Acute-on chronic liver failure

Pathogenesis and interaction of neutrophils and extracellular vesicles in noncancer liver diseases

Liver disease ranks as the eleventh leading cause of mortality, leading to approximately 2 million deaths annually worldwide. Neutrophils are a type of immune cell that are abundant in peripheral blood and play a vital role in innate immunity by quickly reaching the site of liver injury. They exert their influence on liver diseases through autocrine, paracrine, and immunomodulatory mechanisms. Extracellular vesicles, phospholipid bilayer vesicles, transport a variety of substances, such as proteins, nucleic acids, lipids, and pathogenic factors, for intercellular communication. They regulate cell communication and perform their functions by delivering biological information. Current research has revealed the involvement of the interaction between neutrophils and extracellular vesicles in the pathogenesis of liver disease. Moreover, more research has focused on targeting neutrophils as a therapeutic strategy to attenuate disease progression. Therefore, this article summarizes the roles of neutrophils, extracellular vesicles, and their interactions in noncancerous liver diseases.

Cardiac dysfunction in patients with cirrhosis and acute decompensation

The prevalence of cirrhotic cardiomyopathy (CCM) has been reported as high as 60%-70% in patients with liver cirrhosis and is associated with various negative outcomes. There has been a growing understanding of CCM over recent years. Indeed, the development of imaging techniques has enabled new diagnostic criteria to be proposed by the Cirrhotic Cardiomyopathy Consortium. However, important unanswered questions remain over pathophysiological mechanisms, optimal diagnostic modalities and potential treatment options. While there has been an increasing volume of literature evaluating CCM, there is a lack of clarity on its implications in acute decompensation, acute-on-chronic liver failure and following interventions such as transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt insertion and liver transplantation. This review aims to summarise the literature in these challenging domains and suggest where future research should focus. We conclude that systemic inflammation and structural myocardial changes are likely to be crucial in the pathophysiology of the disease, but the relative contribution of different components remains elusive. Furthermore, future studies need to use standardised diagnostic criteria for CCM as well as incorporate newer imaging techniques assessing both myocardial structure and function. Finally, while specific treatments are currently lacking, therapeutics targeting systemic inflammation, microbial dysbiosis and bacterial translocation are promising targets and warrant further research.

Dynamic analysis of acute deterioration in chronic liver disease patients using modified quick sequential organ failure assessment

BACKGROUND/AIMS

Quick sequential organ failure assessment (qSOFA) is believed to identify patients at risk of poor outcomes in those with suspected infection. We aimed to evaluate the ability of modified qSOFA (m-qSOFA) to identify high-risk patients among those with acutely deteriorated chronic liver disease (CLD), especially those with acute-onchronic liver failure (ACLF).

METHODS

We used data from both the Korean Acute-on-Chronic Liver Failure (KACLiF) and the Asian Pacific Association for the Study of the Liver ACLF Research Consortium (AARC) cohorts. qSOFA was modified by replacing the Glasgow Coma Scale with hepatic encephalopathy, and an m-qSOFA ≥2 was considered high.

RESULTS

Patients with high m-qSOFA had a significantly lower 1-month transplant-free survival (TFS) in both cohorts and higher organ failure development in KACLiF than those with low m-qSOFA (Ps<0.05). Subgroup analysis by ACLF showed that patients with high m-qSOFA had lower TFS than those with low m-qSOFA. m-qSOFA was an independent prognostic factor (hazard ratios, HR=2.604, 95% confidence interval, CI 1.353-5.013, P=0.004 in KACLiF and HR=1.904, 95% CI 1.484- 2.442, P<0.001 in AARC). The patients with low m-qSOFA at baseline but high m-qSOFA on day 7 had a significantly lower 1-month TFS than those with high m-qSOFA at baseline but low m-qSOFA on day 7 (52.6% vs. 89.4%, P<0.001 in KACLiF and 26.9% vs. 61.5%, P<0.001 in AARC).

CONCLUSION

Baseline and dynamic changes in m-qSOFA may identify patients with a high risk of developing organ failure and short-term mortality among CLD patients with acute deterioration.

[Liver diseases in the intensive care unit]

The frequency of liver diseases in the intensive care unit has increased significantly in recent years and is now observed in up to 20% of critically ill patients. The occurrence of liver disease is associated with significantly increased morbidity and mortality. Two groups of liver diseases in the intensive care unit can be distinguished. First, the group of "primary hepatic dysfunctions", which includes primary acute liver failure as well as acute-on-chronic liver failure in patients with pre-existing liver cirrhosis. The second group of "secondary or acquired liver diseases" includes cholestatic liver diseases, as well as hypoxic liver injury and mixed forms, as well as other rarer liver diseases. Due to the diversity of liver diseases and the very different triggers, sufficient knowledge of the underlying changes (including hemodynamic changes, inflammatory states or drug-related) is essential. Early recognition, diagnosis, and treatment of the underlying disease are essential for all liver dysfunction in critically ill patients in the intensive care unit. This review article aims to take a closer look at liver diseases in the intensive care unit and provides insight into diagnostics and treatment options.

Pathogenesis and clinical features of severe hepatitis E virus infection

The hepatitis E virus (HEV), a member of the Hepeviridae family, is a small, non-enveloped icosahedral virus divided into eight distinct genotypes (HEV-1 to HEV-8). Only genotypes 1 to 4 are known to cause diseases in humans. Genotypes 1 and 2 commonly spread via fecal-oral transmission, often through the consumption of contaminated water. Genotypes 3 and 4 are known to infect pigs, deer, and wild boars, often transferring to humans through inadequately cooked meat. Acute hepatitis caused by HEV in healthy individuals is mostly asymptomatic or associated with minor symptoms, such as jaundice. However, in immunosuppressed individuals, the disease can progress to chronic hepatitis and even escalate to cirrhosis. For pregnant women, an HEV infection can cause fulminant liver failure, with a potential mortality rate of 25%. Mortality rates also rise amongst cirrhotic patients when they contract an acute HEV infection, which can even trigger acute-on-chronic liver failure if layered onto pre-existing chronic liver disease. As the prevalence of HEV infection continues to rise worldwide, highlighting the particular risks associated with severe HEV infection is of major medical interest. This text offers a brief summary of the characteristics of hepatitis developed by patient groups at an elevated risk of severe HEV infection.

Mental health and quality of life in patients with chronic liver disease: a single-center structural equation model

BACKGROUND

Chronic liver disease (CLD) is one of the leading disease burdens in Pakistan. Until now, there has only been limited focus in the country on providing health services through tertiary services in urban cities, whereas there is almost no research in Pakistan on the mental health and quality of life of CLD patients. This study aimed to understand which predictors influence the mental health and quality of life of CLD patients in order to advise better policy protection.

METHODS

Data was collected from CLD patients at the Pakistan Kidney and Liver Institute and Research Centre, Lahore, Pakistan. A total of 850 respondents were part of the final sample. The age of respondents ranged from 18 to 79 years and included the following diagnosis: (i) Chronic Viral Hepatitis (n = 271), (ii) Cirrhosis (n = 259), (iii) Hepatocellular Carcinoma (n = 193), and (iv) Non-viral Liver Disease (n = 127).

RESULTS

Mean results reveal that females as well as illiterate patients need more support for mental health and communication with their physician; whereas men need more support to develop coping strategies. Structural equation modelling results reveal that the severity of symptoms (β = 0.24, p < 0.001), coping strategies (β=-0.51, p < 0.001), and doctor communication (β=-0.35, p < 0.001) predict mental health. Quality of life is associated with the severity of symptoms (β=-0.36, p < 0.001), coping strategies (β = 0.26, p < 0.05), and doctor communication (β = 0.09, p < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

A 'bio-psycho-social-spiritual' model is recommended for Pakistan's CLD patients which includes the integration of social officers to provide support in four key areas to secure mental health and quality of life of patients.

Outcome Predictors of Acute-on-Chronic Liver Failure: A Narrative Review

Complications of acute-on-chronic liver failure (ACLF) include increased short-term mortality. Extrahepatic organ failures result from chronic liver disease and acute hepatic injury. This combination characterizes end-stage liver disease. Its rapid progression makes it challenging for hepatologists and intensivists to treat. The varied definitions of this condition lead to varied clinical presentations. Hepatic or extrahepatic failures are more prevalent in chronic hepatitis B or cirrhosis patients who receive an additional injury. Numerous intensity parameters and prognosis ratings, including those for hepatitis B virus (HBV), have been developed and verified for various patients and causes of the disease. Liver regeneration, liver transplantation (LT), or antiviral therapy for HBV-related ACLF are the main treatment aims for various organ failures. LT is the best treatment for HBV-ACLF. In some HBV-related ACLF patients, nucleos(t)ide analogs and artificial liver assistance may enhance survival. Combining epidemiological and clinical studies, this review updates our understanding of HBV-ACLF's definition, diagnosis, epidemiology, etiology, therapy, and prognosis.

Management of pediatric liver failure with therapeutic plasma exchange and continuous renal replacement therapy: A retrospective observational study

Liver failure represents a critical medical condition, marked by the rapid decline of hepatic functions. Emerging therapies, notably therapeutic plasma exchange (TPE) and continuous venovenous hemodiafiltration (CVVHDF), have demonstrated potential in mitigating these conditions through their roles in detoxification and hepatic support. The utility of these treatments, whether applied individually or in tandem, constitutes a significant area of research concerning the management of liver failure in pediatric patients. This study aims to evaluate the role and efficacy of TPE or TPE combined with CVVHDF in the treatment of liver failure among children. This retrospective study was conducted in a LTICU by reviewing the medical history of pediatric patients aged 1 month to 18 years. Patients were admitted between January 1, 2021 and December 1, 2023 due to acute liver failure or acute-chronic liver failure. The study evaluated those who received TPE or continuous renal replacement therapy combined with TPE. In statistical analyses, a P-value of <.05 was considered statistically significant. The study involved 24 patients with liver failure, comprising 13 males and 11 females. Sixteen patients (66.6%) received only TPE, while 8 patients (33.4%) were treated with TPE and CVVHDF. For patients treated only with TPE, the median INR reduced from 3.1 to 1.26, alanine aminotransferase from 1255 to 148, and aspartate aminotransferase from 2189 to 62. Similar significant reductions were observed in the TPE and CVVHDF group: INR from 3.9 to 1.26, alanine aminotransferase from 1749 to 1148, and aspartate aminotransferase from 1489 to 62. These changes were statistically significant with P-values of .01 for each parameter in both groups. Overall, 14 patients survived without requiring a liver transplant, while 4 patients underwent liver transplantation. Our study on pediatric liver failure treatment shows that both standalone TPE and its combination with CVVHDF are effective, especially as a bridge to transplantation. With 58% transplant-free survival, these therapies demonstrate significant clinical improvements. Future multicentric studies are needed for broader validation of these findings in liver failure management.

Pediatric Acute-on-Chronic Liver Failure

Acute-on-chronic liver failure (ACLF) is characterized by an acute hepatic insult happening in a patient with underlying cirrhosis with compromised hepatic reserve leading to development of systemic inflammation, sepsis, and organ failure resulting in poor outcome in majority. While Asia Pacific Association for Study of Liver Diseases (APASL) emphasizes on early diagnosis before development of organ failure, European Association for Study of Liver Diseases (EASL) mandates the presence of organ failures to define ACLF. There is a lack of consensus definition of pediatric ACLF although recent APASL guidelines have tried to address the issue. While Wilson disease (WD) and autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) are the most common cause of underlying cirrhosis in children, acute viral hepatitis and flares of WD and AIH are the commonest acute precipitating events. Poor outcomes [death and liver transplantation (LT)] ranging from 19 to 59% have been reported. Prognosis in pediatric ACLF is usually better than that in adults due to greater proportion of treatable etiologies, lesser organ failures, comorbidities and better hepatic reserves. APASL ACLF Research Consortium (AARC) score more than or equal to 11 is predictive of poor 28-90 d mortality. Treatment of pediatric ACLF relies mainly on prompt diagnosis and medical management of a potentially treatable etiology of underlying cirrhosis. Bridging therapies, especially high volume plasma exchange can be initiated early as a bridge to LT or native liver recovery. Those with no improvement in 4-7 d should undergo LT before development of sepsis or multi-organ failure.

Thrombospondin 1 enhances systemic inflammation and disease severity in acute-on-chronic liver failure

BACKGROUND

The key role of thrombospondin 1 (THBS1) in the pathogenesis of acute-on-chronic liver failure (ACLF) is unclear. Here, we present a transcriptome approach to evaluate THBS1 as a potential biomarker in ACLF disease pathogenesis.

METHODS

Biobanked peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) from 330 subjects with hepatitis B virus (HBV)-related etiologies, including HBV-ACLF, liver cirrhosis (LC), and chronic hepatitis B (CHB), and normal controls (NC) randomly selected from the Chinese Group on the Study of Severe Hepatitis B (COSSH) prospective multicenter cohort underwent transcriptome analyses (ACLF = 20; LC = 10; CHB = 10; NC = 15); the findings were externally validated in participants from COSSH cohort, an ACLF rat model and hepatocyte-specific THBS1 knockout mice.

RESULTS

THBS1 was the top significantly differentially expressed gene in the PBMC transcriptome, with the most significant upregulation in ACLF, and quantitative polymerase chain reaction (ACLF = 110; LC = 60; CHB = 60; NC = 45) was used to verify that THBS1 expression corresponded to ACLF disease severity outcome, including inflammation and hepatocellular apoptosis. THBS1 showed good predictive ability for ACLF short-term mortality, with an area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUROC) of 0.8438 and 0.7778 at 28 and 90 days, respectively. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay validation of the plasma THBS1 using an expanded COSSH cohort subjects (ACLF = 198; LC = 50; CHB = 50; NC = 50) showed significant correlation between THBS1 with ALT and γ-GT (P = 0.01), and offered a similarly good prognostication predictive ability (AUROC = 0.7445 and 0.7175) at 28 and 90 days, respectively. ACLF patients with high-risk short-term mortality were identified based on plasma THBS1 optimal cut-off value (< 28 µg/ml). External validation in ACLF rat serum and livers confirmed the functional association between THBS1, the immune response and hepatocellular apoptosis. Hepatocyte-specific THBS1 knockout improved mouse survival, significantly repressed major inflammatory cytokines, enhanced the expression of several anti-inflammatory mediators and impeded hepatocellular apoptosis.

CONCLUSIONS

THBS1 might be an ACLF disease development-related biomarker, promoting inflammatory responses and hepatocellular apoptosis, that could provide clinicians with a new molecular target for improving diagnostic and therapeutic strategies.

Adult-to-adult right lobe graft living donor liver transplantation for acute-on-chronic liver failure: a single-centre retrospective study in Vietnam

Introduction

Acute-on-chronic liver failure (ACLF) has a high mortality rate, and liver transplantation is considered a definite treatment for patients with this condition. This study aims to evaluate the outcomes of living donor liver transplantation (LDLT) in ACLF patients in a single centre in a lower middle-income country, Vietnam.

Materials and methods

This was a retrospective study at the 108 Military Central Hospital (Hanoi, Vietnam), enroling 51 patients diagnosed with ACLF based on Asian Pacific Association for the Study of the Liver (APASL) criteria who underwent LDLT with a right lobe graft from December 2019 to December 2022. The authors utilize the model for end-stage liver disease (MELD) and APASL ACLF Research Consortium (AARC) scores to evaluate and stratify the severity of ACLF.

Results

The average age of all patients was 47.27±13.61, with 88.24% being male. The average BMI was 22.78±2.61. The most common underlying liver disease was chronic viral hepatitis B (88.2%). The average MELD score of the patients was 34.90±5.61, with 33.3% having MELD score greater than or equal to 40. In terms of ACLF severity, five patients (9.8%) had grade I ACLF, 35 patients (68.6%) had grade II ACLF, and 11 patients (21.6%) had grade III ACLF. The average AARC score was 9.43±1.68. The duration of treatment in the ICU was 8.59±7.27 days, and the length of hospital stay was 28.02±13.45 days. The most common post-transplant complication was biliary complication (19.61%). Death occurred in 7 patients (13.7%). The survival rates at 6 months, 1 year, and 3 years were 84%, 81.7%, and 81.7%, respectively.

Conclusion

Living donor liver transplantation for ACLF patients is safe and has a high post-transplant survival rate. Multidisciplinary care before, during, and after surgery, and the decision to do a liver transplant early, is essential in saving the lives of ACLF patients.

The efficacy and safety of granulocyte colony-stimulating factor in the treatment of acute-on-chronic liver failure: A systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

The safety and efficacy of granulocyte-colony stimulating factor (G-CSF) for the treatment of acute-on-chronic liver failure (ACLF) remain controversial. This meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of G-CSF in treating ACLF.

METHODS

The estimated pooled risk ratio (RR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) assessed the treatment effects of G-CSF. Mean differences (MD) and 95% confidence intervals were used to analyze continuous data. Heterogeneity was explored by sensitivity analysis. Potential publication bias was assessed using Egger's test.

RESULTS

Ten studies, comprising a total of 603 participants, were included in the analysis. The G-CSF group showed significantly lower MELD scores at 7-day (MD = -2.39, 95%CI: -3.95 to -0.82), CTP scores at 7-day (MD = -0.77, 95%CI: -1.41 to -0.14), and MELD scores at 30-day (MD = -3.01, 95%CI: -5.36 to -0.67) compared to the control group. Furthermore, the G-CSF group was associated with a reduced risk of sepsis (RR = 0.53, 95%CI: 0.35-0.80). The 30-day survival (RR = 1.26, 95%CI:1.10-1.43), 60-day survival (RR = 1.47, 95%CI:1.17-1.84, and 90-day survival (RR = 1.73, 95%CI: 1.27-2.35) of patients with ACLF treated with G-CSF were significantly higher than those of the control group.

CONCLUSIONS

Our meta-analysis suggests that G-CSF therapy may be a promising treatment for ACLF, with significant improvements in liver function and survival rates, however, further studies are needed to verify this conclusion.

Novel Therapeutic Approaches in Treatment of Acute-on-Chronic Liver Failure

Acute-on-chronic liver failure (ACLF), a clinical syndrome that can develop at any stage in the progression of cirrhotic liver disease, is characterized by an acute decompensation in liver function with associated multiorgan failure and high short-term mortality. Current evidence points to ACLF being reversible, particularly in those at the lower end of the severity spectrum. However, there are no specific treatments for ACLF, and overall outcomes remain poor. Expedited liver transplantation as a treatment option is limited by organ shortage and a lack of priority allocation for this indication. Other options are therefore urgently needed, and our improved understanding of the condition has led to significant efforts to develop novel therapies. In conclusion, this review aims to summarize the current understanding of the pathophysiological processes involved in the onset, progression, and recovery of ACLF and discuss novel therapies under development.

Mesenchymal stem cell-regulated miRNA-mRNA landscape in acute-on-chronic liver failure

BACKGROUND

Acute-on-chronic liver failure (ACLF) is a major challenge in the field of hepatology. While mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) therapy can improve the prognosis of patients with ACLF, the molecular mechanisms through which MSCs attenuate ACLF remain poorly understood. We performed global miRNA and mRNA expression profiling via next-generation sequencing of liver tissues from MSC-treated ACLF mice to identify important signaling pathways and major factors implicated in ACLF alleviation by MSCs.

METHODS

Carbon tetrachloride-induced ACLF mice were treated with saline or mouse bone marrow-derived MSCs. Mouse livers were subjected to miRNA and mRNA sequencing. Related signal transduction pathways were obtained through Gene Set Enrichment Analysis. Functional enrichment, protein-protein interaction, and immune infiltration analyses were performed for the differentially expressed miRNA target genes (DETs). Hub miRNA and mRNA associated with liver injury were analyzed using LASSO regression. The expression levels of hub genes were subjected to Pearson's correlation analysis and verified using RT-qPCR. The biological functions of hub genes were verified in vitro.

RESULTS

The tricarboxylic acid cycle and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor pathways were activated in the MSC-treated groups. The proportions of liver-infiltrating NK resting cells, M2 macrophages, follicular helper T cells, and other immune cells were altered after MSC treatment. The expression levels of six miRNAs and 10 transcripts correlated with the degree of liver injury. miR-27a-5p was downregulated in the mouse liver after MSC treatment, while its target gene E2f2 was upregulated. miR-27a-5p inhibited E2F2 expression, suppressed G1/S phase transition and proliferation of hepatocytes, in addition to promoting their apoptosis.

CONCLUSIONS

This is the first comprehensive analysis of miRNA and mRNA expression in the liver tissue of ACLF mice after MSC treatment. The results revealed global changes in hepatic pathways and immune subpopulations. The miR-27a-5p/E2F2 axis emerged as a central regulator of the MSC-induced attenuation of ACLF. The current findings improve our understanding of the molecular mechanisms through which MSCs alleviate ACLF.

Contribution of radixin and ezrin to the maintenance of hepatocytes' excretory function in health and disease

Background & aims

Excretory liver failure is frequently associated with poor prognosis in critically ill patients. It is characterized by the loss of canalicular membrane export pumps at the hepatocyte membrane. The membrane export pump Multidrug resistant-associated protein (MRP) 2 is pivotal in hepatocytes for brushed membrane morphology and transport of various metabolites. In addition, MRP2 anchoring proteins of the Ezrin/Radixin/Moesin (ERM) family are crucial for the correct MRP2 location, integration, and function in different tissues. In hepatocytes, altered ERM signaling is elementary for developing excretory liver failure.

Methods

Polarized human HepaRG cells, primary human hepatocytes, and hepatocyte-specific Ezrin knockout mice are employed to investigate ERM expression and function in health and the bile duct ligation model of obstructive cholestasis.

Results

ERM-scaffolding protein Ezrin has no relevant function in maintaining the canalicular structure in hepatocytes during health and disease.

Conclusions

Homeostasis of the canalicular pole in hepatocytes is maintained exclusively by Radixin but not Ezrin, and Radixin dysfunction promotes cholestasis.

Clinical determinants of hospital mortality in liver failure: a comprehensive analysis of 62,717 patients

BACKGROUND

Liver failure (LF) is characterised by a loss of the synthetic and metabolic liver function and is associated with a high mortality. Large-scale data on recent developments and hospital mortality of LF in Germany are missing. A systematic analysis and careful interpretation of these datasets could help to optimise outcomes of LF.

METHODS

We used standardised hospital discharge data of the Federal Statistical Office to evaluate current trends, hospital mortality and factors associated with an unfavourable course of LF in Germany between 2010 and 2019.

RESULTS

A total of 62,717 hospitalised LF cases were identified. Annual LF frequency decreased from 6716 (2010) to 5855 (2019) cases and was higher among males (60.51%). Hospital mortality was 38.08% and significantly declined over the observation period. Mortality significantly correlated with patients' age and was highest among individuals with (sub)acute LF (47.5%). Multivariate regression analyses revealed pulmonary (ORARDS: 2.76, ORmechanical ventilation: 6.46) and renal complications (ORacute kidney failure: 2.04, ORhepatorenal syndrome: 2.92) and sepsis (OR: 1.92) as factors for increased mortality. Liver transplantation reduced mortality in patients with (sub)acute LF. Hospital mortality significantly decreased with the annual LF case volume and ranged from 47.46% to 29.87% in low- or high-case-volume hospitals, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Although incidence rates and hospital mortality of LF in Germany have constantly decreased, hospital mortality has remained at a very high level. We identified a number of variables associated with increased mortality that could help to improve framework conditions for the treatment of LF in the future.

Review article: Emerging and current management of acute-on-chronic liver failure

BACKGROUND

Acute-on-chronic liver failure (ACLF) is a clinically and pathophysiologically distinct condition from acutely decompensated cirrhosis and is characterised by systemic inflammation, extrahepatic organ failure, and high short-term mortality.

AIMS

To provide a narrative review of the diagnostic criteria, prognosis, epidemiology, and general management principles of ACLF. Four specific interventions that are explored in detail are intravenous albumin, extracorporeal liver assist devices, granulocyte-colony stimulating factor, and liver transplantation.

METHODS

We searched PubMed and Cochrane databases for articles published up to July 2023.

RESULTS

Approximately 35% of hospital inpatients with decompensated cirrhosis have ACLF. There is significant heterogeneity in the criteria used to diagnose ACLF; different definitions identify different phenotypes with varying mortality. Criteria established by the European Association for the Study of the Liver were developed in prospective patient cohorts and are, to-date, the most well validated internationally. Systemic haemodynamic instability, renal dysfunction, coagulopathy, neurological dysfunction, and respiratory failure are key considerations when managing ACLF in the intensive care unit. Apart from liver transplantation, there are no accepted evidence-based treatments for ACLF, but several different approaches are under investigation.

CONCLUSION

The recognition of ACLF as a distinct entity from acutely decompensated cirrhosis has allowed for better patient stratification in clinical settings, facilitating earlier engagement with the intensive care unit and liver transplantation teams. Research priorities over the next decade should focus on exploring novel treatment strategies with a particular focus on which, when, and how patients with ACLF should be treated.

Prognostic assessment of liver cirrhosis and its complications: current concepts and future perspectives

Liver cirrhosis is an irreversible stage of chronic liver disease with varying clinical course. Acute decompensation of liver cirrhosis represents a watershed in prognosis and is characterized by the occurrence of clinical complications such as ascites, jaundice, hepatic encephalopathy, infections, or portal-hypertensive hemorrhages. Emergent data indicate that an acute decompensation can be subdivided into stable decompensated cirrhosis (SDC), unstable decompensated cirrhosis (UDC), pre-acute-on chronic liver failure (pre-ACLF) and acute-on chronic liver failure (ACLF), while the mortality risk varies greatly between the respective subgroups. ACLF is the most severe form of acutely decompensated cirrhosis and characterized by the development of organ failure(s) and a high short-term mortality. Due to the dynamic disease course of acute decompensation, it is paramount to detect patients at particular risk for severe complications those at high risk for developing ACLF as early as possible in order to initiate optimal management. This review describes new concepts and perspectives in the definition and classification of decompensated cirrhosis and provides on overview on emerging predictive scoring systems, non-invasive measurement methods and new biomarkers, which allow an early identification of patients with acute decompensation at risk.

Development of a novel near-infrared molecule rotator for early diagnosis and visualization of viscosity changes in acute liver injury models

Acute liver injury leading to acute liver failure can be a life-threatening condition. Therefore, timely and accurate early diagnosis of the onset of acute liver injury in vivo is critical. Viscosity is one of the key parameters that can accurately reflect the levels of relevant active analytes at the cellular level. Herein, a novel near-infrared molecule rotator, DJM, was designed and synthesized. This probe exhibited a highly sensitive (461-fold from PBS solution to 95% glycerol solution) and selective response to viscosity with a maximum emission wavelength of 760 nm and a Stokes shift of 240 nm. Furthermore, DJM has exhibited a remarkable capacity to discern viscosity changes induced by nystatin in viable cells with sensitivity and selectivity and further applied in the zebrafish and mouse model of acute liver injury. Additionally, DJM may potentially offer direction for the timely observation and visualization of viscosity in more relevant disease models in the future.

Acute on Chronic Liver Failure in Patients with Alcohol-Associated Hepatitis: A Review

Acute on chronic liver failure (ACLF) is a unique disease process associated with significant short-term mortality wherein patients with either chronic liver disease or cirrhosis suffer rapid decompensation in hepatic function accompanied by extrahepatic organ failures. Alcohol-associated hepatitis (AH) is a common precipitant of ACLF and has been shown to uniquely affect the pathophysiology of systemic and hepatic immune responses in patients with ACLF. Treatment of AH-associated ACLF includes supportive measures as well as treatment directed at AH; however, AH-directed therapies unfortunately remain limited and are of suboptimal efficacy.

The Influence of Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms on Vitamin D Receptor Protein Levels and Function in Chronic Liver Disease

Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the vitamin D receptor (VDR) gene have been associated with chronic liver disease. We investigated the role of VDR SNPs on VDR protein levels and function in patients with chronic liver disease. VDR expression levels were determined in peripheral T lymphocytes (CD3+VDR+), monocytes (CD14+VDR+), and plasma from patients (n = 66) and healthy controls (n = 38). Genotyping of SNPs and the determination of expression of VDR/vitamin D-related genes were performed by using qPCR. The effect of FokI SNP on vitamin D-binding to VDR was investigated by molecular dynamics simulations. CD14+VDR+ cells were correlated with the MELD score. The ApaI SNP was associated with decreased CD3+VDR+ levels in cirrhotic patients and with higher liver stiffness in HCV patients. The BsmI and TaqI SNPs were associated with increased VDR plasma concentrations in cirrhotic patients and decreased CD14+VDR+ levels in HCV patients. The FokI SNP was associated with increased CD3+VDR+ levels in cirrhotic patients and controls. VDR polymorphisms were significantly related to the expression of genes critical for normal hepatocyte function and immune homeostasis. VDR expression levels were related to the clinical severity of liver disease. VDR SNPs may be related to the progression of chronic liver disease by affecting VDR expression levels.

Global disparities in mortality and liver transplantation in hospitalised patients with cirrhosis: a prospective cohort study for the CLEARED Consortium

BACKGROUND

Cirrhosis, the end result of liver injury, has high mortality globally. The effect of country-level income on mortality from cirrhosis is unclear. We aimed to assess predictors of death in inpatients with cirrhosis using a global consortium focusing on cirrhosis-related and access-related variables.

METHODS

In this prospective observational cohort study, the CLEARED Consortium followed up inpatients with cirrhosis at 90 tertiary care hospitals in 25 countries across six continents. Consecutive patients older than 18 years who were admitted non-electively, without COVID-19 or advanced hepatocellular carcinoma, were enrolled. We ensured equitable participation by limiting enrolment to a maximum of 50 patients per site. Data were collected from patients and their medical records, and included demographic characteristics; country; disease severity (MELD-Na score); cirrhosis cause; medications used; reasons for admission; transplantation listing; cirrhosis-related history in the past 6 months; and clinical course and management while hospitalised and for 30 days post discharge. Primary outcomes were death and receipt of liver transplant during index hospitalisation or within 30 days post discharge. Sites were surveyed regarding availability of and access to diagnostic and treatment services. Outcomes were compared by country income level of participating sites, defined according to World Bank income classifications (high-income countries [HICs], upper-middle-income countries [UMICs], and low-income or lower-middle-income countries [LICs or LMICs]). Multivariable models controlling for demographic variables, disease cause, and disease severity were used to analyse the odds of each outcome associated with variables of interest.

FINDINGS

Patients were recruited between Nov 5, 2021, and Aug 31, 2022. Complete inpatient data were obtained for 3884 patients (mean age 55·9 years [SD 13·3]; 2493 (64·2%) men and 1391 (35·8%) women; 1413 [36·4%] from HICs, 1757 [45·2%] from UMICs, and 714 [18·4%] from LICs or LMICs), with 410 lost to follow-up within 30 days after hospital discharge. The number of patients who died while hospitalised was 110 (7·8%) of 1413 in HICs, 182 (10·4%) of 1757 in UMICs, and 158 (22·1%) of 714 in LICs and LMICs (p<0·0001), and within 30 days post discharge these values were 179 (14·4%) of 1244 in HICs, 267 (17·2%) of 1556 in UMICs, and 204 (30·3%) of 674 in LICs and LMICs (p<0·0001). Compared with patients from HICs, increased risk of death during hospitalisation was found for patients from UMICs (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 2·14 [95% CI 1·61-2·84]) and from LICs or LMICs (2·54 [1·82-3·54]), in addition to increased risk of death within 30 days post discharge (1·95 [1·44-2·65] in UMICs and 1·84 [1·24-2·72] in LICs or LMICs). Receipt of a liver transplant was recorded in 59 (4·2%) of 1413 patients from HICs, 28 (1·6%) of 1757 from UMICs (aOR 0·41 [95% CI 0·24-0·69] vs HICs), and 14 (2·0%) of 714 from LICs and LMICs (0·21 [0·10-0·41] vs HICs) during index hospitalisation (p<0·0001), and in 105 (9·2%) of 1137 patients from HICs, 55 (4·0%) of 1372 from UMICs (0·58 [0·39-0·85] vs HICs), and 16 (3·1%) of 509 from LICs or LMICs (0·21 [0·11-0·40] vs HICs) by 30 days post discharge (p<0·0001). Site survey results showed that access to important medications (rifaximin, albumin, and terlipressin) and interventions (emergency endoscopy, liver transplantation, intensive care, and palliative care) varied geographically.

INTERPRETATION

Inpatients with cirrhosis in LICs, LMICs, or UMICs have significantly higher mortality than inpatients in HICs independent of medical risk factors, and this might be due to disparities in access to essential diagnostic and treatment services. These results should encourage researchers and policy makers to consider access to services and medications when evaluating cirrhosis-related outcomes.

FUNDING

National Institutes of Health and US Department of Veterans Affairs.

Acute-on-chronic liver failure is independently associated with higher mortality for cirrhotic patients with acute esophageal variceal hemorrhage: Retrospective cohort study

BACKGROUND

Acute esophageal variceal hemorrhage (AEVH) is a common complication of cirrhosis and might precipitate multi-organ failure, causing acute-on-chronic liver failure (ACLF).

AIM

To analyze if the presence and grading of ACLF as defined by European Society for the Study of the Liver-Chronic Liver Failure (EASL-CLIF) is able to predict mortality in cirrhotic patients presenting AEVH.

METHODS

Retrospective cohort study executed in Hospital Geral de Caxias do Sul. Data from medical records from 2010 to 2016 were obtained by searching the hospital electronic database for patients who received terlipressin. Medical records were reviewed in order to determine the diagnosis of cirrhosis and AEVH, including 97 patients. Kaplan-Meier survival analysis was used for univariate analysis and a stepwise approach to the Cox regression for multivariate analysis.

RESULTS

All- cause mortality for AEVH patients was 36%, 40.2% and 49.4% for 30-, 90- and 365-day, respectively. The prevalence of ACLF was 41.3%. Of these, 35% grade 1, 50% grade 2 and 15% grade 3. In multivariate analysis, the non-use of non-selective beta-blockers, presence and higher grading of ACLF and higher Model for End-Stage Liver Disease scores were independently associated with higher mortality for 30-day with the addition of higher Child-Pugh scores for 90-day period.

CONCLUSION

Presence and grading of ACLF according to the EASL-CLIF criteria was independently associated with higher 30- and 90-day mortality in cirrhotic patients admitted due to AEVH.

Alcohol-related hepatitis: A review article

Alcohol-related hepatitis (ARH) is a unique type of alcohol-associated liver disease characterized by acute liver inflammation caused by significant alcohol use. It ranges in severity from mild to severe and carries significant morbidity and mortality. The refinement of scoring systems has enhanced prognostication and guidance of clinical decision-making in the treatment of this complex disease. Although treatment focuses on supportive care, steroids have shown benefit in select circumstances. There has been a recent interest in this disease process, as coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic led to substantial rise in cases. Although much is known regarding the pathogenesis, prognosis remains grim due to limited treatment options. This article summarizes the epidemiology, genetics, pathogenesis, diagnosis and treatment of ARH.

SOCS1 methylation level is associated with prognosis in patients with acute-on-chronic hepatitis B liver failure

BACKGROUND

Glucocorticoids could greatly improve the prognosis of patients with acute-on-chronic hepatitis B liver failure (ACHBLF). Suppressor of cytokine signaling (SOCS) 1 methylation has been shown to be associated with mortality in ACHBLF.

METHODS

Eighty patients with ACHBLF were divided into group glucocorticoid (GC) and group conservative medical (CM). Sixty patients with chronic hepatitis B (CHB), and Thirty healthy controls (HCs) served as control group. SOCS1 methylation levels in peripheral mononuclear cells (PBMCs) was detected by MethyLight.

RESULTS

SOCS1 methylation levels were significantly higher in patients with ACHBLF than those with CHB and HCs (P < 0.01, respectively). Nonsurvivors showed significantly higher SOCS1 methylation levels (P < 0.05) than survivors in both GC and CM groups in ACHBLF patients. Furthermore, the survival rates of the SOCS1 methylation-negative group were significantly higher than that of the methylation-positive group at 1 month (P = 0.014) and 3 months (P = 0.003) follow-up. Meanwhile, GC group and CM group had significantly lower mortality at 3 months, which may be related to application of glucocorticoid. In the SOCS1 methylation-positive group, the 1-month survival rate was significantly improved, which may be related to GC treatment (P = 0.020). However, no significant difference could be observed between the GC group and CM group in the methylation-negative group (P = 0.190).

CONCLUSIONS

GC treatment could decrease the mortality of ACHBLF and SOCS1 methylation levels might serve as prognostic marker for favorable response to glucocorticoid treatment.

A Prospective Study on the Clinical Significance of Infections in a Hospital Setting Among the Cirrhotic Patients and Their Outcomes

Aim and objectives The infection of microbial agents in cirrhosis has increased due to poor immunity, which increases morbidities and mortalities worldwide. The present study aimed to assess the incidence, the type of infections, the pattern of resistance, and the course of hospitalization among cirrhotic patients in the Eastern coastal region. Methodology The study was a descriptive cross-sectional study, and the current study was undertaken for 24 months at the Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatobiliary Sciences, IMS, and SUM. Hospital, Bhubaneswar. Consecutive cirrhotic patients admitted with bacterial infection were prospectively evaluated, and the infection patterns were accessed. The data were collected in a well-structured proforma designed by our study team. Results Out of the total 200 cases, a fraction of 72.5% of males outnumbered the females; the mean age of presentation was 59 ± 12 years. A fraction of 59% of cases had the habit of consuming alcohol which amounted to the predominant etiological factor for cirrhosis, followed by non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). Urinary tract infection (UTI) and spontaneous bacterial peritonitis (SBP) were more common types of infections in the healthcare-associated (HCA) group; however, pneumonia and skin and soft tissue infections (SSTI) were predominant types of infections in community-acquired (CA) group. The model for end-stage liver disease (MELD) scores were not significantly different amongst the three groups with infections at the time of Diagnosis infection and at the time of hospitalization. However, the MELD scores were substantially higher at the time of infection diagnosis than the MELD scores at the time of admission amongst the three groups with infection. Conclusion The present study showed that infections in cirrhosis were relatively common. Due to increasing resistance patterns, the judicious usage of antibiotics in cirrhosis could be the need of the hour.

FOXA2 prevents hyperbilirubinaemia in acute liver failure by maintaining apical MRP2 expression

OBJECTIVE

Multidrug resistance protein 2 (MRP2) is a bottleneck in bilirubin excretion. Its loss is sufficient to induce hyperbilirubinaemia, a prevailing characteristic of acute liver failure (ALF) that is closely associated with clinical outcome. This study scrutinises the transcriptional regulation of MRP2 under different pathophysiological conditions.

DESIGN

Hepatic MRP2, farnesoid X receptor (FXR) and Forkhead box A2 (FOXA2) expression and clinicopathologic associations were examined by immunohistochemistry in 14 patients with cirrhosis and 22 patients with ALF. MRP2 regulatory mechanisms were investigated in primary hepatocytes, Fxr -/- mice and lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-treated mice.

RESULTS

Physiologically, homeostatic MRP2 transcription is mediated by the nuclear receptor FXR/retinoid X receptor complex. Fxr-/- mice lack apical MRP2 expression and rapidly progress into hyperbilirubinaemia. In patients with ALF, hepatic FXR expression is undetectable, however, patients without infection maintain apical MRP2 expression and do not suffer from hyperbilirubinaemia. These patients express FOXA2 in hepatocytes. FOXA2 upregulates MRP2 transcription through binding to its promoter. Physiologically, nuclear FOXA2 translocation is inhibited by insulin. In ALF, high levels of glucagon and tumour necrosis factor α induce FOXA2 expression and nuclear translocation in hepatocytes. Impressively, ALF patients with sepsis express low levels of FOXA2, lose MRP2 expression and develop severe hyperbilirubinaemia. In this case, LPS inhibits FXR expression, induces FOXA2 nuclear exclusion and thus abrogates the compensatory MRP2 upregulation. In both Fxr -/- and LPS-treated mice, ectopic FOXA2 expression restored apical MRP2 expression and normalised serum bilirubin levels.

CONCLUSION

FOXA2 replaces FXR to maintain MRP2 expression in ALF without sepsis. Ectopic FOXA2 expression to maintain MRP2 represents a potential strategy to prevent hyperbilirubinaemia in septic ALF.

Protective role of resveratrol against VCM-induced hepatotoxicity in male wistar rats

Background: Vancomycin is a glycopeptide antibiotic with a high risk of acute liver injury. Resveratrol is believed to protect the liver against toxicity. Aim: To investigate the ability of resveratrol to attenuate vancomycin-induced liver toxicity in rats injected with vancomycin. Method: Twenty-four adult male Wistar rats were distributed into three groups. The control group received only a vehicle, while the treated group received either vancomycin 200 (mg/kg, i. p.) only or vancomycin (200 mg/kg, i. p.) with resveratrol (20 mg/kg, oral gavage). All groups received their dose once daily for 7 days. Hepatic damage was assessed by measuring biochemical parameter levels in serum, aspartate transaminase (AST), alanine transaminase (ALT), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH). Also, antioxidants and inflammation biomarkers such as Interleukin-6 (IL-6), malondialdehyde (MDA), nitric oxide (NO), and glutathione (GSH) were measured. Furthermore, the vancomycin-induced pathological changes in the liver were evaluated by histopathological studies. Results: In the vancomycin-treated group, hepatic serum biomarkers such as AST, ALT, ALP, IL-6, and MDA were elevated, while NO and GSH were depleted. However, resveratrol co-treatment with vancomycin prevented the elevation of AST, ALT, ALP, IL-6, and MDA and it protected the liver from NO and GSH depletion. Also, regarding vancomycin-induced degeneration of hepatocytes, resveratrol co-treatment with vancomycin prevented such degeneration and improved mononuclear cells in the liver. Conclusion: The results showed that oral administration of resveratrol has a significant hepatoprotective effect against vancomycin-induced hepatotoxicity.

Cirrhosis Management in the Intensive Care Unit

Patients with cirrhosis frequently require admission to the intensive care unit as complications arise in the course of their disease. These admissions are associated with high short- and long-term morbidity and mortality. Thus, understanding and characterizing complications and unique needs of patients with cirrhosis and acute-on-chronic liver failure helps providers identify appropriate level of care and evidence-based treatments. While there is no widely accepted critical care admission criteria for patients with cirrhosis, the presence of organ failure and primary or nosocomial infections are associated with particularly high in-hospital mortality. Optimal management of patients with cirrhosis in the critical care setting requires a system-based approach that acknowledges deviations from canonical pathophysiology. In this review, we discuss appropriate considerations and evidence-based practices for the general care of patients with cirrhosis and critical illness.

Fibrin clot properties and thrombus composition in cirrhosis

Patients with cirrhosis frequently acquire profound hemostatic alterations, which may affect thrombus quality and composition-factors that determine the susceptibility to embolization and fibrinolysis. In this narrative review, we describe in vitro studies on fibrin clot formation and quantitative and qualitative changes in fibrinogen in patients with cirrhosis, and describe recent findings on the composition of portal vein thrombi in patients with cirrhosis. Patients with mild cirrhosis have increased thrombin generation capacity and plasma fibrinogen levels, which may be balanced by delayed fibrin polymerization and decreased factor XIII levels. With progressing illness, plasma fibrinogen levels decrease, but thrombin generation capacity remains elevated. Fibrinogen is susceptible to posttranslational protein modifications and is, for example, hypersialylated and carbonylated in patients with cirrhosis. Despite changes in thrombin generation, factor XIII levels and the fibrinogen molecule, fibrin fiber thickness, and density are normal in patients with cirrhosis. Paradoxically, fibrin clot permeability in patients with cirrhosis is decreased, possibly because of posttranslational protein modifications. Most patients have normal fibrinolytic potential. We have recently demonstrated that portal vein thrombosis is likely a misnomer as the material that may obstruct the cirrhotic portal vein frequently consists of a thickened portal vein wall, rather than a true thrombus. Patients with cirrhosis often have thrombocytopenia and anemia, which may also affect clot stability and composition, but the role of cellular components in clot quality in cirrhosis has not been extensively studied. Finally, we summarize abstracts on fibrin formation and clot quality that were presented at the ISTH 2022 meeting in London.

Navitoclax improves acute-on-chronic liver failure by eliminating senescent cells in mice

AIM

Acute-on-chronic liver failure (ACLF), a disease with poor prognosis, is reportedly caused by cellular senescence due to mitochondrial dysfunction. In this study, we described and analyzed the underlying mechanism of a novel approach for ACLF using ABT263/navitoclax (Navi) that selectively eliminates senescent cells.

METHODS

Irradiation-induced senescent hepatocytes were used for in vitro evaluation of the effects of Navi on ACLF (n = 6 for each group). Lipopolysaccharide- and carbon tetrachloride-induced ACLF mouse model was used for in vivo evaluation of the effects of Navi administration compared with the control using one-way or two-way analysis of variance, followed by Student's t-test or Kruskal-Wallis test. The effects on the senescence-associated secretory phenotype (n = 8 for each group) and mitochondrial functions, including adenosine triphosphate concentration and membrane potential (n = 8 for each group), were investigated using real-time polymerase chain reaction, immunohistochemistry, and enzyme analysis.

RESULTS

Navi eliminated irradiation-induced senescent hepatocytes in vitro, leading to non-senescent hepatocyte proliferation. Navi eliminated senescent cells in the liver in vivo, resulting in downregulation of mRNA expression of senescence-associated secretory phenotype factors, a decrease of liver enzymes, and upregulated proliferation of non-senescent cells in the liver. Regarding mitochondrial functional assessment in the liver, adenosine triphosphate concentration and membrane potential were upregulated after Navi administration in vitro and in vivo.

CONCLUSIONS

Navi may ameliorate ACLF damage by eliminating senescent cells in the liver, downregulating senescence-associated secretory phenotype factors, and upregulating mitochondrial functions. We believe that this novel approach using Navi will pave the way for ACLF treatment.

Emerging Biomarkers in Alcohol-associated Hepatitis

Alcohol-associated hepatitis (AH) is a clinical syndrome of jaundice, abdominal pain, and anorexia due to prolonged heavy alcohol intake. AH is associated with changes in gene expression, cytokines, immune response, and the gut microbiome. There are limited biomarkers to diagnose and prognosticate in AH, but several non-invasive biomarkers are emerging. In this review, clinical risk-stratifying algorithms, promising AH biomarkers like cytokeratin-18 fragments, genetic polymorphisms, and microRNAs will be reviewed.

CLIF-SOFA and CLIF-C scores for the prognostication of acute-on-chronic liver failure and acute decompensation of cirrhosis: A systematic review

BACKGROUND

Acute-on-chronic liver failure (ACLF) is a syndrome characterized by decompensation in individuals with chronic liver disease, generally secondary to one or more extra-hepatic organ failures, implying an elevated mortality rate. Acute decompensation (AD) is the term used for one or more significant consequences of liver disease in a short time and is the most common reason for hospital admission in cirrhotic patients. The European Association for the Study of Liver-Chronic-Liver Failure (EASL-CLIF) Group modified the intensive care Sequential Organ Failure Assessment score into CLIF-SOFA, which detects the presence of ACLF in patients with or without AD, classifying it into three grades.

AIM

To investigate the role of the EASL-CLIF definition for ACLF and the ability of CLIF-SOFA, CLIF-C ACLF, and CLIF-C AD scores for prognosticating ACLF or AD.

METHODS

This study is a literature review using a standardized search method, conducted using the steps following the guidelines for reporting systematic reviews set out by the PRISMA statement. For specific keywords, relevant articles were found by searching PubMed, ScienceDirect, and BioMed Central-BMC. The databases were searched using the search terms by one reviewer, and a list of potentially eligible studies was generated based on the titles and abstracts screened. The data were then extracted and assessed on the basis of the Reference Citation Analysis (https://www.referencecitationanalysis.com/).

RESULTS

Most of the included studies used the EASL-CLIF definition for ACLF to identify cirrhotic patients with a significant risk of short-term mortality. The primary outcome in all reviewed studies was mortality. Most of the study findings were based on an area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUROC) analysis, which revealed that CLIF-SOFA, CLIF-C ACLF, and CLIF-C AD scores were preferable to other models predicting 28-d mortality. Their AUROC scores were higher and able to predict all-cause mortality at 90, 180, and 365 d. A total of 50 articles were included in this study, which found that the CLIF-SOFA, CLIF-C ACLF and CLIF-C AD scores in more than half of the articles were able to predict short-term and long-term mortality in patients with either ACLF or AD.

CONCLUSION

CLIF-SOFA score surpasses other models in predicting mortality in ACLF patients, especially in the short-term. CLIF-SOFA, CLIF-C ACLF, and CLIF-C AD are accurate short-term and long-term mortality prognosticating scores.

Prognostic study of acute-on-chronic liver failure patients: Usefulness of the fibrosis-4 index

Acute-on-chronic liver failure (ACLF) is a syndrome characterized by an acute deterioration of liver function in cirrhotic patients. Since treatment of this condition is difficult, its prevention is of paramount importance. The predictors of ACLF are yet to be identified. To determine the prognosis of cirrhotic and ACLF patients, we conducted a retrospective study to analyze each parameter in ACLF patients. Cirrhotic patients with serum total-bilirubin level ≥5.0 mg/dL and prothrombin time (PT) value ≤40% after acute insults were diagnosed with ACLF, whereas patients who met one of the above criteria were diagnosed with extended type of ACLF (EX-ACLF). Overall, in this study, 18 ACLF and 16 EX-ACLF patients retrospectively investigated between 2008 and 2020, and each data was analyzed during and before acute insults. In the analysis during acute insults, renal and coagulation functions showed significant differences between the ACLF and EX-ACLF groups. Furthermore, the mortality rate in the ACLF group was higher than that in the EX-ACLF group. In the analysis before acute insults, aspartate aminotransferase (AST), Fibrosis-4 (FIB-4) index score, and AST to platelet ratio index (APRI) showed significant differences between the two groups. Among these, the FIB-4 index score correlated best with ACLF severity for identifying cirrhotic patients with poor prognosis. The FIB-4 index is the most useful predictor of ACLF severity. Careful management of cirrhotic patients with a high FIB-4 index score is considered beneficial to prevent ACLF occurrence.

Five-year all-cause mortality in critically ill liver transplant patients with coronary artery disease: analysis of acute-on chronic liver failure

Background: Patients with acute-on-chronic liver failure (ACLF) are critically ill and have high waiting-list mortality. Although studies demonstrated that appropriately treated coronary artery disease (CAD) should not be regarded as a contraindication to liver transplant (LT), data regarding long-term outcomes in critically ill liver LT recipients are lacking. The aim of this study was to compare the rates of all-cause death at 5 years following LT in patients with ACLF with or without CAD.Methods: Between 2010 and 2020, we evaluated 921 consecutive LT patients (MELD score, 32 ± 9) and ACLF classified by CLIF-C ACLF score. Up to 5-year all-cause death according to the CAD status was examined. CAD was defined as a preoperative history of coronary artery bypass graft or a percutaneous intervention and old myocardial infarction. Kaplan-Meier survival analysis was used.Results: Up to 5 years, 212 (23.0%) of all ACLF patients (n = 921) in whom 17 (29.3%) of 58 CAD patients died. In patients with CAD (6.3%, 58/921), the Kaplan-Meier cumulative mortality rate at 5 years was numerically higher but was not statistically significant when compared with those without CAD (32.9% vs. 23.5%, log-rank, P = 0.25). In subgr oup analysis, there were comparable risks of cumulative mortalities at 5 years across the stratification of ACLF grade 1, 2, and 3 (log-rank P = 0.062, P = 0.72, and P = 0.999, respectively).Conclusions: All-cause mortality is high in patients with ACLF after LT but is not related to the presence of revascularized or treated CAD, across the stratification of ACLF grades.

Hepatic perfusion as a new predictor of prognosis and mortality in critical care patients with acute-on-chronic liver failure

Background and aims

Liver diseases are frequent causes of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Liver diseases can lead to cirrhosis, with the risk of acute-on-chronic liver failure (ACLF). For the detection of changes in hepatic hemodynamics, Doppler ultrasonography is a well-established method. We investigated hepatic hemodynamics via serial Doppler ultrasonography to determine the predictive value of changes in hepatic perfusion for the outcome in patients with severe liver diseases compared to established prognostic models such as the MELD (Model for End-Stage Liver Disease) or CLIF-C (Chronic Liver Failure-Consortium) ACLF score.

Methods

In this prospective cohort study, hepatic perfusion was quantified at baseline before the initiation of treatment and every third day by means of serial measurements of the hepatic artery resistance index (HARI) and the maximum portal vein velocity (PVv) using Doppler ultrasonography in 50 consecutive patients with severe liver diseases admitted to a medical intensive care unit (MICU). The recorded hemodynamic parameters were compared to the MELD score, and the CLIF-C ACLF score to analyze their utility for the prediction of the outcome of patients with severe liver diseases, liver cirrhosis, and ACLF.

Results

The changes (delta) obtained by serial measurements of the MELD score, HARI, and PVv were analyzed through scatter plots. Bivariate correlation analysis yielded a new positive linear correlation between the delta-HARI and the delta-MELD score (r = 0.469; p < 0.001). In addition, our data revealed a new negative linear correlation between delta-PVv and the delta-MELD score (r = −0.279, p = 0.001). The leading cause of MICU mortality was acute-on-chronic liver failure (ACLF). A subgroup analysis of patients with liver cirrhosis revealed a positive linear correlation between the delta-HARI and the delta-CLIF-C-ACLF score (r = 0.252, p = 0.005). Of clinical relevance, non-survivors of ACLF exhibited a significantly higher mean value for the delta-HARI (0.010 vs. −0.005; p = 0.015) and a lower mean value for the delta-PVv (−0.7 vs. 1.9 cm/s; p = 0.037) in comparison to survivors of ACLF.

Conclusion

This study shows the prognostic value of the assessment of hepatic perfusion in critical care patients with severe liver diseases by bedside Doppler ultrasound examination and its utility as an accurate predictor of the outcome in patients with ACLF. Increasing HARI and a decreasing PVv are predictors of an adverse outcome. Delta-HARI and delta-PVv are new biomarkers of prognosis and ACLF-related mortality in patients with liver diseases. Delta-HARI and delta-PVv may be helpful in guiding clinical decision-making, especially in catecholamine and fluid management.

Immunomodulation by Hemoadsorption—Changes in Hepatic Biotransformation Capacity in Sepsis and Septic Shock: A Prospective Study

Background: Sepsis is often associated with liver dysfunction, which is an indicator of poor outcomes. Specific diagnostic tools that detect hepatic dysfunction in its early stages are scarce. So far, the immune modulatory effects of hemoadsorption with CytoSorb^® on liver function are unclear. Method: We assessed the hepatic function by using the dynamic LiMAx^® test and biochemical parameters in 21 patients with sepsis or septic shock receiving CytoSorb^® in a prospective, observational study. Points of measurement: T₁: diagnosis of sepsis or septic shock; T₂ and T₃: 24 h and 48 h after the start of CytoSorb^®; T₄: 24 h after termination of CytoSorb^®. Results: The hepatic biotransformation capacity measured by LiMAx^® was severely impaired in up to 95 % of patients. Despite a rapid shock reversal under CytoSorb^®, a significant improvement in LiMAx^® values appeared from T₃ to T₄. This decline and recovery of liver function were not reflected by common parameters of hepatic metabolism that remained mostly within the normal range. Conclusions: Hepatic dysfunction can effectively and safely be diagnosed with LiMAx^® in ventilated ICU patients under CytoSorb^®. Various static liver parameters are of limited use since they do not adequately reflect hepatic dysfunction and impaired hepatic metabolism.

1,5-Anhydroglucitol Predicts Mortality in Patients with HBV-Related Acute-on-chronic Liver Failure

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

1,5-Anhydroglucitol (1,5AG) activity has been reported in chronic liver disease. Hepatitis B virus (HBV)-related acute-on-chronic liver failure (HBV-ACLF) patients have a high mortality. We aimed to discover the relationship between serum 1,5AG and the prognosis of HBV-ACLF.

METHODS

Serum 1,5AG levels were determined in 333 patients with HBV-ACLF, 300 without diabetes were allocated to derivation (n=206) and validation cohorts (n=94), and 33 were recruited to evaluate 1,5AG in those with diabetes. Forty patients with chronic hepatitis B, 40 with liver cirrhosis, and 40 healthy people were controls in the validation cohort.

RESULTS

In the derivation and validation cohorts, serum 1,5AG levels were significantly lower in nonsurvivors than in survivors. The AUC of 1,5AG for 28-day mortality was 0.811. In patients with diabetes, serum 1,5AG levels were also significantly lower in nonsurvivors than in survivors. In multivariate Cox regression analysis, serum 1,5AG levels were independently associated with 28-day mortality. A novel predictive model (ACTIG) based on 1,5AG, age, TB, cholesterol, and INR was derived to predict mortality. In ACTIG, the AUC for 28-day mortality was 0.914, which was superior to some prognostic score models. ACTIG was also comparable to those prognostic score models in predicting 6-month mortality. In mice with D-galactosamine/lipopolysaccharide-induced liver failure, 1,5AG levels were significantly reduced in serum and significantly increased in urine and liver tissue.

CONCLUSIONS

Serum 1,5AG levels are a promising predictor of short-term mortality in HBV-ACLF patients. The 1,5AG distribution changed in mice with D-galactosamine/ lipopolysaccharide-induced liver failure.

Characteristics and Risk Factors of Myocardial Injury after Traumatic Hemorrhagic Shock

Myocardial injury increases major adverse cardiovascular events and mortality in patients with traumatic hemorrhagic shock, but its prevalence and risk factors remain unclear. This study aimed to assess the prevalence and risk factors of myocardial injury after traumatic hemorrhagic shock. This was an observational, retrospective cohort study of patients with traumatic hemorrhagic shock at a tertiary university hospital from November 2012 to July 2021. Patient characteristics and clinical variables were recorded in 314 patients. The outcome was the occurrence of myocardial injury after traumatic hemorrhagic shock. Risk factors for myocardial injury were identified using logistic regression. The incidence of myocardial injury after the traumatic hemorrhagic shock was 42.4%, and 95.5% of myocardial injuries occurred within the first three days after trauma. In the multivariate analysis, the independent risk factors for myocardial injury after traumatic hemorrhagic shock included heart rate of >100 beats/min (OR [odds ratio], 3.33; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.56−7.09; p = 0.002), hemoglobin level of <70 g/L (OR, 3.50; 95% CI, 1.15−10.60; p = 0.027), prothrombin time of >15 s (OR, 2.39; 95% CI, 1.12−5.10; p = 0.024), acute kidney injury (OR, 2.75; 95% CI, 1.27−5.93; p = 0.01), and a higher APACHE II score (OR, 1.08; 95% CI, 1.01−1.15; p = 0.018). The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve for the prediction of myocardial injury after a traumatic hemorrhagic shock was 0.67 (95% CI, 0.68−0.79) for a heart rate of >100 beats/min, 0.67 (95% CI, 0.61−0.73) for hemoglobin level of <70 g/L, 0.66 (95% CI, 0.60−0.73) for prothrombin time of >15 s, 0.70 (95% CI, 0.64−0.76) for acute kidney injury, and 0.78 (95% CI, 0.73−0.83) for APACHE II scores. The incidence rate of myocardial injury in traumatic hemorrhagic shock is high, and heart rates of >100 beats/min, hemoglobin levels of <70 g/L, prothrombin times of >15 s, AKI and higher APACHE II scores are independent risk factors for myocardial injury after traumatic hemorrhagic shock. These findings may help clinicians to identify myocardial injury after traumatic hemorrhagic shock early and initiate appropriate treatment.

New insights into the bile acid-based regulatory mechanisms and therapeutic perspectives in alcohol-related liver disease

Cholestasis is a key causative factor in alcohol-related liver disease (ALD) and variable degrees of cholestasis occur in all stages of ALD. However, the pathogenetic mechanisms and biomarkers associated with cholestasis are not well characterized. Cholestatic disease is marked by the disruption of bile acids (BA) transport and homeostasis. Consequently, in both human and experimental ALD, the disease shows a direct correlation with an imbalance in BA equilibrium, which in turn may also affect the severity of the disease. Modulation of BA metabolism or signaling pathways is increasingly considered as a potential therapeutic strategy for ALD in humans. In this paper, we highlight the key advances made in the past two decades in characterizing the molecular regulatory mechanisms of BA synthesis, enterohepatic circulation, and BA homeostasis. We summarize recent insights into the nature of the linkage between BA dysregulation and ALD, including the abnormal expression of genes involved in BA metabolism, abnormal changes in receptors that regulate BA metabolism, and disturbance in the gut flora engaged in BA metabolism caused by alcohol consumption. Additionally, we provide novel perspectives on the changes in BAs in various stages of ALD. Finally, we propose potential pharmacological therapies for ALD targeting BA metabolism and signaling.

Management of Decompensated Cirrhosis in the Surgical ICU: an American Association for the Surgery of Trauma Critical Care Committee Clinical Consensus Document

Management of decompensated cirrhosis (DC) can be challenging for the surgical intensivist. Management of DC is often complicated by ascites, coagulopathy, hepatic encephalopathy, gastrointestinal bleeding, hepatorenal syndrome, and difficulty assessing volume status. This Clinical Consensus Document created by the American Association for the Surgery of Trauma Critical Care Committee reviews practical clinical questions about the critical care management of patients with DC to facilitate best practices by the bedside provider.

Mesenchymal Stem Cell Transplantation in Liver Diseases

Promising preclinical data suggested that bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (BM-MSC) can reduce hepatic fibrosis and stimulate liver regeneration. Preclinical studies moreover suggested that the immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory functions of MSCs may reduce hepatic inflammation, improve liver function, and decrease infection incidences which are deemed especially important in the case of acute-on-chronic liver failure (ACLF). Studies in patients with decompensated cirrhosis demonstrated that injection of BM-MSC resulted in an improvement of biochemical tests and led to a survival benefit in ACLF. Most of these studies were performed in hepatitis B virus infected patients. However, two adequately powered studies performed in Europe could not confirm these data. A possible alternative to mobilize BM-MSC into the liver is the use of granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF) which has proregenerative and immunomodulatory effects. In Indian studies, the use of G-CSF was associated with improvement of survival, although this finding could not be confirmed in European studies. Human allogeneic liver-derived progenitor cell therapy represents a potential treatment for ACLF, of which the main action is paracrine. These human liver-derived MSC can perform various functions, including the downregulation of proinflammatory responses. The clinical beneficial effect of these cells is further explored in patients with alcoholic cirrhosis and ACLF in Europe.

Characteristics and risk factors of urinary tract infection in patients with HBV-related acute-on-chronic liver failure: A retrospective study

Acute-on-chronic liver failure (ACLF) is a syndrome characterized by acute decompensation, organ failures, and high short-term mortality. Hepatitis B virus (HBV) is the main cause of liver failure in China. Urinary tract infection (UTI) is one of the common bacterial infections in patients with HBV-ACLF. However, few studies concerning the risk factors and epidemiology have been published. A retrospective analysis of 539 patients with HBV-ACLF was performed. The prevalence, bacterial profile, and antibiotic susceptibility pattern were investigated and associated risk factors of UTI in patients with HBV-ACLF were evaluated with a logistic regression model. The overall prevalence of UTI among the study participants was 26.53% (143/539), and 64.34% (92/143) of them were asymptomatic. One hundred thirty-five strains of bacteria, including 74.07% (100/135) gram-negative bacteria and 53.33% (72/135) multidrug-resistant organisms, were cultivated from 143 patients with HBV-ACLF. Escherichia coli 46.67% (63/135) and Klebsiella pneumoniae 13.33% (18/135) were the most common bacteria. The antibiotic susceptibility test pattern showed that 92.93%, 81.63%, and 81.63% of the gram-negative isolates were sensitive to imipenem, tigecycline, and piperacillin/tazobactam, respectively. Meanwhile, all the gram-positive isolates were sensitive to linezolid, teicoplanin, and vancomycin. Compared with non-UTI group, the patients with UTI had higher serum creatinine, lower educational status, total bilirubin, direct bilirubin, and albumin. Finally, educational status and albumin were independent risk factors in the prevalence of UTI in patients with HBV-ACLF. UTI is one of the common bacterial infections seen in patients with HBV-ACLF. Gram-negative bacteria account for the majority of cultured bacteria, and multidrug-resistant bacteria are common. UTI is determined by a diverse set of complex factors, which lower educational status and hypoalbuminemia predict the more prevalence of UTI.

Review of clinical characteristics, immune responses and regulatory mechanisms of hepatitis E-associated liver failure

Hepatitis E virus (HEV) is the most common cause of acute liver failure (LF) and one of the most common factors causing acute injury in acute-on-chronic LF (ACLF). When HEV-related LF occurs, a series of changes take place in both the intrahepatic environment and extrahepatic microenvironment. The changed types and distribution of immune cells (infiltrating macrophages and increased lymphocytes) in liver tissue, as well the increased proinflammatory cytokines and chemokines in the blood, indicate that the occurrence and progression of HEV-related LF are closely related to immune imbalance. The clinical features and immune reaction in the body during HEV-related acute LF (ALF) and ACLF are complicated. This review highlights recent progress in elucidating the clinical manifestations of HEV-associated ALF and ACLF and discusses the corresponding systemic immune changes and possible regulatory mechanisms.

Characteristics and risk factors of infections in patients with HBV-related acute-on-chronic liver failure: a retrospective study

Background

Acute-on-chronic liver failure (ACLF) is a syndrome characterized by acute decompensation, organ failures, and high short-term mortality whose main cause in China is the Hepatitis B virus (HBV). Moreover, one of the most important causes of morbidity and mortality in HBV-ACLF patients is bacterial infection. Therefore, we investigate the clinical features, risk factors, prophylaxis and management of infections in patients with HBV-ACLF.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective analysis of 539 patients with HBV-ACLF in Wuhan Tongji Hospital from October 2015 to May 2018. Differences among groups were compared with Student's t test, Mann-Whitney U test, χ² test, or Fisher exact test as appropriate. Univariate and Multivariate logistic regression analysis was used for modeling the relationship between infection and clinical characteristics of HBV-ACLF.

Results

In total 58.81% (317/539) of patients with HBV-ACLF became complicated with infections, and the most common types were spontaneous bacterial peritonitis, urinary tract infection and pulmonary infection. Additionally, 32.18% (102/317) of patients suffered multi-organ infections, and 95.73% (516/539) of patients received anti-infective therapy. We detected a total of 202 isolates in all infected patients, and Escherichia coli (36.14%, 73/202) was the most common causative organism. Moreover, antibiotic susceptibility test patterns showed that 52.97% (107/202) of pathogens were MDR bacteria and 4.95% (10/202) were XDR bacteria. Univariate analysis indicated that patients with infection had a higher proportion of females, taking alcohol, diuretics, hepatic encephalopathy (HE), hepatorenal syndrome (HS), cirrhosis, a long-time in bed and mechanical ventilation, lower prothrombin activity (PTA), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), albumin, total cholesterol (TC), estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), hemoglobin (Hb) and platelet (PLT) and higher age, model for end-stage liver disease (MELD) scores and ACLF grade than patients without infection. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that taking alcohol, HE, HS, cirrhosis, albumin and eGFR were risk factors for the development of infection.

Conclusions

Bacterial infections were very common in patients with HBV-ACLF. Taking alcohol, the occurrence of complications (HE, HS and cirrhosis), hypoalbuminemia and poor renal function often predict the higher prevalence of infections in patients with HBV-ACLF. It is important to focus on exploring the early recognition of infection and early intervention of those risk factors in patients with HBV-ACLF.

A prognostic model of acute-on-chronic liver failure based on sarcopenia

BACKGROUND

Acute-on-chronic liver failure (ACLF) is characterized by the development of a syndrome associated with a high risk of short-term death in patients with acute decompensated cirrhosis, and better indicators are needed to predict such outcomes. Sarcopenia, a common complication of cirrhosis, is closely associated with poor prognosis and increased mortality. In this study, the skeletal muscle index of ACLF patients was measured to determine whether sarcopenia combined with clinical parameters can aid in identifying those at high risk of progression.

METHODS

A total of 433 hospitalized patients with ACLF according to the APASL criteria were included and allocated into two groups: transplantation-free survival (n = 293) or progression (n = 140, 107 died; 33 underwent liver transplantation) within 90 days. Muscle mass was assessed based on the skeletal muscle index. The optimal cut-off value of the AMPAS1 model (age, MELD score, platelet count, alpha-fetoprotein level, sarcopenia, and more than one complication combination) for progression prediction was identified using receiver-operating characteristic (ROC) analysis.

RESULTS

Sarcopenia was an independent risk factor for progression in the ACLF population (HR 3.771 95% CI 2.114-6.727, p < 0.001). AMPAS1 was a good predictor, with an area under the ROC curve of 0.865, and the cut-off value for poor outcome prediction was 0.31 (sensitivity 79.4%, specificity 76.4%).

CONCLUSION

We demonstrate that sarcopenia is a simple and objective indicator for predicting short-term prognosis in patients with ACLF. Moreover, compared to conventional prognostic scores, AMPAS1 is a better model for predicting 90 day adverse outcomes in ACLF patients.

Relationship between the Level of Serum Golgi Protein 73 and the Risk of Short-term Death in Patients with ALD-ACLF

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

As a hepatocellular carcinoma biomarker, serum Golgi protein 73 (GP73) is reportedly related to inflammation. Acute-on-chronic liver failure (ACLF) is characterized by severe systemic inflammation. In this study, we aimed to explore the association between the GP73 level and short-term mortality in patients with alcohol-associated liver disease-related ACLF (ALD-ACLF).

METHODS

This retrospective cohort study involved 126 Chinese adults with ALD-ACLF. Baseline serum GP73 level was measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Patients were followed-up for 90 d and outcomes were assessed. Data were analyzed using multivariate Cox regression and piecewise linear regression analyses. The predictive value of GP73 and classic models for the short-term prognosis of participants were evaluated and compared using receiver operating characteristic curves.

RESULTS

The serum GP73 level was independently associated with an increased mortality risk in patients with ALD-ACLF. Compared with the lowest tertile, the highest serum GP73 level predisposed patients with ALD-ACLF to a higher mortality risk in the fully adjusted model [at 28 days: hazard ratio (HR): 4.29 (0.99-18.54), p=0.0511; at 90 days: HR: 3.52 (1.15-10.79), p=0.0276]. Further analysis revealed a positive linear association. GP73 significantly improved the accuracy of the Child-Turcotte-Pugh score, model for end-stage liver disease score, and model for end-stage liver disease-sodium score in predicting short-time prognosis of patients with ALD-ACLF.

CONCLUSIONS

The serum GP73 level is a significant predictor of the subsequent risk of death in patients with ALD-ACLF. GP73 improved the predictive value of classic prognostic scores.

Outcomes of living-donor liver transplantation for acute-on-chronic liver failure based on newly proposed criteria in Japan

AIM

Recently, new diagnostic criteria for acute-on-chronic liver failure (ACLF) were established in Japan. However, there is little evidence regarding the feasibility of classifying patients undergoing living-donor liver transplantation (LDLT). The aim was to re-evaluate the impact of these new diagnostic criteria on ACLF and the severity classification of patients undergoing LDLT.

METHODS

We collected data of 82 recipients who underwent LDLT for liver failure between 1997 and 2020 and reviewed it retrospectively.

RESULTS

Of the 82 patients with liver failure, 31 (37.8%) were diagnosed with ACLF; Grade 0 (n = 6), Grade 1 (n = 7), Grade 2 (n = 9), and Grade 3 (n = 9). There was no substantial difference in overall survival (OS) and the occurrence of postoperative complications between liver failure patients with and without ACLF. The OS after LDLT was significantly different among the four groups of ACLF patients (P = .036). Interestingly, ACLF Grade 3 patients had substantially lower OS compared to other ACLF groups even after LDLT (P = .006; 5-year OS rates, 33.3% vs. 85.9%).

CONCLUSION

Proper use of the new diagnostic criteria for ACLF in Japan demonstrated that the presence and severity of ACLF, especially the presence of multiple organ failures, leads to morbidity and mortality even in an LDLT setting. Considering that the patients with ACLF Grade 3 do not have the favorable outcomes of LDLT, deceased-donor liver transplantation usage, or LDLT before reaching the severity of Grade 3 may be suitable for further research.