Guidance with robust estimation of causal effect sizes at the cutoff level of 5 L. Nevertheless, the findings also highlight the need to further evaluate the efficacy of albumin infusion in patients who undergo elective TP and have 3-5 L of ascites removed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomohiro Tanaka
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine, Iowa City, Iowa, USA
- Center for Access & Delivery Research and Evaluation (CADRE), Iowa City VA Health Care System, Iowa City, Iowa, USA
| | - Mark Vander Weg
- Center for Access & Delivery Research and Evaluation (CADRE), Iowa City VA Health Care System, Iowa City, Iowa, USA
- Department of Community and Behavioral Health, College of Public Health, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa, USA
| | - Michael P Jones
- Center for Access & Delivery Research and Evaluation (CADRE), Iowa City VA Health Care System, Iowa City, Iowa, USA
- Department of Biostatistics, College of Public Health, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa, USA
| | - George Wehby
- Center for Access & Delivery Research and Evaluation (CADRE), Iowa City VA Health Care System, Iowa City, Iowa, USA
- Department of Health Management and Policy, College of Public Health, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa, USA
- Department of Economics, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa, USA
- National Bureau of Economic Research, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
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6
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Kaur S, Motta RV, Chapman B, Wharton V, Collier JD, Saffioti F. Palliative long-term abdominal drains vs large volume paracenteses for the management of refractory ascites in end-stage liver disease. World J Hepatol 2024; 16:428-438. [PMID: 38577536 PMCID: PMC10989306 DOI: 10.4254/wjh.v16.i3.428] [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: 12/10/2023] [Revised: 01/25/2024] [Accepted: 02/29/2024] [Indexed: 03/27/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Long-term abdominal drains (LTAD) are a cost-effective palliative measure to manage malignant ascites in the community, but their use in patients with end-stage chronic liver disease and refractory ascites is not routine practice. The safety and cost-effectiveness of LTAD are currently being studied in this setting, with preliminary positive results. We hypothesised that palliative LTAD are as effective and safe as repeat palliative large volume paracentesis (LVP) in patients with cirrhosis and refractory ascites and may offer advantages in patients' quality of life. AIM To compare the effectiveness and safety of palliative LTAD and LVP in refractory ascites secondary to end-stage chronic liver disease. METHODS A retrospective, observational cohort study comparing the effectiveness and safety outcomes of palliative LTAD and regular palliative LVP as a treatment for refractory ascites in consecutive patients with end-stage chronic liver disease followed-up at our United Kingdom tertiary centre between 2018 and 2022 was conducted. Fisher's exact tests and the Mann-Whitney U test were used to compare qualitative and quantitative variables, respectively. Kaplan-Meier survival estimates were generated to stratify time-related outcomes according to the type of drain. RESULTS Thirty patients had a total of 35 indwelling abdominal drains and nineteen patients underwent regular LVP. The baseline characteristics were similar between the groups. Prophylactic antibiotics were more frequently prescribed in patients with LTAD (P = 0.012), while the incidence of peritonitis did not differ between the two groups (P = 0.46). The incidence of acute kidney injury (P = 0.014) and ascites/drain-related hospital admissions (P = 0.004) were significantly higher in the LVP group. The overall survival was similar in the two groups (log-rank P = 0.26), but the endpoint-free survival was significantly shorter in the LVP group (P = 0.003, P < 0.001, P = 0.018 for first ascites/drain-related admission, acute kidney injury and drain-related complications, respectively). CONCLUSION The use of LTAD in the management of refractory ascites in palliated end-stage liver disease is effective, safe, and may reduce hospital admissions and utilisation of healthcare resources compared to LVP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Senamjit Kaur
- Oxford Liver Unit, Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford OX3 9DU, United Kingdom
| | - Rodrigo V Motta
- Oxford Liver Unit and Translational Gastroenterology Unit, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 9DU, United Kingdom
| | - Bryony Chapman
- Oxford Liver Unit, Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford OX3 9DU, United Kingdom
| | - Victoria Wharton
- Oxford Liver Unit, Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford OX3 9DU, United Kingdom
| | - Jane D Collier
- Oxford Liver Unit, Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford OX3 9DU, United Kingdom
| | - Francesca Saffioti
- Oxford Liver Unit, Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford OX3 9DU, United Kingdom.
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Velez JCQ, Latt N, Rodby RA. Pathophysiology of Hepatorenal Syndrome. ADVANCES IN KIDNEY DISEASE AND HEALTH 2024; 31:87-99. [PMID: 38649221 DOI: 10.1053/j.akdh.2024.01.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2023] [Revised: 12/17/2023] [Accepted: 01/02/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024]
Abstract
Hepatorenal syndrome type 1 (HRS-1) is a unique form of acute kidney injury that affects individuals with decompensated cirrhosis with ascites. The primary mechanism leading to reduction of kidney function in HRS-1 is hemodynamic in nature. Cumulative evidence points to a cascade of events that led to a profound reduction in kidney perfusion. A state of increased intrahepatic vascular resistance characteristic of advanced cirrhosis and portal hypertension is accompanied by maladaptive peripheral arterial vasodilation and reduction in systemic vascular resistance and mean arterial pressure. As a result of a fall in effective arterial blood volume, there is a compensatory activation of the sympathetic nervous system and the renin-angiotensin system, local renal vasoconstriction, loss of renal autoregulation, decrease in renal blood flow, and ultimately a fall in glomerular filtration rate. Systemic release of nitric oxide stimulated by the fibrotic liver, bacterial translocation, and inflammation constitute key components of the pathogenesis. While angiotensin II and noradrenaline remain the critical mediators of renal arterial and arteriolar vasoconstriction, other novel molecules have been recently implicated. Although the above-described mechanistic pathway remains the backbone of the pathogenesis of HRS-1, other noxious elements may be present in advanced cirrhosis and likely contribute to the renal impairment. Direct liver-kidney crosstalk via the hepatorenal sympathetic reflex can further reduce renal blood flow independently of the systemic derangements. Tense ascites may lead to intraabdominal hypertension and abdominal compartment syndrome. Cardio-hemodynamic processes have also been increasingly recognized. Porto-pulmonary hypertension, cirrhotic cardiomyopathy, and abdominal compartment syndrome may lead to renal congestion and complicate the course of HRS-1. In addition, a degree of ischemic or toxic (cholemic) tubular injury may overlap with the underlying circulatory dysfunction and further exacerbate the course of acute kidney injury. Improving our understanding of the pathogenesis of HRS-1 may lead to improvements in therapeutic options for this seriously ill population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan Carlos Q Velez
- Department of Nephrology, Ochsner Health, New Orleans, LA; Ochsner Clinical School, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia.
| | - Nyan Latt
- Virtua Center for Liver Disease, Virtua Health, Toms River, NJ
| | - Roger A Rodby
- Division of Nephrology, Rush University School of Medicine, Chicago, IL
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Allegretti AS, Patidar KR, Ma AT, Cullaro G. From past to present to future: Terlipressin and hepatorenal syndrome-acute kidney injury. Hepatology 2024:01515467-990000000-00741. [PMID: 38353565 PMCID: PMC11322426 DOI: 10.1097/hep.0000000000000790] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2023] [Accepted: 10/11/2023] [Indexed: 03/01/2024]
Abstract
Hepatorenal syndrome (HRS) is a rare and highly morbid form of kidney injury unique to patients with decompensated cirrhosis. HRS is a physiologic consequence of portal hypertension, leading to a functional kidney injury that can be reversed by restoring effective circulating volume and renal perfusion. While liver transplantation is the only definitive "cure" for HRS, medical management with vasoconstrictors and i.v. albumin is a cornerstone of supportive care. Terlipressin, a V1a receptor agonist that acts on the splanchnic circulation, has been used for many years outside the United States for the treatment of HRS. However, its recent Food and Drug Administration approval has generated new interest in this population, as a new base of prescribers now work to incorporate the drug into clinical practice. In this article, we review HRS pathophysiology and diagnostic criteria, the clinical use of terlipressin and alternative therapies, and identify areas of future research in the space of HRS and kidney injury in cirrhosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew S. Allegretti
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Kavish R. Patidar
- Section of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine and Michael E. DeBakey Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Houston TX, USA
| | - Ann T. Ma
- Toronto Centre for Liver Disease, University Health Network, Toronto, Canada
| | - Giuseppe Cullaro
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, University of California-San Francisco, San Francisco CA, USA
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Garcia-Tsao G, Abraldes JG, Rich NE, Wong VWS. AGA Clinical Practice Update on the Use of Vasoactive Drugs and Intravenous Albumin in Cirrhosis: Expert Review. Gastroenterology 2024; 166:202-210. [PMID: 37978969 DOI: 10.1053/j.gastro.2023.10.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [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: 07/25/2023] [Revised: 10/08/2023] [Accepted: 10/16/2023] [Indexed: 11/19/2023]
Abstract
DESCRIPTION Cirrhosis is a major cause of morbidity and mortality in the United States and worldwide. It consists of compensated, decompensated, and further decompensated stages; median survival is more than 15 years, 2 years, and 9 months for each stage, respectively. With each stage, there is progressive worsening of portal hypertension and the vasodilatory-hyperdynamic circulatory state, resulting in a progressive decrease in effective arterial blood volume and renal perfusion. Vasoconstrictors reduce portal pressure via splanchnic vasoconstriction and are used in the management of variceal hemorrhage. Intravenous (IV) albumin increases effective arterial blood volume and is used in the prevention of acute kidney injury (AKI) and death after large-volume paracentesis and in patients with spontaneous bacterial peritonitis (SBP). The combination of vasoconstrictors and albumin is used in the reversal of hepatorenal syndrome (HRS-AKI), the most lethal complication of cirrhosis. Because a potent vasoconstrictor, terlipressin, was recently approved by the US Food and Drug Administration, and because recent trials have explored use of IV albumin in other settings, it was considered that a best practice update would be relevant regarding the use of vasoactive drugs and IV albumin in the following 3 specific scenarios: variceal hemorrhage, ascites and SBP, and HRS. METHODS This expert review was commissioned and approved by the American Gastroenterological Association (AGA) Institute Clinical Practice Updates Committee and the AGA Governing Board to provide timely guidance on a topic of high clinical importance to the AGA membership. It underwent internal peer review through standard procedures of Gastroenterology. These Best Practice Advice statements were drawn from a review of the published literature and from expert opinion. Some of the statements are unchanged from published guidelines because of lack of new evidence in the literature. Because systematic reviews were not performed, these Best Practice Advice statements do not carry formal ratings regarding the quality and evidence or strength of the presented considerations. Best Practice Advice Statements BEST PRACTICE ADVICE 1: Vasoactive drugs should be initiated as soon as the diagnosis of variceal hemorrhage is suspected or confirmed, preferably before diagnostic and/or therapeutic endoscopy. BEST PRACTICE ADVICE 2: After initial endoscopic hemostasis, vasoactive drugs should be continued for 2-5 days to prevent early rebleeding. BEST PRACTICE ADVICE 3: Octreotide is the vasoactive drug of choice in the management of variceal hemorrhage based on its safety profile. BEST PRACTICE ADVICE 4: IV albumin should be administered at the time of large-volume (>5 L) paracentesis. BEST PRACTICE ADVICE 5: IV albumin may be considered in patients with SBP. BEST PRACTICE ADVICE 6: Albumin should not be used in patients (hospitalized or not) with cirrhosis and uncomplicated ascites. BEST PRACTICE ADVICE 7: Vasoconstrictors should not be used in the management of uncomplicated ascites, after large-volume paracentesis or in patients with SBP. BEST PRACTICE ADVICE 8: IV albumin is the volume expander of choice in hospitalized patients with cirrhosis and ascites presenting with AKI. BEST PRACTICE ADVICE 9: Vasoactive drugs (eg, terlipressin, norepinephrine, and combination of octreotide and midodrine) should be used in the treatment of HRS-AKI, but not in other forms of AKI in cirrhosis. BEST PRACTICE ADVICE 10: Terlipressin is the vasoactive drug of choice in the treatment of HRS-AKI and use of concurrent albumin can be considered when accounting for patient's volume status. BEST PRACTICE ADVICE 11: Terlipressin treatment does not require intensive care unit monitoring and can be administered intravenously through a peripheral line. BEST PRACTICE ADVICE 12: Terlipressin use is contraindicated in patients with hypoxemia and in patients with ongoing coronary, peripheral, or mesenteric ischemia, and should be used with caution in patients with acute-on-chronic liver failure grade 3. The benefits may not outweigh the risks in patients with serum creatinine >5 mg/dL and in patients listed for transplantation with a Model for End-stage Liver Disease ≥35.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guadalupe Garcia-Tsao
- Section of Digestive Diseases, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut; Veterans Affairs Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, Connecticut.
| | - Juan G Abraldes
- Liver Unit, Division of Gastroenterology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Nicole E Rich
- Division of Digestive and Liver Diseases, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas
| | - Vincent Wai-Sun Wong
- Medical Data Analytics Centre, Department of Medicine and Therapeutics, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong; State Key Laboratory of Digestive Disease, Institute of Digestive Disease, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong.
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Choi JC, Yoo JJ. [Hepatorenal Syndrome]. THE KOREAN JOURNAL OF GASTROENTEROLOGY = TAEHAN SOHWAGI HAKHOE CHI 2023; 82:224-232. [PMID: 37997218 DOI: 10.4166/kjg.2023.108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2023] [Revised: 09/16/2023] [Accepted: 09/19/2023] [Indexed: 11/25/2023]
Abstract
Hepatorenal syndrome (HRS) is a critical and potentially life-threatening complication of advanced liver disease, including cirrhosis. It is characterized by the development of renal dysfunction in the absence of underlying structural kidney pathology. The pathophysiology of HRS involves complex interactions between systemic and renal hemodynamics, neurohormonal imbalances, and the intricate role of vasoconstrictor substances. Understanding these mechanisms is crucial for the timely identification and management of HRS. The diagnosis of HRS is primarily clinical and relies on specific criteria that consider the exclusion of other causes of renal dysfunction. The management of HRS comprises two main approaches: vasoconstrictor therapy and albumin infusion, which aim to improve renal perfusion and mitigate the hyperdynamic circulation often seen in advanced liver disease. Additionally, strategies such as liver transplantation and renal replacement therapy are essential considerations based on individual patient characteristics and disease severity. This review article provides a comprehensive overview of hepatorenal syndrome, focusing on its pathophysiology, diagnostic criteria, and current management strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun Cheol Choi
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Soonchunhyang University Bucheon Hospital, Soonchunhyang University College of Medicine, Bucheon, Korea
| | - Jeong-Ju Yoo
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Soonchunhyang University Bucheon Hospital, Soonchunhyang University College of Medicine, Bucheon, Korea
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11
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Pompili E, Zaccherini G, Baldassarre M, Iannone G, Caraceni P. Albumin administration in internal medicine: A journey between effectiveness and futility. Eur J Intern Med 2023; 117:28-37. [PMID: 37423819 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejim.2023.07.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2023] [Revised: 06/30/2023] [Accepted: 07/03/2023] [Indexed: 07/11/2023]
Abstract
Albumin is the most abundant circulating protein and provides about 70% of the plasma oncotic power. The molecule also carries many other biological functions (binding, transport and detoxification of endogenous and exogenous compounds, antioxidation, and modulation of inflammatory and immune responses). Hypoalbuminemia is a frequent finding in many diseases, representing usually only a biomarker of poor prognosis rather than a primary pathophysiological event. Despite that, albumin is prescribed in many conditions based on the assumption that correction of hypoalbuminemia would lead to clinical benefits for the patients. Unfortunately, many of these indications are not supported by scientific evidence (or have been even disproved), so that a large part of albumin use is nowadays still inappropriate. Decompensated cirrhosis is the clinical area where albumin administration has been extensively studied and solid recommendations can be made. Besides prevention and treatment of acute complications, long-term albumin administration in patients with ascites has emerged in the last decade has a potential new disease-modifying treatment. In non-hepatological settings, albumin is widely used for fluid resuscitation in sepsis and critical illnesses, with no clear superiority over crystalloids. In many other conditions, scientific evidence supporting albumin prescription is weak or even absent. Thus, given its high cost and limited availability, action is needed to avoid the use of albumin for inappropriate and futile indications to ensure its availability in those conditions for which albumin has been demonstrated to have a real effectiveness and an advantage for the patient.
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Affiliation(s)
- Enrico Pompili
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum University of Bologna, Italy; Unit of Semeiotics, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Italy
| | - Giacomo Zaccherini
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum University of Bologna, Italy; Unit of Semeiotics, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Italy
| | - Maurizio Baldassarre
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum University of Bologna, Italy; Centre for Applied Biomedical Research (CRBA), Alma Mater Studiorum of Bologna, Italy
| | - Giulia Iannone
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum University of Bologna, Italy; Unit of Semeiotics, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Italy
| | - Paolo Caraceni
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum University of Bologna, Italy; Unit of Semeiotics, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Italy.
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12
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Trebicka J, Garcia-Tsao G. Controversies regarding albumin therapy in cirrhosis. Hepatology 2023:01515467-990000000-00524. [PMID: 37540192 DOI: 10.1097/hep.0000000000000521] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2023] [Accepted: 05/26/2023] [Indexed: 08/05/2023]
Abstract
Albumin is the most abundant protein in the human body and is synthetized exclusively by the liver. Therefore, serum albumin levels are reduced in acute and/or chronic liver disease. In cirrhosis, low levels of albumin predict the outcome. In advanced cirrhosis, the quality of albumin is decreased due to high oxidative stress and a proinflammatory state. Therefore, the administration of i.v. albumin would seem to be of pathophysiological relevance and benefit. Yet, the questions that remain are who, when, how much, and how often. While albumin infusion is recommended after large-volume paracentesis, at diagnosis of spontaneous bacterial peritonitis, in acute kidney injury, and in hepatorenal syndrome, the amount and schedule of albumin to be administered require refinement, particularly given complications related to volume overload that have become increasingly apparent. Other indications for albumin such as infections other than spontaneous bacterial peritonitis, hyponatremia, HE, prevention of poor outcomes in hospitalized, and in outpatients with cirrhosis are still debated. The results of studies in these settings are either negative, controversial, or inconclusive. This sheds some doubts regarding the use of albumin as a "one size fits all" strategy. The indication and patient selection are crucial and not always intuitive. The amount and frequency also seem to play a role in the success or failure of albumin. This review will critically discuss the evidence and underline areas where there are indications for albumin use and others where evidence is still insufficient and will have to await the development/results of randomized controlled trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonel Trebicka
- Department of Internal Medicine B, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
- European Foundation for Study of Chronic Liver Failure, EASL-CLIF-Consortium, Barcelona, Spain
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | - Guadalupe Garcia-Tsao
- Digestive Diseases Section, Department of Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
- Digestive Diseases Section, Department of Medicine, VA-CT Healthcare System, West Haven, Connecticut, USA
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13
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Hannah N, Tjandra D, Patwardhan A, Rutland K, Halliday J, Sood S. Outpatient albumin infusions reduce hospitalizations and improve outcomes in decompensated cirrhosis: A real-world cohort study. JGH Open 2023; 7:537-544. [PMID: 37649856 PMCID: PMC10463019 DOI: 10.1002/jgh3.12944] [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: 03/09/2023] [Revised: 06/25/2023] [Accepted: 06/30/2023] [Indexed: 09/01/2023]
Abstract
Background and Aim Long-term human albumin (HA) infusions improve survival in cirrhotic patients with diuretic resistant ascites. We aimed to determine whether there is a significant benefit in a more unwell real-world cohort. Methods This is a single-center retrospective cohort study. Patients received outpatient HA between April 2017 and June 2021. Inclusion criteria were age ≥18 years, cirrhosis with ascites, and received at least 1 month of HA. Patients with significant comorbidities and ongoing alcohol use were not excluded. Outcomes assessed were transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS)/transplant-free survival (TTFS), and biochemical and prognostic outcomes. Results Twenty-four patients were included. Median age was 59.5 years. Seven were female (29.2%). Etiology included were alcohol (50%), non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (16.7%), and viral/alcohol (12.5%). Median model for end-stage liver disease-sodium (MELD-Na) was 18.5, with Child-Pugh scores (CPS) A (4.2%), B (50%), and C (45.8%). Improvements in serum sodium (P = 0.014), albumin (P = 0.003), and CPS (P = 0.017) were observed. Reduction in hospitalizations (P = 0.001), particularly portal hypertensive related admissions was observed (relative risk 0.39; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.21-0.69, P = 0.003), needed to treat 2.09 (95% CI 1.25-3.67). There was a reduction in total paracentesis requirements (P = 0.005). On multivariate analysis, type 2 diabetes mellitus significantly increased risk of TIPS/transplant/death (hazard ratio 6.16; 95% CI 1.23-30.84, P = 0.027). Median TTFS improved in patients with a change in MELD-Na ≤1 at 1 month: 29.4 months versus 7.7 months (P = 0.011). Conclusion Outpatient HA infusions decrease portal hypertensive related hospital admissions, improve serum sodium, albumin levels, and CPS. Type 2 diabetes mellitus and change in MELD-Na score help discriminate those likely to benefit most.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas Hannah
- Department of Gastroenterology and HepatologyRoyal Melbourne HospitalMelbourneVictoriaAustralia
- Melbourne Medical School, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health SciencesUniversity of MelbourneMelbourneVictoriaAustralia
- Department of GastroenterologyNorthern HealthMelbourneVictoriaAustralia
| | - Douglas Tjandra
- Department of GastroenterologyAlfred HealthMelbourneVictoriaAustralia
- Monash Medical School, Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health SciencesMelbourneVictoriaAustralia
| | - Ashwin Patwardhan
- Department of Gastroenterology and HepatologyRoyal Melbourne HospitalMelbourneVictoriaAustralia
| | - Kelsey Rutland
- Department of Gastroenterology and HepatologyRoyal Melbourne HospitalMelbourneVictoriaAustralia
| | - John Halliday
- Department of Gastroenterology and HepatologyRoyal Melbourne HospitalMelbourneVictoriaAustralia
| | - Siddharth Sood
- Melbourne Medical School, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health SciencesUniversity of MelbourneMelbourneVictoriaAustralia
- Department of GastroenterologyNorthern HealthMelbourneVictoriaAustralia
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14
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Bai Z, Méndez-Sánchez N, Romeiro FG, Mancuso A, Philips CA, Tacke F, Basaranoglu M, Primignani M, Ibrahim M, Wong YJ, Nery FG, Teschke R, Ferreira CN, Muñoz AE, Pinyopornpanish K, Thevenot T, Singh SP, Mohanty A, Satapathy SK, Ridola L, Maruyama H, Cholongitas E, Levi Sandri GB, Yang L, Shalimar, Yang Y, Villa E, Krag A, Wong F, Jalan R, O’Brien A, Bernardi M, Qi X. Use of albumin infusion for cirrhosis-related complications: An international position statement. JHEP Rep 2023; 5:100785. [PMID: 37456673 PMCID: PMC10339261 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhepr.2023.100785] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2023] [Revised: 04/06/2023] [Accepted: 04/18/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Background & Aims Numerous studies have evaluated the role of human albumin (HA) in managing various liver cirrhosis-related complications. However, their conclusions remain partially controversial, probably because HA was evaluated in different settings, including indications, patient characteristics, and dosage and duration of therapy. Methods Thirty-three investigators from 19 countries with expertise in the management of liver cirrhosis-related complications were invited to organise an International Special Interest Group. A three-round Delphi consensus process was conducted to complete the international position statement on the use of HA for treatment of liver cirrhosis-related complications. Results Twelve clinically significant position statements were proposed. Short-term infusion of HA should be recommended for the management of hepatorenal syndrome, large volume paracentesis, and spontaneous bacterial peritonitis in liver cirrhosis. Its effects on the prevention or treatment of other liver cirrhosis-related complications should be further elucidated. Long-term HA administration can be considered in specific settings. Pulmonary oedema should be closely monitored as a potential adverse effect in cirrhotic patients receiving HA infusion. Conclusions Based on the currently available evidence, the international position statement suggests the potential benefits of HA for the management of multiple liver cirrhosis-related complications and summarises its safety profile. However, its optimal timing and infusion strategy remain to be further elucidated. Impact and implications Thirty-three investigators from 19 countries proposed 12 position statements on the use of human albumin (HA) infusion in liver cirrhosis-related complications. Based on current evidence, short-term HA infusion should be recommended for the management of HRS, LVP, and SBP; whereas, long-term HA administration can be considered in the setting where budget and logistical issues can be resolved. However, pulmonary oedema should be closely monitored in cirrhotic patients who receive HA infusion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhaohui Bai
- Department of Gastroenterology, General Hospital of Northern Theater Command, Shenyang, China
- Department of Life Sciences and Biopharmaceutics, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Nahum Méndez-Sánchez
- Liver Research Unit, Medica Sur Clinic and Foundation, National Autonomous University of Mexico, Mexico City, Mexico
| | | | - Andrea Mancuso
- Medicina Interna 1, Azienda di Rilievo Nazionale ad Alta Specializzazione Civico-Di Cristina-Benfratelli, Palermo, Italy
| | - Cyriac Abby Philips
- Clinical and Translational Hepatology, The Liver Institute, Center of Excellence in GI Sciences, Rajagiri Hospital, Aluva, India
| | - Frank Tacke
- Department of Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Metin Basaranoglu
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Bezmialem Vakif University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Massimo Primignani
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Foundation IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Mostafa Ibrahim
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Theodor Bilharz Research Institute, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Yu Jun Wong
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Changi General Hospital, Singapore
| | - Filipe Gaio Nery
- Serviço de Cuidados Intensivos, Unidade de Cuidados Intermédios Médico-Cirúrgica, Centro Hospitalar Universitário do Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Rolf Teschke
- Department of Internal Medicine II, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Klinikum Hanau, Germany
| | - Carlos Noronha Ferreira
- Serviço de Gastrenterologia e Hepatologia, Hospital de Santa Maria-Centro Hospitalar Universitário Lisboa Norte, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Alberto E. Muñoz
- Sección Hepatología, Hospital Dr. Carlos B. Udaondo. Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Kanokwan Pinyopornpanish
- Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
| | - Thierry Thevenot
- Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Besançon, Hôpital Jean Minjoz, Service d’Hépatologie et de Soins Intensifs Digestifs, Besançon, France
| | | | - Arpan Mohanty
- Section of Gastroenterology, Boston Medical Center, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Sanjaya K. Satapathy
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Hepatology, Sandra Atlas Bass Center for Liver Diseases & Transplantation, Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine for Hofstra/Northwell Health, Manhasset, New York, USA
| | - Lorenzo Ridola
- Department of Translational and Precision Medicine, “Sapienza” University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Hitoshi Maruyama
- Department of Gastroenterology, Juntendo University, Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Evangelos Cholongitas
- First Department of Internal Medicine, Laiko General Hospital, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | | | - Li Yang
- Sichuan University-University of Oxford Huaxi Joint Centre for Gastrointestinal Cancer, Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Shalimar
- Department of Gastroenterology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Yongping Yang
- Senior Department of Hepatology, Fifth Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Erica Villa
- Department of Gastroenterology, University of Modena & Reggio Emilia and Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Modena, Italy
| | - Aleksander Krag
- Institute of Clinical Research, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | - Florence Wong
- Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Rajiv Jalan
- Liver Failure Group, UCL Institute for Liver and Digestive Health, The Royal Free Hospital, University College London, London, UK
| | | | - Mauro Bernardi
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Xingshun Qi
- Department of Gastroenterology, General Hospital of Northern Theater Command, Shenyang, China
- Department of Life Sciences and Biopharmaceutics, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, China
| | - the Liver Cirrhosis-related Complications (LCC)-International Special Interest Group
- Department of Gastroenterology, General Hospital of Northern Theater Command, Shenyang, China
- Department of Life Sciences and Biopharmaceutics, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, China
- Liver Research Unit, Medica Sur Clinic and Foundation, National Autonomous University of Mexico, Mexico City, Mexico
- Internal Medicine Department, Botucatu Medical School, São Paulo, Brazil
- Medicina Interna 1, Azienda di Rilievo Nazionale ad Alta Specializzazione Civico-Di Cristina-Benfratelli, Palermo, Italy
- Clinical and Translational Hepatology, The Liver Institute, Center of Excellence in GI Sciences, Rajagiri Hospital, Aluva, India
- Department of Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Bezmialem Vakif University, Istanbul, Turkey
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Foundation IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Theodor Bilharz Research Institute, Cairo, Egypt
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Changi General Hospital, Singapore
- Serviço de Cuidados Intensivos, Unidade de Cuidados Intermédios Médico-Cirúrgica, Centro Hospitalar Universitário do Porto, Porto, Portugal
- Department of Internal Medicine II, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Klinikum Hanau, Germany
- Serviço de Gastrenterologia e Hepatologia, Hospital de Santa Maria-Centro Hospitalar Universitário Lisboa Norte, Lisboa, Portugal
- Sección Hepatología, Hospital Dr. Carlos B. Udaondo. Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
- Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Besançon, Hôpital Jean Minjoz, Service d’Hépatologie et de Soins Intensifs Digestifs, Besançon, France
- Kalinga Gastroenterology Foundation, Odisha, India
- Section of Gastroenterology, Boston Medical Center, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Hepatology, Sandra Atlas Bass Center for Liver Diseases & Transplantation, Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine for Hofstra/Northwell Health, Manhasset, New York, USA
- Department of Translational and Precision Medicine, “Sapienza” University of Rome, Rome, Italy
- Department of Gastroenterology, Juntendo University, Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, Japan
- First Department of Internal Medicine, Laiko General Hospital, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
- Division of General Surgery and Liver Transplantation, San Camillo Hospital, Rome, Italy
- Sichuan University-University of Oxford Huaxi Joint Centre for Gastrointestinal Cancer, Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- Department of Gastroenterology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
- Senior Department of Hepatology, Fifth Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
- Department of Gastroenterology, University of Modena & Reggio Emilia and Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Modena, Italy
- Institute of Clinical Research, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
- Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Liver Failure Group, UCL Institute for Liver and Digestive Health, The Royal Free Hospital, University College London, London, UK
- Division of Medicine, Royal Free Campus, London, UK
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
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15
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Tergast TL, Griemsmann M, Stockhoff L, Port K, Heidrich B, Cornberg M, Wedemeyer H, Lenzen H, Richter N, Jaeckel E, Maasoumy B. Daily Low-Volume Paracentesis and Clinical Complications in Patients With Refractory Ascites. JAMA Netw Open 2023; 6:e2322048. [PMID: 37410459 PMCID: PMC10326647 DOI: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2023.22048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2022] [Accepted: 05/22/2023] [Indexed: 07/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Importance The potential association of low-volume paracentesis of less than 5 L with complications in patients with ascites remains unclear, and individuals with cirrhosis and refractory ascites (RA) treated with devices like Alfapump or tunneled-intraperitoneal catheters perform daily low-volume drainage without albumin substitution. Studies indicate marked differences regarding the daily drainage volume between patients; however, it is currently unknown if this alters the clinical course. Objective To determine whether the incidence of complications, such as hyponatremia or acute kidney injury (AKI), is associated with the daily drainage volume in patients with devices. Design, Setting, and Participants This retrospective cohort study of patients with liver cirrhosis, RA, and a contraindication for a transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt who received either device implantation or standard of care (SOC; ie, repeated large-volume paracentesis with albumin infusion), and were hospitalized between 2012 and 2020 were included. Data were analyzed from April to October 2022. Interventions Daily ascites volume removed. Main outcomes and Measures The primary end points were 90-day incidence of hyponatremia and AKI. Propensity score matching was performed to match and compare patients with devices and higher or lower drainage volumes to those who received SOC. Results Overall, 250 patients with RA receiving either device implantation (179 [72%] patients; 125 [70%] male; 54 [30%] female; mean [SD] age, 59 [11] years) or SOC (71 [28%] patients; 41 [67%] male; 20 [33%] female; mean [SD] age, 54 [8]) were included in this study. A cutoff of 1.5 L/d or more was identified to estimate hyponatremia and AKI in the included patients with devices. Drainage of 1.5 L/d or more was associated with hyponatremia and AKI, even after adjusting for various confounders (hazard ratio [HR], 2.17 [95% CI, 1.24-3.78]; P = .006; HR, 1.43 [95% CI, 1.01-2.16]; P = .04, respectively). Moreover, patients with taps of 1.5 L/d or more and less than 1.5 L/d were matched with patients receiving SOC. Those with taps of 1.5 L/d or more had a higher risk of hyponatremia and AKI compared with those receiving SOC (HR, 1.67 [95% CI, 1.06-2.68]; P = .02 and HR, 1.51 [95% CI, 1.04-2.18]; P = .03), while patients with drainage of less than 1.5 L/d did not show an increased rate of complications compared with those receiving SOC. Conclusions and Relevance In this cohort study, clinical complications in patients with RA performing low-volume drainage without albumin infusion were associated with the daily volume drained. Based on this analysis, physicians should be cautious in patients performing drainage of 1.5 L/d or more without albumin infusion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tammo L. Tergast
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Infectious Diseases and Endocrinology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Marie Griemsmann
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Infectious Diseases and Endocrinology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Lena Stockhoff
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Infectious Diseases and Endocrinology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Kerstin Port
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Infectious Diseases and Endocrinology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Benjamin Heidrich
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Infectious Diseases and Endocrinology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Markus Cornberg
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Infectious Diseases and Endocrinology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
- German Centre for Infection Research, HepNet Study-House of the German Liver Foundation, Hannover, Germany
- Centre for Individualised Infection Medicine, Hannover, Germany
| | - Heiner Wedemeyer
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Infectious Diseases and Endocrinology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
- German Centre for Infection Research, HepNet Study-House of the German Liver Foundation, Hannover, Germany
| | - Henrike Lenzen
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Infectious Diseases and Endocrinology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Nicolas Richter
- Department of General, Visceral and Transplant Surgery, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Elmar Jaeckel
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Infectious Diseases and Endocrinology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
- Department for Liver Transplantation at University Health Network of the University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Benjamin Maasoumy
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Infectious Diseases and Endocrinology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
- German Centre for Infection Research, HepNet Study-House of the German Liver Foundation, Hannover, Germany
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16
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Leache L, Gutiérrez-Valencia M, Saiz LC, Uriz J, Bolado F, García-Erce JA, Cantarelli L, Erviti J. Meta-analysis: Efficacy and safety of albumin in the prevention and treatment of complications in patients with cirrhosis. Aliment Pharmacol Ther 2023; 57:620-634. [PMID: 36524316 DOI: 10.1111/apt.17344] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2022] [Revised: 11/13/2022] [Accepted: 11/26/2022] [Indexed: 02/25/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Albumin is used in multiple situations in patients with cirrhosis, but the evidence of its benefit is not always clear. The aim was to synthesise the evidence on the efficacy and safety of albumin compared to other treatments or no active intervention in cirrhotic patients. MATERIALS AND METHODS We conducted a systematic review including randomised controlled trials (RCTs) published in MEDLINE, EMBASE and CENTRAL up to May 2022. We assessed all-cause mortality, liver transplant, cirrhosis complications of any type and serious adverse events (SAEs). Second, AEs, hospital readmission, length of hospital stay, need for paracentesis and quality of life (QoL) were evaluated. Meta-analyses with Mantel-Haenszel method and random-effects model were performed. RESULTS Fifty studies (5118 participants) were included. Albumin was associated with a reduction in mortality in cirrhotic patients with spontaneous bacterial peritonitis (SBP) (RR 0.49, 95% CI 0.32-0.75; low certainty) and hepatic encephalopathy (HE) (RR 0.53, 95% CI 0.34-0.83; low certainty) when compared to no administration of albumin, but not in other scenarios. In general, no additional benefit of albumin was found in liver transplants, SAEs or cirrhosis complications (low/very low certainty). Long-term administration (>3 months) of albumin led to a reduction in cirrhosis complications (RR 0.75, 95% CI 0.57-0.97; low certainty), hospital readmissions, length of hospital stay, need for paracentesis and improvement of QoL. CONCLUSION Albumin may reduce mortality risk in cirrhotic patients with SBP or HE. No benefit was identified in reducing liver transplants or SAEs. Long-term administration may be associated with a lower risk of cirrhosis complications and need for paracentesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leire Leache
- Unit of Innovation and Organization, Navarre Health Service, Pamplona, Navarre, Spain.,Navarre Institute for Health Research (IdiSNA), Pamplona, Navarre, Spain
| | - Marta Gutiérrez-Valencia
- Unit of Innovation and Organization, Navarre Health Service, Pamplona, Navarre, Spain.,Navarre Institute for Health Research (IdiSNA), Pamplona, Navarre, Spain
| | - Luis Carlos Saiz
- Unit of Innovation and Organization, Navarre Health Service, Pamplona, Navarre, Spain.,Navarre Institute for Health Research (IdiSNA), Pamplona, Navarre, Spain
| | - Juan Uriz
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University Hospital of Navarre, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Federico Bolado
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University Hospital of Navarre, Pamplona, Spain
| | - José Antonio García-Erce
- Navarra's Blood and Tissue Bank, Navarre Health Service, Pamplona, Spain.,Grupo Español de Rehabilitación Multimodal (GERM), Aragon Health Science Institute, PBM Group, Hospital La Paz Institute for Health Research (IdiPAZ), Madrid, Spain
| | - Lorenzo Cantarelli
- Department of Hospital Pharmacy, University Hospital of Canary Islands (CHUC), Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain
| | - Juan Erviti
- Unit of Innovation and Organization, Navarre Health Service, Pamplona, Navarre, Spain.,Navarre Institute for Health Research (IdiSNA), Pamplona, Navarre, Spain
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Abstract
Ascites is the most common complication of cirrhosis, with 5-year mortality reaching 30%. Complications of ascites (ie, spontaneous bacterial peritonitis, hepatorenal syndrome, recurrent/refractory ascites, and hepatic hydrothorax) further worsen survival. The development of ascites is driven by portal hypertension, systemic inflammation, and splanchnic arterial vasodilation. Etiologic treatment and nonselective beta-blockers can prevent ascites in compensated cirrhosis. The treatment of ascites is currently based on the management of fluid overload (eg, diuretics, sodium restriction, and/or paracenteses). In selected patients, long-term albumin use, norfloxacin prophylaxis, and transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt reduce the risk of further decompensation and improve survival.
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18
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Matchett CL, Simonetto DA, Kamath PS. Renal Insufficiency in Patients with Cirrhosis. Clin Liver Dis 2023; 27:57-70. [PMID: 36400467 DOI: 10.1016/j.cld.2022.08.010] [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: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Renal failure is one of the most prevalent complications in patients with cirrhosis and is of the utmost prognostic relevance. Acute kidney injury (AKI) in cirrhosis results from a spectrum of etiologies, of which hepatorenal syndrome (HRS) carries the worst prognosis. Correct differentiation of the etiology of AKI in cirrhosis is imperative, as treatment defers substantially. This review summarizes the current diagnostic criteria, pathophysiology, diagnosis, and therapeutic concepts for AKI and HRS-AKI in cirrhosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caroline L Matchett
- Internal Medicine Residency Program, Department of Medicine, Mayo Clinic, 200 1st Street Southwest, Rochester, 55902 MN, USA
| | - Douglas A Simonetto
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Mayo Clinic, 200 1st Street Southwest, Rochester, 55902 MN, USA
| | - Patrick S Kamath
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Mayo Clinic, 200 1st Street Southwest, Rochester, 55902 MN, USA.
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19
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Bai Z, Wang L, Lin H, Tacke F, Cheng G, Qi X. Use of Human Albumin Administration for the Prevention and Treatment of Hyponatremia in Patients with Liver Cirrhosis: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. J Clin Med 2022; 11:jcm11195928. [PMID: 36233795 PMCID: PMC9572637 DOI: 10.3390/jcm11195928] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2022] [Revised: 09/15/2022] [Accepted: 09/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background. Hyponatremia is a common complication of liver cirrhosis and aggravates patients’ outcomes. It may be corrected by human albumin (HA) infusion. Herein, we have conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to evaluate the efficacy of intravenous HA administration for the prevention and treatment of hyponatremia in liver cirrhosis. Methods. Literature was searched in the PubMed, EMBASE, and Cochrane Library databases. If possible, a meta-analysis would be conducted. Incidence of hyponatremia, rate of resolution of hyponatremia, and serum sodium level were compared between cirrhotic patients who received and did not receive HA infusion. Odds ratios (ORs) or mean differences (MDs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated. The quality of evidence was assessed by the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) system. Results. Initially, 3231 papers were identified. Among them, 30 studies, including 25 randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and 5 cohort studies, were eligible. Among cirrhotic patients without hyponatremia, the HA infusion group had significantly lower incidence of hyponatremia (OR = 0.55, 95%CI = 0.38–0.80, p = 0.001) and higher serum sodium level (MD = 0.95, 95%CI = 0.47–1.43, p = 0.0001) as compared to the control group. Among cirrhotic patients with hyponatremia, the HA infusion group had a significantly higher rate of resolution of hyponatremia (OR = 1.50, 95%CI = 1.17–1.92, p = 0.001) as compared to the control group. Generally, the quality of available evidence is low. Conclusions. Based on the current evidence, HA may be considered for preventing the development of hyponatremia in liver cirrhosis, especially in those undergoing LVP, and treating hyponatremia. Well-designed studies are required to clarify the effects of HA infusion on hyponatremia in liver cirrhosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhaohui Bai
- NMPA Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Drug Regulatory Technology, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang 110016, China
- Liver Cirrhosis Study Group, Department of Gastroenterology, General Hospital of Northern Theater Command, Shenyang 110840, China
| | - Le Wang
- Liver Cirrhosis Study Group, Department of Gastroenterology, General Hospital of Northern Theater Command, Shenyang 110840, China
| | - Hanyang Lin
- Liver Cirrhosis Study Group, Department of Gastroenterology, General Hospital of Northern Theater Command, Shenyang 110840, China
| | - Frank Tacke
- Department of Hepatology & Gastroenterology, Charité University Medical Center, 10117 Berlin, Germany
| | - Gang Cheng
- NMPA Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Drug Regulatory Technology, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang 110016, China
- Correspondence: (G.C.); (X.Q.)
| | - Xingshun Qi
- NMPA Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Drug Regulatory Technology, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang 110016, China
- Liver Cirrhosis Study Group, Department of Gastroenterology, General Hospital of Northern Theater Command, Shenyang 110840, China
- Correspondence: (G.C.); (X.Q.)
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20
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Flores-Calderón J, Cisneros-Garza LE, Chávez-Barrera JA, Vázquez-Frias R, Reynoso-Zarzosa FA, Martínez-Bejarano DL, Consuelo-Sánchez A, Reyes-Apodaca M, Zárate-Mondragón FE, Sánchez-Soto MP, Alcántara-García RI, González-Ortiz B, Ledesma-Ramírez S, Espinosa-Saavedra D, Cura-Esquivel IA, Macías-Flores J, Hinojosa-Lezama JM, Hernández-Chávez E, Zárate-Guerrero JR, Gómez-Navarro G, Bilbao-Chávez LP, Sosa-Arce M, Flores-Fong LE, Lona-Reyes JC, Estrada-Arce EV, Aguila-Cano R. Consensus on the management of complications of cirrhosis of the liver in pediatrics. REVISTA DE GASTROENTEROLOGIA DE MEXICO (ENGLISH) 2022; 87:462-485. [PMID: 35810090 DOI: 10.1016/j.rgmxen.2022.06.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2021] [Accepted: 03/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/07/2022]
Abstract
The Asociación Mexicana de Hepatología A.C. carried out the Consensus on the Management of Complications of Cirrhosis of the Liver in Pediatrics to provide physicians with useful information for treating said complications. A group of pediatric gastroenterologists and experts in nutrition, nephrology, and infectious diseases participated and reviewed the medical literature. The Delphi method was applied to obtain the level of agreement on the statements that were formulated. The statements were sent to the participants to be analyzed and voted upon, after which they were discussed in virtual sessions, and the final versions were produced. The aim of the consensus results was to issue indications for the management of pediatric patients with liver cirrhosis, to prevent or control complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Flores-Calderón
- UMAE Hospital de Pediatría, CMN XXI Dr. Silvestre Frenk Freund IMSS, Cd, México, Mexico.
| | | | - J A Chávez-Barrera
- UMAE Hospital General CMN La Raza, Dr. Gaudencio González Garza IMSS, Cd, México, Mexico
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - M P Sánchez-Soto
- Hospital de Especialidades del Niño y la mujer de Querétaro Dr. Felipe Núñez Lara, Querétaro, Mexico
| | | | - B González-Ortiz
- UMAE Hospital de Pediatría, CMN XXI Dr. Silvestre Frenk Freund IMSS, Cd, México, Mexico
| | - S Ledesma-Ramírez
- UMAE Hospital de Pediatría, CMN XXI Dr. Silvestre Frenk Freund IMSS, Cd, México, Mexico
| | - D Espinosa-Saavedra
- UMAE Hospital de Pediatría, CMN XXI Dr. Silvestre Frenk Freund IMSS, Cd, México, Mexico
| | | | - J Macías-Flores
- Hospital Infantil de Especialidades de Chihuahua, Chihuahua, Mexico
| | | | - E Hernández-Chávez
- UMAE Hospital de Pediatría Centro Médico de Occidente, IMSS, Guadalajara, Mexico
| | - J R Zárate-Guerrero
- UMAE Hospital de Pediatría Centro Médico de Occidente, IMSS, Guadalajara, Mexico
| | - G Gómez-Navarro
- UMAE Hospital de Pediatría Centro Médico de Occidente, IMSS, Guadalajara, Mexico
| | - L P Bilbao-Chávez
- UMAE Hospital General CMN La Raza, Dr. Gaudencio González Garza IMSS, Cd, México, Mexico
| | - M Sosa-Arce
- UMAE Hospital General CMN La Raza, Dr. Gaudencio González Garza IMSS, Cd, México, Mexico
| | - L E Flores-Fong
- Nuevo Hospital Civil de Guadalajara "Dr. Juan I. Menchaca", Guadalajara, Mexico
| | - J C Lona-Reyes
- Nuevo Hospital Civil de Guadalajara "Dr. Juan I. Menchaca", Guadalajara, Mexico
| | - E V Estrada-Arce
- Nuevo Hospital Civil de Guadalajara "Dr. Juan I. Menchaca", Guadalajara, Mexico
| | - R Aguila-Cano
- Nuevo Hospital Civil de Guadalajara "Dr. Juan I. Menchaca", Guadalajara, Mexico
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21
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de Mattos ÂZ, Simonetto DA, Terra C, Farias AQ, Bittencourt PL, Pase THS, Toazza MR, de Mattos AA. Albumin administration in patients with cirrhosis: Current role and novel perspectives. World J Gastroenterol 2022; 28:4773-4786. [PMID: 36156923 PMCID: PMC9476855 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v28.i33.4773] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2022] [Revised: 06/05/2022] [Accepted: 07/06/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Mortality in cirrhosis is mostly associated with the development of clinical decompensation, characterized by ascites, hepatic encephalopathy, variceal bleeding, or jaundice. Therefore, it is important to prevent and manage such complications. Traditionally, the pathophysiology of decompensated cirrhosis was explained by the peripheral arterial vasodilation hypothesis, but it is currently understood that decompensation might also be driven by a systemic inflammatory state (the systemic inflammation hypothesis). Considering its oncotic and nononcotic properties, albumin has been thoroughly evaluated in the prevention and management of several of these decompensating events. There are formal evidence-based recommendations from international medical societies proposing that albumin be administered in individuals with cirrhosis undergoing large-volume paracentesis, patients with spontaneous bacterial peritonitis, those with acute kidney injury (even before the etiological diagnosis), and those with hepatorenal syndrome. Moreover, there are a few randomized controlled trials and meta-analyses suggesting a possible role for albumin infusion in patients with cirrhosis and ascites (long-term albumin administration), individuals with hepatic encephalopathy, and those with acute-on-chronic liver failure undergoing modest-volume paracentesis. Further studies are necessary to elucidate whether albumin administration also benefits patients with cirrhosis and other complications, such as individuals with extraperitoneal infections, those hospitalized with decompensated cirrhosis and hypoalbuminemia, and patients with hyponatremia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ângelo Zambam de Mattos
- Graduate Program in Medicine: Hepatology, Federal University of Health Sciences of Porto Alegre, Porto Alegre 90050-170, Brazil
| | - Douglas Alano Simonetto
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55902, United States
| | - Carlos Terra
- Department of Gastroenterology, State University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro 20550-170, Brazil
| | | | | | - Tales Henrique Soares Pase
- Internal Medicine Unit, Irmandade Santa Casa de Misericórdia de Porto Alegre, Porto Alegre 90020-090, Brazil
| | - Marlon Rubini Toazza
- Gastroenterology and Hepatology Unit, Irmandade Santa Casa de Misericórdia de Porto Alegre, Porto Alegre 90020-090, Brazil
| | - Angelo Alves de Mattos
- Graduate Program in Medicine: Hepatology, Federal University of Health Sciences of Porto Alegre, Porto Alegre 90050-170, Brazil
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22
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Use of human albumin infusion in cirrhotic patients: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Hepatol Int 2022; 16:1468-1483. [PMID: 36048318 DOI: 10.1007/s12072-022-10374-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2022] [Accepted: 06/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Human albumin infusion is effective for controlling systemic inflammation, thereby probably managing some liver cirrhosis-related complications, such as spontaneous bacterial peritonitis (SBP), hepatic encephalopathy (HE), and hepatorenal syndrome. However, its clinical benefits remain controversial. METHODS EMBASE, PubMed, and Cochrane Library databases were searched. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) regarding use of human albumin infusion in cirrhotic patients were eligible. Mortality and incidence of liver cirrhosis-related complications were pooled. Effect of human albumin infusion on mortality was also evaluated by subgroup analyses primarily according to target population and duration of human albumin infusion treatment. Odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated. RESULTS Forty-two RCTs were finally included. Meta-analysis showed that human albumin infusion could significantly decrease the mortality of cirrhotic patients (OR = 0.81, 95% CI = 0.67-0.98, p = 0.03). Subgroup analyses showed that human albumin infusion could significantly decrease the mortality of cirrhotic patients with SBP (OR = 0.36, 95% CI = 0.20-0.64, p = 0.0005) and HE (OR = 0.43, 95% CI = 0.22-0.85, p = 0.02), but not those with ascites or non-SBP infections or undergoing large-volume paracentesis. Short-term human albumin infusion treatment could significantly decrease short-term mortality (OR = 0.67, 95% CI = 0.50-0.89, p = 0.005), but not long-term mortality. Long-term human albumin infusion treatment could not significantly decrease long-term mortality (OR = 0.72, 95% CI = 0.48-1.08, p = 0.11). In addition, human albumin infusion could significantly decrease the incidence of renal impairment (OR = 0.63, 95% CI = 0.45-0.88, p = 0.007) and ascites (OR = 0.45, 95% CI = 0.25-0.81, p = 0.007), but not infections or gastrointestinal bleeding. CONCLUSIONS Human albumin infusion may improve the outcomes of cirrhotic patients. However, its indications for different complications and infusion strategy in liver cirrhosis should be further explored.
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23
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Garcia-Saenz-de-Sicilia M, Al-Obaid L, Hughes DL, Duarte-Rojo A. Mastering Core Recommendations during HEPAtology ROUNDS in Patients with Advanced Chronic Liver Disease. Semin Liver Dis 2022; 42:341-361. [PMID: 35764316 DOI: 10.1055/a-1886-5909] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Efficient and thorough care of hospitalized patients with advanced chronic liver disease is of utter importance to improve outcomes and optimize quality of life. This requires understanding current evidence and best practices. To facilitate focus on up-to-date knowledge and a practical approach, we have created the HEPA-ROUNDS mnemonic while outlining a practical review of the literature with critical appraisal for the busy clinician. The HEPA-ROUNDS mnemonic provides a structured approach that incorporates critical concepts in terms of prevention, management, and prognostication of the most common complications frequently encountered in patients with advanced chronic liver disease. In addition, implementing the HEPA-ROUNDS mnemonic can facilitate education for trainees and staff caring for patients with advanced chronic liver disease.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Lolwa Al-Obaid
- Division of Gastroenterology, Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri
| | - Dempsey L Hughes
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Andrés Duarte-Rojo
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
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24
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Tergast TL, Griemsmann M, Stockhoff L, Heidrich B, Schirmer H, Lenzen H, Wedemeyer H, Cornberg M, Jaeckel E, Maasoumy B. Home-based, tunnelled peritoneal drainage system as an alternative treatment option for patients with refractory ascites. Aliment Pharmacol Ther 2022; 56:529-539. [PMID: 35656633 DOI: 10.1111/apt.17066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2022] [Revised: 05/06/2022] [Accepted: 05/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Onset of refractory ascites is the hallmark of end-stage liver disease. If liver transplantation (LTx) is not available and contraindications for a transjugular portosystemic shunt (TIPS) are present, repeated paracentesis remains the standard of care (SOC). Home-based, tunnelled peritoneal catheters (PeCa) have been suggested as an alternative treatment option. However, data on patients with cirrhosis are scarce. AIM To evaluate the safety of PeCa in these patients compared to SOC. METHODS Overall, 223 patients with cirrhosis, a contraindication for TIPS and refractory ascites were included in this retrospective study. PeCa implant was performed in 152 patients, whereas 71 were treated with SOC. Analysed end points included device explant-free survival, mortality, acute kidney injury (AKI) and hyponatraemia. In the second approach, propensity score matching (PPSM) was performed to adjust for confounding factors. RESULTS In patients with PeCa, median device explant-free survival was 74 days and 52 explants were recorded within the first 90 days. Within 90 days, patients with PeCa had lower mortality than SOC (p = 0.11), and spontaneous bacterial peritonitis (SBP) incidence did not differ (p = 0.82). Regarding AKI and hyponatraemia, there was a trend towards a higher incidence in the PeCa group (p = 0.13 and p = 0.08), and the risk for rehospitalisation was higher in those with a PeCa (HR: 2.11, p = 0.04). After PPSM, mortality was lower in the PeCa group (HR:0.40; p = 0.03), whereas the incidence of SBP and hyponatraemia was comparable (p = 0.80 and p = 0.28) and AKI was more frequent in those with a PeCa (p = 0.08). CONCLUSION The implant of PeCa allows home-based therapy of patients with cirrhosis and refractory ascites and a contraindication for TIPS. However, the risk for complications has to be considered and prospective studies are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tammo L Tergast
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Endocrinology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Marie Griemsmann
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Endocrinology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Lena Stockhoff
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Endocrinology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Benjamin Heidrich
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Endocrinology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Hendrik Schirmer
- German Centre for Higher Education Research and Science Studies (DZHW), Hannover, Germany
| | - Henrike Lenzen
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Endocrinology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Heiner Wedemeyer
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Endocrinology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany.,German Centre for Infection Research (Deutsches Zentrum für Infektionsforschung, DZIF), Partner Site Hannover-Braunschweig, Hannover, Germany
| | - Markus Cornberg
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Endocrinology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany.,German Centre for Infection Research (Deutsches Zentrum für Infektionsforschung, DZIF), Partner Site Hannover-Braunschweig, Hannover, Germany.,Centre for Individualised Infection Medicine (CiiM), Hannover, Germany
| | - Elmar Jaeckel
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Endocrinology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Benjamin Maasoumy
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Endocrinology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany.,German Centre for Infection Research (Deutsches Zentrum für Infektionsforschung, DZIF), Partner Site Hannover-Braunschweig, Hannover, Germany
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25
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Boike JR, Thornburg BG, Asrani SK, Fallon MB, Fortune BE, Izzy MJ, Verna EC, Abraldes JG, Allegretti AS, Bajaj JS, Biggins SW, Darcy MD, Farr MA, Farsad K, Garcia-Tsao G, Hall SA, Jadlowiec CC, Krowka MJ, Laberge J, Lee EW, Mulligan DC, Nadim MK, Northup PG, Salem R, Shatzel JJ, Shaw CJ, Simonetto DA, Susman J, Kolli KP, VanWagner LB. North American Practice-Based Recommendations for Transjugular Intrahepatic Portosystemic Shunts in Portal Hypertension. Clin Gastroenterol Hepatol 2022; 20:1636-1662.e36. [PMID: 34274511 PMCID: PMC8760361 DOI: 10.1016/j.cgh.2021.07.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 81] [Impact Index Per Article: 40.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2021] [Revised: 07/01/2021] [Accepted: 07/13/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Complications of portal hypertension, including ascites, gastrointestinal bleeding, hepatic hydrothorax, and hepatic encephalopathy, are associated with significant morbidity and mortality. Despite few high-quality randomized controlled trials to guide therapeutic decisions, transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) creation has emerged as a crucial therapeutic option to treat complications of portal hypertension. In North America, the decision to perform TIPS involves gastroenterologists, hepatologists, and interventional radiologists, but TIPS creation is performed by interventional radiologists. This is in contrast to other parts of the world where TIPS creation is performed primarily by hepatologists. Thus, the successful use of TIPS in North America is dependent on a multidisciplinary approach and technical expertise, so as to optimize outcomes. Recently, new procedural techniques, TIPS stent technology, and indications for TIPS have emerged. As a result, practices and outcomes vary greatly across institutions and significant knowledge gaps exist. In this consensus statement, the Advancing Liver Therapeutic Approaches group critically reviews the application of TIPS in the management of portal hypertension. Advancing Liver Therapeutic Approaches convened a multidisciplinary group of North American experts from hepatology, interventional radiology, transplant surgery, nephrology, cardiology, pulmonology, and hematology to critically review existing literature and develop practice-based recommendations for the use of TIPS in patients with any cause of portal hypertension in terms of candidate selection, procedural best practices and, post-TIPS management; and to develop areas of consensus for TIPS indications and the prevention of complications. Finally, future research directions are identified related to TIPS for the management of portal hypertension.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justin R. Boike
- Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Bartley G. Thornburg
- Department of Radiology, Division of Vascular and Interventional Radiology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
| | | | - Michael B. Fallon
- Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Banner - University Medical Center Phoenix, Phoenix, AZ, USA
| | - Brett E. Fortune
- Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY, USA
| | - Manhal J. Izzy
- Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Elizabeth C. Verna
- Department of Medicine, Division of Digestive and Liver Diseases, Columbia University College of Physicians & Surgeons, New York, NY, USA
| | - Juan G. Abraldes
- Division of Gastroenterology (Liver Unit), University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Andrew S. Allegretti
- Department of Medicine, Division of Nephrology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Jasmohan S. Bajaj
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition, Virginia Commonwealth University and Central Virginia Veterans Healthcare System, Richmond, VA, USA
| | - Scott W. Biggins
- Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, University of Washington Medical Center, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Michael D. Darcy
- Department of Radiology, Division of Interventional Radiology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Maryjane A. Farr
- Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiology, Columbia University College of Physicians & Surgeons, New York, NY, USA
| | - Khashayar Farsad
- Dotter Department of Interventional Radiology, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR, USA
| | - Guadalupe Garcia-Tsao
- Department of Digestive Diseases, Yale University, Yale University School of Medicine, and VA-CT Healthcare System, CT, USA
| | - Shelley A. Hall
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Cardiology, Baylor University Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Caroline C. Jadlowiec
- Department of Surgery, Division of Transplant Surgery, Mayo Clinic, Phoenix, AZ, USA
| | - Michael J. Krowka
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Jeanne Laberge
- Department of Radiology and Biomedical Imaging, Division of Interventional Radiology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Edward W. Lee
- Department of Radiology, Division of Interventional Radiology, University of California-Los Angeles David Geffen School of Medicine, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - David C. Mulligan
- Department of Surgery, Division of Transplantation, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Mitra K. Nadim
- Department of Medicine, Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Patrick G. Northup
- Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA
| | - Riad Salem
- Department of Radiology, Division of Vascular and Interventional Radiology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Joseph J. Shatzel
- Division of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR, USA
| | - Cathryn J. Shaw
- Department of Radiology, Division of Interventional Radiology, Baylor University Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Douglas A. Simonetto
- Department of Physiology, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Jonathan Susman
- Department of Radiology, Division of Interventional Radiology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - K. Pallav Kolli
- Department of Radiology and Biomedical Imaging, Division of Interventional Radiology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Lisa B. VanWagner
- Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA,Department of Preventive Medicine, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA,Address for correspondence: Lisa B. VanWagner MD MSc FAST FAHA, Assistant Professor of Medicine and Preventive Medicine, Divisions of Gastroenterology & Hepatology and Epidemiology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, 676 N. St Clair St - Suite 1400, Chicago, Illinois 60611 USA, Phone: 312 695 1632, Fax: 312 695 0036,
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Castro-Narro G, Moctezuma-Velázquez C, Male-Velázquez R, Trejo-Estrada R, Bosques FJ, Moreno-Alcántar R, Rodríguez-Hernández H, Bautista-Santos A, Córtez-Hernández C, Cerda-Reyes E, Pérez-Escobar J, Aldana-Ledesma JM, Aguirre-Valadez J, Ruiz-Velasco JAV, Contreras-Omaña R, Miranda-Zazueta G, Reyes-Bastidas MDR, Meza-Cardona JM, Chávez-Tapia N, Fernández-Pérez NJ, García-Jiménez ES, Torre A. Position statement on the use of albumin in liver cirrhosis. Ann Hepatol 2022; 27:100708. [PMID: 35550187 DOI: 10.1016/j.aohep.2022.100708] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2022] [Accepted: 02/15/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Cirrhosis is characterised by a prolonged asymptomatic period in which the inflammation persists, increasing as the disease progresses. Characteristic of this is the increase in pro-inflammatory cytokines and pro-oxidant molecules which are determining factors in the development of multiple organ dysfunction. In the early development of cirrhosis, splanchnic arterial vasodilation, activation of vasoconstrictor systems (renin-angiotensin-aldosterone) and the sympathetic nervous system (noradrenaline) bring about bacterial translocation and systemic dissemination via portal circulation of bacterial products, and molecular patterns associated with damage, which exacerbate the systemic inflammation present in the patient with cirrhosis. Albumin is a molecule that undergoes structural and functional changes as liver damage progresses, affecting its antioxidant, immunomodulatory, oncotic and endothelial stabilising properties. Our knowledge of the properties of albumin reveals a molecule with multiple treatment options in patients with cirrhosis, from the compensated then decompensated phases to multiple organ dysfunction. Its recognised uses in spontaneous bacterial peritonitis, post-paracentesis circulatory dysfunction, acute kidney injury and hepatorenal syndrome are fully validated, and a treatment option has opened up in decompensated cirrhosis and in acute-on-chronic liver disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Graciela Castro-Narro
- Gastroenterology Department, Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Médicas y Nutrición "Salvador Zubirán" ["Salvador Zubirán" National Institute of Medical Sciences and Nutrition], Mexico City, Mexico; Gastroenterology Unit, Hospital Médica Sur, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Carlos Moctezuma-Velázquez
- Gastroenterology Department, Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Médicas y Nutrición "Salvador Zubirán" ["Salvador Zubirán" National Institute of Medical Sciences and Nutrition], Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Rene Male-Velázquez
- Instituto de la Salud Digestiva y Hepática [Institute of Gastrointestinal and Liver Health], Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico
| | | | | | - Rosalba Moreno-Alcántar
- Centro Médico de Alta Especialidad Siglo XXI [21st Century High Speciality Medical Centre], Mexico City, Mexico
| | | | - Aleida Bautista-Santos
- Gastroenterology Department, Centro Médico Nacional 20 de Noviembre ["20 November" National Medical Centre], Mexico City, Mexico
| | | | - Eira Cerda-Reyes
- Hospital Central Militar, Mexico City, Mexico; Escuela Militar de Graduados de Sanidad, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Juanita Pérez-Escobar
- Gastroenterology Department, Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Médicas y Nutrición "Salvador Zubirán" ["Salvador Zubirán" National Institute of Medical Sciences and Nutrition], Mexico City, Mexico
| | | | | | | | - Raúl Contreras-Omaña
- Centro de Estudio e Investigación en Enfermedades Hepáticas y Toxicológicas (CEIHET) [Centre for Study and Research in Hepatic and Toxicological Diseases], Pachuca de Soto, Hidalgo, Mexico
| | - Godolfino Miranda-Zazueta
- Gastroenterology Department, Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Médicas y Nutrición "Salvador Zubirán" ["Salvador Zubirán" National Institute of Medical Sciences and Nutrition], Mexico City, Mexico
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Aldo Torre
- Metabolic Unit, Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Médicas y Nutrición "Salvador Zubirán" ["Salvador Zubirán" National Institute of Medical Sciences and Nutrition], Mexico City, Mexico.
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Caraceni P, O'Brien A, Gines P. Long-term albumin treatment in patients with cirrhosis and ascites. J Hepatol 2022; 76:1306-1317. [PMID: 35589252 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2022.03.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2021] [Revised: 03/02/2022] [Accepted: 03/14/2022] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
Although proposed for the first time several decades ago, the possibility that long-term human albumin could be effective for the treatment of patients with cirrhosis and ascites has become a topic of scientific and clinical discussion in the last decade. Long-term albumin administration represents a completely different treatment perspective compared to acute or short-term uses of albumin. Results from the ANSWER and the MACHT studies indicate that long-term albumin treatment can be effective, safe and able to modify the course of the disease provided that albumin is given at a sufficient dose and for a sufficient time to restore physiological levels and functions of the circulating molecule, which are compromised, at least partially, in patients with decompensated cirrhosis. Further clinical studies and randomised trials are warranted to confirm the clinical benefits of long-term albumin therapy. Important areas for further research include determining the precise target population, the biomarkers of response, the optimal dose and frequency of albumin infusions, the stopping rules, and the cost-effectiveness of treatment in different healthcare systems across the world, particularly in those where the logistical issues and costs related to the periodic intravenous infusions may represent an important limitation to the implementation of this innovative approach in clinical practice. In this review, we will critically analyse the available data on long-term albumin treatment, focusing on the differences that exist between studies, the controversial issues and the future perspectives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paolo Caraceni
- IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliera-Universitaria di Bologna, Italy; Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences and Center for Biomedical Applied Research, Alma Mater Studiorum University of Bologna, Italy.
| | - Alastair O'Brien
- UCL Institute for Liver and Digestive Health, Upper 3rd Floor, Division of Medicine, Royal Free Campus, Rowland Hill Street, London, NW3 2PF, UK
| | - Pere Gines
- Hospital Clinic of Barcelona, University of Barcelona, IDIBAPS, CIBEReHD, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
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28
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Baiges A, Hernández-Gea V. Management of Liver Decompensation in Advanced Chronic Liver Disease: Ascites, Hyponatremia, and Gastroesophageal Variceal Bleeding. Clin Drug Investig 2022; 42:25-31. [PMID: 35476218 PMCID: PMC9205794 DOI: 10.1007/s40261-022-01147-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Portal hypertension is a major complication of cirrhosis characterized by a pathological hepatic venous pressure gradient (HVPG) ≥ 5 mmHg. The structural changes observed in the liver leading to intrahepatic vascular resistance and, consequently, portal hypertension appear in the early stages of cirrhosis. Clinically significant portal hypertension (HVPG ≥ 10 mmHg) is associated with several clinical consequences, such as ascites, hyponatremia, gastroesophageal variceal bleeding, hepatorenal syndrome, cardiopulmonary complications, adrenal insufficiency, and hepatic encephalopathy. The diagnosis and management of these complications depend on their early identification and treatment. Regarding ascites, diuretics are a useful treatment, although plasma sodium levels must be properly controlled to avoid hyponatremia. The management of hypovolemic hyponatremia usually consists in stopping diuretics and the administration of volume. On the contrary, hypervolemic hyponatremia is managed with fluid and sodium restriction. Transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) should be considered in patients with refractory ascites. Primary prophylaxis of variceal bleeding should be based mainly on non-selective beta-blockers. Management of acute gastroesophageal variceal bleeding includes vasoactive drugs and endoscopic band ligation and, in patients at high risk of failure and rebleeding, preemptive use of TIPS. Secondary prophylaxis with a combination of non-selective beta-blockers and endoscopic band ligation is the treatment of choice. This article focuses on the management of ascites, hyponatremia, and gastroesophageal variceal bleeding.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Baiges
- Servicio de Hepatología, Hemodinámica Hepática. Hospital Clínic, Barcelona, Spain.
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29
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Tranah TH, Kronsten VT, Shawcross DL. Implications and Management of Cirrhosis-Associated Immune Dysfunction Before and After Liver Transplantation. Liver Transpl 2022; 28:700-716. [PMID: 34738724 DOI: 10.1002/lt.26353] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2021] [Revised: 10/18/2021] [Accepted: 10/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Cirrhosis-associated immune dysfunction (CAID) describes a panacea of innate and adaptive deficits that result from the sequelae of cirrhotic portal hypertension that is similar in its manifestations regardless of etiology of chronic liver injury. CAID is associated with synchronous observations of dysregulated priming of innate immune effector cells that demonstrate a proinflammatory phenotype but are functionally impaired and unable to adequately prevent invading pathogens. CAID is mainly driven by gut-barrier dysfunction and is associated with deficits of microbial compartmentalization and homeostasis that lead to tonic activation, systemic inflammation, and exhaustion of innate-immune cells. CAID leads to a high frequency of bacterial and fungal infections in patients with cirrhosis that are often associated with acute decompensation of chronic liver disease and acute-on-chronic liver failure and carry a high mortality rate. Understanding the deficits of mucosal and systemic immunity in the context of chronic liver disease is essential to improving care for patients with cirrhosis, preventing precipitants of acute decompensation of cirrhosis, and improving morbidity and survival. In this review, we summarize the detailed dynamic immunological perturbations associated with advanced chronic liver disease and highlight the importance of recognizing immune dysregulation as a sequela of cirrhosis. Furthermore, we address the role of screening, prevention, and early treatment of infections in cirrhosis in improving patient outcomes in transplant and nontransplant settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas H Tranah
- Institute of Liver Studies, School of Immunology and Microbial Sciences, Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, King's College London, London, UK.,Institute of Liver Studies, King's College Hospital National Health Service Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Victoria T Kronsten
- Institute of Liver Studies, School of Immunology and Microbial Sciences, Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, King's College London, London, UK.,Institute of Liver Studies, King's College Hospital National Health Service Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Debbie L Shawcross
- Institute of Liver Studies, School of Immunology and Microbial Sciences, Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, King's College London, London, UK.,Institute of Liver Studies, King's College Hospital National Health Service Foundation Trust, London, UK
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30
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González DV, López KPP, Nungaray SAV, Madrigal LGM. Tratamiento de ascitis refractaria: estrategias actuales y nuevo panorama de los beta bloqueadores no selectivos. GASTROENTEROLOGIA Y HEPATOLOGIA 2022; 45:715-723. [DOI: 10.1016/j.gastrohep.2022.02.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2021] [Revised: 02/09/2022] [Accepted: 02/21/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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Praharaj DL, Anand AC. Clinical Implications, Evaluation, and Management of Hyponatremia in Cirrhosis. J Clin Exp Hepatol 2022; 12:575-594. [PMID: 35535075 PMCID: PMC9077240 DOI: 10.1016/j.jceh.2021.09.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2021] [Accepted: 09/06/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Hyponatremia is the most common electrolyte abnormality in patients with decompensated cirrhosis on Liver Transplantation (LT) waiting list. Most of these patients have dilutional or hypervolemic hyponatremia secondary to splanchnic vasodilatation. Excessive secretion of the antidiuretic hormone also plays an important role. Hypervolemic hyponatremia is commonly associated with refractory ascites, spontaneous bacterial peritonitis, and hepatic encephalopathy. Although uncommon, the use of diuretics and laxatives can cause hypovolemic hyponatremia that is characterized by the striking absence of ascites or pedal edema. Clinical features are often nonspecific and depend on the acuity of onset rather than the absolute value of serum sodium. Symptoms may be subtle, including nausea, lethargy, weakness, or anorexia. However, rarely patients may present with confusion, seizures, psychosis, or coma. Treatment includes discontinuation of diuretics, beta-blockers, and albumin infusion. Hypertonic saline (3%) infusion may be used in patients with very low serum sodium (<110 mmol/L) or when patients present with seizures or coma. Short-term use of Vasopressin (V2) receptor antagonists may also be used to normalize sodium levels prior to LT. However, all these measures may be futile, and LT remains the definite treatment in these patients to improve survival. In this review, we describe the classification, pathogenesis of hyponatremia, and its clinical implications in patients with cirrhosis. Approach to these patients along with management will also be discussed briefly.
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Key Words
- ACE, angiotensin-converting enzyme
- ACLF, acute-on-chronic liver failure
- ACTH, adrenocorticotropic hormone
- ADH
- ADH, antidiuretic hormone
- AKI, acute kidney injury
- AVP, arginine vasopressin
- CLIF, chronic liver failure
- CNS, central nervous system
- CTP, Child-Turcotte-Pugh
- CVVHD, continuous venovenous hemofiltration
- DAMP, damage-associated molecular patterns
- EABV, effective arterial blood volume
- FENa, fractional excretion of sodium
- HE, hepatic encephalopathy
- HRS, hepatorenal syndrome
- LT, liver transplantation
- LVP, large volume paracentesis
- MAP, mean arterial pressure
- MELD, model of end-stage liver disease
- NO, nitric oxide
- NSBB, nonselective beta-blockers
- PAMP, pathogen-associated molecular patterns
- PICD, paracentesis-induced circulatory dysfunction
- PPCD, post-paracentesis circulatory dysfunction
- PRA, plasma renin activity
- RA, refractory ascites
- RAAS, renin-angiotensin-aldosterone-system
- RAI, relative adrenal insufficiency
- RBF, renal blood flow
- SBP, spontaneous bacterial peritonitis
- SIADH, syndrome of inappropriate ADH secretion
- SMT, standard medical treatment
- SNS, sympathetic nervous system
- TBW, total body water
- TIPS, transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt
- advanced cirrhosis
- albumin
- hyponatremia
- liver transplantation
- sNa, serum sodium
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Affiliation(s)
- Dibya L. Praharaj
- Address for correspondence. Dibya L Praharaj, Assistant Professor, Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Kalinga Institute of Medical Science, Bhubaneswar, India
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32
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Is B, Bombassaro IZ, Tovo CV, de Mattos ÂZ, Ahlert M, Chiesa T, de Mattos AA. Albumin in the management of hepatic encephalopathy: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Ann Hepatol 2021; 26:100541. [PMID: 34600143 DOI: 10.1016/j.aohep.2021.100541] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2021] [Revised: 03/26/2021] [Accepted: 03/26/2021] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Introduction and objectives It has been suggested that albumin administration could alter the natural history of cirrhosis, and also, that long-term treatment with albumin might be associated with improvement in survival, control of ascites, reduction in the incidence bacterial infections, renal dysfunction, hepatic encephalopathy (HE) and hyponatremia, as well as reduction in length of hospitalization in patients with cirrhosis and ascites. The objective of the present study is to evaluate the role of albumin in the management of HE. Materiales and methods:: This is a systematic review of randomized controlled trials that evaluated the use of albumin in adult patients with cirrhosis and HE. The search for eligible studies was performed in MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Cochrane CENTRAL databases until June 2020. The outcomes of interest were the complete reversal of HE and mortality. Meta-analysis was performed using the random effects model, through the Mantel-Haenszel method. Results: This systematic review was registered at the PROSPERO platform (CRD42020194181). The search strategy retrieved 1,118 articles. After reviewing titles and abstracts, 24 studies were considered potentially eligible, but 22 were excluded after full-text analysis. Finally, 2 studies were included. In the meta-analysis, albumin was associated to significant lower risks of persistent HE (risk ratio - RR = 0.60; 95% confidence interval - CI = 0.38-0.95, p = 0.03) and mortality (RR = 0.54; 95% CI = 0.33-0.90, p = 0.02). Conclusion: Albumin administration improves HE and reduces mortality in patients with cirrhosis and HE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bombassaro Is
- Universidade Federal de Ciências da Saúde de Porto Alegre (UFCSPA), Rua Sarmento Leite 245, Porto Alegre, RS 90050-170, Brazil
| | - Isadora Z Bombassaro
- Universidade Federal de Ciências da Saúde de Porto Alegre (UFCSPA), Rua Sarmento Leite 245, Porto Alegre, RS 90050-170, Brazil.
| | - Cristiane V Tovo
- Universidade Federal de Ciências da Saúde de Porto Alegre (UFCSPA), Rua Sarmento Leite 245, Porto Alegre, RS 90050-170, Brazil
| | - Ângelo Z de Mattos
- Universidade Federal de Ciências da Saúde de Porto Alegre (UFCSPA), Rua Sarmento Leite 245, Porto Alegre, RS 90050-170, Brazil
| | - Marcelo Ahlert
- Universidade Federal de Ciências da Saúde de Porto Alegre (UFCSPA), Rua Sarmento Leite 245, Porto Alegre, RS 90050-170, Brazil
| | - Talita Chiesa
- Universidade Federal de Ciências da Saúde de Porto Alegre (UFCSPA), Rua Sarmento Leite 245, Porto Alegre, RS 90050-170, Brazil
| | - Angelo A de Mattos
- Universidade Federal de Ciências da Saúde de Porto Alegre (UFCSPA), Rua Sarmento Leite 245, Porto Alegre, RS 90050-170, Brazil
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Safety and efficacy of human serum albumin treatment in patients with cirrhotic ascites undergoing paracentesis: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Ann Hepatol 2021; 26:100547. [PMID: 34626828 DOI: 10.1016/j.aohep.2021.100547] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2021] [Revised: 06/02/2021] [Accepted: 06/10/2021] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Ascites is the most common presentation of decompensated liver cirrhosis. It is treated with therapeutic paracentesis which is associated with several complications. The role of human albumin in patients with cirrhotic ascites remains elusive and has been extensively studied with conflicting results. Thus, in order to fully appraise the available data we sought to perform this systematic review and meta-analysis. Herein we included studies comparing the efficacy and safety of human albumin comparing with other volume expanders and vasoactive agents in patients undergoing paracentesis in cirrhotic ascites. Odds ratio (OR) and mean difference (MD) were used to estimate the outcome with a 95% confidence interval (CI). Albumin use reduced the odds of paracentesis induced circulatory dysfunction (PICD) by 60% (OR 0.40, 95% CI 0.27-0.58). While performing subgroup analysis, albumin use lowered the odds of PICD significantly (OR 0.34, 95% CI 0.22-0.52) in comparison to other colloid volume expanders, but did not lower the odds of PICD in comparison to vasoconstrictor therapy (OR 0.93, 95% CI 0.35-2.45). Albumin was associated with a statistically significant lower incidence of hyponatremia (OR 0.59, 95% CI 0.39-0.88). Albumin did not reduce the overall mortality, readmission rate, recurrence of ascites, mean arterial pressure, incidence of renal impairment, hepatic encephalopathy, and gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding. Thus, treatment with albumin in cirrhotic ascites reduced PICD and hyponatremia although there was no benefit in terms of mortality, readmission rate, recurrence of ascites, hepatic encephalopathy, and GI bleeding.
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Chandna S, Zarate ER, Gallegos-Orozco JF. Management of Decompensated Cirrhosis and Associated Syndromes. Surg Clin North Am 2021; 102:117-137. [PMID: 34800381 DOI: 10.1016/j.suc.2021.09.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Patients with cirrhosis account for 3% of intensive care unit admissions with hospital mortality exceeding 50%; however, improvements in survival among patients with acutely decompensated cirrhosis and organ failure have been described when treated in specialized liver transplant centers. Acute-on-chronic liver failure is a distinct clinical syndrome characterized by decompensated cirrhosis associated with one or more organ failures resulting in a significantly higher short-term mortality. In this review, we will discuss the management of common life-threatening complications in the patient with cirrhosis that require intensive care management including neurologic, cardiovascular, gastrointestinal, pulmonary, and renal complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shaun Chandna
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, University of Utah School of Medicine, 30 N 1900 E, SOM-4R118, Salt Lake City, UT 84106, USA
| | - Eduardo Rodríguez Zarate
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, University of Utah School of Medicine, 30 N 1900 E, SOM-4R118, Salt Lake City, UT 84106, USA
| | - Juan F Gallegos-Orozco
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, University of Utah School of Medicine, 30 N 1900 E, SOM-4R118, Salt Lake City, UT 84106, USA.
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35
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Zaccherini G, Tufoni M, Iannone G, Caraceni P. Management of Ascites in Patients with Cirrhosis: An Update. J Clin Med 2021; 10:5226. [PMID: 34830508 PMCID: PMC8621554 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10225226] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2021] [Revised: 11/03/2021] [Accepted: 11/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Ascites represents a critical event in the natural history of liver cirrhosis. From a prognostic perspective, its occurrence marks the transition from the compensated to the decompensated stage of the disease, leading to an abrupt worsening of patients' life expectancy. Moreover, ascites heralds a turbulent clinical course, characterized by acute events and further complications, frequent hospitalizations, and eventually death. The pathophysiology of ascites classically relies on hemodynamic mechanisms, with effective hypovolemia as the pivotal event. Recent discoveries, however, integrated this hypothesis, proposing systemic inflammation and immune system dysregulation as key mechanisms. The mainstays of ascites treatment are represented by anti-mineralocorticoids and loop diuretics, and large volume paracentesis. When ascites reaches the stage of refractoriness, however, diuretics administration should be cautious due to the high risk of adverse events, and patients should be treated with periodic execution of paracentesis or with the placement of a trans-jugular intra-hepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS). TIPS reduces portal hypertension, eases ascites control, and potentially modify the clinical course of the disease. Further studies are required to expand its indications and improve the management of complications. Long-term human albumin administration has been studied in two RCTs, with contradictory results, and remains a debated issue worldwide, despite a potential effectiveness both in ascites control and long-term survival. Other treatments (vaptans, vasoconstrictors, or implantable drainage systems) present some promising aspects but cannot be currently recommended outside clinical protocols or a case-by-case evaluation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giacomo Zaccherini
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy; (G.Z.); (G.I.)
| | - Manuel Tufoni
- IRCCS AOU di Bologna—Policlinico di S. Orsola, 40138 Bologna, Italy;
| | - Giulia Iannone
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy; (G.Z.); (G.I.)
| | - Paolo Caraceni
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy; (G.Z.); (G.I.)
- IRCCS AOU di Bologna—Policlinico di S. Orsola, 40138 Bologna, Italy;
- Center for Biomedical Applied Research, University of Bologna, 40126 Bologna, Italy
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36
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Jagdish RK, Maras JS, Sarin SK. Albumin in Advanced Liver Diseases: The Good and Bad of a Drug! Hepatology 2021; 74:2848-2862. [PMID: 33772846 DOI: 10.1002/hep.31836] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2020] [Revised: 02/13/2021] [Accepted: 03/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Human serum albumin is the most abundant plasma protein, and it regulates diverse body functions. In patients with advanced and decompensated cirrhosis, serum albumin levels are low because of a reduction in the hepatocyte mass due to disease per se and multiple therapeutic interventions. Because of their oncotic and nononcotic properties, administration of human albumin solutions (HAS) have been found to be beneficial in patients undergoing large-volume paracentesis or who have hepatorenal syndrome or spontaneous bacterial peritonitis. Albumin also improves the functionality of the immune cells and mitigates the severity and risk of infections in advanced cirrhosis. Its long-term administration can modify the course of decompensated cirrhosis patients by reducing the onset of new complications, improving the quality of life, and probably providing survival benefits. There is, however, a need to rationalize the dose, duration, and frequency of albumin therapy in different liver diseases and stages of cirrhosis. In patients with acute-on-chronic liver failure, potentially toxic oxidized isoforms of albumin increase substantially, especially human nonmercaptalbumin and 2, and nitrosoalbumin. The role of administration of HAS in such patients is unclear. Determining whether removal of the pathological and dysfunctional albumin forms in these patients by "albumin dialysis" is helpful, requires additional studies. Use of albumin is not without adverse events. These mainly include allergic and transfusion reactions, volume overload, antibody formation and coagulation derangements. Considering their cost, limited availability, need for a health care setting for their administration, and potential adverse effects, judicious use of HAS in liver diseases is advocated. There is a need for new albumin molecules and economic alternatives in hepatologic practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rakesh Kumar Jagdish
- Department of Hepatology, Institute of Liver and Biliary Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Jaswinder Singh Maras
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Medicine, Institute of Liver and Biliary Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Shiv Kumar Sarin
- Department of Hepatology, Institute of Liver and Biliary Sciences, New Delhi, India
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Medicine, Institute of Liver and Biliary Sciences, New Delhi, India
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Shin YJ, Heo CM, Kim KM, Shim SG, Sinn DH. Prevalence, risk factors, and short-term outcomes of postparacentesis acute kidney injury using revised criteria of the international club of ascites. Medicine (Baltimore) 2021; 100:e27431. [PMID: 34622855 PMCID: PMC8500658 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000027431] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2021] [Accepted: 09/13/2021] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Acute kidney injury (AKI) can become complicated after paracentesis due to extrarenal fluid loss and inadequate blood flow to the kidneys. The objective of this study was to explore the incidence and clinical implications of postparacentesis AKI.A retrospective cohort of 137 liver cirrhosis patients (mean age: 61.3 ± 11.8 years, male: 100 [73.0%], viral hepatitis: 93 [67.9%]) who underwent paracentesis was analyzed. The incidence of AKI as defined by the international club of ascites (ICA) criteria, the risk factors, and its impact on early mortality were all assessed.Thirty two patients (23.4%) developed AKI after paracentesis. In multivariate analysis, the Model for end-stage liver disease (MELD)-Na score was an independent factor associated with AKI development (odds ratio [OR], 1.14; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.07-1.23) after paracentesis. The incidence of early mortality was significantly higher for those with AKI than without AKI (71.9% [23/32 patients] vs 11.4% [12/105 patients], P < .001). AKI (hazard ratio [HR], 7.56; 95% CI, 3.40-16.8) and MELD-Na score (HR, 1.08; 95% CI, 1.02-1.14) were independent factors associated with early mortality. In subgroup analysis, AKI after paracentesis was associated with significantly higher early mortality in both MELD-Na groups, that is, patients with a MELD-Na score >26 (87.5% vs 22.2%, P < .001) and those with a MELD-Na score ≤26 (56.3% vs 9.2%, P < .001).Postparacentesis AKI occurred frequently in cirrhotic patients. Furthermore, it was associated with early mortality. Baseline MELD-Na score was associated with AKI, indicating that careful attention is required for those with a higher MELD-Na score who are being considered for therapeutic paracentesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ye Ji Shin
- Department of Medicine, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, 81 Irwon-ro, Gangnam-Gu, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Chan Mi Heo
- Department of Medicine, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, 81 Irwon-ro, Gangnam-Gu, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Kwang Min Kim
- Department of Medicine, Samsung Changwon Hospital, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Changwon, South Korea
| | - Sang Goon Shim
- Department of Medicine, Samsung Changwon Hospital, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Changwon, South Korea
| | - Dong Hyun Sinn
- Department of Medicine, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, 81 Irwon-ro, Gangnam-Gu, Seoul, South Korea
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Walker SP, Bintcliffe O, Keenan E, Stadon L, Evison M, Haris M, Nagarajan T, West A, Ionescu A, Prudon B, Guhan A, Mustafa R, Herre J, Arnold D, Bhatnagar R, Kahan B, Miller RF, Rahman NM, Maskell NA. Randomised trial of indwelling pleural catheters for refractory transudative pleural effusions. Eur Respir J 2021; 59:13993003.01362-2021. [PMID: 34413152 DOI: 10.1183/13993003.01362-2021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2021] [Accepted: 06/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Thapas Nagarajan
- Macclesfield General Hospital, East Cheshire NHS Trust, Macclesfield, UK
| | - Alex West
- Guy's and St Thomas' Hospital, London, UK
| | | | | | - Anur Guhan
- University Hospital Ayr, NHS Ayrshire and Arran, Ayrshire, UK
| | | | | | | | | | - Brennan Kahan
- MRC Clinical Trials Unit, University College London, London, UK
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39
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Simonetti RG, Perricone G, Gluud C. Vasoactive drugs for adults with cirrhosis and large ascites treated with paracentesis. Hippokratia 2021. [DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd014637] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Rosa G Simonetti
- Cochrane Hepato-Biliary Group, Copenhagen Trial Unit, Centre for Clinical Intervention Research; Capital Region, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen University Hospital; Copenhagen Denmark
| | - Giovanni Perricone
- S.C. Epatologia e Gastroenterologia; Azienda Socio-Sanitaria Territoriale Grande Ospedale Metropolitano Niguarda; Milan Italy
| | - Christian Gluud
- Cochrane Hepato-Biliary Group, Copenhagen Trial Unit, Centre for Clinical Intervention Research; Capital Region, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen University Hospital; Copenhagen Denmark
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40
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Subedi A, Suresh Kumar VC, Sharma Subedi A, Sapkota B. A Review of Hepatorenal Syndrome. Cureus 2021; 13:e16084. [PMID: 34367745 PMCID: PMC8330394 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.16084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The development of acute kidney injury (AKI) is one of the most frequent complications in patients with cirrhosis. AKI due to volume depletion is the most common etiology and hepatorenal syndrome (HRS) is the second most common cause of AKI in these patients. HRS is the extreme form of kidney injury in patients with cirrhosis, which is caused due to a reduction in renal blood flow unresponsive to volume expansion. The literature involving HRS is rapidly evolving and newer tests and updated definitions have been proposed which allows timely identification and treatment. Here, we will discuss the definition, pathophysiology, prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of HRS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abinash Subedi
- Internal Medicine, State University of New York (SUNY) Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, USA
| | | | | | - Bishnu Sapkota
- Gastroenterology, State University of New York (SUNY) Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, USA.,Gastroenterology, Veterans Affairs (VA) Medical Center, Syracuse, USA
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41
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Simbrunner B, Trauner M, Reiberger T, Mandorfer M. Recent advances in the understanding and management of hepatorenal syndrome. Fac Rev 2021; 10:48. [PMID: 34131658 PMCID: PMC8170686 DOI: 10.12703/r/10-48] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Renal dysfunction occurs frequently in hospitalized patients with advanced chronic liver disease (ACLD)/cirrhosis and has profound prognostic implications. In ACLD patients with ascites, hepatorenal syndrome (HRS) may result from circulatory dysfunction that leads to reduced kidney perfusion and glomerular filtration rate (in the absence of structural kidney damage). The traditional subclassification of HRS has recently been replaced by acute kidney injury (AKI) type of HRS (HRS-AKI) and non-AKI type of HRS (HRS-NAKI), replacing the terms “HRS type 1” and “HRS type 2”, respectively. Importantly, the concept of absolute serum creatinine (sCr) cutoffs for diagnosing HRS was partly abandoned and short term sCr dynamics now may suffice for AKI diagnosis, which facilitates early treatment initiation that may prevent the progression to HRS-AKI or increase the chances of AKI/HRS-AKI reversal. Recent randomized controlled trials have established (a) the efficacy of (long-term) albumin in the prevention of complications of ascites (including HRS-AKI), (b) the benefits of transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt placement in patients with recurrent ascites, and (c) the superiority of terlipressin over noradrenaline for the treatment of HRS-AKI in the context of acute-on-chronic liver failure. This review article aims to summarize recent advances in the understanding and management of HRS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benedikt Simbrunner
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine III, Medical University of Vienna, Waehringer Guertel 18-20, 1090 Vienna, Austria
- Vienna Hepatic Hemodynamic Lab, Medical University of Vienna, Waehringer Guertel 18-20, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Michael Trauner
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine III, Medical University of Vienna, Waehringer Guertel 18-20, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Thomas Reiberger
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine III, Medical University of Vienna, Waehringer Guertel 18-20, 1090 Vienna, Austria
- Vienna Hepatic Hemodynamic Lab, Medical University of Vienna, Waehringer Guertel 18-20, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Mattias Mandorfer
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine III, Medical University of Vienna, Waehringer Guertel 18-20, 1090 Vienna, Austria
- Vienna Hepatic Hemodynamic Lab, Medical University of Vienna, Waehringer Guertel 18-20, 1090 Vienna, Austria
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42
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Pinchot JW, Kalva SP, Majdalany BS, Kim CY, Ahmed O, Asrani SK, Cash BD, Eldrup-Jorgensen J, Kendi AT, Scheidt MJ, Sella DM, Dill KE, Hohenwalter EJ. ACR Appropriateness Criteria® Radiologic Management of Portal Hypertension. J Am Coll Radiol 2021; 18:S153-S173. [PMID: 33958110 DOI: 10.1016/j.jacr.2021.02.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2021] [Accepted: 02/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Cirrhosis is a heterogeneous disease that cannot be studied as a single entity and is classified in two main prognostic stages: compensated and decompensated cirrhosis. Portal hypertension, characterized by a pathological increase of the portal pressure and by the formation of portal-systemic collaterals that bypass the liver, is the initial and main consequence of cirrhosis and is responsible for the majority of its complications. A myriad of treatment options exists for appropriately managing the most common complications of portal hypertension, including acute variceal bleeding and refractory ascites. The American College of Radiology Appropriateness Criteria are evidence-based guidelines for specific clinical conditions that are reviewed annually by a multidisciplinary expert panel. The guideline development and revision include an extensive analysis of current medical literature from peer reviewed journals and the application of well-established methodologies (RAND/UCLA Appropriateness Method and Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation or GRADE) to rate the appropriateness of imaging and treatment procedures for specific clinical scenarios. In those instances where evidence is lacking or equivocal, expert opinion may supplement the available evidence to recommend imaging or treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sanjeeva P Kalva
- Panel Chair, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, Chief, Division of Interventional Radiology, Massachusetts General Hospital
| | | | - Charles Y Kim
- Panel Vice-Chair, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina, Chief, Division of Interventional Radiology, Duke University Medical Center
| | | | - Sumeet K Asrani
- Baylor University Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, American Association for the Study of Liver Diseases
| | - Brooks D Cash
- University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston and McGovern Medical School, Houston, Texas, American Gastroenterological Association
| | - Jens Eldrup-Jorgensen
- Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts, Society for Vascular Surgery
| | - A Tuba Kendi
- Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, Director of Nuclear Medicine Therapy at Mayo Clinic Rochester
| | | | | | - Karin E Dill
- Specialty Chair, Emory University Hospital, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Eric J Hohenwalter
- Specialty Chair, Froedtert & The Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Chair, FMLH credentials committee, Division chief of IR at Medical College of Wisconsin
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43
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Larrue H, Vinel JP, Bureau C. Management of Severe and Refractory Ascites. Clin Liver Dis 2021; 25:431-440. [PMID: 33838859 DOI: 10.1016/j.cld.2021.01.010] [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: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Considering the poor prognosis, severe and refractory ascites is a milestone in cirrhotic patients. Liver transplantation must be considered first. In the case of contraindication to liver transplantation or when the waiting period is estimated to be more than 6 months, transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt should be discussed in eligible patients. Regardless of the type of treatment, a careful selection of patients is crucial to avoid further decompensation and specific complications of each treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hélène Larrue
- Service d'Hépatologie Hôpital Rangueil 1, Avenue Jean Poulhès CHU Toulouse France and Université Toulouse III-Paul Sabatier, France 31400
| | - Jean Pierre Vinel
- Service d'Hépatologie Hôpital Rangueil 1, Avenue Jean Poulhès CHU Toulouse France and Université Toulouse III-Paul Sabatier, France 31400
| | - Christophe Bureau
- Service d'Hépatologie Hôpital Rangueil 1, Avenue Jean Poulhès CHU Toulouse France and Université Toulouse III-Paul Sabatier, France 31400.
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44
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Wong YJ, Lum HM, Tan PT, Teo EK, Tan J, Kumar R, Thurairajah PH. Clinical implications of prompt ascitic drain removal among cirrhosis with refractory ascites. Singapore Med J 2021; 62:659-664. [PMID: 33866716 DOI: 10.11622/smedj.2021049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Large-volume paracentesis (LVP) is the first-line treatment for decompensated cirrhosis with refractory ascites. While ascitic drain removal (ADR) within 72 hours was once considered safe, it was uncertain if ADR within 24 hours could further reduce the risk of ascitic drain-related bacterial peritonitis (AdBP). This study aimed to investigate the association between the timing of ADR and the presence of AdBP. METHODS All cirrhotics with refractory ascites who underwent LVP in our institution from 2014 to 2017 were studied. AdBP was diagnosed based on ascitic fluid neutrophil count ≥ 250 cells/mm3 or positive ascitic fluid culture following recent paracentesis within two weeks. RESULTS A total of 131 patients who underwent LVP were followed up for 1,806 patient-months. Their mean age was 68.3 ± 11.6 years, and 65.6% were male. Their mean Model for End-Stage Liver Disease (MELD) score was 15.2. The overall incidence of AdBP was 5.3%. ADR beyond 24 hours was significantly associated with longer median length of stay (five days vs. three days, p < 0.001), higher risk of AdBP (0% vs. 8.9%, p = 0.042) and AKI following LVP (odds ratio 20.0, 95% confidence interval 2.4-164.2, p = 0.021). Overall survival was similar in patients with ADR within and beyond 24 hours. CONCLUSION ADR within 24 hours is associated with reduced risk of AdBP and AKI. As AdBP is associated with resistant organism and AKI, we recommend prompt ADR within 24 hours, especially among patients who have Child-Pugh C with alcoholic cirrhosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu-Jun Wong
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Singapore
| | - Huey-Ming Lum
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Singapore
| | - Pei-Ting Tan
- Clinical Trial & Research Unit, Changi General Hospital, Singapore
| | - Eng-Kiong Teo
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Singapore
| | - Jessica Tan
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Singapore
| | - Rahul Kumar
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Singapore
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45
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Sandi BB, Leão GS, de Mattos AA, de Mattos ÂZ. Long-term albumin administration in patients with cirrhosis and ascites: A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. J Gastroenterol Hepatol 2021; 36:609-617. [PMID: 32914468 DOI: 10.1111/jgh.15253] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2020] [Revised: 08/31/2020] [Accepted: 09/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIM Ascites is a common complication of cirrhosis, and it is associated with increased mortality. The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of long-term albumin administration in decreasing mortality and other complications of patients with cirrhosis and ascites. METHODS A systematic review was performed using MEDLINE and Embase databases. Randomized controlled trials evaluating long-term albumin administration in patients with cirrhosis and ascites were considered eligible, as long as at least one of the following outcomes was evaluated: mortality, recurrence of ascites/need for paracentesis, refractory ascites, spontaneous bacterial peritonitis, hepatic encephalopathy, gastrointestinal bleeding, or adverse events. Meta-analysis was performed using the random-effects model, through the Mantel-Haenszel method. The study protocol was registered at PROSPERO platform (CRD42019130078). RESULTS The literature search yielded 1517 references. Five randomized controlled trials fulfilled the selection criteria and were included in this meta-analysis, involving 716 individuals. Patients receiving long-term albumin had significantly lower risk of recurrence of ascites/need for paracentesis when compared with controls (risk ratio = 0.56, 95% confidence interval = 0.48-0.67, P < 0.00001). There was no evidence of significant difference between the long-term albumin and control groups regarding mortality, refractory ascites, spontaneous bacterial peritonitis, hepatic encephalopathy, gastrointestinal bleeding, or adverse events. CONCLUSIONS Long-term albumin administration in patients with cirrhosis and ascites decreases recurrence of ascites/need for paracentesis. At this point, there is no evidence of significant benefits of long-term albumin administration regarding mortality or other complications of cirrhosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bianca Boff Sandi
- Graduate Program in Medicine: Hepatology, Federal University of Health Sciences of Porto Alegre, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Gabriel Stefani Leão
- Graduate Program in Medicine: Hepatology, Federal University of Health Sciences of Porto Alegre, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Angelo Alves de Mattos
- Graduate Program in Medicine: Hepatology, Federal University of Health Sciences of Porto Alegre, Porto Alegre, Brazil.,Gastroenterology and Hepatology Unit, Irmandade Santa Casa de Misericórdia de Porto Alegre, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Ângelo Zambam de Mattos
- Graduate Program in Medicine: Hepatology, Federal University of Health Sciences of Porto Alegre, Porto Alegre, Brazil.,Gastroenterology and Hepatology Unit, Irmandade Santa Casa de Misericórdia de Porto Alegre, Porto Alegre, Brazil
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46
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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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47
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Gallo A, Dedionigi C, Civitelli C, Panzeri A, Corradi C, Squizzato A. Optimal Management of Cirrhotic Ascites: A Review for Internal Medicine Physicians. J Transl Int Med 2020; 8:220-236. [PMID: 33511049 PMCID: PMC7805288 DOI: 10.2478/jtim-2020-0035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Clinical history of liver cirrhosis is characterised by two phases: the asymptomatic phase, also termed 'compensated cirrhosis', and the phase of complications due to the development of portal hypertension and liver dysfunction, also termed 'decompensated cirrhosis', in which patients may develop ascites, the most frequent and clinically relevant complication of liver cirrhosis. Ascites can be classified into uncomplicated and complicated according to the development of refractoriness, spontaneous bacterial peritonitis (SBP) or the association with hepatorenal syndrome (HRS). In this narrative review, we will extensively discuss the optimal pharmacological and non-pharmacological management of cirrhotic ascites with the aim to offer an updated practical guide to Internal Medicine physicians. According to the amount of fluid in the abdominal cavity, uncomplicated ascites is graded from 1 to 3, and the cornerstone of its management consists of restriction of salt intake, diuretics and large-volume paracentesis (LVP); in recent years, long-term administration of human albumin has acquired a new interesting role. Refractory ascites is primarily managed with LVP and transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) placement in selected patients. The occurrence of renal impairment, especially HRS, worsens the prognosis of patients with cirrhotic ascites and deserves a specific treatment. Also, the management of SBP faces the rising and alarming spread of antibiotic resistance. Hepatic hydrothorax may even complicate the course of the disease and its management is a challenge. Last but not least, liver transplantation (LT) is the ultimate and more effective measure to offer to patients with cirrhotic ascites, particularly when complications occur.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Gallo
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, Como/Varese, Italy
| | - Cristina Dedionigi
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, Como/Varese, Italy
| | - Chiara Civitelli
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, Como/Varese, Italy
| | - Anna Panzeri
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, Como/Varese, Italy
- Hepatology Center, Ospedale Sant’Anna, Como, Italy
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48
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Wong F, Capel J, Kamath PS. Reply. Liver Transpl 2020; 26:1541-1542. [PMID: 32516850 PMCID: PMC8411417 DOI: 10.1002/lt.25816] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2020] [Accepted: 05/27/2020] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Florence Wong
- Department of MedicineDivision of GastroenterologyToronto General HospitalUniversity of TorontoTorontoONCanada
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49
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Abstract
Hyponatremia is frequently seen in patients with ascites secondary to advanced cirrhosis and portal hypertension. Although not apparent in the early stages of cirrhosis, the progression of cirrhosis and portal hypertension leads to splanchnic vasodilation, and this leads to the activation of compensatory mechanisms such as renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS), sympathetic nervous system, and antidiuretic hormone (ADH) to ameliorate low circulatory volume. The net effect is the avid retention of sodium and water to compensate for the low effective circulatory volume, resulting in the development of ascites. These compensatory mechanisms lead to impairment of the kidneys to eliminate solute-free water in decompensated cirrhosis. Nonosmotic secretion of antidiuretic hormone (ADH), also known as arginine vasopressin, further worsens excess water retention and thereby hyponatremia. The management of hyponatremia in this setting is a challenge as conventional therapies for hyponatremia including fluid restriction and correction of hypokalemia are frequently inefficacious. In this review, we discuss the pathophysiology, complications, and various treatment modalities, including albumin infusion, selective vasopressin receptor antagonists, or hypertonic saline for patients with severe hyponatremia and those awaiting liver transplantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph J Alukal
- Institute of Digestive Health and Liver Diseases, Mercy Medical Center, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Savio John
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, New York, USA
| | - Paul J Thuluvath
- Institute of Digestive Health and Liver Diseases, Mercy Medical Center, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
- Department of Medicine, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
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50
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Zaccherini G, Tufoni M, Bernardi M. Albumin Administration is Efficacious in the Management of Patients with Cirrhosis: A Systematic Review of the Literature. Hepat Med 2020; 12:153-172. [PMID: 33149707 PMCID: PMC7602890 DOI: 10.2147/hmer.s264231] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2020] [Accepted: 09/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The use of albumin in patients with cirrhosis has been extensively discussed over recent years. Current treatment approaches depend on targeting related complications, aiming to treat and/or prevent circulatory dysfunction, bacterial infections and multi-organ failure. Albumin has been shown to prolong survival and reduce complications in patients with cirrhosis. This review aims to ascertain whether the use of albumin is justified in patients with cirrhosis. A systematic review of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and meta-analyses evaluating albumin use in patients with cirrhosis published between 1985 and February 2020 was conducted; the quality and risk of bias of the included studies were assessed. In total, 45 RCTs and 10 meta-analyses were included. Based on the included evidence, albumin is superior at preventing and controlling the incidence of cirrhosis complications vs other plasma expanders. Recent studies reported that long-term albumin administration to patients with decompensated cirrhosis improves survival with a 38% reduction in the mortality hazard ratio compared with standard medical treatment alone. Albumin infusions are justified for routine use in patients with cirrhosis, and the use of albumin either alone or in combination with other treatments leads to clinical benefits. Long-term administration of albumin should be considered in some patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giacomo Zaccherini
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum - University of Bologna, Bologna 40138, Italy
| | - Manuel Tufoni
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum - University of Bologna, Bologna 40138, Italy
| | - Mauro Bernardi
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum - University of Bologna, Bologna 40138, Italy
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