Delayed paracentesis is associated with increased in-hospital mortality in patients with spontaneous bacterial peritonitis

Enhancing the accuracy and effectiveness of diagnosis of spontaneous bacterial peritonitis in cirrhotic patients: A machine learning approach utilizing clinical and laboratory data

PURPOSE

Spontaneous bacterial peritonitis (SBP) is a bacterial infection of ascitic fluid that develops naturally, without being triggered by any surgical conditions or procedures, and is a common complication of cirrhosis. With a potential mortality rate of 40 ​%, accurate diagnosis and prompt initiation of appropriate antibiotic therapy are crucial for optimizing patient outcomes and preventing life-threatening complications. This study aimed to expand the use of computational models to improve the diagnostic accuracy of SBP in cirrhotic patients by incorporating a broader range of data, including clinical variables and laboratory values.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

We employed 5 machine learning classification methods - Decision Tree, Support Vector Machine, Naive Bayes, K-Nearest Neighbor, and Random Forest, utilizing a variety of demographic, clinical, and laboratory features and biomarkers.

RESULTS

Ascitic fluid markers, including white blood cell (WBC) count, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), total protein, and polymorphonuclear cells (PMN), significantly differentiated between SBP and non-SBP patients. The Random Forest model demonstrated the highest overall accuracy at 86 ​%, while the Naive Bayes model achieved the highest sensitivity at 72 ​%. Utilizing 10 key features instead of the full feature set improved model performance, notably enhancing specificity and accuracy.

CONCLUSION

Our analysis highlights the potential of machine learning to enhance the accuracy of SBP diagnosis in cirrhotic patients. Integrating these models into clinical workflows could substantially improve patient outcomes. To achieve this, ongoing multidisciplinary research is crucial. Ensuring model interpretability, continuous monitoring, and rigorous validation will be essential for the successful implementation of real-time clinical decision support systems.

Infectious Complications of Portal Hypertension

Patients with cirrhosis and clinically significant portal hypertension are at high risk of developing bacterial infections (BIs) that are the most common trigger of acute decompensation and acute-on-chronic liver failure. Furthermore, after decompensation, the risk of developing BIs further increases in an ominous vicious circle. BIs may be subtle, and they should be ruled out in all patients at admission and in case of deterioration. Timely administration of adequate empirical antibiotics is the cornerstone of treatment. Herein, we reviewed current evidences about pathogenesis, clinical implications and management of BIs in patients with cirrhosis and portal hypertension.

The value of presepsin and procalcitonin as prognostic factors for mortality in patients with alcoholic liver cirrhosis and acute on chronic liver failure

Background: Acute on chronic liver failure (ACLF) is typically characterized by a rapid progression of liver failure in patients with liver cirrhosis and it is triggered by a precipitant factor, usually a bacterial infection (BI). Considering the low accuracy of the inflammation biomarkers in liver cirrhosis, presepsin and procalcitonin have demonstrated a good diagnostic performance for BI. Understanding the key prognostic factors that influence patient outcomes can significantly impact clinical decision-making and improve patient care in ACLF which can lead to lower mortality rates. Aim: To evaluate the prognostic factors associated with 30-day mortality in patients with alcohol-related liver cirrhosis and ACLF. Methods: This retrospective study on 227 patients diagnosed with ACLF and alcohol-related liver cirrhosis analyzed the prognostic role of presepsin and procalcitonin serum levels. Results: The survival analysis according to the grade of ACLF showed that more than 80% of patients with ACLF grade 1 survived after 30 days, with a mean estimated time of death of 29 ±0.44 days (95 % CI: 28.17-29.92) compared to ACLF grade 2 (24.9±1.064 days; 95 % CI: 22.82-26.99) and ACLF grade 3 (21.05±1.17 days; 95 % CI: 18.75-23.34), with a mean overall survival on entire cohort of 25.69±0.52 days (95 % CI: 24.65-26.73). Presepsin (OR: 4.008, CI 95:3.130-6.456, p=0.001) and procalcitonin (OR: 3.666, CI 95:2.312-5.813, p=0.001) were the most significant factors associated with 30-day mortality. In ACLF grade 2, presepsin provides a better prediction of mortality at the cutoff value of 1050 pg/mL (Sensitivity 72%, Specificity 69%) than procalcitonin (AUC=0.727 95% CI 0.594-0.860, p<0.002) whereas in ACLF grade 3, a cutoff of 1450 pg/mL (Sensitivity 89%, Specificity 91%) presepsin had a more significant accuracy of mortality prediction (AUC=0.93 95% CI 0.81-0.99, p<0.001) than procalcitonin (AUC=0.731 95% CI 0.655-0.807, p<0.001). Conclusion: ACLF is associated with a high mortality rate and the risk of death increases with the grade of ACLF. Presepsin and procalcitonin serum levels are good prognostic factors for 30-day mortality and should be used in clinical practice to stratify the risk and provide and early and efficient treatment in patients with ACLF.

Early Diagnostic Paracentesis Improves Outcomes of Hospitalized Patients With Cirrhosis and Ascites: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

INTRODUCTION

Diagnostic paracentesis is recommended for patients with cirrhosis admitted to the hospital, but adherence is suboptimal with unclear impact on clinical outcomes. The aim of this meta-analysis was to assess the outcomes of early vs delayed diagnostic paracentesis among hospitalized patients with cirrhosis and ascites.

METHODS

We searched multiple databases for studies comparing early vs delayed diagnostic paracentesis among hospitalized patients with cirrhosis and ascites. The pooled odds ratio (OR) and mean difference with confidence intervals (CIs) for proportional and continuous variables were calculated using the random-effects model. Early diagnostic paracentesis was defined as receiving diagnostic paracentesis within 12-24 hours of admission. The primary outcome was in-hospital mortality. Secondary outcomes were length of hospital stay, acute kidney injury, and 30-day readmission.

RESULTS

Seven studies (n = 78,744) (n = 45,533 early vs n = 33,211 delayed diagnostic paracentesis) were included. Early diagnostic paracentesis was associated with lower in-hospital mortality (OR 0.61, 95% CI 0.46-0.82, P = 0.001), length of hospital stay (mean difference -4.85 days; 95% CI -6.45 to -3.20; P < 0.001), and acute kidney injury (OR 0.62, 95% CI 0.42-0.92, P = 0.02) compared with delayed diagnostic paracentesis, with similar 30-day readmission (OR 1.11, 95% CI 0.52-2.39, P = 0.79). Subgroup analysis revealed consistent results for in-hospital mortality whether early diagnostic paracentesis performed within 12 hours (OR 0.51, 95% CI 0.32-0.79, P = 0.003, I2 = 0%) or within 24 hours of admission (OR 0.67, 95% CI 0.45-0.98, P = 0.04, I2 = 82%). Notably, the mortality OR was numerically lower when diagnostic paracentesis was performed within 12 hours, and the results were precise and homogenous ( I2 = 0%).

DISCUSSION

Findings from this meta-analysis suggest that early diagnostic paracentesis is associated with better patient outcomes. Early diagnostic paracentesis within 12 hours of admission may be associated with the greatest mortality benefit. Data from large-scale randomized trials are needed to validate our findings, especially if there is a greater mortality benefit for early diagnostic paracentesis within 12 hours.

A Machine Learning Algorithm Avoids Unnecessary Paracentesis for Exclusion of SBP in Cirrhosis in Resource-limited Settings

BACKGROUND & AIMS

Despite the poor prognosis associated with missed or delayed spontaneous bacterial peritonitis (SBP) diagnosis, <15% get timely paracentesis, which persists despite guidelines/education in the United States. Measures to exclude SBP non-invasively where timely paracentesis cannot be performed could streamline this burden.

METHODS

Using Veterans Health Administration Corporate Data Warehouse (VHA-CDW) we included patients with cirrhosis between 2009 and 2019 who underwent timely paracentesis and collected relevant clinical information (demographics, cirrhosis severity, medications, vitals, and comorbidities). XGBoost-models were trained on 75% of the primary cohort, with 25% reserved for testing. The final model was further validated in 2 cohorts: Validation cohort #1: In VHA-CDW, those without prior SBP who received 2nd early paracentesis, and Validation cohort #2: Prospective data from 276 non-electively admitted University hospital patients.

RESULTS

Negative predictive values (NPVs) at 5%,10%, and 15% probability cutoffs were examined. Primary cohort: n = 9643 (mean age, 63.1 ± 8.7 years; 97.2% men; SBP, 15.0%) received first early paracentesis. Testing-set NPVs for SBP were 96.5%, 93.0%, and 91.6% at the 5%, 10%, and 15% probability thresholds, respectively. In Validation cohort #1: n = 2844 (mean age, 63.14 ± 8.37 years; 97.1% male; SBP, 9.7%) with NPVs were 98.8%, 95.3%, and 94.5%. In Validation cohort #2: n = 276 (mean age, 56.08 ± 9.09; 59.6% male; SBP, 7.6%) with NPVs were 100%, 98.9%, and 98.0% The final machine learning model showed the greatest net benefit on decision-curve analyses.

CONCLUSIONS

A machine learning model generated using routinely collected variables excluded SBP with high NPV. Applying this model could ease the need to provide paracentesis in resource-limited settings by excluding those unlikely to have SBP.

Diagnostic Paracentesis Within 1 Day Is Associated With Reduced Mortality and Length of Hospital Stay in Patients with Cirrhosis and Ascites

Spontaneous bacterial peritonitis (SBP) is the most common infection in patients with cirrhosis and is associated with high mortality. Although recent literature reports mortality benefits to early diagnostic paracentesis, current guidelines do not offer specific recommendations for how quickly diagnostic paracentesis should be performed in patients with cirrhosis and ascites who are admitted to the hospital. Therefore, we conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to evaluate outcomes among patients admitted to the hospital with cirrhosis and ascites receiving paracentesis within ≤ 12, ≤ 1 day, and > 1 day. Eight studies with 116,174 patients were included in the final meta-analysis. The pooled risk of in-hospital mortality was significantly lower in patients who underwent early (≤ 12 h or ≤ 1 day) compared to delayed (> 12 h or > 1 day) paracentesis (RR: 0.69, p < 0.00001), and in patients who underwent paracentesis compared to no paracentesis (RR: 0.74, p < 0.00001). On subgroup analysis, in-hospital mortality was significantly lower in both paracentesis within ≤ 12 h (RR: 0.61, p = 0.02) vs. > 12 h, and within ≤ 1 day (RR: 0.70, p < 0.00001) vs. > 1 day. While there was a trend towards decreased mortality in those undergoing paracentesis within ≤ 12 h compared to ≤ 1 day, the difference did not reach statistical significance. The length of hospital stay was significantly shorter by 5.38 days in patients who underwent early (≤ 12 h) compared to delayed (> 12 h) paracentesis (95% CI 4.24-6.52, p < 0.00001). Early paracentesis is associated with reduced mortality and length of hospital stay. We encourage providers to perform diagnostic paracentesis in a timely manner, at least within 1 day of hospital admission, for all patients with cirrhosis and ascites.

Quality improvement project demonstrating a sustained increase in the assessment and sampling of ascites for hospitalised patients with cirrhosis

Objective

Using quality improvement techniques, we aimed to improve the rate of assessment and sampling of ascitic fluid for the purpose of diagnosing spontaneous bacterial peritonitis in patients with cirrhosis admitted to the hospitalist service of our institution.

Design/methods

Based on stakeholder needs assessment, we implemented interventions targeting provider knowledge, procedure workflows and clinical decision support. We analysed key metrics during preintervention (September-December 2020), intervention roll-out (January-April 2021), postintervention (May-September 2021) and sustainability (September-December 2022) periods for admissions of patients with cirrhosis to our hospitalist service at Maine Medical Center, a 700-bed tertiary-care academic hospital in Portland, Maine, USA.

Results

Among patients with cirrhosis admitted to our service, documentation of assessment for paracentesis increased from a preintervention baseline of 60.1% to 93.5% (p<0.005) postintervention. For patients with ascites potentially amenable to paracentesis, diagnostic paracentesis rate increased from 59.7% to 93% (p<0.005), with the rate of paracentesis within 24 hours increasing from 52.6% to 77.2% (p=0.01). These improvements persisted during our sustainability period. Complication rate was low (1.2%) across all study periods.

Conclusion

Our quality improvement project led to a sustained improvement in the identification of patients with cirrhosis needing diagnostic paracentesis and an increased procedure completion rate. This improvement strategy serves as a model for needed work toward closing a national performance gap for patients with cirrhosis.

Risk factors for pre-transplantation bacteremia in adults with end-stage liver disease: Effects on outcomes of liver transplantation

BACKGROUND AND AIM

Limited data are available regarding pre-liver transplantation (LT) bacteremia in adults with end-stage liver disease. In this study, we investigated the risk factors independently associated with pre-LT bacteremia and their effects on clinical outcomes of LT.

METHODS

This retrospective study performed between 2010 and 2021 included 1287 LT recipients. The study population was categorized into patients with pre-LT bacteremia and those without pre-LT infection. Pre-LT bacteremia was defined as bacteremia detected within 90 days before LT.

RESULTS

Among 1287 LT recipients, 92 (7.1%) developed pre-LT bacteremia. The mean interval between bacteremia and LT was 28.3 ± 19.5 days. Of these 92 patients, seven (7.6%) patients died after LT. Of the 99 microorganisms isolated in this study, gram-negative bacteria were the most common microbes (72.7%). Bacteremia was mainly attributed to spontaneous bacterial peritonitis. The most common pathogen isolated was Escherichia coli (25.2%), followed by Klebsiella pneumoniae (18.2%), and Staphylococcus aureus (15.1%). Multivariate analysis showed that massive ascites (adjusted odds ratio [OR] 1.67, 95% confidence Interval [CI] 1.048-2.687) and a prolonged international normalized ratio for prothrombin time (adjusted OR 1.13, 95% CI 1.074-1.257) were independent risk factors for pre-LT bacteremia in patients with end-stage liver disease. Intensive care unit and in-hospital stay were significantly longer, and in-hospital mortality was significantly higher among LT recipients with pre-LT bacteremia than among those without pre-LT infection.

CONCLUSIONS

This study highlights predictors of pre-LT bacteremia in patients with end-stage liver disease. Pre-LT bacteremia increases the post-transplantation mortality risk.

A randomized study of ceftriaxone for the prevention of infections in hospitalized patients with advanced cirrhosis

BACKGROUND

Infections frequently complicate hospital admission among patients with cirrhosis and are associated with adverse outcomes. In specific settings, administration of prophylactic antibiotics has been shown to improve outcomes. In this pilot study, we aimed to assess the feasibility of a randomized study of whether prophylactic ceftriaxone (CTX), administered to hospitalized patients with advanced cirrhosis (Model for End-Stage Liver Disease-Sodium ≥ 18) without known infection, could reduce the incidence of infection. We also sought to determine whether we could identify patients most likely to benefit through the use of clinical and laboratory parameters.

METHODS

Hospitalized patients with cirrhosis, with Model for End-Stage Liver Disease-Sodium ≥ 18 and no known infection after evaluation, were randomly assigned in a double-blinded fashion to receive either CTX 1 gr/day or placebo for up to 7 days. Subjects were monitored for incident infection and other outcomes of interest, including adverse reactions such as the development of C. difficile infection. Biomarkers of interest, including C-reactive protein and procalcitonin, were measured before initiation of treatment.

RESULTS

Thirty subjects were enrolled and received CTX or placebo (15 subjects each) per protocol. There were no observed statistically significant differences between groups in incidence of infection, mortality, length of stay, or key laboratory parameters, including C-reactive protein and procalcitonin. Adverse events related to treatment were rare and clinically of minor significance.

CONCLUSIONS

Overall, enrollment of subjects proved feasible, and results from this pilot study, while inadequate for confirmation of the potential efficacy of CTX, provide evidence of study feasibility for future, more definitive clinical trials.

Controversies Surrounding Albumin Use in Sepsis: Lessons from Cirrhosis

This narrative review critically examines the role of albumin in sepsis management and compares it to its well-established application in liver cirrhosis. Albumin, a key plasma protein, is effective in the management of fluid imbalance, circulatory dysfunction, and inflammation-related complications. However, its role in sepsis is more intricate and characterized by ongoing debate and varied results from clinical studies. In sepsis, the potential benefits of albumin include maintaining vascular integrity and modulating inflammation, yet its consistent clinical efficacy is not as definitive as that in cirrhosis. This review evaluated various clinical trials and evidence, highlighting their limitations and providing practical insights for clinicians. It emphasizes identifying sepsis patient subgroups that are most likely to benefit from albumin therapy, particularly exploring the correction of hypoalbuminemia. This condition, which is significantly corrected in patients with cirrhosis, may have similar therapeutic advantages in sepsis. The potential effectiveness of albumin in the low-volume resuscitation and deresuscitation phases of sepsis management was noted. Given the safety concerns observed in cirrhosis, such as pulmonary edema and hypervolemia associated with albumin therapy, cautious integration of albumin into sepsis treatment is mandatory. Personalized albumin therapy is advocated for tailoring strategies to the specific needs of each patient, based on their clinical presentation and underlying conditions. The need for further research to delineate the role of albumin in sepsis pathophysiology is underscored. The review emphasizes the importance of conducting trials to assess the effectiveness of albumin in correcting hypoalbuminemia in sepsis, its impact on patient outcomes, and the establishment of appropriate dosing and administration methods. This approach to albumin use in sepsis management is posited as a way to potentially improve patient outcomes in this complex clinical scenario while being mindful of the lessons learned from its use in cirrhosis.

Albumin administration in internal medicine: A journey between effectiveness and futility

Albumin is the most abundant circulating protein and provides about 70% of the plasma oncotic power. The molecule also carries many other biological functions (binding, transport and detoxification of endogenous and exogenous compounds, antioxidation, and modulation of inflammatory and immune responses). Hypoalbuminemia is a frequent finding in many diseases, representing usually only a biomarker of poor prognosis rather than a primary pathophysiological event. Despite that, albumin is prescribed in many conditions based on the assumption that correction of hypoalbuminemia would lead to clinical benefits for the patients. Unfortunately, many of these indications are not supported by scientific evidence (or have been even disproved), so that a large part of albumin use is nowadays still inappropriate. Decompensated cirrhosis is the clinical area where albumin administration has been extensively studied and solid recommendations can be made. Besides prevention and treatment of acute complications, long-term albumin administration in patients with ascites has emerged in the last decade has a potential new disease-modifying treatment. In non-hepatological settings, albumin is widely used for fluid resuscitation in sepsis and critical illnesses, with no clear superiority over crystalloids. In many other conditions, scientific evidence supporting albumin prescription is weak or even absent. Thus, given its high cost and limited availability, action is needed to avoid the use of albumin for inappropriate and futile indications to ensure its availability in those conditions for which albumin has been demonstrated to have a real effectiveness and an advantage for the patient.

[Complications of liver cirrhosis]

Liver cirrhosis is a chronic disease, progressing from a compensated and asymptomatic state to decompensated cirrhosis with the occurrence of multiple organ complications. This progression is accompanied by a significant increase of morbidity and mortality. Main complications include clinical manifestations of portal hypertension (ascites and varices) as well as consequences of liver insufficiency as hepatic encephalopathy. Besides, many other organ systems can be affected, as liver cirrhosis is today more and more seen as a multisystemic disease. Unfortunately, most therapy options of these complications are purely symptomatic, and the only curative treatment of advanced chronic liver disease is liver transplantation.

Circulating microRNAs improve bacterial infection diagnosis and overall survival prediction in acute decompensation of liver cirrhosis

Bacterial infections are the most frequent precipitating event in patients with acute decompensation of cirrhosis (AD) and are associated with high mortality. Early diagnosis is challenging due to cirrhosis-related systemic inflammation. Here we investigated the potential of circulating microRNAs to diagnose bacterial infections and predict survival in cirrhotic patients with AD. High throughput profiling of circulating microRNAs was performed using the Nanostring technology in 57 AD patients and 24 patients with compensated cirrhosis (CC). Circulating miRs profiling showed that: (a) miRs differentially detected in AD vs. CC were mostly down-regulated; (b) a composite score including absolute neutrophil count, C reactive protein and miR-362-3p could diagnose bacterial infection with an excellent performance (AUC of 0.825 [95% CI = 0.671-0.980; p < 0.001]); (c) a composite score including miR-382-5p, miR-592 and MELD-Na improved 6-month survival prediction. Circulating miRs are strongly dysregulated in patients with AD and may help to improve bacterial infection diagnosis and survival prediction.

Validation of a new simple scoring system to predict spontaneous bacterial peritonitis in patients with cirrhosis and ascites

BACKGROUND

Recently, a simple scoring system named the Mansoura scoring system was developed to predict spontaneous bacterial peritonitis (SBP) in patients with cirrhosis and ascites. However, the efficacy of this newly developed system has not been extensively investigated. We aimed to validate a new simple scoring system for the rapid diagnosis or exclusion of SBP without paracentesis.

METHODS

Adult patients with cirrhosis and ascites admitted to Cho Ray Hospital between November 2021 and May 2022 were included. The area under the receiver operating characteristic (AUROC) curve of the Mansoura simple scoring system for predicting SBP was calculated using the Stata software. Other independent laboratory tests for predicting SBP (C-reactive protein [CRP], neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio [NLR], and mean platelet volume [MPV]) were assessed and compared using the Mansoura scoring system.

RESULTS

A total of 121 patients were included in this study. The Mansoura scoring system showed good performance in predicting SBP in patients with cirrhosis and ascites (AUROC:0.89). At the cut-off ≥ 4 points, the scoring system achieved a specificity of 97.7% with a positive predictive value for the diagnosis of SBP of 93.5%. Multivariate analysis was performed using our data and showed that NLR, CRP level, and MPV were independent factors related to SBP.

CONCLUSION

The Mansoura scoring system demonstrated good performance in predicting SBP in patients with cirrhosis and ascites and may help guide management decisions.

Bacterial Infections in Acute on Chronic Liver Failure

Bacterial infections (BIs) are the most common precipitating event of acute-on-chronic liver failure (ACLF) and a frequent complication of ACLF. BIs aggravate the course of the syndrome and are associated with higher mortality rates. For this reason, BIs should be promptly diagnosed and treated in all patients with ACLF. The administration of an appropriate empirical antibiotic therapy improves survival in patients with BIs and ACLF and is the cornerstone of treatment. Due to the spread of antibiotic resistance worldwide, the empirical treatment should cover multi-drug-resistant organisms. Herein we reviewed the current evidence about the management of BIs in ACLF.

Management of Portal Hypertension in Patients with Acute-on-Chronic Liver Disease

Portal hypertension is central to the pathogenesis of complications of cirrhosis, including acute-on-chronic liver failure (ACLF). Both nonselective beta-blockers and preemptive transjugular portal-systemic stent shunt can lower portal pressure, reducing the risk of variceal bleeding, a known trigger for ACLF. However, in patients with advanced cirrhosis, both could potentially induce ACLF by causing hemodynamic instability and hepatic ischemia, respectively, and therefore must be used with caution. Lowering portal pressure with vasoconstrictor such as terlipressin can reverse the kidney failure but careful patient selection is key for success, with careful monitoring for complications.

Austrian consensus on the diagnosis and management of portal hypertension in advanced chronic liver disease (Billroth IV)

The Billroth IV consensus was developed during a consensus meeting of the Austrian Society of Gastroenterology and Hepatology (ÖGGH) and the Austrian Society of Interventional Radiology (ÖGIR) held on the 26th of November 2022 in Vienna.Based on international recommendations and considering recent landmark studies, the Billroth IV consensus provides guidance regarding the diagnosis and management of portal hypertension in advanced chronic liver disease.

Emergency medicine updates: Spontaneous bacterial peritonitis

INTRODUCTION

Spontaneous bacterial peritonitis (SBP) is a common infection in patients with cirrhosis and ascites and is associated with significant risk of mortality. Therefore, it is important for emergency medicine clinicians to be aware of the current evidence regarding the diagnosis and management of this condition.

OBJECTIVE

This paper evaluates key evidence-based updates concerning SBP for the emergency clinician.

DISCUSSION

SBP is commonly due to Gram-negative bacteria, but infections due to Gram-positive bacteria and multidrug resistant bacteria are increasing. The typical presentation of SBP includes abdominal pain, worsening ascites, fever, or altered mental status in a patient with known liver disease; however, some patients may be asymptomatic or present with only mild symptoms. Paracentesis is the diagnostic modality of choice and should be performed in any patient with ascites and concern for SBP or upper gastrointestinal bleeding, or in those being admitted for a complication of cirrhosis. Ultrasound should be used to optimize the procedure. An ascites absolute neutrophil count (ANC) ≥ 250 cells/mm³ is diagnostic of SBP. Ascitic fluid should be placed in blood culture bottles to improve the culture yield. Leukocyte esterase reagent strips can be used for rapid diagnosis if available. While many patients will demonstrate coagulation panel abnormalities, routine transfusion is not recommended. Management traditionally includes a third-generation cephalosporin, but specific patient populations may require more broad-spectrum coverage with a carbapenem or piperacillin-tazobactam. Albumin infusion is associated with reduced risk of renal impairment and mortality.

CONCLUSIONS

An understanding of literature updates can improve the care of patients with suspected SBP.

Delayed Diagnostic Paracentesis Is Associated with Increased Preventable Healthcare Utilization in Disadvantaged Patient Populations with Advanced Liver Disease and Elevated INR

BACKGROUND

Patients hospitalized with cirrhosis, ascites, and elevated INR often experience delays in timely diagnostic paracentesis.

AIMS

Identify whether delays in diagnostic paracentesis were associated with adverse outcomes in a hospital system serving a large disadvantaged population.

METHODS

Retrospective cohort analysis of patients admitted from January 2017 to October 2019 with cirrhosis, ascites, and INR ≥ 1.5 across a multi-hospital health system in central Texas. We examined demographic and clinical characteristics of patients with diagnostic paracentesis (1) ≤ 24 h; (2) > 24 h; (3) therapeutic only or no paracentesis. We used logistic regression to examine differences in clinical outcomes controlling for confounders.

RESULTS

479 patients met inclusion criteria. 30.0% (N = 143) were Latino, 6.7% (N = 32) African American, and 67.8% (N = 325) under or uninsured. 54.1% of patients received a diagnostic paracentesis ≤ 24 h of admission and 21.1% did not receive a diagnostic paracentesis during the hospitalization. Undergoing diagnostic paracentesis > 24 h of admission was associated with a 2.3 day increase in length of stay (95% CI 0.8-3.8), and OR 1.7 for an Emergency Room visit within 30 days of discharge (95% CI 1.1-2.7) compared to receiving a diagnostic paracentesis ≤ 24 h. Patients receiving diagnostic paracentesis in radiology were more likely to have a delay in procedure OR 5.8 (95% CI 2.8-8.6).

CONCLUSION

Delayed diagnostic paracentesis is associated with increased preventable healthcare utilization compared with timely diagnostic paracentesis. Health systems should support efforts to ensure timely diagnostic paracentesis for patients with advanced liver disease, including performance at the bedside.

Non-Invasive Methods for the Prediction of Spontaneous Bacterial Peritonitis in Patients with Cirrhosis

Spontaneous bacterial peritonitis (SBP) is a potentially fatal complication in patients with liver cirrhosis. Early diagnosis and prompt treatment of SBP are vital to shorten hospital stays and reduce mortality. According to society guidelines, patients with cirrhosis and ascites who are admitted to the hospital should have diagnostic paracentesis. However, for various reasons, paracentesis may be delayed or not performed. Therefore, recent research has focused on identifying non-invasive parameters useful in SBP prediction which require urgent antibiotic therapy if rapid and secure paracentesis is not possible or there is insufficient experience with this method. In this review, we discuss the non-invasive methods available to predict SBP.

The Usefulness of Mayo End-stage Liver Disease (MELD) and MELD-Sodium (MELD-Na) Scores for Predicting Mortality in Cirrhotic Patients With Spontaneous Bacterial Peritonitis

BACKGROUND

Spontaneous bacterial peritonitis (SBP) is a common infection in patients with cirrhosis and ascites. Currently, the accuracy of the model for end-stage liver disease (MELD) and MELD-sodium (MELD-Na) as prognostic scores in this cohort is unclear. This study aimed to evaluate and compare the accuracy of MELD and MELD-Na for predicting 90-day mortality and determine whether the mortality risk estimates they provide accurately reflect the poor prognosis of patients with SBP Methods: Patients with cirrhosis and SBP were retrospectively identified from ascitic fluid samples sent for microscopy, culture and sensitivity analysis (1/1/18-31/12/20) and a previous audit. MELD and MELD-Na scores at diagnosis were calculated and associations with 90-day mortality were assessed using univariate analysis. Receiver operator characteristic curves were compared, and standardised mortality ratios (SMRs) were calculated by comparing the number of deaths observed to the number predicted by MELD and MELD-Na.

RESULTS

Of the 567 patients identified, 15 patients with cirrhosis and SBP were included. The 90-day mortality rate was 66.7% (10/15). Only concurrent hyponatremia (<135mmol/L) was associated with mortality (6/10 non-survivors vs 0/5 survivors, p=0.04). The difference in MELD and MELD-Na's C-statistic was not significant: 0.66 (95% Cl:0.35-0.98) vs 0.74 (95% Cl:0.47-1.0) respectively (p=0.72). Patients with a MELD-Na >18.5 had significantly higher 90-day mortality than patients with MELD-Na ≤18.5 (88.9% (8/9) vs. 33.3% (2/6), p=0.05). The SMR (95% Cl) for each MELD decile evaluated was 33.3 (0-79.5), 11.1 (0.2-22.0) and 3.4 (0-7.0) for scores ≤9,10-19 and 20-29 respectively. For each MELD-Na tertile, these were: 25 (0-59.6), 5.2 (0.1-10.3) and 2.7 (0.1-8.1) for scores <17,17-26, ≥27 respectively.

CONCLUSION

In a small cohort of patients with cirrhosis and SBP, the MELD's accuracy in predicting 90-day mortality was limited. MELD-Na's accuracy was higher but not significantly. Both scores consistently underestimated participants' mortality, therefore future studies could evaluate the accuracy of alternative prognostic scores in this patient group.

Outcomes after hospitalisation with spontaneous bacterial peritonitis over a 13-year period: a retrospective cohort study

GOALS

Assess outcomes in patients with an index presentation of spontaneous bacterial peritonitis (SBP) over a 13-year period.

BACKGROUND

SBP, a bacterial infection of ascites, has a poor prognosis.

STUDY

Retrospective cohort study assessing mortality (standardised to 32 months) and prognostic factors in patients with SBP during two periods: period 1 (June 2006-November 2012) and period 2 (December 2012-May 2019).

RESULTS

The study included 178 patients who were followed up for 11.6 (29.2) months. Mortality was high, with 12-, 24- and 32-month survival being 32%, 26% and 24%, respectively. Inpatient mortality was 36% with mortality in those surviving hospitalisation being 62%. Serum creatinine at the time of SBP diagnosis was an independent predictor of mortality at 32 months [hazard ratio (HR) 1.002, P = 0.023] and inpatient mortality (HR 1.003, P = 0.035). Positive ascitic fluid culture and ascitic fluid neutrophil count were independent predictors of 32-month (HR 1.679, P = 0.008) and inpatient mortality (HR 1.0001, P = 0.005), respectively. Patients in period 2 had lower ascitic fluid albumin (5.9 ± 3.3 g/L vs. 10.8 ± 5.4 g/L, P < 0.001), higher ascitic fluid neutrophil count (815.0 cells/mm3 vs. 345.0 cells/mm3, P < 0.001) and higher rates of hepatorenal syndrome-acute kidney injury (58 vs. 35%, P = 0.002). Mortality at 32 months and mortality in those surviving hospitalisation were similar at 78 vs. 73%, P = 0.392 and 66 vs. 58%, P = 0.355, for periods 1 and 2, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Despite more advanced initial presentations, mortality rates have remained similar over the last 13 years. Serum creatinine at the time of SBP diagnosis is an independent predictor of mortality.

Impact of Bacteria Types on the Clinical Outcomes of Spontaneous Bacterial Peritonitis

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Cirrhotic patients presenting with spontaneous bacterial peritonitis (SBP) have elevated risk of short-term mortality. While high Model for End-Stage Liver Disease-Sodium score (MELD-Na) and ascites culture yielding multi-drug resistance (MDR) bacteria are well established risk factors for further aggravating mortality, the impact of individual, causative microorganisms and their respective pathogenesis have not been previously investigated.

METHODS

This is a retrospective study of 267 cirrhotic patients at two tertiary care hospitals undergoing paracentesis from January 2015 to January 2021 who presented with ascitic PMN count > 250 cells^/mm³. The primary outcome was SBP progression defined as death or liver transplantation within 1-month of paracentesis stratified by microorganism type.

RESULTS

Of 267 patients with SBP, the ascitic culture yielded causative microorganism in 88 cases [median age 57 years (IQR 52-64)]; 68% male; median MELD-Na 29 (IQR 23-35). The microbes isolated were E. coli (33%), Streptococcus (15%), Klebsiella (13%), Enterococcus (13%), Staphylococcus (9%) and others (18%); 41% were MDR. Cumulative incidence of SBP progression within 1-month was 91% (95% CI 67-100) for Klebsiella, 59% (95% CI 42-76) for E. coli, and 16% (95% CI 4-51) for Streptococcus. After adjusting for MELD-Na and MDR, risk of SBP progression remained elevated for Klebsiella (HR 2.07; 95% CI 0.98-4.24; p-value = 0.06) and decreased for Streptococcus (HR 0.28; 95% CI 0.06-1.21; p-value = 0.09) compared to all other bacteria.

CONCLUSION

Our study found Klebsiella-associated SBP had worse clinical outcomes while Streptococcus-associated SBP had the most favorable outcomes after accounting for MDR and MELD-Na. Thus, identification of the causative microorganism is crucial not only for optimizing the treatment but for prognostication.

Bedside ultrasonography prior to abdominal paracentesis is associated with low complication and high success rate: Experience in a National Health Service District General Hospital in the United Kingdom from 2013 to 2019

Aims/Background

To analyse data from a bedside ultrasound-assisted ascites procedure service in a National Health Service District General Hospital and compare them to results of studies in the medical literature.

Methods

A retrospective review of audit data collected (January 2013 to December 2019) of the practice of paracentesis in a National Health Service District General hospital. All adult patients referred to the ascites assessment service were included. Bedside ultrasound detected location and volume of ascites, if present. Abdominal wall diameters were determined in order to select the appropriate needle length for procedures. Results and scan images were recorded on a pro-forma. Patients who underwent a procedure were followed up for 7 days, with complications documented.

Results

Seven hundred and two scans were performed on 282 patients - 127 (45%) male and 155 (55%) female. In 127 (18%) patients, an intervention was avoided. Five hundred forty-five (78%) patients underwent a procedure: 82 (15%) were diagnostic aspirations and 463 (85%) were therapeutic (large volume) paracentesis. Most scans were performed between 08:00-17:00. Average time from patient assessment to diagnostic aspiration was 4 hours 21 minutes. Complications included three failed procedures (0.6%) and one iatrogenic peritonitis (0.2%), but no bowel perforation, no major haemorrhage or death.

Conclusion

It is possible to introduce a bedside ultrasound-assisted ascites procedure service to a National Health Service District General Hospital with a high success and low complication rate.

Cirrhosis and Portal Hypertension

Ascites is the most common complication of cirrhosis, with 5-year mortality reaching 30%. Complications of ascites (ie, spontaneous bacterial peritonitis, hepatorenal syndrome, recurrent/refractory ascites, and hepatic hydrothorax) further worsen survival. The development of ascites is driven by portal hypertension, systemic inflammation, and splanchnic arterial vasodilation. Etiologic treatment and nonselective beta-blockers can prevent ascites in compensated cirrhosis. The treatment of ascites is currently based on the management of fluid overload (eg, diuretics, sodium restriction, and/or paracenteses). In selected patients, long-term albumin use, norfloxacin prophylaxis, and transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt reduce the risk of further decompensation and improve survival.

Inpatient Hepatology Consultation

Cirrhosis is the end-stage of chronic liver disease and constitutes a leading cause of potential years of working life lost, especially in the Americas and Europe. Its natural history is characterized by an asymptomatic phase called compensated cirrhosis, followed by a rapidly progressive phase characterized by liver-related complications termed decompensated cirrhosis. Complications could be related to portal hypertension and/or liver dysfunction, including ascites, portal hypertensive gastrointestinal bleeding, encephalopathy, and jaundice. This review will discuss some of the most important precipitants of hepatic decompensation, including acute variceal bleeding, spontaneous bacterial peritonitis, and hepatic encephalopathy.

Disseminated Peritoneal Tuberculosis Initially Misdiagnosed as Nephrogenic Ascites

A middle-aged immigrant male from a region with endemic tuberculosis who had a history of end-stage kidney disease presented to the emergency room for routine hemodialysis and abdominal swelling. He was admitted to the medicine service for suggested daily dialysis to improve his volume overload, which was attributed to nephrogenic ascites. He was found to have several findings concerning for systemic illness, including fevers, night sweats, hypercalcemia, lymphadenopathy, omental thickening, ascitic fluid with a serum ascites albumin gradient of less than 1.1 gm/dL, and exudative pleural effusions. Our suspicion for hematologic malignancy versus disseminated infection was high. During admission, there were many diagnostic challenges in obtaining histologic and bacteriologic confirmation of our leading suspected diagnosis, disseminated tuberculosis. Ultimately, tuberculosis infection was confirmed with histologic evidence of granulomatous inflammation of cervical lymph node and sputum culture positive for Mycobacterium tuberculosis. This case highlights the necessity for every patient presenting with new ascites to undergo diagnostic paracentesis. Nephrogenic ascites is a rare syndrome that is possible in volume overloaded states but is a diagnosis of exclusion that should be supported by an exudative serum ascites albumin gradient and no evidence of an alternate etiology.

A Novel Machine Learning-Based Point-Score Model as a Non-Invasive Decision-Making Tool for Identifying Infected Ascites in Patients with Hydropic Decompensated Liver Cirrhosis: A Retrospective Multicentre Study

This study is aimed at assessing the distinctive features of patients with infected ascites and liver cirrhosis and developing a scoring system to allow for the accurate identification of patients not requiring abdominocentesis to rule out infected ascites. A total of 700 episodes of patients with decompensated liver cirrhosis undergoing abdominocentesis between 2006 and 2020 were included. Overall, 34 clinical, drug, and laboratory features were evaluated using machine learning to identify key differentiation criteria and integrate them into a point-score model. In total, 11 discriminatory features were selected using a Lasso regression model to establish a point-score model. Considering pre-test probabilities for infected ascites of 10%, 15%, and 25%, the negative and positive predictive values of the point-score model for infected ascites were 98.1%, 97.0%, 94.6% and 14.9%, 21.8%, and 34.5%, respectively. Besides the main model, a simplified model was generated, containing only features that are fast to collect, which revealed similar predictive values. Our point-score model appears to be a promising non-invasive approach to rule out infected ascites in clinical routine with high negative predictive values in patients with hydropic decompensated liver cirrhosis, but further external validation in a prospective study is needed.

Diagnostic and interventional EUS in hepatology: An updated review

EUS has become an increasingly used diagnostic and therapeutic modality in the armamentarium of endoscopists. With ever-expanding indications, EUS is being used in patients with liver disease, for both diagnosis and therapy. EUS is playing an important role in providing additional important information to that provided by cross-sectional imaging modalities such as computerized tomography and magnetic resonance imaging. Domains of therapy that were largely restricted to interventional radiologists have become accessible to endosonologists. From liver biopsy and sampling of liver lesions to ablative therapy for liver lesions and vascular interventions for varices, there is increased use of EUS in patients with liver disease. In this review, we discuss the various diagnostic and therapeutic applications of EUS in patients with various liver diseases.

Spontaneous Bacterial Peritonitis in Decompensated Liver Cirrhosis—A Literature Review

Background: Spontaneous bacterial peritonitis (SBP) is defined as a bacterial infection of the ascitic fluid without a surgically treatable intra-abdominal infection source. SBP is a common, severe complication in cirrhosis patients with ascites, and if left untreated, in-hospital mortality may exceed 90%. However, the incidence of SBP has been lowered to approx. 20% through early diagnosis and antibiotic therapy. Clinical awareness, prompt diagnosis, and immediate treatment are advised when caring for these patients to reduce mortality and morbidity. Aim: To discuss important issues comprising types of SBP, pathogenesis, bacteriology, including the emergence of multidrug-resistant (MDR) microorganisms, prompt diagnosis, risk factors, prognosis, treatment strategies, as well as recurrence prevention through antibiotic prophylaxis until liver transplantation and future trends in treating and preventing SBP in detail. Methods: This article is a literature review and appraisal of guidelines, randomized controlled trials, meta-analyses, and other review articles found on PubMed from between 1977 and 2022. Results: There are three types of SBP. Bacterial translocation from GI tract is the most common source of SBP. Therefore, two thirds of SBP cases were caused by Gram-negative bacilli, of which Escherichia coli is the most frequently isolated pathogen. However, a trend of Gram-positive cocci associated SBP has been demonstrated in recent years, possibly related to more invasive procedures and long-term quinolone prophylaxis. A diagnostic paracentesis should be performed in all patients with cirrhosis and ascites who require emergency room care or hospitalization, who demonstrate or report consistent signs/symptoms in order to confirm evidence of SBP. Distinguishing SBP from secondary bacterial peritonitis is essential because the conditions require different therapeutic strategies. The standard treatment for SBP is prompt broad-spectrum antibiotic administration and should be tailored according to community-acquired SBP, healthcare-associated or nosocomial SBP infections and local resistance profile. Albumin supplementation, especially in patients with renal impairment, is also beneficial. Selective intestinal decontamination is associated with a reduced risk of bacterial infection and mortality in high-risk group. Conclusions: The standard treatment for SBP is prompt broad-spectrum antibiotic administration and should be tailored according to community-acquired SBP, healthcare-associated or nosocomial SBP infections and local resistance profile. Since the one-year overall mortality rates for SBP range from 53.9 to 78%, liver transplantation should be seriously considered for SBP survivors who are good candidates for transplantation. Further development of non-antibiotic strategies based on pathogenic mechanisms are also urgently needed.

MCP1, CRP and Procalcitonin as Novel Diagnostic Markers in Cirrhotic Patients with Spontaneous Bacterial Peritonitis

Background & Aims:

The aim of the study was to evaluate serum c-reactive protein (CRP), ascitic procalcitonin (PCT) and monocyte chemotactic protein-1 (MCP-1) in the diagnosis of spontaneous bacterial peritonitis (SBP) in cirrhotic patients.

Methods:

A cross-sectional analytic study that included 199 patients with decompensated cirrhosis (101 with SBP and 98 without SBP). Patients were classified according to Child-Pugh criteria. Ascitic PCT and MCP-1 were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Serum CRP, liver and renal functions were assessed.

Results:

Three markers are significantly elevated in SBP patients than those without ascites. Using the ROC curve at AUC 0.883 and a cut-off value of >186 ng/ml, the diagnostic performance of ascitic MCP-1 level was higher than CRP (AUC 0.562) and ascitic fluid procalcitonin (AUC 0.751) in the diagnosis of SBP. The sensitivity and specificity were 86.15% and 79.59% at the cutoff of 186 ng/ml for MCP-1, 65.4 and 75.5 at ≥ 1 ng/ml for PCT, and 52.5 and 64.3, respectively for at 11.2 mg/dl CRP.

Conclusion:

Ascitic MCP-1 has a better diagnostic value with higher sensitivity and specificity in diagnosis SBP compared to CRP and procalcitonin which has higher diagnostic accuracy than CRP. Further studies with a large number will be necessary to evaluate the usefulness of these markers in diagnosis, follow-up and relation to morbidity and mortality of SBP patients.

Early thoracentesis correlated with survival benefit in patients with spontaneous bacterial empyema

BACKGROUND

Spontaneous bacterial empyema (SBEM) is a rare complication of hepatic hydrothorax characterized by hydrothorax infection in the absence of pneumonia.

AIMS AND METHODS

We conducted this study to compare clinical outcomes in SBEM patients who underwent early thoracentesis (ET) (≤ 24 h from presentation) versus those who underwent delayed thoracentesis (DT). All patients diagnosed with SBEM at Mayo Clinic Rochester, Minnesota from January 1st 1999 to December 31st 2020 were reviewed. Demographics, pleural fluid studies, laboratory results and clinical outcomes were analyzed.

RESULTS

A total of 54 SBEM patients (27 ET and 27 DT) were identified with 38 (70.4%) of patients presenting with right-sided effusions. Both groups had similar baseline characteristics. The rate of ICU admission was significantly higher in the DT group (15 (55.6%) vs. 7 (25.9%) patients, P = 0.027). Patients with DT had similar rate of AKI (11 (40.7%) vs. 6 (22.2%) patients, P = 0.074). In-hospital mortality (11 (40.7%) vs. 2 (7.4%) patients, P = 0.004), 3-month mortality (16 (59.3%) vs. 2 (7.4%) patients, P < 0.001) and 1-year mortality rate (21 (77.8%) vs. 6 (22.2%) patients, P < 0.001) were higher in the DT group.

CONCLUSION

Patients with SBEM who underwent thoracentesis after 24 h from presentation (DT) had higher rates of mortality and ICU admission compared to patients who received early thoracentesis. Thoracentesis should be performed early in patients with suspected SBEM since it may improve survival.

Characteristics and impact of bedside procedure services in the United States: A systematic review

BACKGROUND

Bedside procedure services are increasingly employed within internal medicine departments to meet clinical needs and improve trainee education. Published literature on these largely comprises single-center studies; an updated systematic review is needed to synthesize available data.

PURPOSE

This review examined published literature on the structure and function of bedside procedure services and their impact on clinical and educational outcomes (PROSPERO ID: 192466).

DATA SOURCES

Using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses framework, multiple databases were searched for publications from 2000 to 2021.

STUDY SELECTION, DATA EXTRACTION, AND DATA SYNTHESIS

Thirteen single-center studies were identified, including 12 observational studies and 1 randomized trial. Data were synthesized in tabular and narrative format. Services were typically staffed by hospitalists or pulmonologists. At a minimum, each offered paracentesis, thoracentesis, and lumbar puncture. While there was considerable heterogeneity in service structures, these broadly fit either Model A (service performing the procedure) or Model B (service supervising the primary team). Procedure services led to increases in procedure volumes and self-efficacy among medical residents. Assessment of clinical outcomes was limited by heterogeneous definitions of complication rates and by sparse head-to-head data involving suitable comparators. Published data pointed to high success rates, low complication rates, and high patient satisfaction, with a recent study also demonstrating a decreased length of stay.

CONCLUSIONS

There are relatively few published studies describing the characteristics of bedside procedure services and their impact on clinical and educational outcomes. Limited data point to considerable heterogeneity in service design, a positive impact on medical trainees, and a positive impact on patient-related outcomes.

Inadequate practices for hepatic encephalopathy management in the inpatient setting

Hepatic encephalopathy (HE) is an important complication of decompensated liver disease. Hospital admission for episodes of HE are very common, with these patients being managed by the hospitalists. These admissions are costly and burdensome to the health-care system. Diagnosis of HE at times is not straightforward, particularly in patients who are altered and unable to provide any history. Precipitants leading to episodes of HE, should be actively sought and effectively tackled along with the overall management. This mandates timely diagnostics, appropriate initiation of pharmacological treatment, and supportive care. Infections are the most important precipitants leading to HE and should be aggressively managed. Lactulose is the front-line medication for primary treatment of HE episodes and for prevention of subsequent recurrence. However, careful titration in the hospital setting along with the appropriate route of administration should be established and supervised by the hospitalist. Rifaximin has established its role as an add-on medication, in those cases where lactulose alone is not working. Overall effective management of HE calls for attention to guideline-directed nutritional requirements, functional assessment, medication reconciliation, patient education/counseling, and proper discharge planning. This will potentially help to reduce readmissions, which are all too common for HE patients. Early specialty consultation may be warranted in certain conditions. Numerous challenges exist to optimal care of hospitalized OHE patients. However, hospitalists if equipped with knowledge about a systematic approach to taking care of these frail patients are in an ideal position to ensure good inpatient and transition of care outcomes.

Rates of timely paracentesis for patients admitted to hospital with cirrhosis and ascites remain low but are unaffected by the COVID-19 pandemic

For the first 6 months of the novel coronavirus-19 (COVID-19) pandemic, the hospital medicine procedure service at our center was temporarily unavailable. We assessed paracentesis rates and clinical outcomes for patients admitted with cirrhosis and ascites before and during the COVID-19 pandemic. Two hundred and twenty-four and 131 patients with cirrhosis and ascited were admitted to hospital before and during COVID-19 respectively. Approximately 50.9% and 49.6% of patients underwent a paracentesis within 24 h pre- and mid-pandemic, p = .83. No differences were observed for length-of-stay or 30-day readmissions. GI consultation was associated with higher rates of paracentesis in both eras (p < .001 pre-COVID-19, and p = .01 COVID-19). Changes due to the COVID-19 pandemic did not result in changes to rates of timely paracentesis in patients admitted with cirrhosis and ascites. While involvement of gastroenterology may increase rates of paracentesis, further efforts are needed to optimize rates of timely paracentesis to positively impact clinical outcomes.

Nosocomial infections in female compared with male patients with decompensated liver cirrhosis

There are considerable differences between males and females regarding the etiology, progression and outcome of liver diseases. Infections are a frequent and severe complication in these patients. This study aimed to examine sex specific differences in the incidence and clinical course of nosocomial infections in patients with decompensated liver cirrhosis. A number of 556 consecutive hospitalized patients with decompensated liver cirrhosis and ascites were analyzed. The patients were followed up for the incidence of nosocomial infections, acute kidney injury (AKI), acute-on-chronic liver failure (ACLF) as well as liver transplantation and death (LTx-free survival). A number of 285 patients (111 women and 174 men) developed a nosocomial infection. Incidence was numerically lower in men (P = 0.076). While the frequency of a nosocomial spontaneous bacterial peritonitis was similar between males and females, the incidence of a nosocomial urinary tract infection was significantly higher in women (P < 0.001). No sex specific differences were documented regarding the outcome of an infection as indicated by a similar incidence of, AKI, ACLF as well as LTx-free survival. There seem to be no major differences in the incidence and outcome of nosocomial infections between male and female patients.

Immunomodulatory receptor VSIG4 is released during spontaneous bacterial peritonitis and predicts short-term mortality

BACKGROUND & AIMS

V-set Ig-domain-containing 4 (VSIG4) is an immunomodulatory macrophage complement receptor modulating innate and adaptive immunity and affecting the resolution of bacterial infections. Given its expression on peritoneal macrophages (PMs), we hypothesised a prognostic role of peritoneal VSIG4 concentrations in patients with spontaneous bacterial peritonitis (SBP).

METHODS

We isolated PMs from patients with cirrhosis and analysed VSIG4 expression and release by flow cytometry, quantitative real-time PCR, ELISA, and confocal microscopy. We measured soluble VSIG4 concentrations in ascites from 120 patients with SBP and 40 patients without SBP and investigated the association of soluble VSIG4 in ascites with 90-day survival after SBP using Kaplan-Meier statistics, Cox regression, and competing-risks regression analysis.

RESULTS

VSIG4 expression was high on resting, large PMs, which co-expressed CD206, CD163, and tyrosine-protein kinase Mer (MERTK). VSIG4 gene expression in PMs decreased in patients with SBP and normalised after resolution. During SBP, VSIG4hi PMs were depleted (25% vs. 57%; p <0.001) and soluble VSIG4 in ascites were higher in patients with SBP than in patients without (0.73 vs. 0.35 μg/ml; p <0.0001). PM activation by Toll-like receptor (TLR) agonists or infection with live bacteria in vitro resulted in a loss of surface VSIG4 and the release of soluble VSIG4. Mechanistically, shedding of VSIG4 from PMs was protease-dependent and susceptible to microtubule transport inhibition. Soluble VSIG4 in ascites exceeded serum concentrations and correlated with serum creatinine, model for end-stage liver disease score and C-reactive protein during SBP. Concentrations of 1.0206 μg/ml or higher indicated increased 90-day mortality (hazard ratio 1.70; 95% CI 1.01-2.86; p = 0.046).

CONCLUSIONS

VSIG4 is released from activated PMs into ascites during SBP. Higher peritoneal VSIG4 levels indicate patients with organ failure and poor prognosis.

LAY SUMMARY

Patients with liver cirrhosis who develop ascites have an increased risk of infection and mortality. Our study shows that in patients with infected ascites, the complement receptor VSIG4 is released by resident macrophages into the abdominal fluid where it can be measured. Patients with elevated levels of this protein in ascites are at high risk of dying within 90 days.

Predictors of Short-Term Mortality Following First Episode of Spontaneous Bacterial Peritonitis in Hospitalized Cirrhotic Patients

Background and aims

Spontaneous bacterial peritonitis (SBP) is an important cause of morbidity and mortality in patients with cirrhosis. This study aimed to identify the factors impacting morbidity and short-term mortality in a cohort of patients with cirrhosis following an index episode of SBP.

Methods

In a retrospective study of hospitalized cirrhotic cohort, 333 patient records were reviewed. Demographic, clinical, and laboratory, as well as radiological characteristics of the patient population were analyzed on day 1 of admission. The diagnosis of cirrhosis was based on the combination of laboratory, clinical, and radiological features. The diagnosis of SBP was established by abdominal paracentesis in the presence of cellular, biochemical, and microbiological features consistent with SBP. All independent variables were analyzed to generate a predictive model of mortality by using the Cox proportional hazards regression analysis (adjusted for age and gender).

Results

A total of 61 cirrhotic patients with ascites and a first episode of SBP were identified. The overall mortality among hospitalized patients was 19.7% and was associated with longer length of stay (12.6 vs. 7.6 days; p=0.01). Patient cohorts with multiple antibiotic resistant bacteria as a cause of SBP had a significantly higher mortality compared to those with other bacterial phenotypes (p=0.03). Multivariate analyses showed that a model for end-stage liver disease (MELD) score (hazard ratio [HR]=1.29; 95% CI: 1.10 to 1.92; p=0.023), Child-Turcotte-Pugh score (HR=1.23; 95% CI: 1.05 to 1.82; p=0.027), and acute kidney injury (HR=2.09; 95% CI: 1.41 to 3.47; p=0.01) were the predictors of mortality from SBP.

Conclusion

SBP predicts in-hospital mortality in cirrhotic patients. In addition to multiple antibiotic resistant bacteria, thresholds of both hepatic and renal injury independently predict adverse outcomes.

An exploratory study of ascitic fluid lactate as prognostic factor of mortality in cirrhotic patients with spontaneous bacterial peritonitis

BACKGROUND

The diagnostic value of ascitic fluid lactate (AF lactate) was previously evaluated in spontaneous bacterial peritonitis (SBP) but its prognostic value was not established.

AIM

To assess the prognostic value of AF lactate in SBP.

METHODS

We prospectively studied 63 consecutive patients with SBP. Fifty patients with acute-on-chronic liver failure (ACLF) or acute decompensation (AD) (ACLF/AD group) without SBP and 30 with stable decompensated cirrhosis (DC) were included as controls. In SBP, mortality was recorded at 30, 90 and 180 days.

RESULTS

Arterial and AF lactate were significantly higher in SBP compared to other groups. Analyzing the SBP group alone, AF lactate accurately differentiated survivors from nonsurvivors in all time points. The prognostic performance of AF lactate was improved over time, with the area under the receiver operating characteristic computed at 0.894, 0.927 and 0.934 at 30, 90 and 180 days, respectively. The cutoff level of 2 mmol/L was associated with 100, 100 and 94.7% sensitivity, 57.9, 73.3 and 80% specificity, 61, 80.5 and 87.8% positive predictive value and 100, 100 and 90.9% negative predictive value, respectively. Arterial lactate, neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) and Model for End-Stage Liver Disease (MELD) score predicted outcomes less accurately than AF lactate. Patients with AF lactate >2 mmol/L had a worse prognosis compared to patients with ≤2 mmol/L (log-rank P < 0.001). No case with AF lactate ≤2 mmol/L died within 90 days postSBP diagnosis. In Cox multivariate analysis at all time points, only AF lactate and NLR were independent predictors of mortality.

CONCLUSION

An AF lactate level of 2 mmol/L has a high ability to differentiate survivors from nonsurvivors in the first 180 days postSBP. Its prognostic value outperformed arterial-lactate, NLR and MELD.