Congenital hepatic fibrosis and autosomal recessive polycystic kidney disease

[Autosomal recessive polycystic kidney disease in a girl]

A 5-year-old girl was admitted due to one episode of melena and one episode of hematemesis. Upon admission, gastroscopy revealed esophageal and gastric varices. Abdominal CT scan, MRI, and color Doppler ultrasound suggested cirrhosis, intrahepatic bile duct dilation, and bilateral kidney enlargement. Genetic testing identified compound heterozygous mutations in the PKHD1 gene: c.2264C>T (p.Pro755Leu) and c.1886T>C (p.Val629Ala). The c.2264C>T (p.Pro755Leu) mutation is a known pathogenic variant with previous reports, while c.1886T>C (p.Val629Ala) is a novel mutation predicted to have pathogenic potential according to Mutation Taster and PolyPhen2. The child was diagnosed with autosomal recessive polycystic kidney disease. In children presenting with gastrointestinal bleeding without obvious causes, particularly those with liver or kidney disease, consideration should be given to the possibility of autosomal recessive polycystic kidney disease, and genetic testing should be conducted for definitive diagnosis when necessary.

Heritable Chronic Cholestatic Liver Diseases: A Review

Chronic cholestasis due to heritable causes is usually diagnosed in childhood. However, many cases can present and survive into adulthood. The time course varies considerably depending on the underlying etiology. Laboratory data usually reveal elevated conjugated hyperbilirubinemia, alkaline phosphatase, and gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase. Patients may be asymptomatic; however, when present, the typical symptoms are pruritus, jaundice, fatigue, and alcoholic stools. The diagnostic methods and management required depend on the underlying etiology. The development of genome-wide associated studies has allowed the identification of specific genetic mutations related to the pathophysiology of cholestatic liver diseases. The aim of this review was to highlight the genetics, clinical pathophysiology, presentation, diagnosis, and treatment of heritable etiologies of chronic cholestatic liver disease.

Evaluation of galectin-3 and intestinal fatty acid binding protein as serum biomarkers in autosomal recessive polycystic kidney disease

BACKGROUND

Autosomal recessive polycystic kidney disease (ARPKD) causes fibrocystic kidney disease, congenital hepatic fibrosis, and portal hypertension. Serum galectin-3 (Gal-3) and intestinal fatty acid binding protein (I-FABP) are potential biomarkers of kidney fibrosis and portal hypertension, respectively. We examined whether serum Gal-3 associates with kidney disease severity and serum I-FABP associates with liver disease severity in ARPKD.

METHODS

Cross-sectional study of 29 participants with ARPKD (0.2-21 years old) and presence of native kidneys (Gal-3 analyses, n = 18) and/or native livers (I-FABP analyses, n = 21). Serum Gal-3 and I-FABP were analyzed using enzyme linked immunosorbent assay. Kidney disease severity variables included estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) and height-adjusted total kidney volume (htTKV). Liver disease severity was characterized using ultrasound elastography to measure liver fibrosis, and spleen length and platelet count as markers of portal hypertension. Simple and multivariable linear regression examined associations between Gal-3 and kidney disease severity (adjusted for liver disease severity) and between I-FABP and liver disease severity (adjusted for eGFR).

RESULTS

Serum Gal-3 was negatively associated with eGFR; 1 standard deviation (SD) lower eGFR was associated with 0.795 SD higher Gal-3 level (95% CI - 1.116, - 0.473; p < 0.001). This association remained significant when adjusted for liver disease severity. Serum Gal-3 was not associated with htTKV in adjusted analyses. Overall I-FABP levels were elevated, but there were no linear associations between I-FABP and liver disease severity in unadjusted or adjusted models.

CONCLUSIONS

Serum Gal-3 is associated with eGFR in ARPKD, suggesting its value as a possible novel biomarker of kidney disease severity. We found no associations between serum I-FABP and ARPKD liver disease severity despite overall elevated I-FABP levels.

Imaging of fibropolycystic liver disease

Fibropolycystic liver diseases (FLDs) make up a rare spectrum of heritable hepatobiliary diseases resulting from congenital ductal plate malformations (DPMs) due to the dysfunction of proteins expressed on the primary cilia of cholangiocytes. The embryonic development of the ductal plate is key to understanding this spectrum of diseases. In particular, DPMs can result in various degrees of intrahepatic duct involvement and a wide spectrum of cholangiopathies, including congenital hepatic fibrosis, Caroli disease, polycystic liver disease, and Von Meyenberg complexes. The most common clinical manifestations of FLDs are portal hypertension, cholestasis, cholangitis, and (in rare cases) cholangiocarcinoma. This article reviews recent updates in the pathophysiology, imaging, and clinical management of FLDs.

[Liver Graft Failure after Plastic Stent Removal of an Anastomotic Biliary Stricture]

A biliary anastomotic stricture developed 13 months after living donor liver transplantation in a 19-year-old male with congenital hepatic fibrosis. Endoscopic management with balloon dilation followed by the placement of a 7F plastic stent was performed for the anastomotic stricture. After 6 months of indwelling of the stent, the plastic stent was removed because the stenosis and cholestasis were improved. One month after stent removal, he was admitted for acute liver graft failure owing to cholestatic hepatitis, and required retransplantation secondary to graft loss.

Hepatic manifestations of systemic disease: an imaging-based review

The liver is responsible for many processes that maintain human metabolic homeostasis and can be affected by several pediatric systemic diseases. In this manuscript, we explore key pathological findings and imaging features across multiple modalities of a spectrum of congenital, metabolic and autoimmune disorders. Strengthening the radiologists' knowledge regarding potential hepatic manifestations of these systemic diseases will ultimately lead to improved care for pediatric patients.

Elderly onset congenital hepatic fibrosis with portal hypertension diagnosed after recurrent cholangitis: a case report

Congenital hepatic fibrosis is a rare autosomal recessive disorder caused by ductal plate malformation that can manifest as hepatic fibrosis alone or as a component in various fibropolycystic diseases including renal involvement. It is often diagnosed early in life, presenting with ascites and esophageal variceal bleeding due to non-cirrhotic portal hypertension. Here, we report a rare case of congenital hepatic fibrosis with portal hypertension diagnosed at an advanced age. A 78-year-old woman with a 6 history of recurrent cholangitis experienced abdominal distension. Imaging revealed ascites and esophageal varices. Histopathologic analysis of the liver revealed the fibrous expansion of portal tracts accompanying increased bile ducts with irregular contours in the portal area. These characteristic findings are consistent with the diagnosis of congenital hepatic fibrosis. The present case showed an extremely unique clinical course, because she did not develop any associated renal abnormalities or any disease-related symptoms until old age. Because of the variability of this disease, the slowly progressive type may be difficult to diagnose and cause non-cirrhotic portal hypertension even in the elderly. Although an unusual clinical course may suggest the presence of the disease, timely histologic assessment is crucial for the definitive diagnosis of congenital hepatic fibrosis.

Clinical features, concurrent disorders, and survival time in cats with suppurative cholangitis-cholangiohepatitis syndrome

OBJECTIVE

To characterize clinical features, comorbidities, frequency of bacterial isolation, and survival time in cats with suppurative cholangitis-cholangiohepatitis syndrome (S-CCHS).

ANIMALS

168 client-owned cats with S-CCHS.

PROCEDURES

Data were prospectively (1980 to 2019) collected regarding clinical features, comorbidities, bacterial infection, illness duration, and treatments. Variables were evaluated for associations with survival time.

RESULTS

Median age of cats was 10.0 years, with no breed or sex predilection observed. Common clinical features included hyporexia (82%), hyperbilirubinemia (80%), lethargy (80%), vomiting (80%), jaundice (67%), weight loss (54%), and hypoalbuminemia (50%). Comorbidities included extrahepatic bile duct obstruction (53%), cholelithiasis (42%), cholecystitis (40%), and ductal plate malformation (44%) as well as biopsy-confirmed inflammatory bowel disease (60/68 [88%]) and pancreatitis (41/44 [93%]). Bacterial cultures were commonly positive (69%) despite prebiopsy antimicrobial administration in most cats. Of surgically confirmed choleliths, diagnostic imaging identified only 58%. Among 55 cats with "idiopathic pancreatitis," 28 (51%) were documented to have transiting choleliths, and 20 had pancreatic biopsies confirming pancreatitis. Cholelithiasis (with or without bile duct obstruction) and cholecystectomy were associated with survival advantages. Survival disadvantages were found for leukocytosis, ≥ 2-fold increased alkaline phosphatase, and hyperbilirubinemia. Cholecystoenterostomy had no survival impact. Cats with ductal plate malformations were significantly younger at diagnosis and death than other cats. Chronic treatments with antimicrobials, S-adenosylmethionine, and ursodeoxycholic acid were common postbiopsy.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

S-CCHS in cats was associated with bacterial infection and various comorbidities and may be confused with pancreatitis. Surgically correctable morbidities (ie, cholecystitis, cholecystocholelithiasis) and cholecystectomy provided a significant survival advantage.

Pediatric non-cirrhotic portal hypertension: Endoscopic outcome and perspectives from developing nations

Non-cirrhotic portal hypertension (NCPH) forms an important subset of portal hypertension in children. Variceal bleed and splenomegaly are their predominant presentation. Laboratory features show cytopenias (hypersplenism) and preserved hepatic synthetic functions. Repeated sessions of endoscopic variceal ligation or endoscopic sclerotherapy eradicate esophageal varices in almost all cases. After variceal eradication, there is an increased risk of other complications like secondary gastric varices, cholangiopathy, colopathy, growth failure, especially in extra-hepatic portal vein obstruction (EHPVO). Massive splenomegaly-related pain and early satiety cause poor quality of life (QoL). Meso-Rex bypass is the definitive therapy when the procedure is anatomically feasible in EHPVO. Other portosystemic shunt surgeries with splenectomy are indicated when patients present late and spleen-related issues predominate. Shunt surgeries prevent rebleed, improve growth and QoL. Non-cirrhotic portal fibrosis (NCPF) is a less common cause of portal hypertension in children in developing nations. Presentation in the second decade, massive splenomegaly and patent portal vein are discriminating features of NCPF. Shunt surgery is required in severe cases when endotherapy is insufficient for the varices. Congenital hepatic fibrosis (CHF) presents with firm palpable liver and splenomegaly. Ductal plate malformation forms the histological hallmark of CHF. CHF is commonly associated with Caroli’s disease, renal cysts, and syndromes associated with neurological defects. Isolated CHF has a favourable prognosis requiring endotherapy. Liver transplantation is required when there is decompensation or recurrent cholangitis, especially in Caroli’s syndrome. Combined liver-kidney transplantation is indicated when both liver and renal issues are present.

Hepatic Ciliopathy Syndromes

Content available: Author Interview and Audio Recording.

Congenital hepatic fibrosis and its mimics: a clinicopathologic study of 19 cases at a single institution

Background

Congenital hepatic fibrosis (CHF) is a rare inherited form of ductal plate malformation associated with polycystic kidney disease. The diagnosis requires histopathologic confirmation, but can be challenging to distinguish from other undefined fibrocystic liver diseases. We aimed to describe the clinicopathologic features of congenital hepatic fibrosis (CHF), with comparisons to other entities that may clinically and/or histologically mimic CHF.

Methods

Nineteen cases that carried a clinical and/or histologic impression of CHF were identified at our institution, of which the histology was reassessed and reappraised into two categories: CHF (n=13) and mimics (n=6). The clinicopathologic features between the two groups were analyzed and compared.

Results

The CHF group was further sub-classified into those with clinical suspicion (CHF-c, n=8) and those as incidental histology findings (CHF-i, n=5). Patients of CHF-i were much older than CHF-c or mimics (P<0.05). Male and female were equally affected. Six of 8 CHF-c (66.7%) had concurrent kidney diseases, including 5 polycystic kidney diseases. Five of 6 mimics (83.3%) had various kidney diseases, including nephronophthisis, Alport syndrome, renal agenesis, and nephrolithiasis. None of the CHF-i patients had kidney disease, but 3 were associated with hepatic carcinomas. Histology analysis demonstrated characteristic triads (bile duct abnormalities, portal vein hypoplasia, and fibrosis) in all CHF cases. One mimic had paucity of intrahepatic bile ducts, while the other 5 mimics showed abnormal portal veins and nodular regenerative hyperplasia consistent with hepatoportal sclerosis (HPS).

Conclusions

Our study demonstrates classic histology triad of CHF despite a wide spectrum of clinical presentations. HPS is unexpectedly a clinical mimicker of CHF, which can be distinguished histologically.

Liver transplantation for congenital hepatic fibrosis

Congenital hepatic fibrosis (CHF) is a hereditary fibrocystic disease that can progress to portal hypertension and recurrent cholangitis requiring liver transplantation (LT). It can be associated with renal pathology and need for kidney transplantation (KT). We describe the clinical characteristics and outcomes of patients undergoing liver transplantation alone (LTA) and simultaneous liver-kidney transplantation (SLKT) for CHF using the Unites States Scientific Registry of Transplant Recipients. A total of 197 patients who received LT for CHF between 2002 and 2018 were identified - 87 (44.2%) received SLKT, 110 (55.8%) received LTA. The 1-, 3- and 5-year patient survival were 99.0%, 96.2% and 94.6%. The 1-, 3- and 5-year liver graft survival were 94.9%, 91.1% and 89.6%. No significant differences in patient or liver graft survival were observed between the SLKT and LTA groups, or between paediatric and adult recipients. 53.3% of patients with CHF necessitating LT also have significant renal disease requiring KT. Kidney graft survival for isolated KT prior to LT were poorer compared with KT performed simultaneously or after LT. Both LTA and SLKT for CHF are associated with excellent long-term outcomes in paediatric and adult patients.

Long-term kidney and liver outcome in 50 children with autosomal recessive polycystic kidney disease

BACKGROUND

Autosomal recessive polycystic kidney disease (ARPKD) is a rare ciliopathy characterized by congenital hepatic fibrosis and cystic kidney disease. Lack of data about long-term follow-up makes it difficult to discuss timing and type of organ transplantation. Our objectives were to evaluate long-term evolution and indications for transplantation, from birth to adulthood.

METHODS

Neonatal survivors and patients diagnosed in postnatal period with ARPKD between 1985 January and 2017 December from 3 French pediatric centers were retrospectively enrolled in the study.

RESULTS

Fifty patients with mean follow-up 12.5 ± 1 years were enrolled. ARPKD was diagnosed before birth in 24%, and at mean age 1.8 years in others. Thirty-three patients were < 1 year of age at first symptoms, which were mostly kidney-related. These most often presented high blood pressure during follow-up. Portal hypertension was diagnosed in 29 patients (58%), 4 of them with bleeding from esophageal varices. Eight patients presented cholangitis (> 3 episodes in three children). Liver function was normal in all patients. Nine children received a kidney transplant without liver complications. A 20-year-old patient received a combined liver-kidney transplant (CLKT) for recurrent cholangitis, and a 15-year-old boy an isolated liver transplant for uncontrollable variceal bleeding despite portosystemic shunt.

CONCLUSIONS

Long-term outcome in patients with ARPKD is heterogeneous, and in this cohort did not depend on age at diagnosis except for blood pressure. Few patients required liver transplantation. Indications for liver or combined liver-kidney transplantation were limited to recurrent cholangitis or uncontrollable portal hypertension. Liver complications after kidney transplantation were not significant.

Diffuse Versus Localized Caroli Disease: A Comparative MRCP Study

OBJECTIVE. The purpose of this multicenter retrospective study was to assess the MRCP features of Caroli disease (CD). MATERIALS AND METHODS. Sixty-six patients were identified from 2000 to 2019. The inclusion criteria were diagnosis of diffuse or localized CD mentioned in an imaging report, presence of intrahepatic bile duct (IHBD) dilatation, and having undergone an MRCP examination. The exclusion criteria included presence of obstructive proximal biliary stricture and having undergone hepatobiliary surgery other than cholecystectomy. Histopathology records were available for 53 of the 66 (80%) patients. Diffuse and localized diseases were compared by chi-square and t tests and Kaplan-Meier model. RESULTS. Forty-five patients had diffuse bilobar CD ((five pediatric patients [three girls and two boys] with a mean [± SD] age of 8 ± 5 years [range, 1-15 years] and 40 adult patients [26 men and 14 women] with a mean age of 35 ± 11 years [range, 20-62 years]) and 21 patients had localized disease (12 men and 9 women; mean age, 54 ± 14 years). Congenital hepatic fibrosis was found only in patients with diffuse CD (35/45 [78%]), as was a "central dot" sign (15/35 [43%]). IHBD dilatation with both saccular and fusiform features was found in 43 (96%) and the peripheral "funnel-shaped" sign in 41 (91%) of the 45 patients with diffuse CD but in none of the patients with localized disease (p < .001). Intrahepatic biliary calculi were found in all patients with localized disease but in only 16 of the 45 (36%) patients with diffuse CD (p < .001). Left liver atrophy was found in 18 of the 21 (86%) patients with localized disease and in none of the patients with diffuse CD (p < .001). The overall survival rate among patients with diffuse CD was significantly lower than that among patients with localized disease (p = .03). CONCLUSION. Diffuse IHBD dilatation with both saccular and fusiform features associated with the peripheral funnel-shaped sign can be used for the diagnosis of CD on MRCP. Localized IHBD dilatation seems to be mainly related to primary intrahepatic lithiasis.

Fibrocystic liver disease: novel concepts and translational perspectives

Fibrocystic liver diseases (FLDs) comprise a heterogeneous group of rare diseases of the biliary tree, having in common an abnormal development of the embryonic ductal plate caused by genetically-determined dysfunctions of proteins expressed in the primary cilia of cholangiocytes (and therefore grouped among the "ciliopathies"). The ductal dysgenesis may affect the biliary system at multiple levels, from the small intrahepatic bile ducts [congenital hepatic fibrosis (CHF)], to the larger intrahepatic bile ducts [Caroli disease (CD), or Caroli syndrome (CS), when CD coexists with CHF], leading to biliary microhamartomas and segmental bile duct dilations. Biliary changes are accompanied by progressive deposition of abundant peribiliary fibrosis. Peribiliary fibrosis and biliary cysts are the fundamental lesions of FLDs and are responsible for the main clinical manifestations, such as portal hypertension, recurrent cholangitis, cholestasis, sepsis and eventually cholangiocarcinoma. Furthermore, FLDs often associate with a spectrum of disorders affecting primarily the kidney. Among them, the autosomal recessive polycystic kidney disease (ARPKD) is the most frequent, and the renal function impairment is central in disease progression. CHF, CD/CS, and ARPKD are caused by a number of mutations in polycystic kidney hepatic disease 1 (PKHD1), a gene that encodes for fibrocystin/polyductin, a protein of unclear function, but supposedly involved in planar cell polarity and other fundamental cell functions. Targeted medical therapy is not available yet and thus the current treatment aims at controlling the complications. Interventional radiology or surgical treatments, including liver transplantation, are used in selected cases.

Congenital hepatic fibrosis: case report and review of literature

Congenital hepatic fibrosis (CHF) is a rare autosomal recessive disease derived from biliary dysgenesis secondary to ductal plate malformation; it often coexists with Caroli's disease, von Meyenburg complexes, autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD), and autosomal recessive polycystic kidney disease (ARPKD). Although CHF was first named and described in detail by Kerr et al. in 1961. Its pathogenesis still remains unclear. The exact incidence and prevalence are not known, and only a few hundred patients with CHF have been reported in the literature to date. However, with the development of noninvasive diagnostic techniques such as ultrasound, computed tomography (CT), and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), CHF may now be more frequently detected. Anatomopathological examination of liver biopsy is the gold standard in diagnosis of CHF. Patients with CHF exhibit variable clinical presentations, ranging from no symptoms to severe symptoms such as acute hepatic decompensation and even cirrhosis. The most common presentations in these patients are splenomegaly, esophageal varices, and gastrointestinal bleeding due to portal hypertension. In addition, in younger children, CHF often is accompanied by renal cysts or increased renal echogenicity. Great variability exists among the signs and symptoms of the disease from early childhood to the 5th or 6th decade of life, and in most patients the disorder is diagnosed during adolescence or young adulthood. Here, we present two cases of congenital hepatic fibrosis in 2-years-old girl and 12-year-old male who had been referred for evaluation of an abdominal distension with persistent hyper-transaminasemia and cholestasis, the diagnostic was made according to the results of medical imaging (CT or MRI), a liver biopsy, and genetic testing.

Magnetic resonance elastography to quantify liver disease severity in autosomal recessive polycystic kidney disease

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate whether liver and spleen magnetic resonance elastography (MRE) can measure the severity of congenital hepatic fibrosis (CHF) and portal hypertension (pHTN) in individuals with autosomal recessive polycystic kidney disease (ARPKD), and to examine correlations between liver MRE and ultrasound (US) elastography.

METHODS

Cross-sectional study of nine individuals with ARPKD and 14 healthy controls. MRE was performed to measure mean liver and spleen stiffness (kPa); US elastography was performed to measure point shear wave speed (SWS) in both liver lobes. We compared: (1) MRE liver and spleen stiffness between controls vs. ARPKD; and (2) MRE liver stiffness between participants with ARPKD without vs. with pHTN, and examined correlations between MRE liver stiffness, spleen length, platelet counts, and US elastography SWS. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis was performed to examine diagnostic accuracy of liver MRE.

RESULTS

Participants with ARPKD (median age 16.8 [IQR 13.3, 18.9] years) had higher median MRE liver stiffness than controls (median age 14.7 [IQR 9.7, 16.7 years) (2.55 vs. 1.92 kPa, p = 0.008), but MRE spleen stiffness did not differ. ARPKD participants with pHTN had higher median MRE liver stiffness than those without (3.60 kPa vs 2.49 kPa, p = 0.05). Liver MRE and US elastography measurements were strongly correlated. To distinguish ARPKD vs. control groups, liver MRE had 78% sensitivity and 93% specificity at a proposed cut-off of 2.48 kPa [ROC area 0.83 (95% CI 0.63-1.00)].

CONCLUSION

Liver MRE may be a useful quantitative method to measure the severity of CHF and pHTN in individuals with ARPKD.

Intrahepatic bile ductal ectasia in autosomal recessive polycystic kidney disease evaluated by fetal magnetic resonance imaging: a more frequent complication

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to evaluate liver malformations and intrahepatic bile ductal ectasia and dilatation (IBDED) in cases of prenatal diagnosis of autosomal recessive polycystic kidney disease (ARPKD) using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

METHODS

This retrospective study involved 209 cases referred for fetal MRI studies (f-MRI) from March 2004 and December 2019, suspicious of congenital renal disease. Fetuses that met the criteria for ARPKD were selected.

RESULTS

Six cases were diagnosed as ARPKD (2.8%). The median gestational age at MRI examination was 28 weeks (24-36 weeks). IBDED was observed in 84% of cases. Moreover, 66% presented multilobar liver lesions, and 33% exhibited monolobar lesions. The "central dot sign" (CDS) was found in half of the cases.

CONCLUSION

In this case series of prenatal diagnosis of ARPKD using f-MRI, IBDED was present in the majority of the cases, and the CDS was noted in half of the cases.

Italian Clinical Practice Guidelines on Cholangiocarcinoma - Part I: Classification, diagnosis and staging

Cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) is the second most common primary liver cancer, characterized by a poor prognosis and resistance to chemotherapeutics. The progressive increase in CCA incidence and mortality registered worldwide in the last two decades and the need to clarify various aspects of clinical management have prompted the Italian Association for the Study of the Liver (AISF) to commission the drafting of dedicated guidelines in collaboration with a group of Italian scientific societies. These guidelines have been formulated in accordance with the Italian National Institute of Health indications and developed by following the GRADE method and related advancements.

Caroli's Syndrome: An Early Presentation

Fibropolycystic liver disorders (FLD) arise from abnormal development of the ductal plate and are classified according to the size of the affected hepatobiliary duct. Congenital hepatic fibrosis (CHF) has small duct involvement characterized by a variable degree of periportal fibrosis and hyperplasia without affecting the liver’s architecture. Caroli’s disease (CD) is a rare autosomal recessive disorder with a prevalence of one case per 1,000,000 people and is characterized by cystic dilation of large intrahepatic ducts. When the disease presents with congenital hepatic fibrosis, it is referred to as Caroli’s syndrome (CS). Patients are usually diagnosed around the age of 20 with episodes of cholangitis, portal hypertension or hepatomegaly. We present the case of a two-year-old male with a previous history of autosomal recessive polycystic kidney disease (ARPKD) who presented to the emergency room with variceal bleeding secondary to portal hypertension. The physical examination showed an acutely ill-looking boy, with evident paleness and distended abdomen. Past medical history was negative for previous gastrointestinal bleeding or episodes of cholangitis. An upper gastrointestinal endoscopy was performed, showing esophageal varices secondary to portal hypertension. Imaging studies revealed hepatosplenomegaly, alterations in liver echogenicity, and dilated saccular bile ducts affecting both liver lobes without observing any apparent obstruction, highly suggestive of CD. A liver biopsy revealed nodular liver tissue with marked fibrosis between nodules, which confirmed the presence of CHF. Both kidneys were increased in size, hyperechoic and with loss of corticomedullary differentiation. FLD commonly present with coexisting hepatobiliary and renal alterations. Therefore, starting at the time of initial diagnosis, all patients with ARPKD should be evaluated to detect liver abnormalities due to the high association. Despite the rarity of CS, especially in early childhood, the association between ARPKD and FLD is well documented. So if this clinical presentation arises, CS should be suspected. 

Prospective evaluation of kidney and liver disease in autosomal recessive polycystic kidney disease-congenital hepatic fibrosis

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

We have previously published the characteristics of kidney and liver disease in a cohort of 73 individuals with molecularly confirmed autosomal recessive polycystic kidney disease-congenital hepatic fibrosis, based upon cross-sectional data. Here, we present prospective data on the same cohort.

DESIGN, SETTING, PARTICIPANTS, AND MEASUREMENTS

Comprehensive biochemical and imaging data on progression of kidney and liver disease in 60 of the 73 patients were prospectively collected at the NIH Clinical Center on multiple visits between 2003 and 2019.

RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS

Of the 73 patients, 23 received a renal allograft at an average age of 17.5 years and 10 underwent liver transplantation at an average age of 20.3 years. Patients who presented perinatally and those who had corticomedullary disease required kidney transplantation significantly earlier. The mean eGFR slope in patients with corticomedullary disease was -1.6 ml/min/1.73 m²/y, in comparison to -0.6 ml/min/1.73 m²/y in those with medullary disease. Kidney size remained the same over time and normalized to the upper limit of normal by 20-25 years of age. The extent of renal disease on ultrasound remained largely unchanged; no patient progressed from the "medullary" to the "corticomedullary" group. There was no correlation between eGFR slope and kidney size. The synthetic function of the liver remained largely intact even in patients with advanced portal hypertension. Based on spleen length/height ratio, two thirds of patients had portal hypertension which remained stable in 39% and worsened in 61%. Patients with portal hypertension had lower platelet counts and relatively higher levels of AST, GGT, direct bilirubin and ammonia. The progression rates of kidney and liver disease were independent of each other. Patients with bi-allelic non-truncating PKHD1 variants had similar progression of kidney and liver disease in comparison to those who were compound heterozygous for a non-truncating and a truncating variant.

Living donor liver transplantation for congenital hepatic fibrosis in children

Congenital hepatic fibrosis (CHF) often accompanies autosomal recessive polycystic kidney disease (ARPKD), which stems from a PKHD1 gene mutation. The aim of this study was to clarify the prognosis of children with CHF who received living donor liver transplantation (LDLT) from donors who might be heterozygous carriers of a hepatorenal fibrocystic disease. Fourteen children with CHF who underwent LDLT at our center were enrolled. Eight and two patients had ARPKD and nephronophthisis, respectively. Eight of the donors were the recipients' fathers, and six donors were their mothers. We examined the histological and radiological findings of the donor livers and complications in the recipients following the liver transplantation. Seven of the donor livers presented morphological abnormalities of the bile ducts. Abdominal computed tomography revealed liver cysts in eight donors. One recipient underwent re-LT for graft failure due to rejection. Three patients presented with rejection, and one presented with sepsis. The overall survival rate was 100% and the original graft survival rate was 93%. In conclusion, the prognosis of recipients who received a LDLT from their parents for CHF was excellent. However, the morphology of half the donor livers was abnormal. Careful follow-up is needed to ensure long-term graft survival.

Diagnosis of Congenital Hepatic Fibrosis in Adulthood

OBJECTIVES

We studied clinicopathologic features of congenital hepatic fibrosis (CHF) that could aid the diagnosis of this relatively rare condition during adulthood.

METHODS

Five consecutive adult CHF cases were identified in a single institution.

RESULTS

Clinical manifestations of CHF varied from asymptomatic to requiring liver transplantation. Three of five cases had other disease associations, including Joubert syndrome, Caroli disease, polycystic kidney disease, and congenital anomaly of hepatic vasculature. No unique common radiologic findings were found. Histologically, all cases showed characteristic abnormal interlobular bile ducts embedded in fibrotic portal stroma, with varying degrees of liver fibrosis.

CONCLUSIONS

While other disease associations and characteristic liver histomorphology are helpful clues to suspect the diagnosis of CHF in adult patients, other differential diagnoses should be excluded clinically and radiologically. This study highlights the importance of a multidisciplinary diagnostic approach by pathologists, radiologists, and hepatologists for the accurate diagnosis of CHF during adulthood.

Occurrence of Portal Hypertension and Its Clinical Course in Patients With Molecularly Confirmed Autosomal Recessive Polycystic Kidney Disease (ARPKD)

Purpose: Liver involvement in autosomal recessive polycystic kidney disease (ARPKD) leads to the development of portal hypertension and its complications. The aim of this study was to analyze the occurrence of the portal hypertension and its clinical course and the dynamics in patients with molecularly confirmed ARPKD in a large Polish center. Moreover, the available options in diagnostics, prevention and management of portal hypertension in ARPKD will be discussed. Materials and Methods: The study group consisted of 17 patients aged 2.5-42 years. All patients had ARPKD diagnosis confirmed by molecular tests. Retrospective analysis included laboratory tests, ultrasound and endoscopic examinations, transient elastography and clinical evaluation. Results: Any symptom of portal hypertension was established in 71% of patients. Hypersplenism, splenomegaly, decreased portal flow and esophageal varices were found in 47, 59, 56, and 92% of patients, respectively. Gastrointestinal bleeding occurred in four of 17 patients. Endoscopic variceal ligation (EVL) was performed at least once in nine patients with esophageal varices. Conclusions: Portal hypertension and its complications are present in a significant percentage of ARPKD patients. They should be under the care of multidisciplinary nephrology-gastroenterology/hepatology team. Complications of portal hypertension may occur early in life. Endoscopic methods of preventing gastroesophageal bleeding, such as endoscopic variceal ligation, are effective and surgical techniques, including liver transplantation, are required rarely.

Endoscopic therapy for gastro-oesophageal varices of Caroli's syndrome: a case report

Caroli’s disease (CD) is a very rare congenital disorder that is characterized by non-obstructive, segmental and cystic dilatation of intrahepatic ducts. Most patients with CD are asymptomatic, but some patients may suffer from hepatic fibrosis, liver cirrhosis or/and portal hypertension. In complex CD, cystic dilatations of the intrahepatic bile ducts can be present with congenital hepatic fibrosis, liver cirrhosis, portal hypertension, oesophageal varices and autosomal recessive polycystic kidney disease; a condition known as Caroli’s syndrome. This report describes the case of a 28-year-old woman that had gastro-oesophageal varices that were caused by hepatic fibrosis and portal hypertension as part of Caroli’s syndrome. The patient underwent successful treatment with endoscopic injection sclerotherapy with lauromacrogol and endoscopic variceal obturation using tissue adhesive. There were no immediate complications and the patient remained free of complications at 1-year follow-up. There are no current reports in the published literature describing Caroli’s syndrome induced by gastro-oesophageal varices that were treated by a combination of endoscopic injection sclerotherapy and endoscopic variceal obturation. Endoscopic therapy was an effective technique for the treatment of gastro-oesophageal varices in a patient with Caroli’s syndrome awaiting a liver transplant.

Early Hepatocellular Carcinoma Associated With Fibrocystic Liver Disease in a 10-Year-Old Child: A Case Report

BACKGROUND

Fibrocystic liver-kidney disease is caused by a group of rare and genetically diverse disorders that are associated with kidney cysts or dysplasia and ductal plate malformation in the liver. There have been several reports of liver neoplasias arising in hepatobiliary fibrocystic diseases. However, most were cholangiocarcinoma; cases involving hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) are rare, and all the reported cases are related with adults.

CASE REPORT

A 10-year-old girl with a history of repeated gastrointestinal bleeding underwent banding and sclerotherapy multiple times and had a history of a Portosystemic shunt without any significant benefit. She was referred to us as a case of fibrocystic liver disease with decompensated liver disease for liver transplantation. The patient underwent living donor liver transplantation, and the explanted liver histopathology report is documented. The explant liver weighed 838 g and measured 21 × 13 × 8.5 cm with the attached gallbladder measuring 7 × 3 × 0.2 cm (in wall thickness). The external surface was covered with multiple white nodules ranging in size from 0.4 to 1 cm. Serial slicing revealed an ill-defined, yellow, soft lesion (4 × 2.5 × 2.5 cm) localized in the subcapsular area of the left lobe (segment 4). The rest of the cut surface was green and nodular (cirrhotic). Microscopy from largest nodule was consistent with early hepatocellular carcinoma.The rest of the liver was cirrhotic, and the morphology was consistent with fibrocystic disease of liver.

CONCLUSION

We report a rare case of HCC associated with fibrocystic liver disease. When diagnosing fibrocystic liver disease without known risk factors, the presence of HCC must be considered, and vice versa. To our knowledge, this is the first reported case of HCC associated with fibrocystic liver disease in a 10-year-old child.

Clinical characteristics of individual organ system disease in non-motile ciliopathies

Non-motile ciliopathies (disorders of the primary cilia) include autosomal dominant and recessive polycystic kidney diseases, nephronophthisis, as well as multisystem disorders Joubert, Bardet-Biedl, Alström, Meckel-Gruber, oral-facial-digital syndromes, and Jeune chondrodysplasia and other skeletal ciliopathies. Chronic progressive disease of the kidneys, liver, and retina are common features in non-motile ciliopathies. Some ciliopathies also manifest neurological, skeletal, olfactory and auditory defects. Obesity and type 2 diabetes mellitus are characteristic features of Bardet-Biedl and Alström syndromes. Overlapping clinical features and molecular heterogeneity of these ciliopathies render their diagnoses challenging. In this review, we describe the clinical characteristics of individual organ disease for each ciliopathy and provide natural history data on kidney, liver, retinal disease progression and central nervous system function.

Congenital Cystic Lesions of the Bile Ducts: Imaging-Based Diagnosis

Congenital cystic lesions of the bile ducts represent a spectrum of liver and biliary system lesions, resulting from abnormal embryologic development of the ductal plate. These disorders include Caroli disease, choledochal cysts, autosomal dominant polycystic liver disease, congenital hepatic fibrosis, and biliary hamartomas. Each disorder carries a peculiar clinical presentation, prognosis, and risk of complications. Knowledge of radiological findings of fibropolycystic liver diseases is crucial for their appropriate detection and for differential diagnosis with other similar hepatic cystic lesions, in order to avoid relevant misdiagnosis. The aim of this review is to provide an illustrative summary of the most relevant imaging findings of these conditions as encountered on ultrasound, computed tomography, and magnetic resonance imaging, and provide pearls for imaging-based differential diagnosis.

Short article: Sequence variations of PKHD1 underlie congenital hepatic fibrosis in a Chinese family

OBJECTIVE

Congenital hepatic fibrosis (CHF) is a developmental disorder of the portobiliary system characterized by hepatic fibrosis, portal hypertension, and renal cystic disease. The aim of our study was to identify the disease-causing gene of a Chinese family with CHF.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Whole-exome sequencing was performed in the family with CHF and variants were confirmed by Sanger sequencing. Online bioinformatics tools were used to evaluate the pathogenicity of the missense variants. Liver specimens were reviewed to confirm the histopathological diagnosis.

RESULTS

The compound heterozygous variants c.7994T>C, p.(Leu2665Pro) and c.8518C>T, p.(Arg2840Cys) in PKHD1 were identified in a Chinese family with CHF by whole-exome sequencing. Liver histomorphology was reviewed to confirm the diagnosis of CHF.

CONCLUSION

We have identified variations in PKHD1 in a Chinese family with CHF. Our study extends the mutation spectrum of CHF and provides information for genetic counseling of patients' family members.

Polycystic kidney disease

Cystic kidneys are common causes of end-stage renal disease, both in children and in adults. Autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD) and autosomal recessive polycystic kidney disease (ARPKD) are cilia-related disorders and the two main forms of monogenic cystic kidney diseases. ADPKD is a common disease that mostly presents in adults, whereas ARPKD is a rarer and often more severe form of polycystic kidney disease (PKD) that usually presents perinatally or in early childhood. Cell biological and clinical research approaches have expanded our knowledge of the pathogenesis of ADPKD and ARPKD and revealed some mechanistic overlap between them. A reduced 'dosage' of PKD proteins is thought to disturb cell homeostasis and converging signalling pathways, such as Ca²⁺, cAMP, mechanistic target of rapamycin, WNT, vascular endothelial growth factor and Hippo signalling, and could explain the more severe clinical course in some patients with PKD. Genetic diagnosis might benefit families and improve the clinical management of patients, which might be enhanced even further with emerging therapeutic options. However, many important questions about the pathogenesis of PKD remain. In this Primer, we provide an overview of the current knowledge of PKD and its treatment.

A teenage patient with autosomal recessive polycystic kidney disease, a splenorenal shunt, and congenital hepatic fibrosis: a case report

A 16-year-old female patient previously diagnosed with autosomal recessive polycystic kidney disease (ARPKD) presented with acute bilateral pneumonia, upper gastrointestinal bleeding caused by ruptured esophageal varices, ascites, and lower limb edema. She required intensive care and an endoscopic procedure to treat the gastrointestinal bleeding. The analysis of the differential diagnosis for chronic liver disease indicated she had a spontaneous splenorenal shunt. Ultrasound-guided biopsy revealed the patient had cirrhosis, as characteristically seen in individuals with ARPKD. She had no symptoms at discharge and was referred for review for a combined transplant.

Cholangiopathies - Towards a molecular understanding

Liver diseases constitute an important medical problem, and a number of these diseases, termed cholangiopathies, affect the biliary system of the liver. In this review, we describe the current understanding of the causes of cholangiopathies, which can be genetic, viral or environmental, and the few treatment options that are currently available beyond liver transplantation. We then discuss recent rapid progress in a number of areas relevant for decoding the disease mechanisms for cholangiopathies. This includes novel data from analysis of transgenic mouse models and organoid systems, and we outline how this information can be used for disease modeling and potential development of novel therapy concepts. We also describe recent advances in genomic and transcriptomic analyses and the importance of such studies for improving diagnosis and determining whether certain cholangiopathies should be viewed as distinct or overlapping disease entities.

Long-term outcome of transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt for portal hypertension in autosomal recessive polycystic kidney disease

BACKGROUND

Autosomal recessive polycystic kidney disease (ARPKD) with congenital hepatic fibrosis (CHF) causes portal hypertension and its complications. A transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPSS) could serve as a symptomatic treatment for portal hypertension-related symptoms in these children.

AIMS

To study the effect of TIPSS on portal hypertension, liver and kidney function and the long term complications.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We report on 5 children with CHF treated with a TIPSS to manage severe portal hypertension related symptoms.

RESULTS

Mean follow-up time was 7 years and 2 months. At the end of follow-up there was a reduction of spleen size (p = 0.715) and hypersplenism with a rise in platelet count (p = 0.465). Esophageal varices and ascites disappeared in all patients. Liver and kidney function remained stable. In two patients endotipsitis was suspected and two patients developed an in-stent stenosis. There was no sign of encephalopathy in our patients.

CONCLUSION

TIPSS using ePTFE-covered stent is a feasible and effective alternative for surgical portosystemic shunting in children with CHF, also on the long term. It can postpone the need of a liver transplantation but close monitoring remains important for early diagnosis of endotipsitis or stent dysfunction related to stenosis.

Liver involvement in kidney disease and vice versa

The liver and kidneys are often similarly affected by a single disease. This is the case in metabolic, immunological, toxic, and infectious diseases, and in the different congenital malformation syndromes. Also, an enzymatic defect in an otherwise healthy liver or the consequences of advanced liver disease by itself can cause kidney disease as a secondary phenomenon. In this review, we describe numerous pathogenic mechanisms leading to dysfunction or malformations of the liver and kidneys in children. We encourage multidisciplinary management for optimal care. A combined liver-kidney transplantation is sometimes needed.

Successful long-term outcome of pediatric liver-kidney transplantation: a single-center study

INTRODUCTION

Liver-kidney transplantation is a rare procedure in children, with just ten to 30 cases performed annually worldwide. The main indications are autosomal recessive polycystic liver-kidney disease and primary hyperoxaluria. This study aimed to report outcomes of liver-kidney transplantation in a cohort of pediatric patients.

METHODS

We retrospectively analyzed all pediatric liver-kidney transplantations performed in our center between September 2000 and August 2015. Patient data were obtained by reviewing inpatient and outpatient medical records and our transplant database.

RESULTS

A total of 14 liver-kidney transplants were performed during the study period, with a median patient age and weight at transplant of 144.4 months (131.0-147.7) and 27.3 kg (12.0-45.1), respectively. The indications for liver-kidney transplants were autosomal recessive polycystic liver-kidney disease (8/14), primary hyperoxaluria -1 (5/14), and idiopathic portal hypertension with end-stage renal disease (1/14). Median time on waiting list was 8.5 months (5.7-17.3). All but two liver-kidney transplants were performed simultaneously. Patients with primary hyperoxaluria-1 tended to present a delayed recovery of renal function compared with patients transplanted for other indications (62.5 vs 6.5 days, respectively, P 0.076). Patients with liver-kidney transplants tended to present a lower risk of acute kidney rejection than patients transplanted with an isolated kidney transplant (7.2% vs 32.7%, respectively; P < 0.07). Patient and graft survival at 1, 3, and 5 years were 100%, 91.7%, 91.7%, and 91.7%, 83.3%, 83.3%, respectively. No other grafts were lost.

CONCLUSION

Long-term results of liver-kidney transplants in children are encouraging, being comparable with those obtained in isolated liver transplantation.

Combined and sequential liver-kidney transplantation in children

Combined and sequential liver-kidney transplantation (CLKT and SLKT) is a definitive treatment in children with end-stage organ failure. There are two major indications: - terminal insufficiency of both organs, or - need for transplanting new liver as a source of lacking enzyme or specific regulator of the immune system in a patient with renal failure. A third (uncommon) option is secondary end-stage renal failure in liver transplant recipients. These three clinical settings use distinct qualification algorithms. The most common indications include primary hyperoxaluria type 1 (PH1) and autosomal recessive polycystic kidney disease (ARPKD), followed by liver diseases associated with occasional kidney failure. Availability of anti-C5a antibody (eculizumab) has limited the validity of CLKT in genetic atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome (aHUS). The liver coming from the same donor as renal graft (in CLKT) is immunologically protective for the kidney and this provides long-term rejection-free follow-up. No such protection is observed in SLKT, when both organs come from different donors, except uncommon cases of living donation of both organs. Overall long-term outcome in CLKT in terms of graft survival is good and not different from isolated liver or kidney transplantation, however patient survival is inferior due to complexity of this procedure.

Diagnosis and Management of Hepatobiliary Complications in Autosomal Recessive Polycystic Kidney Disease

Autosomal recessive polycystic kidney disease (ARPKD) is a congenital hepatorenal fibrocystic disease. The hepatic manifestations of ARPKD can range from asymptomatic to portal hypertension and massively dilated biliary system that results in liver transplantation. Hepatic complications of ARPKD typically present with signs of portal hypertension (splenomegaly and thrombocytopenia) or cholangitis. Liver disease in ARPKD does not always correlate with severity of renal disease. Management of ARPKD-related liver disease is largely treating specific symptoms, such as antibiotics for cholangitis or endoscopic treatment for variceal bleeding. If complications cannot be managed medically, liver transplantation may be indicated. This mini-review will discuss the clinical manifestations and management of children with ARPKD liver disease.

Risk Factors for Neurocognitive Functioning in Children with Autosomal Recessive Polycystic Kidney Disease

This mini review provides an overview of the issues and challenges inherent in autosomal recessive polycystic kidney disease (ARPKD), with a particular focus on the neurological factors and neurocognitive functioning of this population. ARPKD typically is discovered at the end of pregnancy or during the neonatal developmental period and occurs in approximately 1 in 20,000 live births. During the neonatal period, there is a relatively high risk of death, with many infants dying from respiratory failure. As the child ages, they experience progressive kidney disease and become increasingly vulnerable to liver disease, with many individuals eventually requiring dual organ transplants. This mini review provides a brief description of ARPKD and describes the various factors that place children with ARPKD at risk for neurological and neuropsychological impairment (e.g., a genetic condition leading to chronic kidney disease and eventual transplant; difficult-to-treat hypertension; eventual liver disease; possible dual transplantation of the kidneys and liver; chronic lung disease), including that these factors are present during a critical period of brain development. Further, the mini review discusses the available studies that have addressed the neurocognitive functioning in children with ARPKD. This paper concludes by providing the key clinical and research challenges that face the field of pediatric nephrology with respect to the clinical and scientific study of the neurocognitive functioning of children with ARPKD. Selected directions are offered in both the clinical and research arenas for this multiorgan chronic condition.

Combined liver and kidney transplantation and kidney after liver transplantation in children: Indication, postoperative outcome, and long-term results

CLKT and sequential KALT are decided on a case-by-case basis in children for special indications such as ARPKD or PH1. We report on 21 children who underwent CLKT or KALT at our hospital between 1998 and 2013. Eleven children were diagnosed with PH1 and six with ARPKD. Other diagnosis were Joubert syndrome (n = 1), nephronophthisis (n = 1), CF (n = 1), and hepatocellular carcinoma (n = 1). Children (12 males, nine females) were aged 7.8 ± 6.2 yr (range, 10 months to 18 yr) at time of transplantation. Average wait time was 1.9 ± 0.9 yr (range, four months to 2.3 yr). Fifteen patients received dialysis prior to transplantation. In PH1 patients, four children received CLKT, five received KALT, and two infants have received only an LTx, whereas all six patients with ARPKD received CLKT. In patients with other indications, CLKT was performed in three cases and KALT in one girl. Cumulative 10-yr survival of all 21 patients was 78.4%. At the time of transfer into adult care, 13 patients retained stable liver and kidney function. Regardless the underlying diagnosis, CLKT and KALT can be performed in children with good surgical outcomes and long-term survival.

Transplantation in autosomal recessive polycystic kidney disease: liver and/or kidney?

Autosomal recessive polycystic kidney disease (ARPKD) is characterized by enlarged kidneys with dilated collecting ducts and congenital hepatic fibrosis. There is a variable rate of progression of kidney and liver disease. Portal hypertension and Caroli's disease occur from liver involvement that contributes to morbidity and mortality. Approximately 40 % of patients have a severe disease phenotype leading to rapid onset of end-stage kidney disease (ESKD) and signs of portal hypertension and the rest may have predominant involvement of either the kidney or liver. It is important for the physician to establish the extent of organ involvement before deciding on the ultimate plan of management, especially when transplantation is required. Isolated renal transplantation can be considered when liver involvement is minimal. If hepatobiliary disease is prominent, and kidney function is preserved, management options are based on individual characteristics. In the presence of significant liver disease and ESKD, consideration should be given to combined liver kidney transplantation, which can be beneficial in eliminating the consequences of both kidney and liver disease. However, this is a complex surgical procedure that needs to be performed at experienced transplant centers. Improvement in surgical techniques has considerably improved short-term graft survival with the added advantage of the liver offering immunologic protection to the kidney allograft.

Caroli's disease misdiagnosed as intraductal papillary neoplasm of the bile duct

Caroli's disease is a rare autosomal-recessive disorder caused by malformation of the ductal plate during embryonic development. Although it is present at birth, Caroli's disease is typically not diagnosed until between the second and fourth decades of life, as it was in the present patient. Here we report a rare case of Caroli's disease limited to one liver segment, which was initially misdiagnosed as an intraductal papillary neoplasm of the bile duct. The asymptomatic patient was treated with liver segmentectomy.