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Kjærgaard K, Frisch K, Sørensen M, Munk OL, Hofmann AF, Horsager J, Schacht AC, Erickson M, Shapiro D, Keiding S. Obeticholic acid improves hepatic bile acid excretion in patients with primary biliary cholangitis. J Hepatol 2021; 74:58-65. [PMID: 32717289 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2020.07.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2020] [Revised: 07/01/2020] [Accepted: 07/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Obeticholic acid (OCA) is an agonist of the nuclear bile acid receptor farnesoid X receptor, which regulates hepatic bile acid metabolism. We tested whether OCA treatment would influence hepatic transport of conjugated bile acids in patients with primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) who responded inadequately to treatment with ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA). METHODS Eight UDCA-treated patients with PBC with alkaline phosphatase ≥1.5 times the upper limit of normal range participated in a double-blind, placebo-controlled study. While continuing on UDCA, the patients were randomised to two 3-month crossover treatment periods with placebo and OCA, in random order, separated by a 1-month washout period without study treatment. After each of the two treatment periods, we determined rate constants for transport of conjugated bile acids between blood, hepatocytes, biliary canaliculi, and bile ducts by positron emission tomography of the liver using the conjugated bile acid tracer [N-methyl-11C]cholylsarcosine (11C-CSar). The hepatic blood perfusion was measured using infusion of indocyanine green and Fick's principle. RESULTS Compared with placebo, OCA increased hepatic blood perfusion by a median of 11% (p = 0.045), the unidirectional uptake clearance of 11C-CSar from blood into hepatocytes by a median of 11% (p = 0.01), and the rate constant for secretion of 11C-CSar from hepatocytes into biliary canaliculi by a median of 73% (p = 0.03). This resulted in an OCA-induced decrease in the hepatocyte residence time of 11C-CSar by a median of 30% (p = 0.01), from group median 11 min to 8 min. CONCLUSIONS This study of UDCA-treated patients with PBC showed that, compared with placebo, OCA increased the hepatic transport of the conjugated bile acid tracer 11C-CSar, and thus endogenous conjugated bile acids, from hepatocytes into biliary canaliculi. As a result, OCA reduced the time hepatocytes are exposed to potentially cytotoxic bile acids. LAY SUMMARY Primary biliary cholangitis is a chronic liver disease in which the small bile ducts are progressively destroyed. We tested whether the treatment with obeticholic acid (OCA) would improve liver excretion of bile acids compared with placebo in 8 patients with primary biliary cholangitis. A special scanning technique (PET scan) showed that OCA increased the transport of bile acids from blood to bile. OCA thereby reduced the time that potentially toxic bile acids reside in the liver by approximately one-third.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristoffer Kjærgaard
- Department of Hepatology & Gastroenterology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark; Department of Nuclear Medicine & PET Centre, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Kim Frisch
- Department of Nuclear Medicine & PET Centre, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Michael Sørensen
- Department of Hepatology & Gastroenterology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark; Department of Nuclear Medicine & PET Centre, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Ole Lajord Munk
- Department of Nuclear Medicine & PET Centre, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Alan Frederick Hofmann
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, University of California at San Diego, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Jacob Horsager
- Department of Nuclear Medicine & PET Centre, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Anna Christina Schacht
- Department of Nuclear Medicine & PET Centre, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | | | | | - Susanne Keiding
- Department of Hepatology & Gastroenterology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark; Department of Nuclear Medicine & PET Centre, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark.
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Sanjel B, Shim WS. Recent advances in understanding the molecular mechanisms of cholestatic pruritus: A review. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Basis Dis 2020; 1866:165958. [PMID: 32896605 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbadis.2020.165958] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2020] [Revised: 08/21/2020] [Accepted: 09/01/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Cholestasis, a condition characterized by an abnormal decrease in bile flow, is accompanied by various symptoms such as pruritus. Although cholestatic pruritus is a prominent condition, its precise mechanisms have largely been elusive. Recently, advancements have been made for understanding the etiology and pathogenesis of cholestatic pruritus. The current review therefore focuses on summarizing the overall progress made in the elucidation of its molecular mechanisms. We have reviewed the available animal models on cholestasis to compare the differences between them, characterized potential pruritogens involved in cholestatic pruritus, and have summarized the receptor and ion channels implicated in the condition. Finally, we have discussed the available treatment options for alleviation of cholestatic pruritus. As our understanding of the mechanisms of cholestatic pruritus deepens, novel strategies to cure this condition are awaited.
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Affiliation(s)
- Babina Sanjel
- College of Pharmacy, Gachon University, Hambakmoero 191, Yeonsu-gu, Incheon 21936, Republic of Korea; Gachon Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hambakmoero 191, Yeonsu-gu, Incheon 21936, Republic of Korea
| | - Won-Sik Shim
- College of Pharmacy, Gachon University, Hambakmoero 191, Yeonsu-gu, Incheon 21936, Republic of Korea; Gachon Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hambakmoero 191, Yeonsu-gu, Incheon 21936, Republic of Korea.
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3
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Bergasa NV. The pruritus of cholestasis: From bile acids to opiate agonists: Relevant after all these years. Med Hypotheses 2018; 110:86-89. [DOI: 10.1016/j.mehy.2017.11.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2017] [Accepted: 11/05/2017] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
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Hegade VS, Bolier R, Oude Elferink RPJ, Beuers U, Kendrick S, Jones DEJ. A systematic approach to the management of cholestatic pruritus in primary biliary cirrhosis. Frontline Gastroenterol 2016; 7:158-166. [PMID: 28839853 PMCID: PMC5369477 DOI: 10.1136/flgastro-2015-100618] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2015] [Revised: 07/24/2015] [Accepted: 08/04/2015] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Pruritus (itch) is an important symptom of primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC), an archetypal cholestatic liver disease. Cholestatic pruritus can be a debilitating symptom causing significant deterioration in patients' quality of life. Effective management of pruritus in PBC involves awareness among clinicians to adequately assess its severity, and treatment with specific drug therapies in line with current practice guidelines. In PBC, antipruritic drugs are not universally effective and/or have significant side effects, and despite best efforts with various combinations of drugs, some patients remain significantly symptomatic, eventually opting for invasive or experimental treatments. Therefore, there is a clear unmet need for better alternative treatments for patients with refractory or intractable cholestatic pruritus. Recent advances in the understanding of pathogenesis of cholestatic pruritus and bile acid physiology have raised hopes for novel therapies, some of which are currently under trial. In this review, we aim to provide a practical guide to the management of this important and complex problem, discussing current knowledge and recent advances in the pathogenesis, summarise the evidence base for available therapeutic approaches and update potential novel future therapies for the management of pruritus in PBC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vinod S Hegade
- Faculty of Medical Sciences, Institute of Cellular Medicine, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Ruth Bolier
- Tytgat Institute for Liver and Intestinal Research, Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Ronald PJ Oude Elferink
- Tytgat Institute for Liver and Intestinal Research, Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Ulrich Beuers
- Tytgat Institute for Liver and Intestinal Research, Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Stuart Kendrick
- GlaxoSmithKline Research and Development, Medicines Research Centre, Stevenage, Hertfordshire, UK
| | - David EJ Jones
- Faculty of Medical Sciences, Institute of Cellular Medicine, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
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5
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Receptors, cells and circuits involved in pruritus of systemic disorders. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Basis Dis 2014; 1842:869-92. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbadis.2014.02.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2013] [Revised: 02/16/2014] [Accepted: 02/18/2014] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
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Hagey LR, Krasowski MD. Microbial biotransformations of bile acids as detected by electrospray mass spectrometry. Adv Nutr 2013; 4:29-35. [PMID: 23319120 PMCID: PMC3648736 DOI: 10.3945/an.112.003061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Many current experiments investigating the effects of diet, dietary supplements, and pre- and probiotics on the intestinal environments do not take into consideration the potential for using bile salts as markers of environmental change. Intestinal bacteria in vertebrates can metabolize bile acids into a number of different structures, with deamidation, hydroxyl group oxidation, and hydroxyl group elimination. Fecal bile acids are readily available to sample and contain a considerable structural complexity that directly relates to intestinal morphology, bile acid residence time in the intestine, and the species of microbial forms in the intestinal tract. Here we offer a classification scheme that can serve as an initial guide to interpret the different bile acid patterns expressed in vertebrate feces.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lee R. Hagey
- Department of Medicine, University of California at San Diego, CA; and,To whom correspondence should be addressed: E-mail:
| | - Matthew D. Krasowski
- Department of Pathology, University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, Iowa City, IA
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Kremer AE, Oude Elferink RPJ, Beuers U. [Cholestatic pruritus : new insights into pathophysiology and current treatment]. Hautarzt 2012; 63:532-8. [PMID: 22733242 DOI: 10.1007/s00105-011-2321-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Pruritus is a common symptom of hepatobiliary disorders and may considerably diminish quality of life. Cholestatic pruritus exerts a circadian rhythm and is typically most severe in the evening hours and early at night. Itching is reported often to be most intense at the palms and the soles, but may also be generalized. The pathophysiological mechanisms of cholestatic pruritus have not been completely clarified. In the past, bile salts, histamine, progesterone metabolites and opioids have been discussed as potential causal substances; a correlation with itch intensity could never be proven. The enzyme autotaxin, which releases lysophosphatidic acid, has recently been identified as potential cholestatic pruritogen. Treatment aims to bind pruritogens in the gut lumen by resins such as cholestyramine, to modulate pruritogen metabolism by rifampicin and to influence central itch signaling by µ-opioid antagonists and selective serotonin re-uptake inhibitors. In cases of refractory pruritus experimental treatment options such as UV-therapy, extracorporeal albumin dialysis and nasobiliary drainage may be considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- A E Kremer
- Medizinische Klinik, Gastroenterologie, Hepatologie, Pneumologie und Endokrinologie, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Deutschland.
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Abstract
Pruritus is a troublesome complication in patients with cholestatic liver disease. Several links to its pathogenesis have been proposed, including the role of bile acids, endogenous opioid and serotonins, and lysophosphatidic acid. The management of pruritus in cholestasis is challenging. Medical treatment of the underlying cholestatic condition may provide benefit. Extracorporeal albumin dialysis can be pursued for those who have a poor quality of life and failed the various therapeutic interventions, while awaiting liver transplantation. Experimental interventions, and the management of pruritus in certain conditions such as intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy and benign recurrent intrahepatic cholestasis, are also briefly reviewed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chalermrat Bunchorntavakul
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, USA
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Pruritus is a frequent symptom in patients with cholestatic liver diseases. Itching may be excruciating, may seriously impair quality of life and even induce suicidal ideation in the most severe cases. RECENT FINDINGS The molecular mechanism of itch signal transduction in cholestasis is largely unclear. It may be caused or potentiated by compounds that accumulate in the circulation during cholestasis, which either directly or indirectly affect signalling in itch fibres. In the past, bile salts and endogenous opioids have been proposed but never been proven to be key factors in itch perception during cholestasis. We have performed a screen for compounds in plasma from patients with various cholestatic conditions for their capacity to activate neuronal cell lines. In these sera, we could identify a potent neuronal activator as lysophosphatidic acid (LPA). LPA is a very potent signalling phospholipid that can activate cells through various LPA receptors. Quite strikingly, samples from itchy cholestatic patients contained higher amounts of LPA. These increased levels of LPA turned out to be caused by elevated levels of serum autotaxin, the enzyme that converts lysophosphatidylcholine into LPA. This is a striking finding, as autotaxin has never been connected to itch perception thus far. We have also shown that LPA, when injected intradermally, caused scratching behaviour in mice. SUMMARY On the basis of our results, we hypothesize that during cholestasis expression of autotaxin is induced, which gives rise to increased local formation of LPA near unmyelinated nerve endings of itch fibres. LPA activates these neurons through one of the LPA receptors, which in turn potentiates action potentials along itch fibres leading to the perception of pruritus.
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Kremer AE, Oude Elferink RPJ, Beuers U. Pathophysiology and current management of pruritus in liver disease. Clin Res Hepatol Gastroenterol 2011; 35:89-97. [PMID: 21809485 DOI: 10.1016/j.clinre.2010.10.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Pruritus is frequently reported by patients with cholestatic hepatobiliary diseases such as primary biliary cirrhosis, primary sclerosing cholangitis, intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy and hereditary cholestatic syndromes, but may accompany almost any other liver disease. Increased concentrations of bile salts, histamine, progesterone metabolites or endogenous opioids have been controversially discussed as potential pruritogens in cholestasis in the past. Most recently, novel insights unravelled lysophosphatidic acid (LPA), a potent neuronal activator, as a potential pruritogen in pruritus of cholestasis. Nevertheless, the pathogenesis of pruritus in cholestasis is still not clearly defined and current antipruritic treatment strategies provide relief only in a part of the affected patients. Based on recent experimental and clinical findings, this review outlines the actual insight in pathogenesis of pruritus in cholestasis and summarizes evidence-based and experimental therapeutic interventions for cholestatic patients suffering from itch.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andreas E Kremer
- Tytgat Institute for liver and intestinal research, Department of gastroenterology and hepatology, Academic Medical Center, S1-164, University of Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 69-71, NL-1105 BK Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
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11
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Treatment of resistant pruritus from cholestasis with albumin dialysis: combined analysis of patients from three centers. J Hepatol 2010; 53:307-12. [PMID: 20580987 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2010.02.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 88] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2009] [Revised: 01/18/2010] [Accepted: 02/08/2010] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Albumin dialysis using molecular adsorbent recirculating system (MARS) is a new procedure for treating resistant pruritus from cholestasis, but it is usually published as a case report or a short series. Therefore, we analyzed patients with resistant pruritus treated with MARS from three centers, to assess the changes on pruritus and the indices of cholestasis. METHODS Twenty patients (12 female, mean age: 51+/-3.4 years) with chronic cholestatic liver disease or chronic liver-graft rejection were evaluated. The severity of pruritus was assessed using a visual analogue scale (VAS) before and after treatment, and 30 days thereafter. Liver tests, including total bilirubin, alkaline phosphatase, gamma-glutamyl-transferase, cholesterol, triglycerides, and total bile acid were also determined, as well as the number of sessions and the coupled procedure (dialysis or perfusion). RESULTS Albumin dialysis resulted in a decrease of pruritus (VAS: from 70.2+/-4.8 to 20.1+/-4.2, p<0.001), which partially resumed after 30 days (38.7+/-6.6). VAS decreased by 72% immediately after treatment and by 51% after 1 month. Pruritus decreased in all but one patient. MARS resulted in a significant bile acid decrease of 41% after treatment and by 37% after 1 month. The effect of MARS on pruritus and markers of cholestasis was similar in patients with different diseases and was independent of the coupled procedure. The improvement of pruritus in individuals was positive in 75% of patients. No major adverse effects were observed. CONCLUSIONS Albumin dialysis using MARS is an effective procedure for managing resistant pruritus in most patients with chronic cholestasis and graft rejection.
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Terán A, Fábrega E, Pons-Romero F. [Pruritus associated with cholestasis]. GASTROENTEROLOGIA Y HEPATOLOGIA 2009; 33:313-22. [PMID: 19836105 DOI: 10.1016/j.gastrohep.2009.07.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2009] [Accepted: 07/20/2009] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
Pruritus is commonly associated with cholestatic disorders and shows wide interindividual variability. The presence of skin lesions due to scratching and the application of a visual analogue scale are useful for clinical evaluation. Although the pathophysiology of this entity is not well understood, advances have recently been made in understanding of the pruritoceptive neural pathway, which shares certain similarities with the nociceptive pathway, although there are other distinguishing characteristics such as the action of a specific neurotransmitter, GPR, on the first synapsis at the posterior horn of the spinal cord. Amongst the modulator systems of the pruritoceptive pathway is the action of the endogenous opioids. An increase of these opioids in cholestatic situations is the most widely accepted hypothesis for pruritus in these patients. Some treatments have proven efficacy in randomized clinical trials in patients with cholestatic disorders, such as anion exchange resins, rifampicin, opioid antagonists and ursodeoxycholic acid; the latter is especially useful in intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alvaro Terán
- Servicio de Aparato Digestivo, Hospital Universitario Marqués de Valdecilla, Santander, Cantabria, España.
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Ziyun X, Junfen W, Shuang L, Xuejun C. Separation of ursodeoxycholic acid from its isomeric mixture using core–shell molecular imprinting polymer. Biochem Eng J 2008. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bej.2008.05.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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Abstract
Pruritus is a symptom experienced by patients who have primary biliary cirrhosis. It seems to result from pruritogens that (as a result of cholestasis) accumulate in plasma and other tissues, and which lead to altered neurotrasnmission. Administration of medications that change opioid neurotransmission (ie, opiate antagonists) results in relief of pruritus and its behavioral manifestation, scratching. Through unknown mechanisms, other centrally acting medications, including antidepressants, may have ameliorating effects on the pruritus of cholestasis. Stimulating endogenous detoxification pathways in the liver may also lead to the amelioration of pruritus. The removal of pruritogens through administration of nonabsorbable resins, nasobiliary drainage, biliary diversion, plasmapheresis, and various dialysis procedures is reported to decrease pruritus in liver disease, although the substances that are presumably removed are unknown.
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Silvagni E, Colì L, Stagni B, Stefoni S, Bolondi L. A case of intractable pruritus in Turner's syndrome successfully treated with molecular adsorbent recirculating system. Intern Emerg Med 2008; 3:65-7. [PMID: 18273566 DOI: 10.1007/s11739-008-0094-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2006] [Accepted: 12/01/2006] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
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Affiliation(s)
- Nora V Bergasa
- Division of Hepatology, State University of New York at Downstate, Box 50, Brooklyn, NY 11203, USA.
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Parés A, Cisneros L, Salmerón JM, Caballería L, Mas A, Torras A, Rodés J. Extracorporeal albumin dialysis: a procedure for prolonged relief of intractable pruritus in patients with primary biliary cirrhosis. Am J Gastroenterol 2004; 99:1105-10. [PMID: 15180733 DOI: 10.1111/j.1572-0241.2004.30204.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 80] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Pruritus is a distressing symptom in patients with primary biliary cirrhosis, and when uncontrollable it is an indication for liver transplantation. Since pruritus can result from unknown substances that accumulate systemically as a consequence of impaired biliary secretion, we have assessed whether a new extracorporeal albumin dialysis (ECAD) procedure, the molecular-adsorbing recirculating system-MARS, has any effect on pruritus of cholestasis. METHODS Four patients with primary biliary cirrhosis and resistant pruritus were treated with two 7-h ECAD sessions 1 day apart. Pruritus was recorded from 15 days before the first session, before and after each session, and during the follow-up using a visual analogue scale (VAS). Standard liver tests as well as serum bile acid levels were also measured. RESULTS There was a clear association between ECAD treatment and relief of itching, which promptly disappeared in two patients, or decreased markedly in the other two. One patient was free of pruritus for 18 months except for short periods with mild pruritus. The second patient experienced amelioration of itching, which almost disappeared completely and recurred mildly 4 months later. In the other two patients pruritus was alleviated markedly after ECAD but gradually recurred. These two patients were treated again 9 and 7 months later with favorable effects on pruritus. The scratching skin lesions improved or disappeared in parallel with the alleviation of itching. The albumin dialysis procedure did not result in liver test changes, except for circulating bile acids, which decreased in all the patients. No significant adverse effects were observed. CONCLUSIONS The ECAD procedure seems to be an effective alternative for the treatment of patients with pruritus of cholestasis who do not respond to other therapeutic methods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Albert Parés
- Liver Unit, Institut Clínic de Malalties Digestives, Hospital Clínic, Barcelona, Spain
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Reuben A. Old Scratch. Hepatology 2004; 39:870-4. [PMID: 14999716 DOI: 10.1002/hep.20136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/07/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Adrian Reuben
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, USA
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Abstract
Pruritus and fatigue are the most common symptoms of patients with PBC, and both have marked negative impact on quality of life. Over the past decade, evidence has emerged supporting a role of the central nervous system in the pathogenesis of these two common manifestations of PBC. There is no evidence that the pruritus of cholestasis is mediated in the skin. Clinical and laboratory data do support a role of the opioid neurotransmitter system in the mediation of the pruritus of cholestasis; a central mechanism has been proposed. Treatment with opiate antagonist is thus a specific alternative. Studies of the behavioral consequence of the pruritus of cholestasis, scratching activity, allow for the design of clinical trials with objective end-points. The etiology of fatigue is unknown. A central component is being considered. The identification of objective alterations in fatigue and the adoption of a definition that incorporates the perception and the behavioral consequences of fatigue should facilitate the development of objective methodology. The potential role of various neurotransmitter systems, including the serotonin system and the opioid system, in the mediation of the fatigue of PBC seems to merit further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nora V Bergasa
- Division of Digestive and Liver Diseases, College of Physicians and Surgeons of Columbia University, 630 West 168th Street, P & S 10-508, New York, NY 10032, USA.
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Abstract
Cholestasis results from defective canalicular secretion of bile or obstruction to bile flow distal to the canaliculus. In early primary biliary cirrhosis, bile secretion continues, because of the secretory pressure of bile or because some ductules are not obstructed. With complete cholestasis, a bile acid deficiency occurs in the small intestinal lumen leading to lipid maldigestion and fat-soluble vitamin malabsorption. Bacterial proliferation, bacterial translocation to lymph nodes and endotoxemia may also occur leading to an acute phase reaction. Retention of bile acids in the hepatocyte leads to apoptosis. Accumulation of bile acids in the systemic circulation leads to pruritus, and may contribute to endothelial injury in the lungs and kidney. Early attempts to mimic hepatic excretory function by hemoperfusion over adsorbent columns were unsuccessful for a variety of reasons. Extracorporeal dialysis against albumin offers promise of a realistic albeit partial simulation of hepatic excretory function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alan F Hofmann
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Diego, CA 92093, USA.
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Lorenzo-Zúñiga V, Bartolí R, Planas R, Hofmann AF, Viñado B, Hagey LR, Hernández JM, Mañé J, Alvarez MA, Ausina V, Gassull MA. Oral bile acids reduce bacterial overgrowth, bacterial translocation, and endotoxemia in cirrhotic rats. Hepatology 2003; 37:551-7. [PMID: 12601352 DOI: 10.1053/jhep.2003.50116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 236] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Experiments were performed to test whether conjugated bile acid administration would decrease bacterial overgrowth, bacterial translocation, and endotoxemia in ascitic cirrhotic rats. Cholylsarcosine, a deconjugation-dehydroxylation resistant and cholylglycine, a deconjugation-dehydroxylation susceptible bile acid were used. Rats with CCl(4)-induced cirrhosis and ascites were fed cholylsarcosine, cholylglycine (both at 70 mg/kg/d), or placebo for 2 weeks. Healthy rats, as controls, were treated similarly. In cirrhotic rats receiving placebo, bile secretion from an acute biliary fistula was lower than in healthy rats (27.2 +/- 6.5 vs. 53.0 +/- 3.1 microL/kg/min; mean +/- SE, P<.05). The administration of conjugated bile acids to cirrhotic rats normalized bile secretion (cholylsarcosine, 51.8 +/- 6.29; cholylglycine, 52.72 +/- 8.9 microL/kg/min). Total ileal bacterial content was 6-fold higher in ascitic cirrhotic rats than in healthy rats. Conjugated bile acid administration reduced bacterial content to normal levels. Bacterial translocation was less in cirrhotic animals receiving conjugated bile acids (cholylsarcosine, 33%; cholylglycine, 26%) than in animals receiving placebo (66%). Endotoxemia was decreased in cirrhotic rats by conjugated bile acid feeding (cholylsarcosine, 0.098 +/- 0.002; cholylglycine 0.101 +/- 0.007 EU/mL) compared with placebo (0.282 +/- 0.124, P <.001). Survival was greater in animals receiving conjugated bile acids (cholylsarcosine, 10/15; cholylglycine, 11/15; placebo, 5/15). In conclusion, the administration of conjugated bile acids to ascitic cirrhotic rats increased bile acid secretion, eliminated intestinal bacterial overgrowth, decreased bacterial translocation, decreased endotoxemia, and increased survival. Oral conjugated bile acids may be useful in preventing bacterial translocation, endotoxemia, and spontaneous bacterial perotonitis in cirrhotic patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vicente Lorenzo-Zúñiga
- Departments of Gastroenterology, Hospital Universitari Germans Trias i Pujol, Badalona, Barcelona, Spain
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22
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Affiliation(s)
- A F Hofmann
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Diego 92093-0813, USA;
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23
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Schlichting J, Leuschner U. Drug therapy of primary biliary diseases: classical and modern strategies. J Cell Mol Med 2001; 5:98-115. [PMID: 12067457 PMCID: PMC6737770 DOI: 10.1111/j.1582-4934.2001.tb00144.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- J Schlichting
- Medizinische Klinik II, Johann-Wolfgang Goethe Universität, Theodor-Stern-Kai 7, 60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany.
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24
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Abstract
Recent advances in cholestatic liver disease have occurred in several areas. Molecular cloning of hepatobiliary transport systems has resulted in the identification of the molecular basis of hereditary and acquired cholestatic syndromes. Apoptosis has been identified as an important mechanism of cholestatic liver injury and bile duct loss. New insights into the pathogenesis of pruritus and fatigue have resulted in new treatment strategies for these debilitating symptoms. Important new studies have been published about pathogenesis, clinical features, and treatment of primary biliary cirrhosis, primary sclerosing cholangitis, cholestasis of pregnancy, and drug-induced cholestasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Trauner
- Karl Franzens University School of Medicine, Graz, Austria
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25
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Gruy-Kapral C, Little KH, Fordtran JS, Meziere TL, Hagey LR, Hofmann AF. Conjugated bile acid replacement therapy for short-bowel syndrome. Gastroenterology 1999; 116:15-21. [PMID: 9869597 DOI: 10.1016/s0016-5085(99)70223-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Although fat malabsorption in the short-bowel syndrome is caused in part by decreased bile acid secretion, bile acid replacement therapy is not used because of the belief that ingested bile acids would worsen diarrhea, outweighing the benefits of improved fat absorption. This study compared the effect of a natural conjugated bile acid mixture from ox bile with that of cholylsarcosine, a synthetic conjugated bile acid, on fat absorption and diarrhea in a patient with the short-bowel syndrome. Cholylsarcosine is resistant to bacterial metabolism and has no cathartic activity. METHODS Metabolic balance studies and a clinical trial were performed in an emaciated patient with the short-bowel syndrome and ileostomy in whom parenteral nutrition could not be used. RESULTS In balance studies, conjugated bile acid replacement therapy with either preparation caused fat absorption to increase by approximately 40 g/day. Calcium absorption also increased. Neither bile acid product caused a clinically significant increase in ileostomy water output. During a 4-month outpatient trial, while the patient ingested 2 g/meal natural bile acids, her weight increased from 80 to 98 lb, without side effects. CONCLUSIONS Conjugated bile acid replacement therapy should be part of the armamentarium for the treatment of selected patients with the short-bowel syndrome.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Gruy-Kapral
- Department of Medicine, Baylor University Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, 75246, USA
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