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Jhajharia A, Singh S, Jana S, Ashdhir P, Nijhawan S. Intravenous versus oral 'L-ornithine-L-aspartate' in overt hepatic encephalopathy: a randomized comparative study. Sci Rep 2024; 14:11862. [PMID: 38789596 PMCID: PMC11126676 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-62293-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2024] [Accepted: 05/15/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Hepatic encephalopathy (HE), a morbid ordeal affecting chronic liver disease patients always insists for the search of a rational, superior & infallible agent beyond the time-proven standards i.e., Lactulose & Rifaximin. In this RCT, we compared the efficacy of intravenous (IV) L-ornithine-L-aspartate(LOLA) versus Oral LOLA in patients with chronic liver disease(CLD) enduring overt Hepatic Encephalopathy(OHE). 40 CLD patients with OHE were randomly assigned IV or oral LOLA in a 1:1 ratio. Patients were graded for HE and monitored for serum ammonia levels from day 1 to day 5. The aim was to compare IV versus oral LOLA efficacy in HE grades improvement and its correlation with ammonia levels. The study was registered with clinical trials registry-India, CTRI/2020/12/029943. Baseline characteristics of patients in both groups were similar. The mean difference in ammonia levels from day 1 to day 5 was 55.4 ± 32.58 µmol/L in the IV LOLA group and 60.75 ± 13.82 µmol/L in the oral LOLA group (p = 0.511). Significant reductions in ammonia levels were observed from day 1 to day 5 within each group (p < 0.001). HE grade & ammonia correlated positively in both groups. LOLA, regardless of administration route, has demonstrated efficacy in OHE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashok Jhajharia
- Department of Gastroenterology, SMS Medical College & Hospital, Jaipur, Rajasthan, 302004, India.
- , House No. 109, Shiv Vihar, VKI, Infront of road number 5, Sikar Road, Jaipur, 302039, India.
| | - Shashank Singh
- Department of Gastroenterology, SMS Medical College & Hospital, Jaipur, Rajasthan, 302004, India
| | - Sangeeta Jana
- Department of Gastroenterology, SMS Medical College & Hospital, Jaipur, Rajasthan, 302004, India
| | - Prachis Ashdhir
- Department of Gastroenterology, SMS Medical College & Hospital, Jaipur, Rajasthan, 302004, India
| | - Sandeep Nijhawan
- Department of Gastroenterology, SMS Medical College & Hospital, Jaipur, Rajasthan, 302004, India
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He Q, Mao C, Chen Z, Zeng Y, Deng Y, Hu R. Efficacy of L-ornithine L-aspartate for minimal hepatic encephalopathy in patients with cirrhosis: A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Arab J Gastroenterol 2024; 25:84-92. [PMID: 38403493 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajg.2024.01.006] [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] [Received: 06/13/2023] [Revised: 11/12/2023] [Accepted: 01/06/2024] [Indexed: 02/27/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND STUDY AIMS Minimal hepatic encephalopathy (MHE) is an early stage of hepatic encephalopathy (HE) and is highly prevalent. The efficacy of L-ornithine L-aspartate (LOLA) for the treatment of HE is well known but its role in MHE remains uncertain. The objectives of the current study were to evaluate the efficacy of LOLA for the treatment of MHE in patients with cirrhosis. METHODS The Cochrane Library, PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science and Ovid databases were searched. Only randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that compared the efficacy of LOLA with placebo or no intervention for the treatment of MHE in patients with cirrhosis were included from inception to January 2023. The primary outcomes were reversal of MHE and development of overt hepatic encephalopathy (OHE). RESULTS Overall, six RCTs comprising 292 patients were included. Compared with placebo or no intervention, LOLA was more effective in reversing MHE (RR = 2.264, 95 % CI = 1.528, 3.352, P = 0.000, I2 = 0.0 %) and preventing progression of OHE (RR = 0.220, 95 % CI = 0.076, 0.637, P = 0.005, I2 = 0.0 %). Based on subgroup analyses, oral LOLA treatment appeared more likely to reverse MHE (RR = 2.648, 95 % CI = 1.593, 4.402, P = 0.000, I2 = 0.0 %), intravenous LOLA treatment yielded a similar probability of reversing MHE (RR = 1.669, 95 % CI = 0.904, 3.084, P = 0.102, I2 = 0.0 %). LOLA did not show a superior possibility in reducing mortality (RR = 0.422, 95 % CI = 0.064, 2.768, P = 0.368, I2 = 0.0 %) and ammonia levels (SMD = 0.044, 95 % CI = -0.290, 0.379, P = 0.795, I2 = 0.0 %) compared with placebo or no intervention. CONCLUSIONS LOLA has significant beneficial effects on reversal of MHE and prevention of OHE in patients with cirrhosis compared with placebo or no intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiufeng He
- Department of Hepatology, Public Health Clinical Center of Chengdu, N0.377, Jing Ming Road, Jin Jiang District, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Chuangjie Mao
- Department of Hepatology, Public Health Clinical Center of Chengdu, N0.377, Jing Ming Road, Jin Jiang District, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Zhili Chen
- Department of Hepatology, Public Health Clinical Center of Chengdu, N0.377, Jing Ming Road, Jin Jiang District, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Yilan Zeng
- Department of Hepatology, Public Health Clinical Center of Chengdu, N0.377, Jing Ming Road, Jin Jiang District, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Yang Deng
- Department of Hepatology, Public Health Clinical Center of Chengdu, N0.377, Jing Ming Road, Jin Jiang District, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Rong Hu
- Department of Hepatology, Public Health Clinical Center of Chengdu, N0.377, Jing Ming Road, Jin Jiang District, Chengdu, Sichuan, China.
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Mao Y, Ma S, Liu C, Liu X, Su M, Li D, Li Y, Chen G, Chen J, Chen J, Zhao J, Guo X, Tang J, Zhuge Y, Xie Q, Xie W, Lai R, Cai D, Cai Q, Zhi Y, Li X. Chinese guideline for the diagnosis and treatment of drug-induced liver injury: an update. Hepatol Int 2024; 18:384-419. [PMID: 38402364 DOI: 10.1007/s12072-023-10633-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2023] [Accepted: 12/18/2023] [Indexed: 02/26/2024]
Abstract
Drug-induced liver injury (DILI) is an important adverse drug reaction that can lead to acute liver failure or even death in severe cases. Currently, the diagnosis of DILI still follows the strategy of exclusion. Therefore, a detailed history taking and a thorough and careful exclusion of other potential causes of liver injury is the key to correct diagnosis. This guideline was developed based on evidence-based medicine provided by the latest research advances and aims to provide professional guidance to clinicians on how to identify suspected DILI timely and standardize the diagnosis and management in clinical practice. Based on the clinical settings in China, the guideline also specifically focused on DILI in chronic liver disease, drug-induced viral hepatitis reactivation, common causing agents of DILI (herbal and dietary supplements, anti-tuberculosis drugs, and antineoplastic drugs), and signal of DILI in clinical trials and its assessment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yimin Mao
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Renji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, NHC Key Laboratory of Digestive Diseases, Shanghai Research Center of Fatty Liver Disease, Shanghai, 200001, China.
| | - Shiwu Ma
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The 920th Hospital of Chinese PLA Joint Logistics Support Force, Kunming, 650032, Yunnan, China
| | - Chenghai Liu
- Institute of Liver Diseases, Shuguang Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Xiaoyan Liu
- Department of Pharmacy, Huangpu Branch of the 9th People's Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200011, China
| | - Minghua Su
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, 530021, Guangxi, China
| | - Dongliang Li
- Department of Hepatobiliary Medicine, The 900th Hospital of Chinese PLA Joint Logistics Support Force, Fuzhou, 350025, Fujian, China
| | - Yiling Li
- Department of Gastroenterology, First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, 110001, Liaoning, China
| | - Gongying Chen
- Department of Liver Diseases, The Affiliated Hospital of Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, 310015, Zhejiang, China
| | - Jun Chen
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Shenzhen Third People's Hospital, Shenzhen, 518112, Guangdong, China
| | - Jinjun Chen
- Hepatology Center, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, Guangdong, China
| | - Jingmin Zhao
- Department of Pathology and Hepatology, Fifth Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, 100039, China
| | - Xiaoyan Guo
- Department of Gastroenterology, Second Affiliated Hospital, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710004, Shaanxi, China
| | - Jieting Tang
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Renji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, NHC Key Laboratory of Digestive Diseases, Shanghai Research Center of Fatty Liver Disease, Shanghai, 200001, China
| | - Yuzheng Zhuge
- Department of Gastroenterology, Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, 210008, Jiangsu, China
| | - Qing Xie
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200025, China
| | - Wen Xie
- Center of Liver Disease, Beijing Ditan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100088, China
| | - Rongtao Lai
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200025, China
| | - Dachuan Cai
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400010, China
| | - Qingxian Cai
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Shenzhen Third People's Hospital, Shenzhen, 518112, Guangdong, China
| | - Yang Zhi
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Renji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, NHC Key Laboratory of Digestive Diseases, Shanghai Research Center of Fatty Liver Disease, Shanghai, 200001, China
| | - Xiaoyun Li
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Renji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, NHC Key Laboratory of Digestive Diseases, Shanghai Research Center of Fatty Liver Disease, Shanghai, 200001, China
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Rojas Á, García-Lozano MR, Gil-Gómez A, Romero-Gómez M, Ampuero J. Glutaminolysis-ammonia-urea Cycle Axis, Non-alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease Progression and Development of Novel Therapies. J Clin Transl Hepatol 2022; 10:356-362. [PMID: 35528989 PMCID: PMC9039703 DOI: 10.14218/jcth.2021.00247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2021] [Revised: 07/29/2021] [Accepted: 10/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
The prevalence of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is increasing worldwide, reflecting the current epidemics of obesity, insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes mellitus, and metabolic syndrome. NAFLD is characterized by the accumulation of fat in the liver, and is known to be a cause of cirrhosis. Although many pathways have been proposed, the cause of NAFLD-linked fibrosis progression is still unclear, which posed challenges for the development of new therapies to prevent NASH-related cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. Cirrhosis is associated with activation of hepatic stellate cells (HSC) and accumulation of excess extracellular matrix proteins, and inhibiting the activation of HSCs would be expected to slow the progression of NAFLD-cirrhosis. Multiple molecular signals and pathways such as oxidative stress and glutaminolysis have been reported to promote HSC activation. Both mechanisms are plausible antifibrotic targets in NASH, as the activation of HSCs the proliferation of myofibroblasts depend on those processes. This review summarizes the role of the glutaminolysis-ammonia-urea cycle axis in the context of NAFLD progression, and shows how the axis could be a novel therapeutic target.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ángela Rojas
- Department of Unit of Digestive Diseases, Virgen del Rocío University Hospital, Seville, Spain
- SeLiver group at the Institute of Biomedicine of Seville (IBIS), Virgen del Rocío University Hospital/CSIC/ University of Seville, Seville, Spain
- Center for the Study of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases (CIBERehd), Carlos III National Institute of Health, Madrid, Spain
| | - María Rosario García-Lozano
- Department of Unit of Digestive Diseases, Virgen del Rocío University Hospital, Seville, Spain
- SeLiver group at the Institute of Biomedicine of Seville (IBIS), Virgen del Rocío University Hospital/CSIC/ University of Seville, Seville, Spain
- Center for the Study of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases (CIBERehd), Carlos III National Institute of Health, Madrid, Spain
- Department of Organic and Medicinal Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Seville, E-41071, Seville, Spain
| | - Antonio Gil-Gómez
- Department of Unit of Digestive Diseases, Virgen del Rocío University Hospital, Seville, Spain
- SeLiver group at the Institute of Biomedicine of Seville (IBIS), Virgen del Rocío University Hospital/CSIC/ University of Seville, Seville, Spain
- Center for the Study of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases (CIBERehd), Carlos III National Institute of Health, Madrid, Spain
| | - Manuel Romero-Gómez
- Department of Unit of Digestive Diseases, Virgen del Rocío University Hospital, Seville, Spain
- SeLiver group at the Institute of Biomedicine of Seville (IBIS), Virgen del Rocío University Hospital/CSIC/ University of Seville, Seville, Spain
- Center for the Study of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases (CIBERehd), Carlos III National Institute of Health, Madrid, Spain
| | - Javier Ampuero
- Department of Unit of Digestive Diseases, Virgen del Rocío University Hospital, Seville, Spain
- SeLiver group at the Institute of Biomedicine of Seville (IBIS), Virgen del Rocío University Hospital/CSIC/ University of Seville, Seville, Spain
- Center for the Study of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases (CIBERehd), Carlos III National Institute of Health, Madrid, Spain
- Correspondence to: Javier Ampuero, Digestive Disease Department and CIBERehd, Virgen del Rocio University Hospital, Avenida Manuel Siurot s/n, Sevilla 41013, Spain. ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-8332-2122. Tel: +34-955-015761, Fax: +34-955-015899, E-mail:
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Hansen MKG, Kjærgaard K, Eriksen LL, Grønkjær LL, Mikkelsen ACD, Sandahl TD, Vilstrup H, Thomsen KL, Lauridsen MME. Psychometric methods for diagnosing and monitoring minimal hepatic encephalopathy -current validation level and practical use. Metab Brain Dis 2022; 37:589-605. [PMID: 35102491 DOI: 10.1007/s11011-022-00913-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2021] [Accepted: 01/14/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Hepatic encephalopathy (HE) is cerebral dysfunction caused by liver failure and inflicts 30-40% of patients with liver cirrhosis during their disease course. Clinically manifest HE is often preceded by minimal HE (MHE) - a clinically undetectable cognitive disturbance closely associated with loss of quality of life. Accordingly, detecting and treating MHE improve the patients' daily functioning and prevent HE-related hospital admissions. The scope of this review article is to create an overview of the validation level and usage of psychometric tests used to detect MHE: Portosystemic hepatic encephalopathy test, continuous reaction time test, Stroop EncephalApp, animal naming test, critical flicker frequency test, and inhibitory control test. Our work is aimed at the clinician or scientist who is about to decide on which psychometric test would fit best in their clinic, cohort, or study. First, we outline psychometric test validation obstacles and requirements. Then, we systematically approach the literature on each test and select well-conducted studies to answer the following questions:• Which percentage of patients with cirrhosis does the test deem as having MHE?• Is the test able to predict clinically manifest HE?• Is there a well-known test-retest variation and inter-observer variation?• Is the test able to detect a treatment response?• Is the test result affected by age, educational level, gender, or comorbidities?
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Affiliation(s)
- Mads Kingo Guldberg Hansen
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University Hospital South Denmark, Finsensgade 35, 6700, Esbjerg, Denmark.
| | - Kristoffer Kjærgaard
- Department of Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Aarhus University Hospital, Palle Juul-Jensens Boulevard 99, 8200, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Lotte Lindgreen Eriksen
- Department of Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Aarhus University Hospital, Palle Juul-Jensens Boulevard 99, 8200, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Lea Ladegaard Grønkjær
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University Hospital South Denmark, Finsensgade 35, 6700, Esbjerg, Denmark
| | - Anne Catrine Daugaard Mikkelsen
- Department of Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Aarhus University Hospital, Palle Juul-Jensens Boulevard 99, 8200, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Thomas Damgaard Sandahl
- Department of Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Aarhus University Hospital, Palle Juul-Jensens Boulevard 99, 8200, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Hendrik Vilstrup
- Department of Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Aarhus University Hospital, Palle Juul-Jensens Boulevard 99, 8200, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Karen Louise Thomsen
- Department of Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Aarhus University Hospital, Palle Juul-Jensens Boulevard 99, 8200, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Mette Munk Enok Lauridsen
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University Hospital South Denmark, Finsensgade 35, 6700, Esbjerg, Denmark
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Dhiman RK, Thumburu KK, Verma N, Chopra M, Rathi S, Dutta U, Singal AK, Taneja S, Duseja A, Singh M. Comparative Efficacy of Treatment Options for Minimal Hepatic Encephalopathy: A Systematic Review and Network Meta-Analysis. Clin Gastroenterol Hepatol 2020; 18:800-812.e25. [PMID: 31476436 DOI: 10.1016/j.cgh.2019.08.047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2019] [Revised: 08/07/2019] [Accepted: 08/09/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS We aimed to synthesize evidence for most effective treatments for minimal hepatic encephalopathy (HE) and prevention of overt HE in patients with cirrhosis. METHODS We performed a systematic search of the PubMed, EMBASE, OvidSP, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials databases through July 26, 2018, for randomized controlled trials evaluating treatments for minimal HE in patients with cirrhosis, with primary outcomes of reversal of minimal HE or prevention of overt HE. We conducted a meta-analysis and then used network meta-analysis and surface under cumulated ranking (SUCRA) to pool the direct and indirect estimates and rank the different treatments. We appraised study quality using the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation system. RESULTS Our meta-analysis and network meta-analysis included 25 trials, comprising 1563 participants. Agents found to be effective in reversing minimal HE compared with placebo or no treatment included rifaximin (odds ratio [OR], 7.53; 95% predictive interval [PrI], 4.45-12.73; SUCRA, 89.2%; moderate quality), lactulose (OR, 5.39; 95% PrI, 3.60-8.0; SUCRA, 67.2%; moderate quality), the combination of probiotics and lactulose (OR, 4.66; 95% PrI, 1.90-11.39; SUCRA, 52.4%; low quality), L-ornithine L-aspartate (OR, 4.45; 95% PrI, 2.67-7.42; SUCRA, 47.2%; low moderate quality), and probiotics (OR, 3.89; 95% PrI, 2.52-6.02; SUCRA, 34.1%; low quality). Agents found to be effective in preventing episodes of overt HE compared with placebo or no treatment included L-ornithine L-aspartate (OR, 0.19; 95% PrI, 0.04-0.91; SUCRA, 75.1%; high moderate quality), lactulose (OR, 0.22; 95% PrI, 0.09-0.52; SUCRA, 73.9%; moderate quality), and probiotics (OR, 0.27; 95% PrI, 0.11-0.62; SUCRA, 59.6%; low quality). CONCLUSIONS In a meta-analysis of data from 25 trials, we found rifaximin and lactulose to be most effective for reversal of minimal HE in patients with cirrhosis. L-ornithine L-aspartate and lactulose are most effective in the prevention of overt HE. Lactulose was the only agent that was effective in reversing minimal HE, preventing overt HE, reducing ammonia, and improving quality of life, with tolerable adverse effects. International prospective register of systematic reviews ID: 107003.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Usha Dutta
- Department of Gastroenterology, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India
| | - Ashwani K Singal
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Alabama at Birmingham School of Medicine, Birmingham, Alabama
| | | | | | - Meenu Singh
- Department of Paediatrics, Chandigarh, India
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Butterworth RF, McPhail MJW. L-Ornithine L-Aspartate (LOLA) for Hepatic Encephalopathy in Cirrhosis: Results of Randomized Controlled Trials and Meta-Analyses. Drugs 2019; 79:31-37. [PMID: 30706425 PMCID: PMC6416237 DOI: 10.1007/s40265-018-1024-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
This manuscript represents an appraisal of the evidence in support of l-ornithine-l-aspartate (LOLA) for the management and treatment of hepatic encephalopathy (HE) in cirrhosis. Meta-analyses of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) conducted over the last two decades generally reveal evidence of benefit of LOLA in a range of clinical presentations. This included improvement of mental state grade in overt HE (OHE) assessed by West Haven criteria as well as in minimal HE (MHE) assessed by psychometric testing where the oral formulation of LOLA was determined to be particularly effective. However, concerns over study quality were noted in one meta-analysis. Nevertheless, the concomitant lowering of fasting blood ammonia was reported in all RCTs using this endpoint. Network meta-analyses showed that LOLA appears to be comparable (or superior) in efficacy to non-absorbable disaccharides or probiotics. Emerging evidence from single RCTs show efficacy of LOLA for the treatment of post-transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPSS) HE as well as for secondary HE prophylaxis. These findings provide support for the use of LOLA in the treatment of HE and future trials should focus on the use of LOLA for prophylaxis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roger F Butterworth
- Department of Medicine, University of Montreal, 45143 Cabot Trail, Englishtown, NS, B0C 1H0, Canada
| | - Mark J W McPhail
- Liver Intensive Therapy Unit, Institute of Liver Sciences, School of Immunology and Microbial Sciences, Kings College London, London, UK.
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Butterworth RF, Kircheis G, Hilger N, McPhail MJ. Efficacy of l-Ornithine l-Aspartate for the Treatment of Hepatic Encephalopathy and Hyperammonemia in Cirrhosis: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials. J Clin Exp Hepatol 2018; 8:301-313. [PMID: 30302048 PMCID: PMC6175748 DOI: 10.1016/j.jceh.2018.05.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2018] [Accepted: 05/08/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES l-Ornithine l-Aspartate (LOLA) is a mixture of two endogenous amino acids with the capacity to fix ammonia in the form of urea and/or glutamine. Its' efficacy for the treatment of Hepatic Encephalopathy (HE), a known hyperammonemic disorder, remains the subject of debate. This study quantitatively analyzed the efficacy of LOLA in patients with cirrhosis and HE. METHODS Efficacy was defined as the extent of lowering of blood ammonia and improvement of mental state assessed in clinically overt HE (OHE) by Westhaven criteria or psychometric testing for assessment of Minimal HE (MHE). Appropriate keywords were used for electronic and/or manual searches of databases to identify RCTs for inclusion. Study quality and risk of bias were assessed using the Jadad Composite Scale together with The Cochrane Scoring Tool. Random Effects Models were used to express pooled Risk Ratio (RR) or Mean Difference (MD) with associated 95% Confidence Intervals (CI). RESULTS 10 RCTs (884 patients) were included. Regression analysis showed no evidence of publication bias or other small study effects. Eight RCTs had low risk of bias by Jadad/Cochrane criteria. Comparison with placebo/no intervention controls revealed that LOLA was significantly more effective for improvement of mental state in all types of HE (RR 1.36 (95% CI 1.10-1.69), p = 0.005), OHE (RR: 1.19, 95% CI of 1.01-1.39, test for overall effect: Z = 2.14, p = 0.03), MHE (RR: 2.15 (1.48-3.14), p < 0.0001) and for lowering of blood ammonia (MD: -17.50 μmol/l (-27.73 to (-7.26)), p = 0.0008). Improvement of mental state was greater in trials with low risk of bias. Heterogeneity was reduced in trials from Europe or with >100 participants. Oral LOLA appeared particularly effective for the treatment of MHE. CONCLUSION LOLA appears to improve mental state and lower ammonia in patients with HE or MHE. Further studies are required in some subgroups of HE and in the era of HE reclassification.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Gerald Kircheis
- Clinic of Brandenburg, Medical University Brandenburg Theodor Fontane, Germany
| | - Norbert Hilger
- Institute of Psychology, Methodology, Diagnostics and Evaluations, University of Bonn, Germany
| | - Mark J.W. McPhail
- Liver Intensive Therapy Unit, Institute of Liver Sciences, Division of Inflammation Biology, School of Immunology and Microbial Sciences, Kings College London, United Kingdom
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Sidhu SS. L-Ornithine L-Aspartate is Effective and Safe for the Treatment of Hepatic Encephalopathy in Cirrhosis. J Clin Exp Hepatol 2018; 8:219-221. [PMID: 30302036 PMCID: PMC6175754 DOI: 10.1016/j.jceh.2018.08.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2018] [Accepted: 08/21/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Sandeep S. Sidhu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Dayanand Medical College and Hospital, Ludhiana, Punjab, India
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10
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Goh ET, Stokes CS, Sidhu SS, Vilstrup H, Gluud LL, Morgan MY. L-ornithine L-aspartate for prevention and treatment of hepatic encephalopathy in people with cirrhosis. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2018; 5:CD012410. [PMID: 29762873 PMCID: PMC6494563 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd012410.pub2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hepatic encephalopathy is a common complication of cirrhosis and has high associated morbidity and mortality. The condition is classified as overt if it is clinically apparent or minimal if only evident though psychometric testing. The exact pathogenesis of this syndrome is unknown although ammonia is thought to play a key role. L-ornithine L-aspartate has ammonia-lowering properties and may, therefore, benefit people with cirrhosis and hepatic encephalopathy. OBJECTIVES To evaluate the beneficial and harmful effects of L-ornithine L-aspartate versus placebo, no intervention, or other active interventions in people with cirrhosis and hepatic encephalopathy. SEARCH METHODS We undertook electronic searches of The Cochrane Hepato-Biliary Group Controlled Trials Register, CENTRAL, MEDLINE, Embase, LILACS and Science Citation Index Expanded to December 2017 and manual searches of meetings and conference proceedings; checks of bibliographies; and corresponded with investigators and pharmaceutical companies. SELECTION CRITERIA We included randomised clinical trials, irrespective of publication status, language, or blinding. We included participants with cirrhosis who had minimal or overt hepatic encephalopathy or who were at risk for developing hepatic encephalopathy. We compared: L-ornithine L-aspartate versus placebo or no intervention; and L-ornithine L-aspartate versus other active agents such as non-absorbable disaccharides, antibiotics, probiotics, or branched-chain amino acids. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS Two review authors, working independently, retrieved data from published reports and correspondence with investigators and pharmaceutical companies. The primary outcomes were mortality, hepatic encephalopathy, and serious adverse events. We undertook meta-analyses and presented the results as risk ratios (RR) and mean differences (MD) with 95% confidence intervals (CI). We assessed bias control using the Cochrane Hepato-Biliary Group domains; we evaluated the risk of publication bias and other small trial effects in regression analyses; conducted subgroup and sensitivity analyses; and performed Trial Sequential Analyses. We determined the quality of the evidence using GRADE. MAIN RESULTS We identified 36 randomised clinical trials, involving at least 2377 registered participants, which fulfilled our inclusion criteria including 10 unpublished randomised clinical trials. However, we were only able to access outcome data from 29 trials involving 1891 participants. Five of the included trials assessed prevention, while 31 trials assessed treatment. Five trials were at low risk of bias in the overall assessment of mortality; one trial was at low risk of bias in the assessment of the remaining outcomes.L-ornithine L-aspartate had a beneficial effect on mortality compared with placebo or no intervention when including all trials (RR 0.42, 95% CI 0.24 to 0.72; I2 = 0%; 19 trials; 1489 participants; very low quality evidence), but not when the analysis was restricted to the trials at low risk of bias (RR 0.47, 95% CI 0.06 to 3.58; 4 trials; 244 participants). It had a beneficial effect on hepatic encephalopathy compared with placebo or no intervention when including all trials (RR 0.70, 95% CI 0.59 to 0.83; 22 trials; 1375 participants; I2 = 62%; very low quality evidence), but not in the one trial at low risk of bias (RR 0.96, 95% CI 0.85 to 1.07; 63 participants). The analysis of serious adverse events showed a potential benefit of L-ornithine L-aspartate when including all randomised clinical trials (RR 0.63, 95% CI 0.45 to 0.90; 1 trial; 1489 participants; I2 = 0%; very low quality evidence), but not in the one trial at low risk of bias for this outcome (RR 0.83, 95% CI 0.15 to 4.65; 63 participants). The Trial Sequential Analyses of mortality, hepatic encephalopathy, and serious adverse events found insufficient evidence to support or refute beneficial effects. Subgroup analyses showed no difference in outcomes in the trials evaluating evaluating the prevention or treatment of either overt or minimal hepatic encephalopathy or trials evaluating oral versus intravenous administration We were unable to undertake a meta-analysis of the three trials involving 288 participants evaluating health-related quality of life. Overall, we found no difference between L-ornithine L-aspartate and placebo or no intervention in non-serious adverse events (RR 1.15, 95% CI 0.75 to 1.77; 14 trials; 1076 participants; I2 = 40%). In comparison with lactulose, L-ornithine L-aspartate had no effect on mortality (RR 0.68, 95% CI 0.11 to 4.17; 4 trials; 175 participants; I2 = 0%); hepatic encephalopathy (RR 1.13, 95% CI 0.81 to 1.57); serious adverse events (RR 0.69, 95% CI 0.22 to 2.11); or non-serious adverse events (RR 0.05, 95% CI 0.01 to 0.18). In comparison with probiotics, L-ornithine L-aspartate had no effect on mortality (RR 1.01, 95% CI 0.11 to 9.51); serious adverse events (RR 1.07, 95% CI 0.23 to 4.88); or changes in blood ammonia concentrations from baseline (RR -2.30 95% CI -6.08 to 1.48), but it had a possible beneficial effect on hepatic encephalopathy (RR 0.71, 95% CI 0.56 to 0.90). Finally, in comparison with rifaximin, L-ornithine L-aspartate had no effect on mortality (RR 0.33, 95% CI 0.04 to 3.03; 2 trials; 105 participants); hepatic encephalopathy (RR 1.06, 95% CI 0.57 to 1.96); serious adverse events (RR 0.32, 95% CI 0.01 to 7.42), or non-serious adverse events (RR 0.32, 95% CI 0.01 to 7.42). AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS The results of this review suggest a possible beneficial effect of L-ornithine L-aspartate on mortality, hepatic encephalopathy, and serious adverse events in comparisons with placebo or no-intervention, but, because the quality of the evidence is very low, we are very uncertain about these findings. There was very low quality evidence of a possible beneficial effect of L-ornithine L-aspartate on hepatic encephalopathy, when compared with probiotics, but no other benefits were demonstrated in comparison with other active agents. Additional access to data from completed, but unpublished trials, and new randomised placebo-controlled, double-blind clinical trials are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ee Teng Goh
- Division of Medicine, Royal Free Campus, University College LondonUCL Institute for Liver & Digestive HealthRowland Hill StreetHampsteadLondonUKNW3 2PF
| | - Caroline S Stokes
- Saarland University Medical CentreDepartment of Medicine IIKirrberger Str. 100Homburg/SaarGermany66421
| | - Sandeep S Sidhu
- Dayanand Medical College & HospitalDepartment of GastroenterologyTagore Nagar, Civil LinesLudhianaPunjabIndia141001
| | - Hendrik Vilstrup
- Aarhus University HospitalDepartment of Hepatology and GastroenterologyNørrebrogade 44Aarhus8200 NDenmark
| | - Lise Lotte Gluud
- Copenhagen University Hospital HvidovreGastrounit, Medical DivisionKettegaards Alle 30HvidovreDenmark2650
| | - Marsha Y Morgan
- Division of Medicine, Royal Free Campus, University College LondonUCL Institute for Liver & Digestive HealthRowland Hill StreetHampsteadLondonUKNW3 2PF
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Sidhu SS, Sharma BC, Goyal O, Kishore H, Kaur N. L-ornithine L-aspartate in bouts of overt hepatic encephalopathy. Hepatology 2018; 67:700-710. [PMID: 28749571 DOI: 10.1002/hep.29410] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2017] [Revised: 07/21/2017] [Accepted: 07/25/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
High-quality data on the efficacy of L-ornithine L-aspartate (LOLA) in patients with cirrhosis and bouts of overt hepatic encephalopathy (OHE) are missing. We evaluated the efficacy of intravenous LOLA in the reversal of bouts of OHE in patients with cirrhosis. In this prospective, double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial conducted at two tertiary care institutes in India, 370 patients with cirrhosis and bouts of OHE were screened. After exclusion, 193 (52.16%) patients were randomized to receive either intravenous infusions of LOLA (n = 98), 30 g daily, or placebo (n = 95) for 5 days. Standard of care treatment (including lactulose and ceftriaxone) was given in both groups. Randomization was done centrally (http://www.sealedenvelope.com/). All study personnel were blinded to the treatment assignment. Fasting venous ammonia levels were estimated daily from 0 to 5 days. Serum tumor necrosis factor-alpha, interleukins, hemogram, and liver and renal function tests were performed at days 0 and 5. Primary outcome was mental state grade at day 5 of treatment. The grade of OHE was significantly lower in the LOLA group (compared to placebo) on days 1-4 but not on day 5. The mean time taken for recovery was lower in the LOLA group compared to the placebo group (1.92 ± 0.93 versus 2.50 ± 1.03 days, P = 0.002; 95% confidence interval -0.852 to -0.202). Venous ammonia at day 5 and length of hospital stay were significantly lower in the LOLA group. No significant difference in interleukins was seen between the groups. Conclusion: In patients with bouts of OHE, intravenous LOLA (as an add-on therapy to lactulose and ceftriaxone) significantly improves the grade of OHE over days 1-4, but not on day 5, and decreases venous ammonia, time of recovery, and length of hospital stay. (Hepatology 2018;67:700-710).
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandeep Singh Sidhu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Dayanand Medical College and Hospital, Ludhiana, Punjab, India
| | | | - Omesh Goyal
- Department of Gastroenterology, Dayanand Medical College and Hospital, Ludhiana, Punjab, India
| | - Harsh Kishore
- Department of Gastroenterology, Dayanand Medical College and Hospital, Ludhiana, Punjab, India
| | - Navpreet Kaur
- Department of Biochemistry, Dayanand Medical College and Hospital, Ludhiana, Punjab, India
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Urios A, Mangas-Losada A, Gimenez-Garzó C, González-López O, Giner-Durán R, Serra MA, Noe E, Felipo V, Montoliu C. Altered postural control and stability in cirrhotic patients with minimal hepatic encephalopathy correlate with cognitive deficits. Liver Int 2017; 37:1013-1022. [PMID: 27988985 DOI: 10.1111/liv.13345] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2016] [Accepted: 12/07/2016] [Indexed: 02/13/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Cognitive dysfunction in cirrhotic patients with minimal hepatic encephalopathy (MHE) is associated with falls. Alterations in postural control and stability could contribute to increase falls risk in these patients. We aimed to assess whether postural control and direction-specific limits of stability are altered in cirrhotic patients with MHE compared to patients without MHE and controls. We also assessed if alterations in postural control correlate with neurological impairment and/or blood biomarkers. METHODS Posturography analysis, attention Stroop test and bimanual and visuo-motor coordination tests were performed in 18 controls, 19 patients with cirrhosis without MHE and 17 with MHE, diagnosed by PHES. Posturography was assessed by NedSVE® /IBV system under four sensory conditions. Limits of stability and rhythmic weight-shifting tests were also performed. Blood ammonia and serum interleukins were also measured. Falls were assessed after 12-24 months follow-up. RESULTS MHE patients show impaired balance, mainly on unstable surface with eyes open, with longer reaction and confinement times and lower success in Limits of Stability test compared to patients without MHE. Performance in attention and motor coordination tests correlated with most posturography parameters alterations. Logistic regression analysis shows that posturography parameters and bimanual coordination test are good predictors of falls. CONCLUSION Balance patterns and limits of stability in MHE patients are impaired compared to patients without MHE and controls. This seems to contribute to a higher falls risk. Attention and motor coordination deficits could contribute to balance impairment in patients with MHE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amparo Urios
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria-INCLIVA, Valencia, Spain.,Laboratory of Neurobiology, Centro Investigación Príncipe Felipe de Valencia, Valencia, Spain
| | | | - Carla Gimenez-Garzó
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria-INCLIVA, Valencia, Spain.,Laboratory of Neurobiology, Centro Investigación Príncipe Felipe de Valencia, Valencia, Spain
| | | | | | - Miguel A Serra
- Unidad de Digestivo, Hospital Clínico de Valencia, Departamento Medicina, Universidad de Valencia, Valencia, Spain
| | - Enrique Noe
- Servicio de Daño, Cerebral del Hospital Valencia al Mar, Valencia, Spain
| | - Vicente Felipo
- Laboratory of Neurobiology, Centro Investigación Príncipe Felipe de Valencia, Valencia, Spain
| | - Carmina Montoliu
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria-INCLIVA, Valencia, Spain.,Departamento de Patología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Valencia, Valencia, Spain
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Stokes CS, Goh ET, Vilstrup H, Morgan MY, Gluud LL. L‐ornithine L‐aspartate for people with cirrhosis and hepatic encephalopathy. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2016; 2016:CD012410. [PMCID: PMC6458028 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd012410] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/30/2023]
Abstract
This is a protocol for a Cochrane Review (Intervention). The objectives are as follows: To assess the beneficial and harmful effects of L‐ornithine L‐aspartate versus placebo, no intervention, or other active interventions for people with cirrhosis and hepatic encephalopathy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caroline S Stokes
- Saarland University Medical CentreDepartment of Medicine IIKirrberger Str. 100Homburg/SaarGermany66421
| | - Ee Teng Goh
- Division of Medicine, Royal Free Campus, University College LondonUCL Institute for Liver & Digestive HealthRowland Hill StreetHampsteadLondonUKNW3 2PF
| | - Hendrik Vilstrup
- Aarhus KommunehospitalDepartment of Hepatology and GastroenterologyNørrebrogade 44Aarhus CDenmarkDK‐8000
| | - Marsha Y Morgan
- Division of Medicine, Royal Free Campus, University College LondonUCL Institute for Liver & Digestive HealthRowland Hill StreetHampsteadLondonUKNW3 2PF
| | - Lise Lotte Gluud
- Copenhagen University Hospital HvidovreGastrounit, Medical DivisionKettegaards AlleHvidovreDenmark2650
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Garrido M, Skorucak J, Raduazzo D, Turco M, Spinelli G, Angeli P, Amodio P, Achermann P, Montagnese S. Vigilance and wake EEG architecture in simulated hyperammonaemia: a pilot study on the effects of L-Ornithine-L-Aspartate (LOLA) and caffeine. Metab Brain Dis 2016; 31:965-74. [PMID: 27193025 DOI: 10.1007/s11011-016-9835-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2016] [Accepted: 05/10/2016] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
UNLABELLED Hyperammonaemia/mild hepatic encephalopathy (HE) can be simulated by the oral administration of a so-called amino acid challenge (AAC). This study sought to assess the effects of the AAC alone and in combination with either ammonia-lowering [L-ornithine-L-aspartate (LOLA)] or vigilance-enhancing medication (caffeine). Six patients with cirrhosis (5 males; 61.3 ± 9.2 years; 5 Child A, 1 Child B) and six healthy volunteers (5 males; 49.8 ± 10.6 years) were studied between 08:00 and 19:00 on Monday of three consecutive weeks. The following indices were obtained: hourly capillary ammonia, hourly subjective sleepiness, paper & pencil/computerized psychometry and wake electroencephalography (EEG) at 12:00, i.e. at the time of the maximum expected effect of the AAC. RESULTS On average, patients had worse neuropsychological performance and slower EEG than healthy volunteers in all conditions but differences did not reach significance. In healthy volunteers, the post-AAC increase in capillary ammonia levels was contained by both the administration of LOLA and of caffeine (significant differences between 10:00 and 14:00 h). The administration of caffeine also resulted in a reduction in subjective sleepiness and in the amplitude of the EEG on several frontal/temporal-occipital sites (p < 0.05; paired t-test). Changes in ammonia levels, subjective sleepiness and the EEG in the three conditions were less obvious in patients. In conclusion, both LOLA and caffeine contained the AAC-induced increase in capillary ammonia, especially in healthy volunteers. Caffeine also counteracted the AAC effects on sleepiness/EEG amplitude. The association of ammonia-lowering and vigilance-enhancing medication in the management of HE is worthy of further study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Garrido
- Department of Medicine, University of Padua, Via Giustiniani, 2, 35128, Padova, Italy
| | - Jelena Skorucak
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Neuroscience Center Zurich, University and ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Center for Interdisciplinary Sleep Research, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Daniela Raduazzo
- Department of Medicine, University of Padua, Via Giustiniani, 2, 35128, Padova, Italy
- USO Dipartimentale di Servizio Urgenza ed Emergenza Medica, ULSS 13, Dolo, Regione Veneto, Italy
| | - Matteo Turco
- Department of Medicine, University of Padua, Via Giustiniani, 2, 35128, Padova, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Spinelli
- Department of Medicine, University of Padua, Via Giustiniani, 2, 35128, Padova, Italy
- Department of Psychology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Paolo Angeli
- Department of Medicine, University of Padua, Via Giustiniani, 2, 35128, Padova, Italy
| | - Piero Amodio
- Department of Medicine, University of Padua, Via Giustiniani, 2, 35128, Padova, Italy
| | - Peter Achermann
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Neuroscience Center Zurich, University and ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Center for Interdisciplinary Sleep Research, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Center for Integrative Human Physiology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Sara Montagnese
- Department of Medicine, University of Padua, Via Giustiniani, 2, 35128, Padova, Italy.
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Gao X, Fan L, Li H, Li J, Liu X, Sun R, Yu Z. Hepatic injury is associated with cell cycle arrest and apoptosis with alteration of cyclin A and D1 in ammonium chloride-induced hyperammonemic rats. Exp Ther Med 2015; 11:427-434. [PMID: 26893626 PMCID: PMC4733954 DOI: 10.3892/etm.2015.2931] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2015] [Accepted: 11/05/2015] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Hyperammonemia is considered to be central to the pathophysiology of hepatic encephalopathy in patients exhibiting hepatic failure (HF). It has previously been determined that hyperammonemia is a serious metabolic disorder commonly observed in patients with HF. However, it is unclear whether hyperammonemia has a direct adverse effect on hepatic cells or serves as a cause and effect of HF. The present study investigated whether hepatic injury is caused by hyperammonemia, and aimed to provide an insight into the causes and mechanisms of HF. Hyperammonemic rats were established via intragastric administration of ammonium chloride solution. Hepatic tissues were assessed using biochemistry, histology, immunohistochemistry, flow cytometry (FCM), semi-quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction and western blot analysis. Hyperammonemic rats exhibited significantly increased levels of liver function markers, including alanine transaminase (P<0.01), aspartate aminotransferase (P<0.01), blood ammonia (P<0.01) and direct bilirubin (P<0.05), which indicated hepatic injury. A pathological assessment revealed mild hydropic degeneration, but no necrosis or inflammatory cell infiltration. However, terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end-labeling assays confirmed a significant increase in the rate of cellular apoptosis in hyperammonemic rat livers (P<0.01). FCM analysis revealed that there were significantly more cells in the S phase and fewer in the G2/M phase (P<0.01), and the expression levels of cyclin A and D1 mRNA and proteins were significantly increased (P<0.01). In summary, cell cycle arrest, apoptosis and an alteration of cyclin A and D1 levels were all markers of hyperammonemia-induced hepatic injury. These findings provide an insight into the potential mechanisms underlying hyperammonemia-induced hepatic injury, and may be used as potential targets for treating or preventing hepatic damage caused by hyperammonemia, including hepatic encephalopathy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaojuan Gao
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan 450052, P.R. China
| | - Lei Fan
- Department of Pharmacy, Children's Hospital of Zhengzhou City, Zhengzhou, Henan 450053, P.R. China
| | - Hua Li
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan 450052, P.R. China
| | - Juan Li
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan 450052, P.R. China
| | - Xiaorui Liu
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan 450052, P.R. China
| | - Ranran Sun
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan 450052, P.R. China
| | - Zujiang Yu
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan 450052, P.R. China
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Abstract
Minimal hepatic encephalopathy (mHE) is common among patients with cirrhotic liver disease and causes significant morbidity and mortality. It may present as cognitive impairment, behavioural changes and, less frequently, with neurological symptoms which make diagnosis of the disease challenging. A history of falls and accidents may also be suggestive of mHE. Diagnosis primarily relies on at least two positive psychometric tests of which the psychometric hepatic encephalopathy score (PHES) is essential. Alternatively, PHES and an electroencephalogram may be used to establish a diagnosis. Biochemical markers of encephalopathy currently have no role in the diagnosis of mHE. Treatment is not always advocated for a diagnosis of mHE but is dependent on the degree of impairment caused by the symptoms. After treatment of other metabolic abnormalities and co-morbidities associated with cirrhosis, more specific treatment for mHE largely relies on therapies used to lower ammonia levels. Laxatives and rifaximin are commonly used in treatment and work through decreasing ammonia absorption from the gut. Other therapies, such as BCAA, LOLA, L-carnitine and phenylbutyrate, modify responses to ammonia as well as enhancing metabolism and excretion. mHE resulting from spontaneous portosystemic shunts or transhepatic intraportal systemic shunts may require ablation or reduction of the shunt. Early detection and appropriate treatment of mHE is important to prevent significant cognitive impairments and progression to overt HE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shamindra Direkze
- Royal Free Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, University College London, London, UK
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Waghray A, Waghray N, Mullen K. Management of covert hepatic encephalopathy. J Clin Exp Hepatol 2015; 5:S75-81. [PMID: 26041963 PMCID: PMC4442854 DOI: 10.1016/j.jceh.2014.02.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2014] [Accepted: 02/19/2014] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatic encephalopathy is a reversible progressive neuropsychiatric disorder that encompasses a wide clinical spectrum. Covert hepatic encephalopathy is defined as patients with minimal hepatic encephalopathy and Grade I encephalopathy by West-Haven Criteria. Terminology such as "sub-clinical", "latent", and "minimal" appear to trivialize the disease and have been replaced by the term covert. The lack of clinical signs means that covert hepatic encephalopathy is rarely recognized or treated outside of clinical trials with options for therapy based on patients with episodic hepatic encephalopathy. This review discusses the current available options for therapy in covert hepatic encephalopathy and focuses on non-absorbable disacharides (lactulose or lactitol), antibiotics (rifaximin), probiotics/synbiotics and l-ornithine-l-aspartate.
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Key Words
- APT, abnormal psychometric testing
- BAEP, brain auditory evoked potential
- BDT, block design test
- CFF, critical flicker frequency
- DST, digit symbol test
- FCT-A, Figure connection test-A
- FOS, fructo-oligosaccharides
- HRQoL, health-related quality of life
- ICT, inhibitory control test
- LCT, line tracing test
- NCT-A, number connection tests A
- NCT-B, number connection tests B
- NPE, neuropsychological exam
- OCTT, orocecal transit time
- PCT, Picture completion test
- PSE, psychometric testing
- RCT, race track test
- SDMT, Symbol digit modalities test
- SDT, serial-dotting test
- SPT, standard psychometric test
- TMT, Trail making test
- hepatic encephalopathy
- lactulose
- probiotics
- rifaximin
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Affiliation(s)
- Abhijeet Waghray
- Department of Medicine, MetroHealth Medical Center/Case Western Reserve University, 2500 MetroHealth Drive, Cleveland, OH 44109, USA
| | - Nisheet Waghray
- Division of Gastroenterology, MetroHealth Medical Center/Case Western Reserve University, 2500 MetroHealth Drive, Cleveland, OH 44109, USA
| | - Kevin Mullen
- Division of Gastroenterology, MetroHealth Medical Center/Case Western Reserve University, 2500 MetroHealth Drive, Cleveland, OH 44109, USA
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Alvares-da-Silva MR, de Araujo A, Vicenzi JR, da Silva GV, Oliveira FB, Schacher F, Oliboni L, Magnus A, Kruel LP, Prieb R, Fernandes LNT. Oral l-ornithine-l-aspartate in minimal hepatic encephalopathy: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. Hepatol Res 2014; 44:956-63. [PMID: 24033861 DOI: 10.1111/hepr.12235] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2013] [Revised: 08/26/2013] [Accepted: 08/28/2013] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
AIM Evaluate efficacy/safety of oral l-ornithine-l-aspartate (LOLA) in controlling minimal hepatic encephalopathy (MHE). METHODS Consecutive cirrhotic outpatients with MHE (defined by psychometric number connection tests A/B [NCT-A/B] and digit symbol substitution test [DSST] score of >2 standard deviations) were randomized to a 60-day oral LOLA (5 g t.i.d) or placebo group. Critical flicker frequency test (CFF), quantitative electroencephalogram (qEEG), arterial ammonia (NH3), Beck's anxiety-depression forms and liver disease quality of life (LD-QOL) were assessed. Patients were followed for 6 months after the end of the study to assess LOLA prophylactic role on overt hepatic encephalopathy (OHE). RESULTS Sixty-four patients were included, 63 (98.4%) with MHE. In six of these patients, CFT was less than 39 Hz (9.52%); NH3 was increased in 32 (50.8%); 25% had abnormal qEEG. Age, sex, scholarship, Child-Pugh (CP), Model for End-Stage Liver Disease, NCT-A/B, DSST, CFF and NH3 were similar in both groups at the baseline. LOLA led to a significant improvement in NCT-B age-controlled z-score (3.4 ± 3.4 vs 1.5 ± 2.3, P = 0.01) and CFF (42.2 ± 5.8 vs 45.2 ± 5.8, P = 0.02), comparing the first and the last visit, but there were no differences between LOLA and placebo regarding the whole psychometric battery, CFF, LD-QOL and Beck's forms. No serious adverse effects occurred. Patients taking LOLA had less episodes of OHE at 6 months (5% vs 37.9%, P = 0.016), as they have significant improvement on liver function assessed by CP (P < 0.001). CONCLUSION A 60-day oral LOLA course was not better than placebo in treating MHE, but was useful in preventing further episodes of OHE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mario Reis Alvares-da-Silva
- School of Medicine, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil; Division of Gastroenterology, Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre, Porto Alegre, Brazil
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Bai M, He C, Yin Z, Niu J, Wang Z, Qi X, Liu L, Yang Z, Guo W, Tie J, Bai W, Xia J, Cai H, Wang J, Wu K, Fan D, Han G. Randomised clinical trial: L-ornithine-L-aspartate reduces significantly the increase of venous ammonia concentration after TIPSS. Aliment Pharmacol Ther 2014; 40:63-71. [PMID: 24832463 DOI: 10.1111/apt.12795] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2014] [Revised: 02/18/2014] [Accepted: 04/24/2014] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Use of TIPSS is associated with increases in ammonia concentration and hepatic encephalopathy (HE) risk. L-ornithine-L-aspartate (LOLA) is effective in reducing ammonia concentration. AIM To evaluate the effects of LOLA on venous ammonia concentration after TIPSS. METHODS The included patients were randomised to receive LOLA or no-LOLA treatment for 7 days. Fasting and post-prandial venous ammonia levels were the primary outcomes. Psychometric performance, post-TIPSS HE, and liver and renal function were assessed as secondary outcomes. RESULTS Of 133 cirrhotic patients who received successful TIPSS between November 2011 and June 2012, 40 met the inclusion criteria and were randomised to the LOLA (n = 21) or control (n = 19) groups. Change in fasting ammonia significantly favoured the LOLA group at days 4 (P = 0.001) and 7 (P = 0.003). Changes in post-prandial ammonia concentration significantly favoured the LOLA group at days 1, 4 and 7 as well. During the study period, patients in the LOLA group had better improvement in psychometric tests than those in the control group. Overt HE during treatment was observed in one patient in the LOLA group and three patients in the control group (P = 0.331). There were no differences in complications, adverse events or mortality between the two groups. CONCLUSIONS Prophylactic use of LOLA infusion after TIPSS is safe and effective in significantly reducing the increase of venous ammonia concentration, and can benefit the patient's mental status as well.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Bai
- Department of Liver Disease and Digestive Interventional Radiology, Xijing Hospital of Digestive Diseases, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
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Waghray N, Waghray A, Mullen K. Treatment options for covert hepatic encephalopathy. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2014; 12:229-41. [PMID: 24623592 DOI: 10.1007/s11938-014-0014-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
OPINION STATEMENT The main issue with treating covert hepatic encephalopathy (HE) is to establish whether it is cost effective to reverse the neuropsychiatric abnormalities that define this mild form of HE. Until fairly recently, covert HE was rarely diagnosed, but advances in computerized psychometric testing have greatly simplified its detection. The many consequences of covert HE are now being identified, and most have been shown to be reversible with standard HE treatment. Perhaps the most enticing possibility will be the potential that standard HE therapies will postpone the onset of overt HE. This will require further evaluation with large placebo-controlled randomized trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nisheet Waghray
- Division of Gastroenterology, MetroHealth Medical Center/Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, USA,
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Bai M, Yang Z, Qi X, Fan D, Han G. l-ornithine-l-aspartate for hepatic encephalopathy in patients with cirrhosis: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. J Gastroenterol Hepatol 2013; 28:783-92. [PMID: 23425108 DOI: 10.1111/jgh.12142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/30/2013] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIM Several randomized, controlled trials that evaluated the effectiveness of l-ornithine-l-aspartate (LOLA) in the treatment of hepatic encephalopathy (HE) have been published recently. The purpose of this study was to update the meta-analysis to reevaluate the safety and efficacy of LOLA on HE in patients with cirrhosis. METHODS The following databases were searched from inception to June 2012: Medline, Embase, and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (Issue 6). Differences between groups were assessed by the pooled risk ratio (RR) or mean difference (MD). Possible sources of heterogeneity were assessed by sensitivity analyses. RESULTS Eight randomized controlled trials with 646 patients were included. When comparing placebo/no-intervention control, LOLA was significantly more effective in the improvement of HE in the total (RR: 1.49, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.10 to 2.01), overt HE (RR: 1.33, 95% CI: 1.04 to 1.69), and minimal HE patients (RR: 2.25, 95% CI: 1.33 to 3.82). Furthermore, the reduction of fasting ammonia significantly favored LOLA (post-treatment value, MD: -18.26, 95% CI: -26.96 to -9.56; change, MD: 8.59, 95% CI: 5.22 to 11.96). The tolerance ratio, incidence of adverse events, and mortality were not significantly different between LOLA and the placebo/no-intervention control. LOLA and lactulose demonstrated similar effectiveness in the improvement of HE (RR: 0.88, 95% CI: 0.57 to 1.35). CONCLUSIONS LOLA benefits both overt and minimal HE patients in the improvement of HE by reducing the serum ammonia concentration compared with the placebo/no-intervention control. Further, evaluations between LOLA and other effective treatments are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ming Bai
- Department of Liver Disease, Xijing Hospital of Digestive Diseases, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
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Zullo A, Hassan C, Ridola L, Lorenzetti R, Campo SM, Riggio O. Rifaximin therapy and hepatic encephalopathy: Pros and cons. World J Gastrointest Pharmacol Ther 2012; 3:62-7. [PMID: 22966484 PMCID: PMC3437447 DOI: 10.4292/wjgpt.v3.i4.62] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2011] [Revised: 06/14/2012] [Accepted: 06/20/2012] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatic encephalopathy (HE) is the second most common major complication in cirrhotics and it significantly impacts quality of life. Therapeutic approaches for HE treatment and prevention mainly continue to rely on ammonia-lowering strategies and non-absorbable disaccharides are currently considered the cornerstone therapy. Non-absorbable antibiotics, such as neomycin and paramomycin, are effective in treatment of acute HE episodes but their prolonged use for recurrence prevention is hampered by possible side-effects. To overcome these limitations, rifaximin use has been proposed. Rifaximin has been shown to be not superior to non-absorbable disaccharides for either HE treatment or prevention, with a similar incidence of side-effects. Cirrhosis significantly increases rifaximin absorption and this could be a cause for concern. Following long-term rifaximin therapy, Clostridium difficile colitis has been observed and Candida albicans has been isolated from 20% of patients. In addition, selection of resistant mutants of both Gram-negative and -positive bacteria in the gastrointestinal tract cannot be definitely ruled out. Electrolyte alterations (sodium and potassium) have been reported during rifaximin therapy, a warning for its long-term use in cirrhotics. Moreover, a potential interference with vitamin K production should be considered which could further impair the already altered clotting status of these patients. The therapeutic cost of rifaximin is markedly higher than non-absorbable disaccharides. While waiting for further safety data, caution should be used to limit the use of rifaximin therapy for a very short-term period in selected HE cirrhotics not responding to non-absorbable disaccharides.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angelo Zullo
- Angelo Zullo, Cesare Hassan, Roberto Lorenzetti, Salvatore MA Campo, Gastroenterology and Digestive Endoscopy, Nuovo Regina Margherita Hospital, 00153 Rome, Italy
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Atluri DK, Prakash R, Mullen KD. Pathogenesis, diagnosis, and treatment of hepatic encephalopathy. J Clin Exp Hepatol 2011; 1:77-86. [PMID: 25755319 PMCID: PMC3940085 DOI: 10.1016/s0973-6883(11)60126-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2011] [Accepted: 09/02/2011] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatic encephalopathy (HE) is a neuropsychiatric disorder seen in patients with advanced liver disease or porto-systemic shunts. Based on etiology and severity of HE, the World Congress of Gastroenterology has divided HE into categories and sub-categories. Many user-friendly computer-based neuropsychiatric tests are being validated for diagnosing covert HE. Currently, emphasis is being given to view HE deficits as a continuous spectrum rather than distinct stages. Ammonia is believed to play crucial role in pathogenesis of HE via astrocyte swelling and cerebral edema. However, evidence has been building up which supports the synergistic role of oxidative stress, inflammation and neurosteroids in pathogenesis of HE. At present, treatment of HE aims at decreasing the production and intestinal absorption of ammonia. But as the role of new pathogenetic mechanisms becomes clear, many potential new treatment strategies may become available for clinician.
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Key Words
- AAA, aromatic amino acid
- BAUR, brain ammonia utilization rate
- BCAA, branched-chain amino acids
- CFF, critical flicker fusion
- DBI, diazepam binding inhibitor
- DST, digit symbol test
- DWI, diffusion weighted imaging
- Diagnosis
- ECAD, extra-corporeal albumin dialysis
- EEC, electroencephalogram
- FLAIR, fluid attenuation inversion recovery
- HE, hepatic encephalopathy
- HESA, hepatic encephalopathy scoring algorithm
- ICT, inhibitory control test
- IL, interleukin
- LOLA, L-ornithine L-aspartate
- LTT, line tracing test
- MARS, molecular adsorbent reticulating system
- MHE, minimal hepatic encephalopathy
- MRI, magnetic resonance imaging
- NAC, N-acetyl cysteine
- NO, nitric oxide
- NS, neurosteroids
- NSAID, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs
- ODN, octadecaneuropeptide
- OHE, overt hepatic encephalopathy
- PTBR, peripheral-type benzodiaze-pine receptor
- QOL, quality of life
- SDT, serial dotting test
- SEDACA, short epoch, dominant activity, and cluster analysis
- SIBO, small intestinal bacterial overgrowth
- SIRS, systemic inflammatory response syndrome
- SOD, Superoxide dismutase
- SONIC, spectrum of neurological impairment
- TLP, TransLocator Protein
- TNF, tumor necrosis factor
- hepatic encephalopathy
- pathogenesis
- treatment
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Kevin D Mullen
- Address for correspondence: Dr Kevin D Mullen, Gastroenterology Department, MetroHealth Medical Center, 2500 MetroHealth Drive, Cleveland, OH-44109, USA
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Montgomery JY, Bajaj JS. Advances in the evaluation and management of minimal hepatic encephalopathy. Curr Gastroenterol Rep 2011; 13:26-33. [PMID: 20924726 DOI: 10.1007/s11894-010-0150-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Abstract
Minimal hepatic encephalopathy (MHE) is a neurocognitive disorder that affects up to 80% of cirrhotic patients. Similar to overt hepatic encephalopathy, ammonia and oxidative stress play key roles in the pathogenesis of MHE. However, MHE is characterized by subtle deficits and psychomotor abnormalities that can only be elicited by specialized psychometric tests. Although no gold standard exists for the diagnosis, MHE remains an important entity for clinicians to recognize because of its negative impact on a patient's health-related quality of life and association with driving impairment and vehicle accidents. MHE has also been associated with an increased rate in the development of overt hepatic encephalopathy and increased mortality; therefore, identification and treatment should not be delayed. Treatment to date has been focused on reducing serum ammonia levels with agents such as lactulose, probiotics, and synbiotics. MHE is a real and growing problem that is epidemic in cirrhosis, and increasing awareness of this condition is necessary for adequate management of these patients.
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