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Miwa T, Hanai T, Hirata S, Nishimura K, Sahashi Y, Unome S, Imai K, Shirakami Y, Suetsugu A, Takai K, Shimizu M. Vitamin D deficiency stratifies the risk of covert and overt hepatic encephalopathy in patients with cirrhosis: A retrospective cohort study. Clin Nutr ESPEN 2024; 63:267-273. [PMID: 38972037 DOI: 10.1016/j.clnesp.2024.06.055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2024] [Revised: 06/05/2024] [Accepted: 06/28/2024] [Indexed: 07/09/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUNDS & AIMS This study aimed to investigate the association between vitamin D deficiency and covert hepatic encephalopathy (CHE), overt hepatic encephalopathy (OHE) occurrence, and mortality in patients with cirrhosis. METHODS This retrospective study reviewed 679 patients with cirrhosis. Vitamin D deficiency was defined as serum 25-hydorxyvitamin D (25-OHD) levels < 20 ng/mL. The associations between 25-OHD and CHE, OHE occurrence, and mortality were assessed using logistic regression, Fine-Gray competing risk regression, and Cox proportional hazards regression models, respectively. RESULTS Of 428 eligible patients, 75% had vitamin D deficiency and 23% had CHE. The prevalence of CHE was higher in patients with vitamin D deficiency than in those without vitamin D deficiency (28% vs. 13%, p = 0.002). During the median follow-up period of 2.3 years, 14% of the patients developed OHE and 27% died. Patients with vitamin D deficiency had a higher incidence of OHE (p = 0.002) and mortality (p = 0.006) than those without vitamin D deficiency. After adjustment for potential covariates, multivariate analyses showed that 25-OHE was associated with CHE (odds ratio, 0.95; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.91-0.99; p = 0.023), OHE occurrence (sub-distribution hazard ratio, 0.92; 95% CI, 0.86-0.98; p = 0.013) and mortality (hazard ratio, 0.96; 95% CI, 0.93-0.99; p = 0.020) in patients with cirrhosis. CONCLUSIONS Vitamin D deficiency is highly prevalent and is associated with CHE, OHE, and mortality in patients with cirrhosis. Evaluation of vitamin D is essential to predict the outcomes of patients with cirrhosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takao Miwa
- Department of Gastroenterology/Internal Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Gifu University, Gifu, Japan.
| | - Tatsunori Hanai
- Department of Gastroenterology/Internal Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Gifu University, Gifu, Japan; Center for Nutrition Support and Infection Control, Gifu University Hospital, Gifu, Japan.
| | - Sachiyo Hirata
- Center for Nutrition Support and Infection Control, Gifu University Hospital, Gifu, Japan.
| | - Kayoko Nishimura
- Center for Nutrition Support and Infection Control, Gifu University Hospital, Gifu, Japan.
| | - Yuki Sahashi
- Department of Cardiology, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
| | - Shinji Unome
- Department of Gastroenterology/Internal Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Gifu University, Gifu, Japan.
| | - Kenji Imai
- Department of Gastroenterology/Internal Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Gifu University, Gifu, Japan.
| | - Yohei Shirakami
- Department of Gastroenterology/Internal Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Gifu University, Gifu, Japan.
| | - Atsushi Suetsugu
- Department of Gastroenterology/Internal Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Gifu University, Gifu, Japan.
| | - Koji Takai
- Department of Gastroenterology/Internal Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Gifu University, Gifu, Japan; Division for Regional Cancer Control, Graduate School of Medicine, Gifu University, Gifu, Japan.
| | - Masahito Shimizu
- Department of Gastroenterology/Internal Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Gifu University, Gifu, Japan.
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Hammd M, Elghezewi A, Abdulhadi A, Alabid A, Alabid A, Badi Y, Kamal I, Hesham Gamal M, Mohamed Fisal K, Mujtaba M, Sherif A, Frandah W. Efficacy and Safety of Variable Treatment Options in the Prevention of Hepatic Encephalopathy: A Systematic Review and Network Meta-Analysis. Cureus 2024; 16:e53341. [PMID: 38435950 PMCID: PMC10907550 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.53341] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/31/2024] [Indexed: 03/05/2024] Open
Abstract
There are no guidelines for the most effective medication to reduce hepatic encephalopathy (HE) or the associated mortality. The purpose of this study is to determine the most effective possible treatment among the single treatment options or the combined treatment options for decreasing the morbidity and mortality of HE. We evaluated the outcomes by various parameters such as the quality of life, reduction in ammonia, all causes of mortality, adverse events, reversal of minimal HE, and development of overt HE. We systematically searched PubMed, Cochrane, Web of Science, and Scopus till the 19th of January 2023 for studies that assess various treatment options for HE. Data were extracted from eligible studies and pooled in a frequentist network meta-analysis as standardized mean difference (SMD) and their 95% confidence interval (CI) using the MetaInsight web-based tool. The Cochrane Tool was used to assess the randomized controlled trials' quality (RCT), while the NIH tool was used to assess the quality of the included cohort studies. Utilizing the R software, the network meta-analysis was conducted. In addition to a significant variation in cases of (Lactulose and Rifaximin) compared with Rifaximin (RR= 0.39, 95% CI [0.17; 0.89]), the results demonstrated a significantly lower incidence of overt HE in (Lactulose and Rifaximin) compared with placebo (RR=0.19, 95% CI [0.09; 0.40]). Most arms demonstrated a statistically significant reduction in the incidence of overt HE compared to albumin and placebo. The results also demonstrated a significant reduction in ammonia between L-ornithine-L-aspartate (LOLA) and probiotics (MD= -19.17, 95% CI [-38.01; -0.32]), as well as a significant difference in the incidence of LOLA compared to placebo (MD= -22.62, 95% CI [-39.16; -6.07]). This network meta-analysis has significant data for managing subclinical HE in people without a history of overt HE. Our analysis showed that (Lactulose and Rifaximin), followed by (Rifaximin and L-carnitine), followed by (Lactulose and Rifaximin with zinc) were the best combinations regarding overt HE. LOLA reduced ammonia best, followed by Nitazoxanide and finally Lactulose. (Lactulose and Nitazoxanide) have the least adverse effects, followed by (Rifaximin and L-carnitine), then Probiotics. Yet, all mortality outcomes and quality of life changes yielded no useful findings. Future studies like RCTs must be done to compare our therapies directly.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed Hammd
- Internal Medicine/Gastroenterology, Marshall University Joan C. Edwards School of Medicine, Huntington, USA
| | - Abdelwahap Elghezewi
- Internal Medicine/Gastroenterology, Marshall University Joan C. Edwards School of Medicine, Huntington, USA
| | - Ahmed Abdulhadi
- Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Tripoli University, Tripoli, LBY
| | - Abdelwahhab Alabid
- Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Tripoli University, Tripoli, LBY
| | - Abdulfatah Alabid
- Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Tripoli University, Tripoli, LBY
| | - Yasra Badi
- Internal Medicine, All Saints University School of Medicine, Dominica, USA
| | - Ibrahem Kamal
- General Medicine, Al-Azhar University, Alexandria, EGY
| | - Mohamed Hesham Gamal
- Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tanta University, Banha, EGY
| | - Khalid Mohamed Fisal
- Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Faculty of Pharmacy, Deraya University, Minia, EGY
| | - Mohamed Mujtaba
- Internal Medicine/Gastroenterology, Marshall University Joan C. Edwards School of Medicine, Huntington, USA
| | - Ahmed Sherif
- Internal Medicine/Gastroenterology, Marshall University Joan C. Edwards School of Medicine, Huntington, USA
| | - Wesam Frandah
- Internal Medicine/Gastroenterology, Marshall University Joan C. Edwards School of Medicine, Huntington, USA
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Zacharias HD, Kamel F, Tan J, Kimer N, Gluud LL, Morgan MY. Rifaximin for prevention and treatment of hepatic encephalopathy in people with cirrhosis. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2023; 7:CD011585. [PMID: 37467180 PMCID: PMC10360160 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd011585.pub2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/21/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hepatic encephalopathy describes the spectrum of neuropsychiatric changes that may complicate the course of cirrhosis and detrimentally affect outcomes. Ammonia plays a key role in its development. Rifaximin is a non-absorbable antibiotic that inhibits urease-producing bacteria and reduces absorption of dietary and bacterial ammonia. OBJECTIVES To evaluate the beneficial and harmful effects of rifaximin versus placebo, no intervention, or non-absorbable disaccharides for: (i) the prevention of hepatic encephalopathy, and (ii) the treatment of minimal and overt hepatic encephalopathy, in people with cirrhosis, both when used alone and when combined with a non-absorbable disaccharide. SEARCH METHODS We searched the Cochrane Hepato-Biliary Group Clinical Trials Register, CENTRAL, MEDLINE, Embase, three other databases, the reference lists of identified papers, and relevant conference proceedings. We wrote to authors and pharmaceutical companies for information on other published, unpublished, or ongoing trials. Searches were performed to January 2023. SELECTION CRITERIA We included randomised clinical trials assessing prevention or treatment of hepatic encephalopathy with rifaximin alone, or with a non-absorbable disaccharide, versus placebo/no intervention, or a non-absorbable disaccharide alone. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS Six authors independently searched for studies, extracted data, and validated findings. We assessed the design, bias risk, and participant/intervention characteristics of the included studies. We assessed mortality, serious adverse events, health-related quality of life, hepatic encephalopathy, non-serious adverse events, blood ammonia, Number Connection Test-A, and length of hospital stay. MAIN RESULTS We included 41 trials involving 4545 people with, or at risk for, developing hepatic encephalopathy. We excluded 89 trials and identified 13 ongoing studies. Some trials involved participants with more than one type of hepatic encephalopathy or more than one treatment comparison. Hepatic encephalopathy was classed as acute (13 trials), chronic (7 trials), or minimal (8 trials), or else participants were considered at risk for its development (13 trials). The control groups received placebo (12 trials), no/standard treatment (1 trial), or a non-absorbable disaccharide (14 trials). Eighteen trials assessed rifaximin plus a non-absorbable disaccharide versus a non-absorbable disaccharide alone. We classified 11 trials as at high risk of overall bias for mortality and 28 for non-mortality outcomes, mainly due to lack of blinding, incomplete outcome data, and selective reporting. Compared to placebo/no intervention, rifaximin likely has no overall effect on mortality (risk ratio (RR) 0.83, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.50 to 1.38; P = 48, I2 = 0%; 13 trials, 1007 participants; moderate-certainty evidence), and there may be no overall effect when compared to non-absorbable disaccharides (RR 0.99, 95% CI 0.49 to 1.97; P = 0.97, I2 = 0%; 10 trials, 786 participants; low-certainty evidence). However, there is likely a reduction in the overall risk of mortality when comparing rifaximin plus a non-absorbable disaccharide to a non-absorbable disaccharide alone (RR 0.69, 95% CI 0.55 to 0.86; number needed to treat for an additional beneficial outcome (NNTB) = 22; P = 0.001, I2 = 0%; 14 trials, 1946 participants; moderate-certainty evidence). There is likely no effect on the overall risk of serious adverse events when comparing rifaximin to placebo/no intervention (RR 1.05, 95% CI 0.83 to 1.32; P = 68, I2 = 0%; 9 trials, 801 participants; moderate-certainty evidence) and there may be no overall effect when compared to non-absorbable disaccharides (RR 0.97, 95% CI 0.66 to 1.40; P = 85, I2 = 0%; 8 trials, 681 participants; low-certainty evidence). However, there was very low-certainty evidence that use of rifaximin plus a non-absorbable disaccharide may be associated with a lower risk of serious adverse events than use of a non-absorbable disaccharide alone (RR 0.66, 95% CI 0.45 to 0.98; P = 0.04, I2 = 60%; 7 trials, 1076 participants). Rifaximin likely results in an overall effect on health-related quality of life when compared to placebo/no intervention (mean difference (MD) -1.43, 95% CI -2.87 to 0.02; P = 0.05, I2 = 81%; 4 trials, 214 participants; moderate-certainty evidence), and may benefit health-related quality of life in people with minimal hepatic encephalopathy (MD -2.07, 95% CI -2.79 to -1.35; P < 0.001, I2 = 0%; 3 trials, 176 participants). The overall effect on health-related quality of life when comparing rifaximin to non-absorbable disaccharides is very uncertain (MD -0.33, 95% CI -1.65 to 0.98; P = 0.62, I2 = 0%; 2 trials, 249 participants; very low-certainty evidence). None of the combined rifaximin/non-absorbable disaccharide trials reported on this outcome. There is likely an overall beneficial effect on hepatic encephalopathy when comparing rifaximin to placebo/no intervention (RR 0.56, 95% CI 0.42 to 0.77; NNTB = 5; P < 0.001, I2 = 68%; 13 trials, 1009 participants; moderate-certainty evidence). This effect may be more marked in people with minimal hepatic encephalopathy (RR 0.40, 95% CI 0.31 to 0.52; NNTB = 3; P < 0.001, I2 = 10%; 6 trials, 364 participants) and in prevention trials (RR 0.71, 95% CI 0.56 to 0.91; NNTB = 10; P = 0.007, I2 = 36%; 4 trials, 474 participants). There may be little overall effect on hepatic encephalopathy when comparing rifaximin to non-absorbable disaccharides (RR 0.85, 95% CI 0.69 to 1.05; P = 0.13, I2 = 0%; 13 trials, 921 participants; low-certainty evidence). However, there may be an overall beneficial effect on hepatic encephalopathy when comparing rifaximin plus a non-absorbable disaccharide to a non-absorbable disaccharide alone (RR 0.58, 95% CI 0.48 to 0.71; NNTB = 5; P < 0.001, I2 = 62%; 17 trials, 2332 participants; low-certainty evidence). AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS Compared to placebo/no intervention, rifaximin likely improves health-related quality of life in people with minimal hepatic encephalopathy, and may improve hepatic encephalopathy, particularly in populations with minimal hepatic encephalopathy and when it is used for prevention. Rifaximin likely has no overall effect on mortality, serious adverse events, health-related quality of life, or hepatic encephalopathy compared to non-absorbable disaccharides. However, when used in combination with a non-absorbable disaccharide, it likely reduces overall mortality risk, the risk of serious adverse events, improves hepatic encephalopathy, reduces the length of hospital stay, and prevents the occurrence/recurrence of hepatic encephalopathy. The certainty of evidence for these outcomes is very low to moderate; further high-quality trials are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harry D Zacharias
- UCL Institute for Liver & Digestive Health, Division of Medicine, Royal Free Campus, University College London, London, UK
| | - Fady Kamel
- UCL Institute for Liver & Digestive Health, Division of Medicine, Royal Free Campus, University College London, London, UK
| | - Jaclyn Tan
- UCL Institute for Liver & Digestive Health, Division of Medicine, Royal Free Campus, University College London, London, UK
| | - Nina Kimer
- Gastrounit, Medical Division, Copenhagen University Hospital Hvidovre, Hvidovre, Denmark
| | - Lise Lotte Gluud
- Gastrounit, Medical Division, Copenhagen University Hospital Hvidovre, Hvidovre, Denmark
| | - Marsha Y Morgan
- UCL Institute for Liver & Digestive Health, Division of Medicine, Royal Free Campus, University College London, London, UK
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Hayakawa Y, Tamaki N, Nakanishi H, Kurosaki M, Tanaka Y, Inada K, Ishido S, Kirino S, Yamashita K, Nobusawa T, Matsumoto H, Kakegawa T, Higuchi M, Takaura K, Tanaka S, Maeyashiki C, Kaneko S, Yasui Y, Takahashi Y, Tsuchiya K, Okamoto R, Izumi N. Add-on Therapeutic Effects of Rifaximin on Treatment-resistant Hepatic Encephalopathy. Intern Med 2023; 62:973-978. [PMID: 36070941 PMCID: PMC10125807 DOI: 10.2169/internalmedicine.0212-22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective Rifaximin is used to treat hepatic encephalopathy. However, whether or not rifaximin and lactulose combination therapy can enhance the treatment outcomes and reduce the hospitalization rate of patients with hepatic encephalopathy that are resistant to lactulose has yet to be determined. The present study investigated the hospitalization rate before and after rifaximin add-on therapy in patients resistant to lactulose. Methods A total of 36 patients who were resistant to lactulose with add-on rifaximin therapy were enrolled. Patients who were hospitalized and/or did not achieve normalization of ammonia levels under lactulose administration were defined as treatment-resistant. The primary outcome was the change in hospitalization rate due to hepatic encephalopathy at 24 weeks before and after rifaximin administration. Results Before rifaximin administration, 15 (41.6%) patients were hospitalized due to hepatic encephalopathy. After rifaximin administration, 8 (22.2%) patients were hospitalized due to hepatic encephalopathy. The hospitalization rates were significantly reduced after rifaximin administration (p=0.02). The median (interquartile range) ammonia levels upon rifaximin administration (baseline) and 8, 12, and 24 weeks after rifaximin administration were 124 (24-310) μg/dL, 78 (15-192) μg/dL, 67 (21-233) μg/dL, and 77 (28-200) μg/dL, respectively. Furthermore, the ammonia levels were significantly reduced by rifaximin add-on therapy (p=0.005, p=0.01, and p=0.01). Conclusion The addition of rifaximin to lactulose treatment in treatment-resistant patients decreases the hospitalization rate among patients with hepatic encephalopathy and may be used as an add-on treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuka Hayakawa
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Musashino Red Cross Hospital, Japan
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Japan
| | - Nobuharu Tamaki
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Musashino Red Cross Hospital, Japan
| | - Hiroyuki Nakanishi
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Musashino Red Cross Hospital, Japan
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Japan
| | - Masayuki Kurosaki
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Musashino Red Cross Hospital, Japan
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Japan
| | - Yuki Tanaka
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Musashino Red Cross Hospital, Japan
| | - Kento Inada
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Musashino Red Cross Hospital, Japan
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Japan
| | - Shun Ishido
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Musashino Red Cross Hospital, Japan
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Japan
| | - Sakura Kirino
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Musashino Red Cross Hospital, Japan
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Japan
| | - Koji Yamashita
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Musashino Red Cross Hospital, Japan
| | - Tsubasa Nobusawa
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Musashino Red Cross Hospital, Japan
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Japan
| | - Hiroaki Matsumoto
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Musashino Red Cross Hospital, Japan
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Japan
| | - Tatsuya Kakegawa
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Musashino Red Cross Hospital, Japan
| | - Mayu Higuchi
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Musashino Red Cross Hospital, Japan
| | - Kenta Takaura
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Musashino Red Cross Hospital, Japan
| | - Shohei Tanaka
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Musashino Red Cross Hospital, Japan
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Japan
| | - Chiaki Maeyashiki
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Musashino Red Cross Hospital, Japan
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Japan
| | - Shun Kaneko
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Musashino Red Cross Hospital, Japan
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Japan
| | - Yutaka Yasui
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Musashino Red Cross Hospital, Japan
| | - Yuka Takahashi
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Musashino Red Cross Hospital, Japan
| | - Kaoru Tsuchiya
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Musashino Red Cross Hospital, Japan
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Japan
| | - Ryuichi Okamoto
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Japan
| | - Namiki Izumi
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Musashino Red Cross Hospital, Japan
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Moon AM, Kim HP, Jiang Y, Lupu G, Bissram JS, Barritt AS, Tapper EB. Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis on the Effects of Lactulose and Rifaximin on Patient-Reported Outcomes in Hepatic Encephalopathy. Am J Gastroenterol 2023; 118:284-293. [PMID: 36730910 PMCID: PMC9904367 DOI: 10.14309/ajg.0000000000002008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2022] [Accepted: 09/09/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Patients with hepatic encephalopathy (HE) suffer from significant symptoms and impaired quality of life. Improved understanding on the potential benefits of first-line HE therapies may aid patient-provider discussions regarding expected benefits of HE treatments. We aimed to perform a systematic review to assess the effects of lactulose and rifaximin on patient-reported outcomes (PROs). METHODS We searched MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Cochrane Library databases for randomized trials or prospective cohort studies using lactulose and/or rifaximin for the management of HE and assessing changes in PRO using PRO instruments. Physician reviewers independently reviewed titles, abstracts, and full texts and extracted data independently. We performed random-effects meta-analyses to examine the effects of lactulose and rifaximin on PROs. RESULTS We identified 16 studies representing 1,376 patients that met inclusion criteria. Most studies assessed treatment of covert HE. In patients with covert HE, lactulose significantly improved overall patient-reported health-related quality of life measured by the Sickness Impact Profile with an estimated pooled mean difference of 6.92 (95% confidence interval: 6.66-7.18) and showed improvements in several subscales. Conversely, rifaximin demonstrated a nonstatistically significant mean difference in the total Sickness Impact Profile of 4.76 (95% confidence interval: -4.23 to 13.76), with strong evidence of heterogeneity between these studies. Studies examining other PRO instruments showed improvements in overall health-related quality of life, social functioning, and sleep from both lactulose and rifaximin. DISCUSSION Patients with HE treated with lactulose or rifaximin reported improvements in important PROs. These results may inform provider-patient communication and help manage patient expectations regarding the potential benefits of HE therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew M Moon
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Hannah P Kim
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition, Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Yue Jiang
- Department of Statistical Science, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Gabriel Lupu
- Department of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Jennifer S Bissram
- Health Sciences Library, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - A Sidney Barritt
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Elliot B Tapper
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
- Gastroenterology Section, VA Ann Arbor Healthcare System, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
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Miwa T, Hanai T, Imai K, Takai K, Shiraki M, Hayashi H, Shimizu S, Nishigaki Y, Tomita E, Shimizu M. Effects of Rifaximin on Circulating Albumin Structures and Serum Ammonia Levels in Patients with Liver Cirrhosis: A Preliminary Study. J Clin Med 2022; 11:jcm11247318. [PMID: 36555935 PMCID: PMC9784744 DOI: 10.3390/jcm11247318] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2022] [Revised: 12/05/2022] [Accepted: 12/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Circulating albumin structures, including their oxidized and reduced forms, are involved in hepatic encephalopathy (HE) development. However, the effects of rifaximin, a key drug in HE treatment, on the circulating albumin structure in patients with liver cirrhosis remain unclear. In this multicenter prospective study, eight patients with hyperammonemia (≥80 μg/dL) were enrolled. The circulating albumin structure was evaluated using the ratio of oxidized albumin (human nonmercaptalbumin, HNA). Patients were administered 400 mg rifaximin 3 times/day for 3 months, and laboratory data were assessed at baseline and during observation. Among the eight patients, three were men; the median age and body mass index were 70 years and 26.4 kg/m2, respectively. The median HNA and serum ammonia levels at baseline were 41% and 143 μg/dL, respectively. After rifaximin therapy, HNA showed a decreasing tendency (median; from 41% to 36%, p = 0.321), but serum albumin levels showed no significant change (from 3.5 g/dL to 3.5 g/dL, p = 1.00); serum ammonia levels significantly reduced (median: 143 μg/dL to 76 μg/dL, p = 0.015). Thus, rifaximin reduces serum ammonia levels and may improve circulating albumin structure in patients with cirrhosis. Further large-scale studies are required to confirm these preliminary results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takao Miwa
- Department of Gastroenterology/Internal Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Gifu University, Gifu 501-1194, Japan
- Health Administration Center, Gifu University, Gifu 501-1193, Japan
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +81-(58)-230-6308
| | - Tatsunori Hanai
- Department of Gastroenterology/Internal Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Gifu University, Gifu 501-1194, Japan
- Center for Nutrition Support & Infection Control, Gifu University Hospital, Gifu 501-1194, Japan
| | - Kenji Imai
- Department of Gastroenterology/Internal Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Gifu University, Gifu 501-1194, Japan
| | - Koji Takai
- Department of Gastroenterology/Internal Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Gifu University, Gifu 501-1194, Japan
- Division for Regional Cancer Control, Graduate School of Medicine, Gifu University, Gifu 501-1193, Japan
| | - Makoto Shiraki
- Department of Gastroenterology, Chuno Kosei Hospital, Gifu 501-3802, Japan
| | - Hideki Hayashi
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Gifu Municipal Hospital, Gifu 500-8513, Japan
| | - Shogo Shimizu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Gifu Prefectural General Medical Center, Gifu 500-8717, Japan
| | - Yoichi Nishigaki
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Gifu Municipal Hospital, Gifu 500-8513, Japan
| | - Eiichi Tomita
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Gifu Municipal Hospital, Gifu 500-8513, Japan
| | - Masahito Shimizu
- Department of Gastroenterology/Internal Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Gifu University, Gifu 501-1194, Japan
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A simple covert hepatic encephalopathy screening model based on blood biochemical parameters in patients with cirrhosis. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0277829. [PMID: 36449492 PMCID: PMC9710772 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0277829] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2022] [Accepted: 11/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
AIM Covert hepatic encephalopathy (CHE) adversely affects clinical outcomes in patients with liver cirrhosis, although its diagnosis is difficult. This study aimed to establish a simple CHE screening model based on blood-related biochemical parameters. METHODS This retrospective study enrolled 439 patients who were assessed for CHE using a neuropsychiatric test between January 2011 and June 2019. A simple CHE (sCHE) score was calculated with hypoalbuminemia (≤ 3.5 g/dL) and hyperammonemia (≥ 80 μg/dL) as 1 point each. The association between sCHE score and CHE or overt hepatic encephalopathy (OHE) was assessed using logistic regression and Fine-Gray competing risk regression models. RESULTS Of 381 eligible patients, 79 (21%) were diagnosed with CHE. The distribution of sCHE scores was 48% with 0 point, 33% with 1 point, and 19% with 2 points. Patients with sCHE score ≥ 1 point had a higher prevalence of CHE than those with sCHE score of 0 (27% vs. 14%, P = 0.002). A cut-off value of 1 point showed high discriminative ability for identifying CHE, with a sensitivity of 0.67, specificity of 0.56, positive predictive value of 0.27, and negative predictive value of 0.86. During the median follow-up period of 2.2 years, 58 (15%) patients developed OHE. Multivariate analysis showed that sCHE score ≥ 1 (sub-distribution hazard ratio [SHR], 2.69; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.41-5.15) and CHE (SHR, 2.17; 95% CI, 1.26-3.73) independently predicted OHE. CONCLUSIONS The sCHE score is a useful screening model for identifying patients with CHE and for predicting OHE occurrence.
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8
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Yokoyama K, Fukuda H, Yamauchi R, Higashi M, Miyayama T, Higashi T, Uchida Y, Shibata K, Tsuchiya N, Fukunaga A, Umeda K, Takata K, Tanaka T, Shakado S, Sakisaka S, Hirai F. Long-Term Effects of Rifaximin on Patients with Hepatic Encephalopathy: Its Possible Effects on the Improvement in the Blood Ammonia Concentration Levels, Hepatic Spare Ability and Refractory Ascites. MEDICINA (KAUNAS, LITHUANIA) 2022; 58:medicina58091276. [PMID: 36143954 PMCID: PMC9501622 DOI: 10.3390/medicina58091276] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2022] [Revised: 09/09/2022] [Accepted: 09/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Background and Objectives: To investigate the long-term efficacy of rifaximin (RFX) for hyperammonemia and efficacy for refractory ascites in patients with cirrhosis. Materials and Methods: We enrolled 112 patients with liver cirrhosis who were orally administered RFX in this study. Changes in the clinical data of patients were evaluated up to 36 months after RFX administration. The primary endpoint was a change in blood ammonia levels. Secondary endpoints included changes in clinical symptoms, Child−Pugh (CP) score, number of hospitalizations, degree of refractory ascites, adverse events, and the relationship between RFX administration and the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system. Results: An improved rate of overt hepatic encephalopathy (HE) of 82.7% was observed 3 months after RFX administration, which significantly induced a progressive decrease in blood ammonia concentration and an improved CP score up to 36 months. No serious RFX treatment-related adverse events were observed. 36.5% in patients after RFX administration improved refractory ascites. After RFX administration, patients with satisfactory control of hepatic ascites without addition of diuretic had lower renin concentration than those with poor control (p < 0.01). At less than 41 pg/mL renin concentration, the control of refractory ascites was significantly satisfactory (p < 0.0001). Conclusions: RFX reduced blood ammonia concentration and improved hepatic spare ability and the quality of life of patients with long-term HE to up to 36 months. Our study revealed the effects of RFX against refractory ascites, suggesting that renin concentration may be a predictive marker for assessing ascites control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keiji Yokoyama
- Department of Gastroenterology and Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Fukuoka University, 7-45-1 Nanakuma, Jonan-ku, Fukuoka-shi 814-0180, Fukuoka, Japan
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +81-92-801-1011 (ext. 3355)
| | - Hiromi Fukuda
- Department of Gastroenterology and Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Fukuoka University, 7-45-1 Nanakuma, Jonan-ku, Fukuoka-shi 814-0180, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Ryo Yamauchi
- Department of Gastroenterology and Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Fukuoka University, 7-45-1 Nanakuma, Jonan-ku, Fukuoka-shi 814-0180, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Masashi Higashi
- Higashi Hospital, 593-1 Hirotsu, Yositomi-machi, Chikujo-gun 871-0811, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Takashi Miyayama
- Department of Gastroenterology and Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Fukuoka University, 7-45-1 Nanakuma, Jonan-ku, Fukuoka-shi 814-0180, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Tomotaka Higashi
- Department of Gastroenterology and Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Fukuoka University, 7-45-1 Nanakuma, Jonan-ku, Fukuoka-shi 814-0180, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Yotaro Uchida
- Department of Gastroenterology and Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Fukuoka University, 7-45-1 Nanakuma, Jonan-ku, Fukuoka-shi 814-0180, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Kumiko Shibata
- Department of Gastroenterology and Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Fukuoka University, 7-45-1 Nanakuma, Jonan-ku, Fukuoka-shi 814-0180, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Naoaki Tsuchiya
- Department of Gastroenterology and Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Fukuoka University, 7-45-1 Nanakuma, Jonan-ku, Fukuoka-shi 814-0180, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Atsushi Fukunaga
- Department of Gastroenterology and Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Fukuoka University, 7-45-1 Nanakuma, Jonan-ku, Fukuoka-shi 814-0180, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Kaoru Umeda
- Department of Gastroenterology and Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Fukuoka University, 7-45-1 Nanakuma, Jonan-ku, Fukuoka-shi 814-0180, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Kazuhide Takata
- Department of Gastroenterology and Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Fukuoka University, 7-45-1 Nanakuma, Jonan-ku, Fukuoka-shi 814-0180, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Takashi Tanaka
- Department of Gastroenterology and Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Fukuoka University, 7-45-1 Nanakuma, Jonan-ku, Fukuoka-shi 814-0180, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Satoshi Shakado
- Department of Gastroenterology and Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Fukuoka University, 7-45-1 Nanakuma, Jonan-ku, Fukuoka-shi 814-0180, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Shotaro Sakisaka
- Department of Gastroenterology and Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Fukuoka University, 7-45-1 Nanakuma, Jonan-ku, Fukuoka-shi 814-0180, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Fumihito Hirai
- Department of Gastroenterology and Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Fukuoka University, 7-45-1 Nanakuma, Jonan-ku, Fukuoka-shi 814-0180, Fukuoka, Japan
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9
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Won SM, Oh KK, Gupta H, Ganesan R, Sharma SP, Jeong JJ, Yoon SJ, Jeong MK, Min BH, Hyun JY, Park HJ, Eom JA, Lee SB, Cha MG, Kwon GH, Choi MR, Kim DJ, Suk KT. The Link between Gut Microbiota and Hepatic Encephalopathy. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23168999. [PMID: 36012266 PMCID: PMC9408988 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23168999] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2022] [Revised: 08/08/2022] [Accepted: 08/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatic encephalopathy (HE) is a serious complication of cirrhosis that causes neuropsychiatric problems, such as cognitive dysfunction and movement disorders. The link between the microbiota and the host plays a key role in the pathogenesis of HE. The link between the gut microbiome and disease can be positively utilized not only in the diagnosis area of HE but also in the treatment area. Probiotics and prebiotics aim to resolve gut dysbiosis and increase beneficial microbial taxa, while fecal microbiota transplantation aims to address gut dysbiosis through transplantation (FMT) of the gut microbiome from healthy donors. Antibiotics, such as rifaximin, aim to improve cognitive function and hyperammonemia by targeting harmful taxa. Current treatment regimens for HE have achieved some success in treatment by targeting the gut microbiota, however, are still accompanied by limitations and problems. A focused approach should be placed on the establishment of personalized trial designs and therapies for the improvement of future care. This narrative review identifies factors negatively influencing the gut–hepatic–brain axis leading to HE in cirrhosis and explores their relationship with the gut microbiome. We also focused on the evaluation of reported clinical studies on the management and improvement of HE patients with a particular focus on microbiome-targeted therapy.
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10
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Okushin K, Tateishi R, Takahashi A, Uchino K, Nakagomi R, Nakatsuka T, Minami T, Sato M, Fujishiro M, Hasegawa K, Eguchi Y, Kanto T, Kubo S, Yoshiji H, Miyata H, Izumi N, Kudo M, Koike K. Current status of primary liver cancer and decompensated cirrhosis in Japan: launch of a nationwide registry for advanced liver diseases (REAL). J Gastroenterol 2022; 57:587-597. [PMID: 35788887 DOI: 10.1007/s00535-022-01893-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2022] [Accepted: 06/07/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND We developed a nationwide database that stores data of patients with primary liver cancer (PLC) and decompensated cirrhosis (DC) on an admission basis. METHODS A database was constructed using the National Clinical Database, a nationwide registry platform for various diseases in Japan. Mutual data exchange was possible with the Nationwide Follow-up Survey of Primary Liver Cancer in Japan by the Liver Cancer Study Group of Japan. The stored data on the admission of patients with PLC, DC, or both, included treatment details as well as patient characteristics. RESULTS A total of 37,705 admissions (29,489 PLC, 10,077 DC, and 1862 for both) in 21,376 patients from 224 hospitals were analyzed. The proportions of patients with hepatitis B, hepatitis C, and non-viral etiology were 11.9%, 36.2%, and 42.6%, respectively, in PLC, and 7.5%, 23.8%, and 55.0%, respectively, in DC. The mean ages (± standard deviation) on admission with PLC and DC were 73 ± 10 and 68 ± 13 years, respectively. The Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer (BCLC) stage for PLC was 0, A, B, C, and D in 22.0%, 17.1%, 29.6%, 15.1%, and 5.1%, respectively. Treatment modalities for PLC were resection, ablation, transarterial chemoembolization, and systemic therapy in 18.4%, 22.8%, 33.7%, and 11.4%, respectively. A vasopressin receptor V2 antagonist was used in 38.2% in addition to conventionally used loop diuretics and aldosterone antagonists for DC. CONCLUSIONS The distribution of treatment options for PLC on admission differed from that of the initial treatment. Newly introduced drugs are widely used in patients with DC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kazuya Okushin
- Department of Gastroenterology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8655, Japan.,Department of Infection Control and Prevention, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Ryosuke Tateishi
- Department of Gastroenterology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8655, Japan.
| | - Arata Takahashi
- Department of Healthcare Quality Assessment, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan.,Department of Health Policy and Management, School of Medicine, Keio University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Koji Uchino
- Department of Gastroenterology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8655, Japan
| | - Ryo Nakagomi
- Department of Gastroenterology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8655, Japan
| | - Takuma Nakatsuka
- Department of Gastroenterology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8655, Japan
| | - Tatsuya Minami
- Department of Gastroenterology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8655, Japan
| | - Masaya Sato
- Department of Gastroenterology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8655, Japan
| | - Mitsuhiro Fujishiro
- Department of Gastroenterology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8655, Japan
| | - Kiyoshi Hasegawa
- Hepato-Biliary-Pancreatic Surgery Division, Artificial Organ and Transplantation Division, Department of Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yuichiro Eguchi
- Liver Center, Saga University Hospital, Saga University, Saga, Japan
| | - Tatsuya Kanto
- The Research Center for Hepatitis and Immunology, National Center for Global Health and Medicine, Chiba, Japan
| | - Shoji Kubo
- Department of Hepato-Biliary-Pancreatic Surgery, Osaka Metropolitan University Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka, Japan
| | - Hitoshi Yoshiji
- Department of Gastroenterology, Nara Medical University, Kashihara, Nara, Japan
| | - Hiroaki Miyata
- Department of Healthcare Quality Assessment, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan.,Department of Health Policy and Management, School of Medicine, Keio University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Namiki Izumi
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Musashino Red Cross Hospital, Musashino, Japan
| | - Masatoshi Kudo
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Kindai University Faculty of Medicine, Osaka-Sayama, Japan
| | - Kazuhiko Koike
- Department of Gastroenterology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8655, Japan.,Kanto Central Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
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11
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Efficacy of rifaximin against covert hepatic encephalopathy and hyperammonemia in Japanese patients. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0270786. [PMID: 35776720 PMCID: PMC9249214 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0270786] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2022] [Accepted: 06/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Covert hepatic encephalopathy (CHE) impairs patient quality of life and occurs in approximately 30% of liver cirrhosis (LC) cases. Japanese clinical practice guidelines recommend rifaximin to treat overt HE (OHE). However, the usefulness of rifaximin against CHE is not thoroughly investigated in Japanese patients. We aimed to investigate the efficacy of rifaximin against hyperammonemia and CHE in Japan. We observed 102 patients with HE showing hyperammonemia secondary to LC and examined various biochemical and behavioral parameters following rifaximin treatment. CHE was diagnosed when the patients exhibited two or more abnormal neuropsychological test (NPT) scores but did not indicate OHE symptoms. In the 102 cases, a significant therapeutic effect of rifaximin on hyperammonemia was observed from 2 to 48 weeks after starting treatment. Excluding 10 patients diagnosed with OHE upon starting rifaximin treatment, 12 of the 92 remaining patients (11.8%) transitioned to OHE within 1 year. The 1 year cumulative OHE transition rate was 14.5%. Among the 24 patients with CHE diagnosed by the NPT for whom NPT results could be evaluated at 4 and 12 weeks after starting treatment, 10 (41.6%) had recovered from CHE at 12 weeks. When the factors contributing to recovery from CHE were examined by multivariate analysis, an ammonia level <129 μg/dL was a significant factor. Rifaximin was thus significantly effective against both hyperammonemia and CHE in Japanese patients.
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12
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Kawaratani H, Kondo Y, Tatsumi R, Kawabe N, Tanabe N, Sakamaki A, Okumoto K, Uchida Y, Endo K, Kawaguchi T, Oikawa T, Ishizu Y, Hige S, Takami T, Terai S, Ueno Y, Mochida S, Takikawa Y, Torimura T, Matsuura T, Ishigami M, Koike K, Yoshiji H. Long-Term Efficacy and Safety of Rifaximin in Japanese Patients with Hepatic Encephalopathy: A Multicenter Retrospective Study. J Clin Med 2022; 11:jcm11061571. [PMID: 35329897 PMCID: PMC8948903 DOI: 10.3390/jcm11061571] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2022] [Revised: 03/02/2022] [Accepted: 03/08/2022] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Rifaximin is commonly used for hepatic encephalopathy (HE). However, the effects of long-term treatment for Japanese people are limited. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the effects and safety of long-term treatment with rifaximin on HE. Methods: A total of 215 patients with cirrhosis administered with rifaximin developed overt or covert HE, which was diagnosed by an attending physician for >12 months. Laboratory data were extracted at pretreatment and 3, 6, and 12 months after rifaximin administration. The long-term effect of rifaximin was evaluated, and the incidence of overt HE during 12 months and adverse events was extracted. Results: Ammonia levels were significantly improved after 3 months of rifaximin administration and were continued until 12 months. There were no serious adverse events after rifaximin administration. The number of overt HE incidents was 9, 14, and 27 patients within 3, 6, and 12 months, respectively. Liver enzymes, renal function, and electrolytes did not change after rifaximin administration. Prothrombin activity is a significant risk factor for the occurrence of overt HE. The serum albumin, prothrombin activity, and albumin−bilirubin (ALBI) scores were statistically improved after 3 and 6 months of rifaximin administration. Moreover, the same results were obtained in patients with Child−Pugh C. Conclusions: The long-term rifaximin treatment was effective and safe for patients with HE, including Child−Pugh C.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hideto Kawaratani
- Department of Gastroenterology, Nara Medical University, Kashihara 634-8521, Japan;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +81-744-22-3051 (ext. 3514)
| | - Yasuteru Kondo
- Department of Hepatology, Sendai Kousei Hospital, Sendai 980-0873, Japan;
| | - Ryoji Tatsumi
- Department of Gastroenterology, Sapporo Kosei General Hospital, Sapporo 060-0033, Japan; (R.T.); (S.H.)
| | - Naoto Kawabe
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Fujita Health University School of Medicine, Aichi 470-1192, Japan;
| | - Norikazu Tanabe
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Graduate School of Medicine, Yamaguchi University, Ube 755-8505, Japan; (N.T.); (T.T.)
| | - Akira Sakamaki
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Niigata University, Niigata 951-8510, Japan; (A.S.); (S.T.)
| | - Kazuo Okumoto
- Department of Gastroenterology, Yamagata University Faculty of Medicine, Yamagata 990-9585, Japan; (K.O.); (Y.U.)
| | - Yoshihito Uchida
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Faculty of Medicine, Saitama Medical University, Saitama 350-0495, Japan; (Y.U.); (S.M.)
| | - Kei Endo
- Division of Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Iwate Medical University, Morioka 028-3694, Japan; (K.E.); (Y.T.)
| | - Takumi Kawaguchi
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Kurume University School of Medicine, Kurume 830-0011, Japan; (T.K.); (T.T.)
| | - Tsunekazu Oikawa
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, The Jikei University School of Medicine, Tokyo 105-8461, Japan; (T.O.); (T.M.)
| | - Yoji Ishizu
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Aichi 466-8550, Japan; (Y.I.); (M.I.)
| | - Shuhei Hige
- Department of Gastroenterology, Sapporo Kosei General Hospital, Sapporo 060-0033, Japan; (R.T.); (S.H.)
| | - Taro Takami
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Graduate School of Medicine, Yamaguchi University, Ube 755-8505, Japan; (N.T.); (T.T.)
| | - Shuji Terai
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Niigata University, Niigata 951-8510, Japan; (A.S.); (S.T.)
| | - Yoshiyuki Ueno
- Department of Gastroenterology, Yamagata University Faculty of Medicine, Yamagata 990-9585, Japan; (K.O.); (Y.U.)
| | - Satoshi Mochida
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Faculty of Medicine, Saitama Medical University, Saitama 350-0495, Japan; (Y.U.); (S.M.)
| | - Yasuhiro Takikawa
- Division of Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Iwate Medical University, Morioka 028-3694, Japan; (K.E.); (Y.T.)
| | - Takuji Torimura
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Kurume University School of Medicine, Kurume 830-0011, Japan; (T.K.); (T.T.)
| | - Tomokazu Matsuura
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, The Jikei University School of Medicine, Tokyo 105-8461, Japan; (T.O.); (T.M.)
| | - Masatoshi Ishigami
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Aichi 466-8550, Japan; (Y.I.); (M.I.)
| | | | - Hitoshi Yoshiji
- Department of Gastroenterology, Nara Medical University, Kashihara 634-8521, Japan;
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13
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Cheng J, Chen Y, Cao W, Zuo G. Is rifaximin better than nonabsorbable disaccharides in hepatic encephalopathy?: A meta-analysis. Medicine (Baltimore) 2021; 100:e28232. [PMID: 34941089 PMCID: PMC8701975 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000028232] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2021] [Revised: 11/16/2021] [Accepted: 11/24/2021] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The purpose of the present meta-analysis was to compare the efficacy of rifaximin and nonabsorbable disaccharides (NADs) in hepatic encephalopathy (HE). METHODS After the registration of the present meta-analysis on INPLASY, all procedures were performed according to PRISMA 2020. Relevant literature was retrieved on PubMed, Embase, and the Cochrane Library up to September 5, 2021. The Newcastle-Ottawa Scale (NOS) was used to assess the quality of the enrolled studies, and Review Manager software (version 5.3) was used to analyze the clinical efficacy, blood ammonia and adverse effects. RESULTS Six studies with 559 patients were included in the present meta-analysis. There were no significant differences in the basic characteristics of the included studies. Analysis of the complete resolution of HE showed that rifaximin was better than NADs (risk ratio [RR] = 1.87, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.03-3.39, P = .04). However, there were no significant differences in mental status (RR = 1.04, 95% CI = 0.92-1.18, P = .53), blood ammonia level (standard mean difference = -0.02, 95% CI = -0.40-0.02, P = .08), or drug adverse drug effects (OR = 0.43, 95% CI = 0.10-1.77, I2 = 56%, P = .24) between the rifaximin and NADs treatment groups. CONCLUSION Rifaximin is not superior to NADs in the treatment of HE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junxiong Cheng
- College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine for Prevention and Cure of Metabolic Diseases, Chongqing, PR China
| | - Yafang Chen
- College of Pharmaceutical Sclences and Chinese Medicine, Southwest University, Chongqing, PR China
| | - Wenfu Cao
- College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine for Prevention and Cure of Metabolic Diseases, Chongqing, PR China
| | - Guoqing Zuo
- Department of Gastroenterology, Chongqing Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chongqing, PR China
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14
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Yamana H, Imai S, Yamasaki K, Horiguchi H, Ario K, Komatsu T, Sugimoto R, Katsushima S, Naganuma A, Mano Y, Yamashita T, Kamitsukasa H, Tsuruta S, Jo T, Yasunaga H, Fushimi K, Yatsuhashi H. Prognosis of patients with liver cirrhosis: A multi-center retrospective observational study. Hepatol Res 2021; 51:1196-1206. [PMID: 34492143 DOI: 10.1111/hepr.13711] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2021] [Revised: 08/20/2021] [Accepted: 09/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
AIM Despite advances in the management of liver diseases and changes in the etiology of cirrhosis, few studies have updated the prognosis of cirrhosis. This study aimed to clarify the recent prognosis of cirrhosis and identify risk factors for death. METHODS In this retrospective observational study by the Hepatic Disease Network of the National Hospital Organization in Japan, chart reviews were performed to follow patients with cirrhosis beginning in 2011. We conducted Kaplan-Meier survival time analyses stratified by Child-Pugh classification and albumin-bilirubin grade. Cox regression analysis was used to identify risk factors for death. RESULTS We identified 444 eligible patients from 25 hospitals, including 303 (68%), 110 (25%), and 31 (7%) patients with Child-Pugh classes A, B, and C, respectively. Hepatitis C virus infection was the cause of cirrhosis for 63% of the patients. The 1-year and 5-year cumulative survival rates of patients with Child-Pugh classes A, B, and C were 90% and 61%, 78% and 42%, and 65% and 25%, respectively. The 1-year and 5-year cumulative survival rates of patients with albumin-bilirubin grades 1, 2, and 3 were 98% and 80%, 91% and 56%, and 58% and 23%, respectively. Cirrhosis classification (Child-Pugh and albumin-bilirubin), age, liver cancer, and untreated esophageal varices were associated with increased hazard of death. CONCLUSIONS Little improvement was observed in the prognosis of cirrhosis compared with previous reports, and the prognosis of Child-Pugh class C cirrhosis remained poor. Untreated esophageal varices were identified as a risk factor for death.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hayato Yamana
- Department of Clinical Data Management and Research, Clinical Research Center, National Hospital Organization Headquarters, Meguro, Japan.,Department of Health Services Research, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Bunkyo, Japan
| | - Shinobu Imai
- Department of Clinical Data Management and Research, Clinical Research Center, National Hospital Organization Headquarters, Meguro, Japan.,Department of Drug Safety and Risk Management, School of Pharmacy, Tokyo University of Pharmacy and Life Sciences, Hachioji, Japan
| | - Kazumi Yamasaki
- Clinical Research Center, National Hospital Organization Nagasaki Medical Center, Omura, Japan
| | - Hiromasa Horiguchi
- Department of Clinical Data Management and Research, Clinical Research Center, National Hospital Organization Headquarters, Meguro, Japan
| | - Keisuke Ario
- Department of Gastroenterology, National Hospital Organization Ureshino Medical Center, Ureshino, Japan
| | - Tatsuji Komatsu
- Department of Clinical Research, National Hospital Organization Yokohama Medical Center, Yokohama, Japan
| | - Rie Sugimoto
- Department of Hepato-Biliary-Pancreatology, National Hospital Organization Kyushu Cancer Center, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Shinji Katsushima
- Department of Gastroenterology, National Hospital Organization Kyoto Medical Center, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Atsushi Naganuma
- Department of Gastroenterology, National Hospital Organization Takasaki General Medical Center, Takasaki, Japan
| | - Yutaka Mano
- Department of Gastroenterology, National Hospital Organization Sendai Medical Center, Sendai, Japan
| | - Tsutomu Yamashita
- Department of Gastroenterology, National Hospital Organization Oita Medical Center, Oita, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Kamitsukasa
- Department of Gastroenterology, National Hospital Organization Tokyo National Hospital, Kiyose, Japan
| | - Satoru Tsuruta
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, National Hospital Organization Beppu Medical Center, Beppu, Japan
| | - Taisuke Jo
- Department of Health Services Research, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Bunkyo, Japan
| | - Hideo Yasunaga
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology and Health Economics, School of Public Health, The University of Tokyo, Bunkyo, Japan
| | - Kiyohide Fushimi
- Department of Clinical Data Management and Research, Clinical Research Center, National Hospital Organization Headquarters, Meguro, Japan.,Department of Health Policy and Informatics, Tokyo Medical and Dental University Graduate School, Bunkyo, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Yatsuhashi
- Clinical Research Center, National Hospital Organization Nagasaki Medical Center, Omura, Japan
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15
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Quality of life as a therapeutic objective in the management of hepatic encephalopathy and the potential role of rifaximin-α. Eur J Gastroenterol Hepatol 2021; 33:e1032-e1038. [PMID: 34402475 PMCID: PMC8734632 DOI: 10.1097/meg.0000000000002273] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/10/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Quality of life (QoL) is impaired in patients with hepatic encephalopathy and rifaximin-α can improve QoL within 6 months. This study assessed the importance of QoL as a therapeutic objective in hepatic encephalopathy management; whether QoL is routinely assessed in hepatic encephalopathy patients in clinical practice and the role of rifaximin-α in this context. METHODS A survey was conducted of healthcare professionals (HCPs) from Europe and Australia involved in hepatic encephalopathy management. HCPs rated the importance of a range of therapeutic objectives on a 1-7 Likert scale (1 = not at all important; 7 = extremely important). HCPs were also required to provide three patient record forms (PRFs) based on their last three hepatic encephalopathy patients. RESULTS There were 218 HCP respondents, who provided 654 PRFs (patients treated with rifaximin-α, n = 347; patients not treated with rifaximin-α, n = 307). The mean Likert score was highest for the therapeutic objective 'improving a patient's QoL' (6.4), which was rated significantly more highly than all other therapeutic objectives, including 'reducing the patient's likelihood of hospital readmission' (6.1; P < 0.001) and 'preventing death of the patient' (6.1; P < 0.001). Despite this, only 28.3% of PRFs documented specific QoL data assessment. Patients receiving rifaximin-α were treated later in their disease course than those not receiving rifaximin-α. CONCLUSIONS HCPs consider QoL improvement the main therapeutic objective in hepatic encephalopathy management, but most do not explicitly assess QoL. Earlier introduction of rifaximin-α may safeguard QoL improvement even when QoL monitoring is not possible.
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16
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Han X, Luo Z, Wang W, Zheng P, Li T, Mei Z, Wang J. Efficacy and Safety of Rifaximin Versus Placebo or Other Active Drugs in Critical ill Patients With Hepatic Encephalopathy. Front Pharmacol 2021; 12:696065. [PMID: 34690751 PMCID: PMC8533823 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.696065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2021] [Accepted: 09/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective: Rifaximin has been approved for use as a first-line therapy for secondary prophylaxis of hepatic encephalopathy (HE). This article is to update existing evidence on efficacy and safety of rifaximin treatment and prevention for HE. Methods: We systematically searched multiple databases until January 31 2021. The studies compared rifaximin vs. placebo or other active drugs (i.e., nonabsorbable disaccharides, other antibiotics, L-ornithine-L-aspartate (LOLA), and probiotics) for patients with overt HE (OHE), minimal HE (MHE), and recurrent HE. Results: Twenty-eight randomized controlled trials with a total of 2979 patients were included. Compared with the controls, rifaximin significantly reduced HE grade (OHE: RR = 1.11, 95% CI = 1.02–1.21), improved the cognitive impairments (MHE: RR = 1.82, 95% CI = 1.12–2.93) and prevented the risk of HE recurrent episodes (RR = 1.33, 95% CI = 1.18–1.49). No statistical difference was observed in mortality between rifaximin and their controls (RR = 0.82, 95% CI = 0.54–1.24). The incidence of total adverse events in rifaximin-treated groups was significantly lower than that in the controls during the treatment period (RR = 0.73, 95% CI = 0.54–0.98). In addition, rifaximin treatment was better than other active drugs in improving psychometric indicators (mental state, flapping tremor and portosystemic encephalopathy (PSE) index) and reducing the risk of rehospitalization in HE patients. Conclusion: Rifaximin therapy is effective and well-tolerated in different types of HE, which might be recommended as an alternative to conventional oral drugs in clinical settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xianghui Han
- Department of Liver Disease, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China.,Institute of Chinese Traditional Surgery, Longhua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhanyang Luo
- Institute of Chinese Traditional Surgery, Longhua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Wenyi Wang
- Department of Liver Disease, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Peiyong Zheng
- Institute of Digestive Diseases, Longhua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Tian Li
- School of Basic Medicine, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Zubing Mei
- Department of Anorectal Surgery, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China.,Anorectal Disease Institute of Shuguang Hospital, Shanghai, China
| | - Jianyi Wang
- Department of Liver Disease, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
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17
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Yoshiji H, Nagoshi S, Akahane T, Asaoka Y, Ueno Y, Ogawa K, Kawaguchi T, Kurosaki M, Sakaida I, Shimizu M, Taniai M, Terai S, Nishikawa H, Hiasa Y, Hidaka H, Miwa H, Chayama K, Enomoto N, Shimosegawa T, Takehara T, Koike K. Evidence-based clinical practice guidelines for Liver Cirrhosis 2020. J Gastroenterol 2021; 56:593-619. [PMID: 34231046 PMCID: PMC8280040 DOI: 10.1007/s00535-021-01788-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 127] [Impact Index Per Article: 42.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2021] [Accepted: 02/25/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The first edition of the clinical practice guidelines for liver cirrhosis was published in 2010, and the second edition was published in 2015 by the Japanese Society of Gastroenterology (JSGE). The revised third edition was recently published in 2020. This version has become a joint guideline by the JSGE and the Japan Society of Hepatology (JSH). In addition to the clinical questions (CQs), background questions (BQs) are new items for basic clinical knowledge, and future research questions (FRQs) are newly added clinically important items. Concerning the clinical treatment of liver cirrhosis, new findings have been reported over the past 5 years since the second edition. In this revision, we decided to match the international standards as much as possible by referring to the latest international guidelines. Newly developed agents for various complications have also made great progress. In comparison with the latest global guidelines, such as the European Association for the Study of the Liver (EASL) and American Association for the Study of Liver Diseases (AASLD), we are introducing data based on the evidence for clinical practice in Japan. The flowchart for nutrition therapy was reviewed to be useful for daily medical care by referring to overseas guidelines. We also explain several clinically important items that have recently received focus and were not mentioned in the last editions. This digest version describes the issues related to the management of liver cirrhosis and several complications in clinical practice. The content begins with a diagnostic algorithm, the revised flowchart for nutritional therapy, and refracted ascites, which are of great importance to patients with cirrhosis. In addition to the updated antiviral therapy for hepatitis B and C liver cirrhosis, the latest treatments for non-viral cirrhosis, such as alcoholic steatohepatitis/non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (ASH/NASH) and autoimmune-related cirrhosis, are also described. It also covers the latest evidence regarding the diagnosis and treatment of liver cirrhosis complications, namely gastrointestinal bleeding, ascites, hepatorenal syndrome and acute kidney injury, hepatic encephalopathy, portal thrombus, sarcopenia, muscle cramp, thrombocytopenia, pruritus, hepatopulmonary syndrome, portopulmonary hypertension, and vitamin D deficiency, including BQ, CQ and FRQ. Finally, this guideline covers prognosis prediction and liver transplantation, especially focusing on several new findings since the last version. Since this revision is a joint guideline by both societies, the same content is published simultaneously in the official English journal of JSGE and JSH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hitoshi Yoshiji
- Guidelines Committee for Creating and Evaluating the "Evidence-Based Clinical Practice Guidelines for Liver Cirrhosis", The Japanese Society of Gastroenterology / The Japan Society of Hepatology, 6F Shimbashi i-MARK Building, 2-6-2 Shimbashi, Minato-ku, Tokyo, 105-0004, Japan.
- Department of Gastroenterology, Nara Medical University, Shijo-cho 840, Kashihara, Nara, 634-8522, Japan.
| | - Sumiko Nagoshi
- Guidelines Committee for Creating and Evaluating the "Evidence-Based Clinical Practice Guidelines for Liver Cirrhosis", The Japanese Society of Gastroenterology / The Japan Society of Hepatology, 6F Shimbashi i-MARK Building, 2-6-2 Shimbashi, Minato-ku, Tokyo, 105-0004, Japan
| | - Takemi Akahane
- Guidelines Committee for Creating and Evaluating the "Evidence-Based Clinical Practice Guidelines for Liver Cirrhosis", The Japanese Society of Gastroenterology / The Japan Society of Hepatology, 6F Shimbashi i-MARK Building, 2-6-2 Shimbashi, Minato-ku, Tokyo, 105-0004, Japan
| | - Yoshinari Asaoka
- Guidelines Committee for Creating and Evaluating the "Evidence-Based Clinical Practice Guidelines for Liver Cirrhosis", The Japanese Society of Gastroenterology / The Japan Society of Hepatology, 6F Shimbashi i-MARK Building, 2-6-2 Shimbashi, Minato-ku, Tokyo, 105-0004, Japan
| | - Yoshiyuki Ueno
- Guidelines Committee for Creating and Evaluating the "Evidence-Based Clinical Practice Guidelines for Liver Cirrhosis", The Japanese Society of Gastroenterology / The Japan Society of Hepatology, 6F Shimbashi i-MARK Building, 2-6-2 Shimbashi, Minato-ku, Tokyo, 105-0004, Japan
| | - Koji Ogawa
- Guidelines Committee for Creating and Evaluating the "Evidence-Based Clinical Practice Guidelines for Liver Cirrhosis", The Japanese Society of Gastroenterology / The Japan Society of Hepatology, 6F Shimbashi i-MARK Building, 2-6-2 Shimbashi, Minato-ku, Tokyo, 105-0004, Japan
| | - Takumi Kawaguchi
- Guidelines Committee for Creating and Evaluating the "Evidence-Based Clinical Practice Guidelines for Liver Cirrhosis", The Japanese Society of Gastroenterology / The Japan Society of Hepatology, 6F Shimbashi i-MARK Building, 2-6-2 Shimbashi, Minato-ku, Tokyo, 105-0004, Japan
| | - Masayuki Kurosaki
- Guidelines Committee for Creating and Evaluating the "Evidence-Based Clinical Practice Guidelines for Liver Cirrhosis", The Japanese Society of Gastroenterology / The Japan Society of Hepatology, 6F Shimbashi i-MARK Building, 2-6-2 Shimbashi, Minato-ku, Tokyo, 105-0004, Japan
| | - Isao Sakaida
- Guidelines Committee for Creating and Evaluating the "Evidence-Based Clinical Practice Guidelines for Liver Cirrhosis", The Japanese Society of Gastroenterology / The Japan Society of Hepatology, 6F Shimbashi i-MARK Building, 2-6-2 Shimbashi, Minato-ku, Tokyo, 105-0004, Japan
| | - Masahito Shimizu
- Guidelines Committee for Creating and Evaluating the "Evidence-Based Clinical Practice Guidelines for Liver Cirrhosis", The Japanese Society of Gastroenterology / The Japan Society of Hepatology, 6F Shimbashi i-MARK Building, 2-6-2 Shimbashi, Minato-ku, Tokyo, 105-0004, Japan
| | - Makiko Taniai
- Guidelines Committee for Creating and Evaluating the "Evidence-Based Clinical Practice Guidelines for Liver Cirrhosis", The Japanese Society of Gastroenterology / The Japan Society of Hepatology, 6F Shimbashi i-MARK Building, 2-6-2 Shimbashi, Minato-ku, Tokyo, 105-0004, Japan
| | - Shuji Terai
- Guidelines Committee for Creating and Evaluating the "Evidence-Based Clinical Practice Guidelines for Liver Cirrhosis", The Japanese Society of Gastroenterology / The Japan Society of Hepatology, 6F Shimbashi i-MARK Building, 2-6-2 Shimbashi, Minato-ku, Tokyo, 105-0004, Japan
| | - Hiroki Nishikawa
- Guidelines Committee for Creating and Evaluating the "Evidence-Based Clinical Practice Guidelines for Liver Cirrhosis", The Japanese Society of Gastroenterology / The Japan Society of Hepatology, 6F Shimbashi i-MARK Building, 2-6-2 Shimbashi, Minato-ku, Tokyo, 105-0004, Japan
| | - Yoichi Hiasa
- Guidelines Committee for Creating and Evaluating the "Evidence-Based Clinical Practice Guidelines for Liver Cirrhosis", The Japanese Society of Gastroenterology / The Japan Society of Hepatology, 6F Shimbashi i-MARK Building, 2-6-2 Shimbashi, Minato-ku, Tokyo, 105-0004, Japan
| | - Hisashi Hidaka
- Guidelines Committee for Creating and Evaluating the "Evidence-Based Clinical Practice Guidelines for Liver Cirrhosis", The Japanese Society of Gastroenterology / The Japan Society of Hepatology, 6F Shimbashi i-MARK Building, 2-6-2 Shimbashi, Minato-ku, Tokyo, 105-0004, Japan
| | - Hiroto Miwa
- Guidelines Committee for Creating and Evaluating the "Evidence-Based Clinical Practice Guidelines for Liver Cirrhosis", The Japanese Society of Gastroenterology / The Japan Society of Hepatology, 6F Shimbashi i-MARK Building, 2-6-2 Shimbashi, Minato-ku, Tokyo, 105-0004, Japan
| | - Kazuaki Chayama
- The Japan Society of Hepatology, Kashiwaya 2 Building 5F, 3-28-10 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-0033, Japan
| | - Nobuyuki Enomoto
- Guidelines Committee for Creating and Evaluating the "Evidence-Based Clinical Practice Guidelines for Liver Cirrhosis", The Japanese Society of Gastroenterology / The Japan Society of Hepatology, 6F Shimbashi i-MARK Building, 2-6-2 Shimbashi, Minato-ku, Tokyo, 105-0004, Japan
| | - Tooru Shimosegawa
- Guidelines Committee for Creating and Evaluating the "Evidence-Based Clinical Practice Guidelines for Liver Cirrhosis", The Japanese Society of Gastroenterology / The Japan Society of Hepatology, 6F Shimbashi i-MARK Building, 2-6-2 Shimbashi, Minato-ku, Tokyo, 105-0004, Japan
| | - Tetsuo Takehara
- The Japan Society of Hepatology, Kashiwaya 2 Building 5F, 3-28-10 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-0033, Japan
| | - Kazuhiko Koike
- Guidelines Committee for Creating and Evaluating the "Evidence-Based Clinical Practice Guidelines for Liver Cirrhosis", The Japanese Society of Gastroenterology / The Japan Society of Hepatology, 6F Shimbashi i-MARK Building, 2-6-2 Shimbashi, Minato-ku, Tokyo, 105-0004, Japan
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18
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Yoshiji H, Nagoshi S, Akahane T, Asaoka Y, Ueno Y, Ogawa K, Kawaguchi T, Kurosaki M, Sakaida I, Shimizu M, Taniai M, Terai S, Nishikawa H, Hiasa Y, Hidaka H, Miwa H, Chayama K, Enomoto N, Shimosegawa T, Takehara T, Koike K. Evidence-based clinical practice guidelines for liver cirrhosis 2020. Hepatol Res 2021; 51:725-749. [PMID: 34228859 DOI: 10.1111/hepr.13678] [Citation(s) in RCA: 87] [Impact Index Per Article: 29.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2021] [Accepted: 05/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The first edition of the clinical practice guidelines for liver cirrhosis was published in 2010, and the second edition was published in 2015 by the Japanese Society of Gastroenterology (JSGE). The revised third edition was recently published in 2020. This version has become a joint guideline by the JSGE and the Japanese Society of Hepatology (JSH). In addition to the clinical questions (CQs), background questions (BQs) are new items for basic clinical knowledge, and future research questions (FRQs) are newly added clinically important items. Concerning the clinical treatment of liver cirrhosis, new findings have been reported over the past 5 years since the second edition. In this revision, we decided to match the international standards as much as possible by referring to the latest international guidelines. Newly developed agents for various complications have also made great progress. In comparison with the latest global guidelines, such as the European Association for the Study of the Liver (EASL) and American Association for the Study of Liver Diseases (AASLD), we are introducing data based on the evidence for clinical practice in Japan. The flowchart for nutrition therapy was reviewed to be useful for daily medical care by referring to overseas guidelines. We also explain several clinically important items that have recently received focus and were not mentioned in the last editions. This digest version describes the issues related to the management of liver cirrhosis and several complications in clinical practice. The content begins with a diagnostic algorithm, the revised flowchart for nutritional therapy, and refracted ascites, which are of great importance to patients with cirrhosis. In addition to the updated antiviral therapy for hepatitis B and C liver cirrhosis, the latest treatments for non-viral cirrhosis, such as alcoholic steatohepatitis/non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (ASH/NASH) and autoimmune-related cirrhosis, are also described. It also covers the latest evidence regarding the diagnosis and treatment of liver cirrhosis complications, namely gastrointestinal bleeding, ascites, hepatorenal syndrome and acute kidney injury, hepatic encephalopathy, portal thrombus, sarcopenia, muscle cramp, thrombocytopenia, pruritus, hepatopulmonary syndrome, portopulmonary hypertension, and vitamin D deficiency, including BQ, CQ and FRQ. Finally, this guideline covers prognosis prediction and liver transplantation, especially focusing on several new findings since the last version. Since this revision is a joint guideline by both societies, the same content is published simultaneously in the official English journal of JSGE and JSH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hitoshi Yoshiji
- Guidelines Committee for Creating and Evaluating the Evidence-Based Clinical Practice Guidelines for Liver Cirrhosis, The Japanese Society of Gastroenterology/the Japan Society of hepatology, Tokyo, Japan.,Department of Gastroenterology, Nara Medical University, Nara, Japan
| | - Sumiko Nagoshi
- Guidelines Committee for Creating and Evaluating the Evidence-Based Clinical Practice Guidelines for Liver Cirrhosis, The Japanese Society of Gastroenterology/the Japan Society of hepatology, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Takemi Akahane
- Guidelines Committee for Creating and Evaluating the Evidence-Based Clinical Practice Guidelines for Liver Cirrhosis, The Japanese Society of Gastroenterology/the Japan Society of hepatology, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yoshinari Asaoka
- Guidelines Committee for Creating and Evaluating the Evidence-Based Clinical Practice Guidelines for Liver Cirrhosis, The Japanese Society of Gastroenterology/the Japan Society of hepatology, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yoshiyuki Ueno
- Guidelines Committee for Creating and Evaluating the Evidence-Based Clinical Practice Guidelines for Liver Cirrhosis, The Japanese Society of Gastroenterology/the Japan Society of hepatology, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Koji Ogawa
- Guidelines Committee for Creating and Evaluating the Evidence-Based Clinical Practice Guidelines for Liver Cirrhosis, The Japanese Society of Gastroenterology/the Japan Society of hepatology, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Takumi Kawaguchi
- Guidelines Committee for Creating and Evaluating the Evidence-Based Clinical Practice Guidelines for Liver Cirrhosis, The Japanese Society of Gastroenterology/the Japan Society of hepatology, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Masayuki Kurosaki
- Guidelines Committee for Creating and Evaluating the Evidence-Based Clinical Practice Guidelines for Liver Cirrhosis, The Japanese Society of Gastroenterology/the Japan Society of hepatology, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Isao Sakaida
- Guidelines Committee for Creating and Evaluating the Evidence-Based Clinical Practice Guidelines for Liver Cirrhosis, The Japanese Society of Gastroenterology/the Japan Society of hepatology, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Masahito Shimizu
- Guidelines Committee for Creating and Evaluating the Evidence-Based Clinical Practice Guidelines for Liver Cirrhosis, The Japanese Society of Gastroenterology/the Japan Society of hepatology, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Makiko Taniai
- Guidelines Committee for Creating and Evaluating the Evidence-Based Clinical Practice Guidelines for Liver Cirrhosis, The Japanese Society of Gastroenterology/the Japan Society of hepatology, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Shuji Terai
- Guidelines Committee for Creating and Evaluating the Evidence-Based Clinical Practice Guidelines for Liver Cirrhosis, The Japanese Society of Gastroenterology/the Japan Society of hepatology, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Hiroki Nishikawa
- Guidelines Committee for Creating and Evaluating the Evidence-Based Clinical Practice Guidelines for Liver Cirrhosis, The Japanese Society of Gastroenterology/the Japan Society of hepatology, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yoichi Hiasa
- Guidelines Committee for Creating and Evaluating the Evidence-Based Clinical Practice Guidelines for Liver Cirrhosis, The Japanese Society of Gastroenterology/the Japan Society of hepatology, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Hisashi Hidaka
- Guidelines Committee for Creating and Evaluating the Evidence-Based Clinical Practice Guidelines for Liver Cirrhosis, The Japanese Society of Gastroenterology/the Japan Society of hepatology, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Hiroto Miwa
- Guidelines Committee for Creating and Evaluating the Evidence-Based Clinical Practice Guidelines for Liver Cirrhosis, The Japanese Society of Gastroenterology/the Japan Society of hepatology, Tokyo, Japan
| | | | - Nobuyuki Enomoto
- Guidelines Committee for Creating and Evaluating the Evidence-Based Clinical Practice Guidelines for Liver Cirrhosis, The Japanese Society of Gastroenterology/the Japan Society of hepatology, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Tooru Shimosegawa
- Guidelines Committee for Creating and Evaluating the Evidence-Based Clinical Practice Guidelines for Liver Cirrhosis, The Japanese Society of Gastroenterology/the Japan Society of hepatology, Tokyo, Japan
| | | | - Kazuhiko Koike
- Guidelines Committee for Creating and Evaluating the Evidence-Based Clinical Practice Guidelines for Liver Cirrhosis, The Japanese Society of Gastroenterology/the Japan Society of hepatology, Tokyo, Japan
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Kubota K, Uojima H, Shao X, Iwasaki S, Hidaka H, Wada N, Nakazawa T, Shibuya A, Kako M, Koizumi W. Additional L-Carnitine Reduced the Risk of Hospitalization in Patients with Overt Hepatic Encephalopathy on Rifaximin. Dig Dis 2021; 40:313-321. [PMID: 34348263 DOI: 10.1159/000518067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2021] [Accepted: 06/18/2021] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Data regarding the additional effect on the recurrence of hepatic encephalopathy (HE) after oral L-carnitine administration are scarce. OBJECTIVE This study aimed to assess the additional effects of L-carnitine in patients who were receiving rifaximin for HE. METHODS This randomized study comprised a screening visit and a 12-week treatment period. Patients who fulfilled the eligibility criteria were randomized to either group A (additional rifaximin) or group B (additional L-carnitine and rifaximin). Group A received 1,200 mg/day of rifaximin. Group B received 1,500 mg/day of L-carnitine and rifaximin at 1,200 mg/day. The endpoints were the changes in the portal systemic encephalopathy (PSE) index and the admission rate from the baseline for the duration of the study in both groups. RESULTS Eighty-three patients were randomized to either group A (n = 42) or group B (n = 41). In group A, the PSE index decreased from 0.35 ± 0.09 at baseline to 0.27 ± 0.11 on the final evaluation day (p = 0.001). In group B, the PSE index decreased from 0.37 ± 0.09 at baseline to 0.24 ± 0.11 on the final evaluation day (p = 0.001). Although there was not a significant reduction in the PSE index in group A compared to that in group B (p = 0.202), the admission rates were 30.9% and 9.8% in groups A and B, respectively. Additional L-carnitine significantly reduced the admission rate (p = 0.028). CONCLUSION L-Carnitine addition reduced the risk of hospitalization for patients who received rifaximin for HE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kousuke Kubota
- Department of Gastroenterology, Internal Medicine, Kitasato University School of Medicine, Sagamihara, Japan
| | - Haruki Uojima
- Department of Gastroenterology, Internal Medicine, Kitasato University School of Medicine, Sagamihara, Japan.,Department of Gastroenterology, Shonan Kamakura General Hospital, Kamakura, Japan
| | - Xue Shao
- Department of Gastroenterology, Internal Medicine, Kitasato University School of Medicine, Sagamihara, Japan.,Department of Hepatopancreatobiliary Medicine, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Shuichiro Iwasaki
- Department of Gastroenterology, Internal Medicine, Kitasato University School of Medicine, Sagamihara, Japan
| | - Hisashi Hidaka
- Department of Gastroenterology, Internal Medicine, Kitasato University School of Medicine, Sagamihara, Japan
| | - Naohisa Wada
- Department of Gastroenterology, Internal Medicine, Kitasato University School of Medicine, Sagamihara, Japan
| | - Takahide Nakazawa
- Department of Gastroenterology, Internal Medicine, Kitasato University School of Medicine, Sagamihara, Japan
| | - Akitaka Shibuya
- Department of Gastroenterology, Internal Medicine, Kitasato University School of Medicine, Sagamihara, Japan
| | - Makoto Kako
- Department of Gastroenterology, Internal Medicine, Kitasato University School of Medicine, Sagamihara, Japan
| | - Wasaburo Koizumi
- Department of Gastroenterology, Internal Medicine, Kitasato University School of Medicine, Sagamihara, Japan
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20
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Tatsumi R, Suii H, Yamaguchi M, Arakawa T, Nakajima T, Kuwata Y, Toyota J, Hige S. Efficacy of Switching from Kanamycin Sulfate to Rifaximin in Patients with Hepatic Cirrhosis. Intern Med 2021; 60:1501-1507. [PMID: 33361677 PMCID: PMC8188012 DOI: 10.2169/internalmedicine.6039-20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective This study evaluated the efficacy associated with switching to rifaximin in patients with hepatic cirrhosis receiving kanamycin sulfate for the treatment of hepatic encephalopathy and hyperammonemia. Methods We included 37 patients who switched from kanamycin sulfate to rifaximin at our institution from January 2017 to December 2018. The onset of hepatic encephalopathy and changes in blood ammonia values during a six-month period were retrospectively evaluated. Results There were 4 (11%) patients with hepatic encephalopathy at the time of switching from kanamycin sulfate to rifaximin. The cumulative incidence of hepatic encephalopathy was 3% and 16% at 3 and 6 months later, respectively. The blood ammonia levels at the time of switching to rifaximin and at 3 and 6 months later were 94 (range, 20-243) μg/dL, 95 (range, 33-176) μg/dL, and 81 (range, 32-209) μg/dL, respectively, and no significant changes were observed. However, in the 11 patients receiving an oral dose of <1,500 mg/day of kanamycin sulfate, the blood ammonia levels at the time of switching and at 3 and 6 months later were 136 (range, 35-243) μg/dL, 95 (range, 33-150) μg/dL, and 63 (range, 43-124) μg/dL, respectively. Furthermore, the blood ammonia levels significantly decreased at the time of the switching to rifaximin and at three and six months later (p=0.043 and p=0.011, respectively). Conclusion Switching to rifaximin in hepatic cirrhosis patients receiving kanamycin sulfate to treat hepatic encephalopathy and hyperammonemia showed effects that were equivalent to or greater than the original therapy, thereby demonstrating the clinical efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryoji Tatsumi
- Department of Gastroenterology, Sapporo Kosei General Hospital, Japan
| | - Hirokazu Suii
- Department of Gastroenterology, Sapporo Kosei General Hospital, Japan
| | | | - Tomohiro Arakawa
- Department of Gastroenterology, Sapporo Kosei General Hospital, Japan
| | - Tomoaki Nakajima
- Department of Gastroenterology, Sapporo Kosei General Hospital, Japan
| | - Yasuaki Kuwata
- Department of Gastroenterology, Sapporo Kosei General Hospital, Japan
| | - Joji Toyota
- Department of Gastroenterology, Sapporo Kosei General Hospital, Japan
| | - Shuhei Hige
- Department of Gastroenterology, Sapporo Kosei General Hospital, Japan
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21
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Hiramine Y, Uto H, Mawatari S, Kanmura S, Imamura Y, Hiwaki T, Saishoji A, Kakihara A, Maenohara S, Tokushige K, Ido A. Efficacy of rifaximin, a poorly absorbed rifamycin antimicrobial agent, for hepatic encephalopathy in Japanese patients. Hepatol Res 2021; 51:445-460. [PMID: 33533150 DOI: 10.1111/hepr.13622] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2020] [Revised: 12/27/2020] [Accepted: 01/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
AIM Rifaximin is recommended as treatment for hepatic encephalopathy (HE) that targets intestinal bacterial flora. Although combined use with synthetic disaccharides is the standard of care worldwide, the therapeutic effects of rifaximin for overt encephalopathy (OHE) in Japanese patients have not been examined sufficiently. We examined the therapeutic effects of rifaximin for OHE in Japanese patients. METHODS A total of 76 patients who developed OHE of West Haven grade II or higher at least once within the 12 months before starting rifaximin were included. Blood ammonia levels and the incidence of OHE during the 12 months before and after starting rifaximin therapy were compared in a before-and-after study. Rifaximin efficacy and predictors of efficacy were also examined. RESULTS Post-treatment blood ammonia levels were significantly lower than pretreatment levels. The mean annual number of OHE incidents and intravenous branched-chain amino acid preparations used per patient were significantly lower after starting rifaximin therapy (2.51 vs. 0.76 times/year, p < 0.001; and 71.9 vs. 20.7 preparations/year, p = 0.003, respectively). The cumulative incidence of hospitalizations associated with HE significantly decreased after rifaximin therapy (hazard ratio 0.187; p < 0.001). The efficacy rate, defined as the proportion of patients without OHE during the administration of rifaximin for 1 year after starting rifaximin therapy, was 65.8%. Serum albumin ≥2.7 g/dl was an independent predictor of efficacy. CONCLUSION Rifaximin was associated with decreased blood ammonia levels, lower incidence of OHE, and fewer hospitalizations in Japanese patients with HE. In addition, serum albumin level was an important predictor on efficacy of rifaximin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yasunari Hiramine
- Department of Internal Medicine, Kagoshima Kouseiren Hospital, Kagoshima, Japan
| | - Hirofumi Uto
- Center for Digestive and Liver Diseases, Miyazaki Medical Center Hospital, Miyazaki, Japan.,Digestive and Lifestyle Diseases, Department of Human and Environmental Sciences, Kagoshima University Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Kagoshima, Japan
| | - Seiichi Mawatari
- Digestive and Lifestyle Diseases, Department of Human and Environmental Sciences, Kagoshima University Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Kagoshima, Japan
| | - Shuji Kanmura
- Digestive and Lifestyle Diseases, Department of Human and Environmental Sciences, Kagoshima University Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Kagoshima, Japan
| | - Yasushi Imamura
- Department of Internal Medicine, Kagoshima Kouseiren Hospital, Kagoshima, Japan
| | - Takuya Hiwaki
- Department of Internal Medicine, Kagoshima Kouseiren Hospital, Kagoshima, Japan
| | - Akiko Saishoji
- Department of Internal Medicine, Kagoshima Kouseiren Hospital, Kagoshima, Japan.,Digestive and Lifestyle Diseases, Department of Human and Environmental Sciences, Kagoshima University Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Kagoshima, Japan
| | - Atsuko Kakihara
- Department of Internal Medicine, Kagoshima Kouseiren Hospital, Kagoshima, Japan.,Digestive and Lifestyle Diseases, Department of Human and Environmental Sciences, Kagoshima University Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Kagoshima, Japan
| | - Shigeho Maenohara
- Department of Surgery, Kagoshima Kouseiren Hospital, Kagoshima, Japan
| | - Koichi Tokushige
- Department of Internal Medicine, Kagoshima Kouseiren Hospital, Kagoshima, Japan
| | - Akio Ido
- Digestive and Lifestyle Diseases, Department of Human and Environmental Sciences, Kagoshima University Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Kagoshima, Japan
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22
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Akahane T, Yoshiji H. Role of serum albumin in hepatic encephalopathy. Hepatol Res 2021; 51:353-354. [PMID: 33797845 DOI: 10.1111/hepr.13632] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/27/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Takemi Akahane
- Department of Gastroenterology, Nara Medical University, Kashihara, Japan
| | - Hitoshi Yoshiji
- Department of Gastroenterology, Nara Medical University, Kashihara, Japan
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23
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Kaji K, Okita K, Suzuki K, Sato I, Fujisawa M, Yoshiji H. Association between serum albumin and cognitive dysfunction in hepatic encephalopathy: An exploratory data analysis. JGH Open 2021; 5:207-212. [PMID: 33553657 PMCID: PMC7857286 DOI: 10.1002/jgh3.12468] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2020] [Revised: 11/11/2020] [Accepted: 11/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Background and Aim Because covert hepatic encephalopathy (CHE) has been shown to affect the prognosis of cirrhotic patients, early diagnosis of hepatic encephalopathy (HE) is a prerequisite for the preservation of patients' quality of life and for prophylaxis of overt HE. The aim of this study was to identify a clinical parameter to predict impairment of cognitive function in cirrhotic patients with early‐stage HE. Methods We investigated the data from 172 patients with cirrhotic or idiopathic portosystemic shunt (PSS) in phase II/III trials of rifaximin in Japan. Classification and regression trees (CARTs) were constructed to identify clinical profiles related to cognitive dysfunction as indicated by the prolongation of time required for the Number Connection Test (NCT‐B). Results CART analysis detected age 65 years as the variable for the initial split, and serum albumin level was selected as the variable for the second split among patients aged ≤65 years. In 27 cirrhotic patients aged ≤65 years without PSS, receiver operating characteristic curve analysis revealed that the optimal albumin level cutoff point was 3.05 g/dL, and the area under the curve was 0.80 for the prolongation of NCT‐B time, which was higher than that of the branched‐chain amino acids‐to‐tyrosine ratio (0.46), the prothrombin time–international normalized ratio (PT‐INR) (0.68), serum ammonia (0.61), and total bilirubin (0.69). Conclusions Lower serum albumin level as a clinical biomarker associated with impaired cognitive function may be available as a screening examination for early‐stage HE in cirrhotic patients aged ≤65 years without PSS before undergoing neuropsychological tests.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kosuke Kaji
- Department of Gastroenterology Nara Medical University Kashihara Japan
| | - Kiwamu Okita
- Shunan Memorial Hospital/Yamaguchi University Yamaguchi Japan
| | - Kazuyuki Suzuki
- Division of Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine Iwate Medical University Iwate Japan
| | - Ikuya Sato
- Clinical Development Department ASKA Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd Tokyo Japan
| | - Masaki Fujisawa
- Clinical Development Department ASKA Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd Tokyo Japan
| | - Hitoshi Yoshiji
- Department of Gastroenterology Nara Medical University Kashihara Japan
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24
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Fujiwara Y, Suzuki K, Yusa K, Eizuka M, Miura M, Watanabe Y, Takahashi H, Takikawa Y. Evaluation of the Long-term Administration of Rifaximin for More than Three Years in the Treatment of Repeated and Recurrent Overt Hepatic Encephalopathy. Intern Med 2021; 60:1027-1033. [PMID: 33790139 PMCID: PMC8079929 DOI: 10.2169/internalmedicine.5793-20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
The patient was a 65-year-old man with alcoholic liver cirrhosis who had been admitted to hospital 5 times for repeated and recurrent overt hepatic encephalopathy (HE) despite numerous therapies, including disaccharide, branched-chain amino acid (BCAA) formula, L-carnitine and zinc. After the additional administration of rifaximin (1,200 mg/day orally), his consciousness level was well controlled for 3 years without any adverse effects. The long-term administration of rifaximin may be useful and safe for managing recurrent overt HE, although the maintenance dosage and duration of rifaximin and safety should be evaluated in patients with ameliorated HE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yudai Fujiwara
- Division of Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Iwate Medical University, Japan
- Department of Gastroenterology, Iwate Prefectural Ninohe Hospital, Japan
| | - Kazuyuki Suzuki
- Division of Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Iwate Medical University, Japan
- Department of Gastroenterology, Iwate Prefectural Ninohe Hospital, Japan
| | - Kenji Yusa
- Division of Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Iwate Medical University, Japan
- Department of Gastroenterology, Iwate Prefectural Ninohe Hospital, Japan
| | - Makoto Eizuka
- Department of Gastroenterology, Iwate Prefectural Ninohe Hospital, Japan
| | - Manami Miura
- Department of Gastroenterology, Iwate Prefectural Ninohe Hospital, Japan
| | - Yuki Watanabe
- Division of Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Iwate Medical University, Japan
- Department of Gastroenterology, Iwate Prefectural Ninohe Hospital, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Takahashi
- Department of Gastroenterology, Iwate Prefectural Ninohe Hospital, Japan
| | - Yasuhiro Takikawa
- Division of Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Iwate Medical University, Japan
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25
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Uchida Y, Tsuji S, Uemura H, Kouyama JI, Naiki K, Sugawara K, Nakao M, Inao M, Nakayama N, Imai Y, Tomiya T, Mochida S. Furosemide as a factor to deteriorate therapeutic efficacy of rifaximin in patients with decompensated cirrhosis. Hepatol Res 2020; 50:1264-1274. [PMID: 32833292 DOI: 10.1111/hepr.13564] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2020] [Revised: 08/03/2020] [Accepted: 08/18/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
AIM To optimize the therapeutic strategy for cirrhotic patients manifesting hepatic encephalopathy, factors affecting the outcome of patients receiving rifaximin were evaluated. METHODS The subjects were 95 patients receiving rifaximin. Serum ammonia levels were measured serially during rifaximin treatment. Factors associated with long-term outcomes and cumulative survival rates were evaluated. RESULTS Serum ammonia levels were decreased at 4 weeks after rifaximin treatment compared to the levels at baseline even in patients receiving rifaximin as an add-on therapy with lactitol hydrate (P < 0.001) and reduction values were negatively correlated with the maximal diameter of portosystemic shunts (r = -0.275, P = 0.009). Overt encephalopathy occurred in 37 patients (38.9%) during rifaximin treatment, and the hazard function analysis identified 90 days as a high-risk term for developing the first-time overt encephalopathy. Thus, the long-term outcome was judged as favorable in 77 patients (81.1%) in whom overt encephalopathy was absent for at least 90 days during rifaximin initiation. A multivariate analysis revealed that furosemide, especially at daily doses of ≥20 mg both at baseline and during rifaximin treatment, was a significant factor associated with unfavorable outcome (P = 0.009 and P = 0.022, respectively) as well as occurrence and recurrence of overt encephalopathy (P = 0.012). Moreover, furosemide treatment significantly deteriorated the cumulative survival rate of patients receiving rifaximin (P = 0.026). CONCLUSION Furosemide contributed to the deteriorated outcome of patients receiving rifaximin. Consequently, rifaximin should be given before increasing the furosemide dose, and the furosemide dose should not be increased during rifaximin treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoshihito Uchida
- Department of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, Faculty of Medicine, Saitama Medical University, Saitama, Japan
| | - Shohei Tsuji
- Department of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, Faculty of Medicine, Saitama Medical University, Saitama, Japan
| | - Hayato Uemura
- Department of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, Faculty of Medicine, Saitama Medical University, Saitama, Japan
| | - Jun-Ichi Kouyama
- Department of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, Faculty of Medicine, Saitama Medical University, Saitama, Japan
| | - Kayoko Naiki
- Department of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, Faculty of Medicine, Saitama Medical University, Saitama, Japan
| | - Kayoko Sugawara
- Department of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, Faculty of Medicine, Saitama Medical University, Saitama, Japan
| | - Masamitsu Nakao
- Department of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, Faculty of Medicine, Saitama Medical University, Saitama, Japan
| | - Mie Inao
- Department of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, Faculty of Medicine, Saitama Medical University, Saitama, Japan
| | - Nobuaki Nakayama
- Department of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, Faculty of Medicine, Saitama Medical University, Saitama, Japan
| | - Yukinori Imai
- Department of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, Faculty of Medicine, Saitama Medical University, Saitama, Japan
| | - Tomoaki Tomiya
- Department of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, Faculty of Medicine, Saitama Medical University, Saitama, Japan
| | - Satoshi Mochida
- Department of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, Faculty of Medicine, Saitama Medical University, Saitama, Japan
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26
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Okada A, Yamana H, Yamaguchi S, Ikeda Kurakawa K, Matsui H, Fushimi K, Nangaku M, Kadowaki T, Yasunaga H. Outcomes of lactulose plus branched-chain amino acid infusion and lactulose alone for hepatic encephalopathy: A retrospective cohort study using a national inpatient database. Hepatol Res 2020; 50:693-703. [PMID: 31943593 DOI: 10.1111/hepr.13486] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2019] [Revised: 12/30/2019] [Accepted: 01/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
AIM Previous randomized controlled trials of branched-chain amino acid infusion for hepatic encephalopathy involved a small number of patients, and the effectiveness of branched-chain amino acid infusion has not been clarified. We evaluated whether branched-chain amino acid infusion in addition to lactulose treatment was associated with short-term outcomes in a large population of patients. METHODS Using the Japanese Diagnosis Procedure Combination database, we retrospectively identified inpatients with hepatic encephalopathy who received lactulose within 2 days of admission from July 2011 to March 2017. We divided the patients into those who received branched-chain amino acid infusion within 2 days of admission in addition to lactulose treatment and those who did not. We conducted propensity-score inverse probability of treatment weighting analyses to compare in-hospital mortality, consciousness at discharge, in-hospital complications, length of stay, and total hospitalization costs between the groups. RESULTS We identified 8051 patients with hepatic encephalopathy treated with lactulose, including 7560 patients who received lactulose plus branched-chain amino acid infusion and 491 who received lactulose alone. The lactulose plus branched-chain amino acid infusion group had a significantly lower mortality than the lactulose alone group (9.6% vs. 15.0%, odds ratio 0.60, 95% confidence interval 0.44-0.82). The lactulose plus branched-chain amino acid infusion group also had a lower proportion of patients with impaired mental status at discharge, and lower total hospitalization costs than the lactulose alone group. CONCLUSIONS Branched-chain amino acid infusion together with lactulose may improve the prognosis of hepatic encephalopathy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akira Okada
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology and Health Economics, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan.,Department of Prevention of Diabetes and Lifestyle-Related Diseases, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Hayato Yamana
- Department of Health Services Research, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Satoko Yamaguchi
- Department of Prevention of Diabetes and Lifestyle-Related Diseases, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kayo Ikeda Kurakawa
- Department of Prevention of Diabetes and Lifestyle-Related Diseases, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Hiroki Matsui
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology and Health Economics, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kiyohide Fushimi
- Department of Health Policy and Informatics, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Masaomi Nangaku
- Division of Nephrology and Endocrinology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Takashi Kadowaki
- Department of Prevention of Diabetes and Lifestyle-Related Diseases, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan.,Department of Metabolism and Nutrition, Teikyo University Mizonokuchi Hospital, Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Hideo Yasunaga
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology and Health Economics, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
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27
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Shibasaki M, Hatanaka T, Shimada Y, Nagashima T, Namikawa M, Saito S, Hosonuma K, Naganuma A, Takizawa D, Arai H, Kosone T, Takagi H, Sato K, Kakizaki S, Uraoka T. Efficacy and safety of rifaximin treatment in Japanese patients with hepatic encephalopathy. KANZO 2020; 61:1-10. [DOI: 10.2957/kanzo.61.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/28/2023]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Takeshi Hatanaka
- Department of Gastroenterology, Gunma Saiseikai Maebashi Hospital
| | | | - Tamon Nagashima
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shibukawa Medical Center, National Hospital Organization
| | | | - Shuichi Saito
- Department of Gastroenterology, Tomioka General Hospital
| | | | - Atsushi Naganuma
- Department of Gastroenterology, Takasaki General Medical Center, National Hospital Organization
| | | | - Hirotaka Arai
- Department of Gastroenterology, Maebashi Red Cross Hospital
| | - Takashi Kosone
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Kusunoki Hospital
| | - Hitoshi Takagi
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Kusunoki Hospital
| | - Ken Sato
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Gunma University Graduate School of Medicine
| | - Satoru Kakizaki
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Gunma University Graduate School of Medicine
| | - Toshio Uraoka
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Gunma University Graduate School of Medicine
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28
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Ishikawa T, Endo S, Imai M, Azumi M, Nozawa Y, Sano T, Iwanaga A, Honma T, Yoshida T. Changes in the Body Composition and Nutritional Status after Long-term Rifaximin Therapy for Hyperammonemia in Japanese Patients with Hepatic Encephalopathy. Intern Med 2020; 59:2465-2469. [PMID: 33055469 PMCID: PMC7662066 DOI: 10.2169/internalmedicine.5094-20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective Rifaximin has become available for treating hyperammonemia in patients with hepatic encephalopathy. This study analyzed the changes in the body composition and nutritional status after long-term rifaximin therapy. Methods Twenty-one patients who underwent rifaximin therapy at 1,200 mg/day for more than 24 weeks were evaluated for the changes in the controlling nutritional status (CONUT) scores for the nutritional assessment, albumin-bilirubin (ALBI) scores for the liver function assessment, and skeletal muscle index (SMI) for the body composition assessment. Results There were 17 men and 4 women, with a mean age of 67.14±8.32 years. Eleven cases had a portosystemic shunt (52.3%), and 10 had hepatocellular carcinoma (47.6%). The Child-Pugh class was A in 9 cases (42.9%), B in 9 cases (42.9%), and C in 3 cases (14.2%). The blood ammonia levels in the rifaximin group improved significantly upon rifaximin therapy, from 124.76±28.68 μg/dL at baseline to 47.00±14.43 μg/dL after 2 weeks (p<0.001) and 49.81±15.02 μg/dL after 24 weeks (p<0.001). The CONUT scores improved significantly during rifaximin therapy, from 6.47±3.25 at baseline to 3.33±2.65 after 24 weeks (p=0.0007). The ALBI scores also improved significantly from -0.39±1.89 at baseline to -2.20±0.55 after 24 weeks (p=0.0002). The SMI scores showed that the body composition had been maintained in response to rifaximin therapy (50.20±7.67 at baseline and 51.29±7.62 after 24 weeks). Conclusion Rifaximin administration for hepatic encephalopathy improved the CONUT and ALBI scores. It may have a secondary effect on the improvement in the nutritional status and hepatic reserve.
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Affiliation(s)
- Toru Ishikawa
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Saiseikai Niigata Hospital, Japan
| | - Saori Endo
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Saiseikai Niigata Hospital, Japan
| | - Michitaka Imai
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Saiseikai Niigata Hospital, Japan
| | - Motoi Azumi
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Saiseikai Niigata Hospital, Japan
| | - Yujiro Nozawa
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Saiseikai Niigata Hospital, Japan
| | - Tomoe Sano
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Saiseikai Niigata Hospital, Japan
| | - Akito Iwanaga
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Saiseikai Niigata Hospital, Japan
| | - Terasu Honma
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Saiseikai Niigata Hospital, Japan
| | - Toshiaki Yoshida
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Saiseikai Niigata Hospital, Japan
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29
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Suzuki H, Sezaki H, Suzuki F, Kasuya K, Sano T, Fujiyama S, Kawamura Y, Hosaka T, Akuta N, Saitoh S, Kobayashi M, Arase Y, Ikeda K, Suzuki Y, Kumada H. Real-world effects of long-term rifaximin treatment for Japanese patients with hepatic encephalopathy. Hepatol Res 2019; 49:1406-1413. [PMID: 31347756 DOI: 10.1111/hepr.13415] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2019] [Revised: 07/13/2019] [Accepted: 07/22/2019] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
AIM Rifaximin (RFX) improves hepatic encephalopathy (HE). However, information on long-term treatment with RFX is limited. In this study, we aimed to investigate the effect of long-term treatment with RFX on HE and liver function. Moreover, we investigated factors associated with the recurrence of HE under RFX treatment. METHODS In this retrospective cohort study, we consecutively enrolled 65 patients with HE who initiated RFX treatment (1200 mg/day) in our hospital from January 2017 to June 2018. We evaluated liver function test results, including blood ammonia levels, and the recurrence rate of HE after RFX treatment. RESULTS The median follow-up duration was 41.6 weeks (range, 1.4-96.7 weeks). The blood ammonia level significantly declined from 157 to 86 μg/dL at 4 weeks after RFX treatment (P < 0.01), and the effect was prolonged. Furthermore, Child-Pugh score decreased in 51% (26/51) of the patients at 12 weeks during RFX treatment. The recurrence rate of HE after RFX treatment was 26.2% (17/65), and presence of ascites at baseline was identified as the only independent risk factor for HE recurrence (hazard ratio 4.71; 95% confidence interval, 1.27-17.5; P = 0.02). The cumulative recurrence rate of HE was significantly lower in patients without ascites than in patients with ascites at baseline (13.8% vs. 50.8%, P = 0.001). CONCLUSIONS Long-term treatment with RFX was beneficial for HE and liver function in patients with HE. Furthermore, the recurrence rate of HE was low in RFX-treated patients without ascites. Thus, long-term treatment with RFX could be effective for the management of Japanese patients with HE.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Hitomi Sezaki
- Department of Hepatology, Toranomon Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| | | | - Kayoko Kasuya
- Department of Hepatology, Toranomon Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Tomoya Sano
- Department of Hepatology, Toranomon Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| | | | | | - Tetsuya Hosaka
- Department of Hepatology, Toranomon Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Norio Akuta
- Department of Hepatology, Toranomon Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Satoshi Saitoh
- Department of Hepatology, Toranomon Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| | | | - Yasuji Arase
- Department of Hepatology, Toranomon Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kenji Ikeda
- Department of Hepatology, Toranomon Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
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30
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Nishida S, Hamada K, Nishino N, Fukushima D, Koyanagi R, Horikawa Y, Shiwa Y, Saitoh S. Efficacy of long-term rifaximin treatment for hepatic encephalopathy in the Japanese. World J Hepatol 2019; 11:531-541. [PMID: 31293721 PMCID: PMC6603506 DOI: 10.4254/wjh.v11.i6.531] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2019] [Revised: 06/09/2019] [Accepted: 06/17/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hepatic encephalopathy (HE) is a complication of liver cirrhosis and can result in neuropsychological and neuromuscular dysfunctions in patients. Rifaximin, an antibiotic, has been reported to decrease the occurrence of overt HE and also improve cognitive function in studies from Europe and the United States of America. There is not enough evidence of the relationship between the long-term use of rifaximin and its clinical effects in the Japanese.
AIM To determine the clinical effects of long-term rifaximin therapy in decompensated liver cirrhosis patients, with overt HE or hyperammonemia.
METHODS In this single-center retrospective observational cohort study, we reviewed the data of 38 patients who had taken rifaximin at the dose of 1200 mg/d for more than 24 wk. The primary outcome measured was the efficacy of long-term rifaximin use, and secondary outcome measured was the safety of its long-term use as determined by its influence on portosystemic shunts as well as Escherichia coli-related infections. Moreover, we compared the prognosis between the rifaximin group and control cases, matched for hepatic elasticity assessed by magnetic resonance ela-stography, age, and Child-Pugh classification.
RESULTS Of the 38 patients included in the study, 12 (31.6%) had overt HE, 27 (71.1%) had complications of esophageal varices, and 9 (23.7%) had hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). The control group was matched for age, Child-Pugh classification, liver stiffness, and presence of HCC. The median of serum ammonia level before treatment was 104 μg/dL (59-297), and 2 wk after treatment, it significantly decreased to 85 μg/dL (34-153) (P = 0.002). A significantly low value of 80.5 μg/dL (44-150) was maintained 24 wk after treatment. The long-term use of rifaximin did not cause a decline in liver function. Diarrhea occurred in 2 patients, who improved with the administration of probiotics, and there were no cases of aborted rifaximin therapy owing to adverse events. In patients with Child C, the survival was short, but there was no significant difference compared with that of the control group.
CONCLUSION Rifaximin therapy improves overt HE. The long-term use of rifaximin in the Japanese is effective and safe.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shinya Nishida
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shin-Yurigaoka General Hospital, Kawasaki 215-0026, Japan
| | - Koichi Hamada
- Department of Gastroenterology, Southern-Tohoku General Hospital, Koriyama 963-8563, Japan
- Department of Minimally Invasive Surgical and Medical Oncology, Fukushima Medical University, Fukushima 960-1295, Japan
| | - Noriyuki Nishino
- Department of Gastroenterology, Southern-Tohoku General Hospital, Koriyama 963-8563, Japan
| | - Daizo Fukushima
- Department of Gastroenterology, Southern-Tohoku General Hospital, Koriyama 963-8563, Japan
| | - Ryota Koyanagi
- Department of Gastroenterology, Southern-Tohoku General Hospital, Koriyama 963-8563, Japan
- Department of Minimally Invasive Surgical and Medical Oncology, Fukushima Medical University, Fukushima 960-1295, Japan
| | - Yoshinori Horikawa
- Department of Gastroenterology, Southern-Tohoku General Hospital, Koriyama 963-8563, Japan
| | - Yoshiki Shiwa
- Department of Gastroenterology, Southern-Tohoku General Hospital, Koriyama 963-8563, Japan
| | - Satoshi Saitoh
- Department of Gastroenterology, Southern-Tohoku General Hospital, Koriyama 963-8563, Japan
- Department of Hepatology, Toranomon Hospital, Tokyo 105-8470, Japan
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Sato T, Endo K, Kakisaka K, Suzuki Y, Kooka Y, Sawara K, Ito K, Sasaki M, Takikawa Y. Decreased Mean Kurtosis in the Putamen is a Diagnostic Feature of Minimal Hepatic Encephalopathy in Patients with Cirrhosis. Intern Med 2019; 58:1217-1224. [PMID: 30626839 PMCID: PMC6543222 DOI: 10.2169/internalmedicine.2116-18] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective To prevent the development of overt hepatic encephalopathy, the early intervention for minimal hepatic encephalopathy (MHE) based on an accurate diagnosis is essential. This study investigated whether or not magnetic resonance diffusion kurtosis imaging (DKI) and diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) could detect brain microstructure abnormalities in MHE. The aim was to confirm whether or not brain microstructure abnormalities detected by magnetic resonance (MR) imaging could be used for the diagnosis of MHE. Methods Thirty-two subjects were prospectively examined with a 3-T MR scanner. Tract-based spatial statistics and region of interest analyses of diffusion imaging were performed to compare the mean kurtosis (MK), fractional anisotropy (FA), and mean diffusivity (MD) values between patients with and without minimal hepatic encephalopathy. The diagnostic performance for the detection of MHE was assessed with a receiver operating characteristic analysis. Results Ten subjects were diagnosed with MHE by neuropsychological testing. After the exclusion of unsuitable subjects, we analyzed 9 subjects with MHE and 14 without MHE. The patients with MHE had a reduced MK in the widespread white matter. We also found significant decreases in the MK in the caudate nucleus, putamen, globus pallidus, and/or thalamus in the subjects with MHE. The MK in the putamen showed the best diagnostic performance for differentiating the subjects with MHE from those without MHE (cut-off value, 0.74; sensitivity, 0.89; specificity, 0.86). Conclusion DKI detects changes in the cerebral white matter and basal ganglia regions of patients with MHE more sensitively than DTI. The MK values in the putamen can be a useful marker for diagnosing MHE from cirrhotic patients without MHE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takuro Sato
- Division of Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Iwate Medical University, Japan
| | - Kei Endo
- Division of Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Iwate Medical University, Japan
| | - Keisuke Kakisaka
- Division of Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Iwate Medical University, Japan
| | - Yuji Suzuki
- Division of Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Iwate Medical University, Japan
| | - Yohei Kooka
- Division of Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Iwate Medical University, Japan
| | - Kei Sawara
- Division of Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Iwate Medical University, Japan
| | - Kenji Ito
- Division of Ultrahigh Field MRI, Institute for Biomedical Sciences, Iwate Medical University, Japan
| | - Makoto Sasaki
- Division of Ultrahigh Field MRI, Institute for Biomedical Sciences, Iwate Medical University, Japan
| | - Yasuhiro Takikawa
- Division of Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Iwate Medical University, Japan
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Kawaguchi T, Suzuki F, Imamura M, Murashima N, Yanase M, Mine T, Fujisawa M, Sato I, Yoshiji H, Okita K, Suzuki K. Rifaximin-altered gut microbiota components associated with liver/neuropsychological functions in patients with hepatic encephalopathy: An exploratory data analysis of phase II/III clinical trials. Hepatol Res 2019; 49:404-418. [PMID: 30589492 PMCID: PMC6849579 DOI: 10.1111/hepr.13300] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2018] [Revised: 12/14/2018] [Accepted: 12/17/2018] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
AIMS Rifaximin (RFX), a non-systemic antibiotic, improves liver/neuropsychological functions in patients with hepatic encephalopathy (HE). We aimed to investigate the clinical profiles associated with gut bacterial loads using exploratory data analysis and the effects of RFX on the gut microbiota of patients with HE. METHODS We analyzed the data from 17 patients with HE who underwent fecal microbiota examination in phase II/III trials in Japan. Profiles associated with genera Streptococcus, Veillonella, and Lactobacillus loads were analyzed using classification and regression trees (CART). Changes in gut microbial consortia of seven patients with HE were then assessed 2 weeks after RFX treatment by principal component analysis. RESULTS In the CART, the first and second divergence variables for each higher bacterial load were as follows: (i) in Streptococcus, the number connection test-A ≥39.55 s and presence of portal-systemic shunt; (ii) in Veillonella, serum potassium levels <4.75 mEq/L and total cholesterol level <129.5 mg/dL; and (iii) in Lactobacillus, white blood cell counts ≥3.4 × 103 /μL and aspartate aminotransferase level ≥44.5 U/L. There was no significant change in total bacterial load before and after RFX treatment; however, there was a decrease in Streptococcus, Veillonella, and Lactobacillus counts after RFX treatment. CONCLUSION We report clinical profiles associated with gut bacterial loads in patients with HE, and showed that RFX altered gut microbiota components associated with liver/neuropsychological functions. Thus, RFX could improve liver/neuropsychological functions through the regulation of the gut microbial consortia in patients with HE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takumi Kawaguchi
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of MedicineKurume University School of MedicineKurumeJapan
| | | | - Masatoshi Imamura
- Departments of Gastroenterology and HepatologyKohnodai HospitalIchikawaJapan
| | | | - Mikio Yanase
- GastroenterologyNational Center for Global Health and MedicineTokyoJapan
| | - Tetsuya Mine
- Department of GastroenterologyTokai University HospitalIseharaJapan
| | | | - Ikuya Sato
- Development DivisionASKA Pharmaceutical Co., LtdTokyoJapan
| | - Hitoshi Yoshiji
- Third Department of Internal MedicineNara Medical UniversityKashiharaJapan
| | | | - Kazuyuki Suzuki
- Division of Hepatology, Department of Internal MedicineIwate Medical UniversityMoriokaJapan
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Mancini A, Campagna F, Amodio P, Tuohy KM. Gut : liver : brain axis: the microbial challenge in the hepatic encephalopathy. Food Funct 2018; 9:1373-1388. [PMID: 29485654 DOI: 10.1039/c7fo01528c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Hepatic encephalopathy (HE) is a debilitating neuropsychiatric condition often associated with acute liver failure or cirrhosis. Advanced liver diseases are characterized by a leaky gut and systemic inflammation. There is strong evidence that the pathogenesis of HE is linked to a dysbiotic gut microbiota and to harmful microbial by-products, such as ammonia, indoles, oxindoles and endotoxins. Increased concentrations of these toxic metabolites together with the inability of the diseased liver to clear such products is thought to play an important patho-ethiological role. Current first line clinical treatments target microbiota dysbiosis by decreasing the counts of pathogenic bacteria, blood endotoxemia and ammonia levels. This review will focus on the role of the gut microbiota and its metabolism in HE and advanced cirrhosis. It will critically assess data from different clinical trials measuring the efficacy of the prebiotic lactulose, the probiotic VSL#3 and the antibiotic rifaximin in treating HE and advanced cirrhosis, through gut microbiota modulation. Additionally data from Randomised Controlled Trials using pre-, pro- and synbiotic will be also considered by reporting meta-analysis studies. The large amount of existing data showed that HE is a clear example of how an altered gut microbiota homeostasis can influence and impact on physiological functions outside the intestine, with implication for host health at the systems level. Nevertheless, a strong effort should be made to increase the information on gut microbiota ecology and its metabolic function in liver diseases and HE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Mancini
- Department of Food Quality and Nutrition, Research and Innovation Centre, Fondazione Edmund Mach, 38010 San Michele all'Adige, Trento, Italy.
| | - Francesca Campagna
- Department of Medicine (DIMED), University of Padova, 35128 Padova, Italy
| | - Piero Amodio
- Department of Medicine (DIMED), University of Padova, 35128 Padova, Italy
| | - Kieran M Tuohy
- Department of Food Quality and Nutrition, Research and Innovation Centre, Fondazione Edmund Mach, 38010 San Michele all'Adige, Trento, Italy.
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