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Ohikere K, Wong RJ. Hepatic Encephalopathy: Clinical Manifestations. Clin Liver Dis 2024; 28:253-263. [PMID: 38548437 DOI: 10.1016/j.cld.2024.01.005] [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] [Indexed: 04/02/2024]
Abstract
Hepatic encephalopathy (HE) can occur as a complication of chronic liver disease as well as acute liver failure. HE is associated with significantly increased morbidity and worse patient outcomes. The clinical manifestation of HE ranges from early less-severe presentations that may only be accurately detected on dedicated psychomotor diagnostic testing to overt alterations in cognition and mental status to the most severe form of coma. Greater awareness of the clinical manifestations of HE across the spectrum of symptom severity is critical for early identification and timely initiation of appropriate therapy to improve patient outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kabiru Ohikere
- Value Based Care Department, San Francisco Health Network / Zuckerberg San Francisco General Hospital and Trauma Center
| | - Robert J Wong
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Stanford University School of Medicine; Gastroenterology Section, Veterans Affairs Palo Alto Healthcare System, Palo Alto, CA, 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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Gairing SJ, Müller L, Kloeckner R, Galle PR, Labenz C. Review article: post-TIPSS hepatic encephalopathy-current knowledge and future perspectives. Aliment Pharmacol Ther 2022; 55:1265-1276. [PMID: 35181894 DOI: 10.1111/apt.16825] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2021] [Revised: 01/23/2022] [Accepted: 02/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In light of the global rise in the burden of chronic liver diseases and liver cirrhosis, the number of patients suffering from decompensation events is expected to increase. Transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunts (TIPSS) provide effective long-term symptom control and may prolong transplant-free survival in portal hypertension-driven recurrent ascites and variceal bleeding. New-onset or recurrent hepatic encephalopathy (HE) after TIPSS insertion (post-TIPSS HE) represents the most severe post-interventional complication. AIMS To provide insight into the epidemiology and risk factors for post-TIPSS HE and scrutinize the current state of the art in treatment and drug therapy options. METHODS We conducted a literature search on post-TIPSS HE in patients with liver cirrhosis. RESULTS Post-TIPSS HE occurs in up to 54.5% of cases and particularly early recurrent HE is associated with a dismal prognosis. In recent years, several risk factors for the development of post-TIPSS HE have been identified. These include not only parameters reflecting liver function (model for end-stage liver disease score/Child-Pugh score) as well as cognitive dysfunction caused by minimal HE but also extrahepatic factors such as sarcopenia and common medications such as proton pump inhibitors. In addition, new data on the benefit of rifaximin and of smaller stent grafts emerged and may improve the prevention of post-TIPSS HE. CONCLUSIONS Careful selection of TIPSS candidates is of utmost importance to reduce the risk of post-TIPSS HE. In this narrative review, we provide a concise overview of the current epidemiology and risk factors of the treatment options for post-TIPSS HE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simon Johannes Gairing
- Department of Internal Medicine I, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg-University, Mainz, Germany.,Cirrhosis Center Mainz (CCM), University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg-University, Mainz, Germany
| | - Lukas Müller
- Department of Radiology, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg-University, Mainz, Germany
| | - Roman Kloeckner
- Department of Radiology, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg-University, Mainz, Germany
| | - Peter R Galle
- Department of Internal Medicine I, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg-University, Mainz, Germany.,Cirrhosis Center Mainz (CCM), University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg-University, Mainz, Germany
| | - Christian Labenz
- Department of Internal Medicine I, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg-University, Mainz, Germany.,Cirrhosis Center Mainz (CCM), University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg-University, Mainz, Germany
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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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Reaction Times among Batik Workers: The Influence of Gender and Occupational Lead Exposure. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph182312605. [PMID: 34886331 PMCID: PMC8657065 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph182312605] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2021] [Revised: 11/21/2021] [Accepted: 11/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
(1) Background: Neglected occupational health and safety aspects in batik industries cause their workers to have an increased risk of lead exposure. The effect of occupational lead exposure on neurocognitive performance is inconclusive. Therefore, we conducted an observational study to examine the difference in simple reaction time between lead-exposed batik workers and non-exposed referents. (2) Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted in seven batik enterprises in Lendah District, Indonesia, excluding workers with medical conditions impairing reaction time. Simple reaction time tests were conducted using an online tool. Two-way model ANCOVAs examined interactions between gender and job types on the mean differences in reaction time. (3) Results: After controlling for age and body mass index, we observed longer reaction times among lead-exposed batik workers than non-exposed referents with an adjusted mean difference of 0.19 (95% CI: 0.016–0.368) seconds. A more prominent detrimental effect of lead exposure on reaction time among female workers than among male workers was observed. (4) Conclusions: Our results suggest that occupational lead exposure could contribute to longer reaction time, notably among female workers. Thus, occupational health and safety precautions are vital to protect batik workers and preserve their important contributions to cultural heritage.
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Coubard OA, Ober KM, Gaumet M, Urbanski M, Amato JN, Chapron V, Weiss N, Kinugawa K, Weissenborn K, Thabut D. Standardization of the psychometric hepatic encephalopathy score in a French population. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0257136. [PMID: 34506569 PMCID: PMC8432843 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0257136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2020] [Accepted: 08/24/2021] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
The Psychometric Hepatic Encephalopathy Score (PHES) has previously been standardized in thirteen countries on three continents, confirming its status of gold standard test to detect minimal hepatic encephalopathy (MHE). In the meantime, performance has also been shown to vary with variables such as age, education, and barely sex. The present study aimed at standardizing the PHES in a French population. One hundred and ninety-six French healthy participants completed a French version of the paper-and-pencil PHES, involving five tests and six measures. Importantly, the balance was perfect between all levels of the three controlled factors, which were sex, age (seven decade-levels from 20–29 to 80–89 years), and education (two levels below or above 12 years of education). Raw measures were transformed to fit the normal distribution. ANOVAs on transformed variables showed no effect of sex, but an effect of age on all measures, and of education on five measures. Multiple or simple regressions were completed to build up normograms. Thorough analysis of variability within each test failed to find outliers that may bias the results. Comparison between French and seminal German data showed that they highly fitted though cultural and cognitive style specificities could be observed. This is the first study to standardize the PHES in a French population and to extensively explore the effects of sex, age and education using perfectly balanced samples. Subtle differences between countries of the same continent emphasize the need to build up normative data in each country to get accurate PHES in patients.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Kinga M. Ober
- The Neuropsychological Laboratory, CNS-Fed, Paris, France
| | - Marie Gaumet
- The Neuropsychological Laboratory, CNS-Fed, Paris, France
| | - Marika Urbanski
- Service de Médecine et de Réadaptation Gériatrique et Neurologique, Hôpitaux de Saint-Maurice, Saint-Maurice, France
| | | | | | - Nicolas Weiss
- Department of Neurology & Institut de Cardiométabolisme et Nutrition, Neurological Intensive Care Unit, Groupe Hospitalier Pitié-Salpêtrière, AP-HP, Sorbonne Université, Paris, France
- Brain Liver Pitié-Salpêtrière (BLIPS) Study Group, Groupe Hospitalier Pitié-Salpêtrière, AP-HP, Sorbonne Université, Paris, France
- Centre de Recherche Saint-Antoine, UMR_S 938 INSERM-Sorbonne Université, Paris, France
| | - Kiyoka Kinugawa
- Functional Explorations and Sleep Investigation Unit for Older Patients, AP-HP, Ivry-sur-Seine, France
- Biological Adaptation and Aging, UMR 8256, CNRS-Sorbonne Université, Paris, France
| | | | - Dominique Thabut
- Brain Liver Pitié-Salpêtrière (BLIPS) Study Group, Groupe Hospitalier Pitié-Salpêtrière, AP-HP, Sorbonne Université, Paris, France
- Centre de Recherche Saint-Antoine, UMR_S 938 INSERM-Sorbonne Université, Paris, France
- Service d’Hépato-gastro-entérologie, Groupe Hospitalier Pitié-Salpêtrière, AP-HP, Sorbonne Université, Paris, France
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A pilot study of golexanolone, a new GABA-A receptor-modulating steroid antagonist, in patients with covert hepatic encephalopathy. J Hepatol 2021; 75:98-107. [PMID: 33894327 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2021.03.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2020] [Revised: 03/07/2021] [Accepted: 03/09/2021] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Golexanolone is a novel small molecule GABA-A receptor-modulating steroid antagonist under development for the treatment of cognitive and vigilance disorders caused by allosteric over-activation of GABA-A receptors by neurosteroids. It restored spatial learning and motor coordination in animal models of hepatic encephalopathy (HE) and mitigated the effects of intravenous allopregnanolone in healthy adults in a dose-dependent fashion. Herein, we report data on the safety, pharmacokinetics (PK) and efficacy of golexanolone in adult patients with cirrhosis. METHODS Following single/multiple ascending dose studies, adults with Child-Pugh A/B cirrhosis and abnormal continuous reaction time (CRT) on screening were randomized to 3 weeks' dosing with golexanolone (10, 40 or 80 mg BID) or placebo. CRT, psychometric hepatic encephalopathy score (PHES), animal naming test (ANT), Epworth sleepiness scale (ESS) and electroencephalogram (mean dominant frequency [MDF]; delta+theta/alpha+beta ratio [DT/AB]) were obtained at baseline, 10, and 21 days. RESULTS Golexanolone exhibited satisfactory safety and PK. Baseline characteristics were similar between the 12 and 33 patients randomized to placebo or golexanolone, respectively. By prespecified analyses, golexanolone was associated with directionally favourable changes vs. placebo in ESS (p = 0.047), MDF (p = 0.142) and DT/AB (p = 0.021). All patients also showed directionally favourable changes in CRT, PHES and ANT, but with no statistical difference between golexanolone and placebo. Post hoc analyses taking into account the variability and improvement in CRT, PHES and ANT observed between screening and baseline suggested an efficacy signal by cognitive measures as well. CONCLUSION Golexanolone was well tolerated and associated with improvement in cognitive performance. These results implicate GABA-A receptor-modulating neurosteroids in the pathogenesis of HE and support the therapeutic potential of golexanolone. LAY SUMMARY Many patients with cirrhosis experience subtle but disabling cognitive problems, including sleepiness and poor attention span, that impair their ability to be gainfully employed or carry out activities of daily living. This pilot study tested the hypothesis that these problems with cognition, for which there is no approved treatment, might be improved by an experimental drug, golexanolone, designed to normalize the function of receptors which inhibit brain function. The results of this study suggest that golexanolone is well tolerated and may improve cognition, as reflected by measures of sleepiness, attention span and brain wave activity, paving the way for future larger studies of this promising experimental drug. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER EudraCT 2016-003651-30.
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Rose CF, Amodio P, Bajaj JS, Dhiman RK, Montagnese S, Taylor-Robinson SD, Vilstrup H, Jalan R. Hepatic encephalopathy: Novel insights into classification, pathophysiology and therapy. J Hepatol 2020; 73:1526-1547. [PMID: 33097308 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2020.07.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 204] [Impact Index Per Article: 51.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2019] [Revised: 07/01/2020] [Accepted: 07/03/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Hepatic encephalopathy (HE) is a frequent and serious complication of both chronic liver disease and acute liver failure. HE manifests as a wide spectrum of neuropsychiatric abnormalities, from subclinical changes (mild cognitive impairment) to marked disorientation, confusion and coma. The clinical and economic burden of HE is considerable, and it contributes greatly to impaired quality of life, morbidity and mortality. This review will critically discuss the latest classification of HE, as well as the pathogenesis and pathophysiological pathways underlying the neurological decline in patients with end-stage liver disease. In addition, management strategies, diagnostic approaches, currently available therapeutic options and novel treatment strategies are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher F Rose
- Hepato-Neuro Laboratory, CRCHUM, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Canada.
| | - Piero Amodio
- Department of Medicine, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Jasmohan S Bajaj
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Virginia Commonwealth University and McGuire VA Medical Center, Richmond, Virginia, USA
| | - Radha Krishan Dhiman
- Department of Hepatology, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India
| | | | - Simon D Taylor-Robinson
- Department of Surgery and Cancer, St. Mary's Hospital Campus, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Hendrik Vilstrup
- Department of Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Aarhus University Hospital, Denmark
| | - Rajiv Jalan
- Liver Failure Group, Institute for Liver and Digestive Health, University College London, Royal Free Campus, London, United Kingdom; European Foundation for the Study of Chronic Liver Failure, Barcelona, Spain.
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Lauridsen MM, Jepsen P, Wernberg CW, Schaffalitzky de Muckadell OB, Bajaj JS, Vilstrup H. Validation of a Simple Quality-of-Life Score for Identification of Minimal and Prediction of Overt Hepatic Encephalopathy. Hepatol Commun 2020; 4:1353-1361. [PMID: 32923838 PMCID: PMC7471424 DOI: 10.1002/hep4.1555] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/29/2020] [Revised: 05/07/2020] [Accepted: 05/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Minimal hepatic encephalopathy (MHE) is underdiagnosed because most clinics refrain from psychometric testing. Diagnostic activities need to go up so patients with MHE can get the treatment their condition requires. The sickness impact profile questionnaire for covert hepatic encephalopathy (SIPCHE) score is based on quality‐of‐life outcomes and has been proposed as a simple, patient‐administered diagnostic score for grade 1 and MHE. Validate the SIPCHE for MHE identification and overt hepatic encephalopathy (OHE) prediction. 110 patients with liver cirrhosis (age 60 years, Model for End‐Stage Liver Disease score of 11.4, 80% blue‐collar) provided information for SIPCHE scoring: gender, age, and four SIP statements: “I do not maintain balance (physically),” “I act irritable or impatient with myself,” “I am not doing any of the usual physical recreation or activities,” and “I am eating much less than usual.” MHE was diagnosed using an abnormal continuous reaction time test and/or portosystemic encephalopathy syndrome test score. Patients were followed for 2.7 years on average. SIPCHE score positivity had high sensitivity (82%) but low specificity (38%) for MHE detection. Patients with an abnormal SIPCHE had a higher incidence of OHE during follow‐up (35% vs. 14%, P = 0.05). OHE prediction sensitivity was 87% and exclusion sensitivity was 85%. The patients with an abnormal SIPCHE had twice as many subsequent episodes of OHE, and despite their high mortality, also a higher risk. An abnormal SIPCHE had a high sensitivity and low specificity for MHE identification. An abnormal SIPCHE was associated with a more than doubled risk of OHE, even with death as a competing event. SIPCHE could be used as a high‐sensitivity, low‐cost, surrogate marker of MHE in clinics without availability of psychometric tests and allow more patients to benefit from anti‐MHE treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mette Munk Lauridsen
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology University Hospital of South Denmark Esbjerg Denmark
| | - Peter Jepsen
- Department of Hepatology and Gastroenterology Aarhus University Hospital Aarhus Denmark
| | | | | | - Jasmohan S Bajaj
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition Virginia Commonwealth University and McGuire VA Medical Center Richmond VA
| | - Hendrik Vilstrup
- Department of Hepatology and Gastroenterology Aarhus University Hospital Aarhus Denmark
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Nishikawa H, Enomoto H, Nishiguchi S, Iijima H. Liver Cirrhosis and Sarcopenia from the Viewpoint of Dysbiosis. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:E5254. [PMID: 32722100 PMCID: PMC7432211 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21155254] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2020] [Revised: 07/15/2020] [Accepted: 07/19/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Sarcopenia in patients with liver cirrhosis (LC) has been attracting much attention these days because of the close linkage to adverse outcomes. LC can be related to secondary sarcopenia due to protein metabolic disorders and energy metabolic disorders. LC is associated with profound alterations in gut microbiota and injuries at the different levels of defensive mechanisms of the intestinal barrier. Dysbiosis refers to a state in which the diversity of gut microbiota is decreased by decreasing the bacterial species and the number of bacteria that compose the gut microbiota. The severe disturbance of intestinal barrier in LC can result in dysbiosis, several bacterial infections, LC-related complications, and sarcopenia. Here in this review, we will summarize the current knowledge of the relationship between sarcopenia and dysbiosis in patients with LC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroki Nishikawa
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Hyogo College of Medicine, Nishinomiya 6638136, Japan; (H.E.); (H.I.)
- Center for Clinical Research and Education, Hyogo College of Medicine, Nishinomiya 6638136, Japan
| | - Hirayuki Enomoto
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Hyogo College of Medicine, Nishinomiya 6638136, Japan; (H.E.); (H.I.)
| | | | - Hiroko Iijima
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Hyogo College of Medicine, Nishinomiya 6638136, Japan; (H.E.); (H.I.)
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11
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Laursen TL, Siggaard CB, Kazankov K, Sandahl TD, Møller HJ, Tarp B, Kristensen LH, Laursen AL, Leutscher P, Grønbaek H. Time-dependent improvement of liver inflammation, fibrosis and metabolic liver function after successful direct-acting antiviral therapy of chronic hepatitis C. J Viral Hepat 2020; 27:28-35. [PMID: 31502741 DOI: 10.1111/jvh.13204] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2019] [Revised: 08/14/2019] [Accepted: 08/22/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Sofosbuvir-based direct-acting antiviral (DAA) therapy generally cures chronic hepatitis C (CHC) infections, however, the effects on the underlying liver disease and the potential rate of recovery are unclear. We aimed to investigate the effects of DAA therapy on liver inflammation, fibrosis, metabolic function and cognitive function and the time course in CHC patients with advanced liver disease. Seventy-one CHC patients with advanced liver disease were studied before, during and one year after successful sofosbuvir-based DAA therapy. Liver inflammation was assessed by plasma sCD163 and sMR levels (ELISA), fibrosis by liver stiffness (transient elastography), function by galactose elimination capacity (GEC) and cognitive performance by continuous reaction time (CRT). During DAA therapy, we observed a rapid sCD163 decline from baseline to end of treatment (6.9 vs 3.8 mg/L, P < .0001), whereas the change in sMR was more subtle (0.37 vs 0.30 mg/L, P < .0001). Liver stiffness decreased by 20% at end of treatment (17.8 vs 14.3 kPa, P < .0001), together suggesting rapid resolution of liver inflammation. One year after treatment, liver stiffness decreased by an additional 15% (P < .0001), suggestive of fibrosis regression. The GEC improved at follow-up (all: 1.74 vs 1.98 mmol/min), mainly at 12 weeks post-treatment, both in patients with cirrhosis (n = 56) and those with advanced liver fibrosis (n = 15) (P < .001). The CRT improved at one-year follow-up (1.86 vs 2.09, P = .04). In conclusion, successful DAA therapy of CHC proves beneficial in advanced liver disease, with an initial rapid resolution of liver inflammation and a subsequent gradual but steady improvement in liver fibrosis, metabolic liver function and reaction time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tea Lund Laursen
- Department of Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | | | - Konstantin Kazankov
- Department of Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | | | - Holger Jon Møller
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Britta Tarp
- Diagnostic Centre, Silkeborg Regional Hospital, Silkeborg, Denmark
| | | | - Alex Lund Laursen
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Peter Leutscher
- Centre for Clinical Research, North Denmark Regional Hospital, Hjørring, Denmark.,Department of Clinical Medicine, Aalborg University, Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Henning Grønbaek
- Department of Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
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12
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Wernberg CW, Schaffalitzky de Muckadell OB, Vilstrup H, M. Lauridsen M. Prediction of overt hepatic encephalopathy by the continuous reaction time method and the portosystemic encephalopathy syndrome test in clinically mentally unimpaired patients with cirrhosis. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0226283. [PMID: 31830113 PMCID: PMC6907801 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0226283] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2019] [Accepted: 11/22/2019] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and aim Predicting overt hepatic encephalopathy (OHE) is important because the condition is frequent, often requires hospitalization and is potentially preventable. The risk of OHE is related to pre-existing discrete cognitive defects, and for clinical practice it is recommended to apply two different psychometric tests to detect such deficits. We used the continuous reaction time test (CRT) and the portosystemic encephalopathy (PSE) syndrome test and examined their single and combined value for OHE prediction in cirrhosis patients. Patients and methods We studied 130 clinically mentally unimpaired cirrhosis patients by the two tests and followed them for an average of 38.5 months. The CRT measures velocity and stability of motor reaction times to 150 repeated auditory signals. The PSE is a five sub-set paper-and-pencil test battery evaluating cognitive and psychomotor processing, speed and vision-motor coordination. We collected data on episodes of OHE during follow-up. The clinical course was analysed in patient groups according to the outcome of each test and of both tests together. No anti-HE treatment was initiated except for cases with OHE. Results At baseline, the CRT test was abnormal in 74 patients and the PSE in 47. During follow-up 35 patients (27%) experienced 74 OHE events. 23 patients with abnormal CRT experienced OHE (prediction sensitivity 65%). The PSE predicted OHE in 14 patients (prediction sensitivity 40%). One or both tests were abnormal in 87/130 (67%) and this predicted OHE in 27 patients (21%) (prediction sensitivity 77%). Conclusion The CRT test was clinically useful in identifying two-thirds of clinically mentally unimpaired cirrhosis patients who later experienced OHE, and the use of both the CRT and PSE showed satisfactory prediction by identifying three-fourths of later OHE cases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charlotte W. Wernberg
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hospital of Southwest Jutland, Esbjerg, Region of Southwest of Denmark, Denmark
- * E-mail:
| | | | - Hendrik Vilstrup
- Department of Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Aarhus University Hospital, Central Denmark Region, Denmark
| | - Mette M. Lauridsen
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hospital of Southwest Jutland, Esbjerg, Region of Southwest of Denmark, Denmark
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13
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Xu XY, Ding HG, Li WG, Jia JD, Wei L, Duan ZP, Liu YL, Ling-Hu EQ, Zhuang H, Hepatology CSO, Association CM. Chinese guidelines on management of hepatic encephalopathy in cirrhosis. World J Gastroenterol 2019; 25:5403-5422. [PMID: 31576089 PMCID: PMC6767982 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v25.i36.5403] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2019] [Revised: 06/07/2019] [Accepted: 08/24/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The Chinese Society of Hepatology developed the current guidelines on the management of hepatic encephalopathy in cirrhosis based on the published evidence and the panelists' consensus. The guidelines provided recommendations for the diagnosis and management of hepatic encephalopathy (HE) including minimal hepatic encephalopathy (MHE) and overt hepatic encephalopathy, emphasizing the importance on screening MHE in patients with end-stage liver diseases. The guidelines emphasized that early identification and timely treatment are the key to improve the prognosis of HE. The principles of treatment include prompt removal of the cause, recovery of acute neuropsychiatric abnormalities to baseline status, primary prevention, and secondary prevention as soon as possible.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao-Yuan Xu
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing 100034, China
| | - Hui-Guo Ding
- Hepatology and Digestion Center, Beijing You-An Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, China
| | - Wen-Gang Li
- Department of Liver Oncology, Cancer Radiation Therapy Center, Fifth Medical Center, PLA General Hospital, Beijing 100039, China
| | - Ji-Dong Jia
- Hepatology Center, Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100050, China
| | - Lai Wei
- Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Department, Beijing Tsinghua Changgeng Hospital, Beijing 102218, China
| | - Zhong-Ping Duan
- Artificial Liver Center, Beijing You-An Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, China
| | - Yu-Lan Liu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing 100044, China
| | - En-Qiang Ling-Hu
- Department of Gastroenterology, First Medical Center, PLA General Hospital, Beijing 100853, China
| | - Hui Zhuang
- Department of Pathogenic Biology, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing 100191, China
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14
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Winterdahl M, Abbas Z, Noer O, Thomsen KL, Gras V, Nahimi A, Vilstrup H, Shah NJ, Dam G. Cerebral water content mapping in cirrhosis patients with and without manifest HE. Metab Brain Dis 2019; 34:1071-1076. [PMID: 31089866 DOI: 10.1007/s11011-019-00427-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2019] [Accepted: 05/01/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Hepatic encephalopathy (HE) is a frequent and debilitating complication of cirrhosis and its pathogenesis is not definitively clarified. Recent hypotheses focus on the possible existence of low-grade cerebral edema due to accumulation of osmolytes secondary to hyperammonemia. In the present study we investigated increases in cerebral water content by a novel magnetic resonance impedance (MRI) technique in cirrhosis patients with and without clinically manifest HE. We used a 3 T MRI technique for quantitative cerebral water content mapping in nine cirrhosis patients with an episode of overt HE, ten cirrhosis patients who never suffered from HE, and ten healthy aged-matched controls. We tested for differences between groups by statistical non-parametric mapping (SnPM) for a voxel-based spatial evaluation. The patients with HE had significantly higher water content in white matter than the cirrhosis patients (0.6%), who in turn, had significantly higher content than the controls (1.7%). Although the global gray matter water content did not differ between the groups, the patients with HE had markedly higher thalamic water content than patients who never experienced HE (6.0% higher). We found increased white matter water content in cirrhosis patients, predominantly in those with manifest HE. This confirms the presence of increasing degrees of low-grade edema with exacerbation of pathology. The thalamic edema in manifest HE may lead to compromised basal ganglia-thalamo-cortical circuits, in accordance with the major clinical symptoms of HE. The identification of the thalamus as particularly inflicted in manifest HE is potentially relevant to the pathophysiology of HE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Winterdahl
- Department of Nuclear Medicine and PET Center, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Zaheer Abbas
- Institute of Neuroscience and Medicine (INM-4), Forschungszentrum Jülich, 52425, Jülich, Germany
- Department of Neurology, RWTH Aachen University Clinic, Aachen, Germany
- JARA - Jülich Aachen Research Alliance, Aachen, Germany
| | - Ove Noer
- Department of Nuclear Medicine and PET Center, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Karen Louise Thomsen
- Department of Hepatology & Gastroenterology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | | | - Adjmal Nahimi
- Department of Nuclear Medicine and PET Center, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Hendrik Vilstrup
- Department of Hepatology & Gastroenterology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Nadim Joni Shah
- Institute of Neuroscience and Medicine (INM-4), Forschungszentrum Jülich, 52425, Jülich, Germany
- Department of Neurology, RWTH Aachen University Clinic, Aachen, Germany
- JARA - Jülich Aachen Research Alliance, Aachen, Germany
| | - Gitte Dam
- Department of Hepatology & Gastroenterology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark.
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15
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Lauridsen MM, Vilstrup H. MHE Testing in Real World Scenario. J Clin Exp Hepatol 2018; 8:438-440. [PMID: 30564002 PMCID: PMC6286437 DOI: 10.1016/j.jceh.2018.04.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2017] [Accepted: 04/25/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Professional MHE awareness is high but when it comes to psychometric testing for MHE the real world scenario is characterized by hesitation and testing is offered only to selected cirrhosis patients. The hesitation is rooted in doubts about which tests to use, lack of knowledge about treatment benefits, and uncertainty about the tests' ability to identify patients who will benefit from anti-HE treatment. Thus, the majority of MHE patients do not receive the available efficient anti-HE treatment. This mini-review attempts to quell some of these doubts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mette M. Lauridsen
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Hospital of South West Jutland, Finsensgade 35, 6700 Esbjerg, Denmark,Address for correspondence: Mette M. Lauridsen, Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Hospital of South West Jutland, Finsensgade 35, 6700 Esbjerg, Denmark.
| | - Hendrik Vilstrup
- Department of Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Aarhus University Hospital, Nørrebrogade 44, Aarhus, Denmark
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