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Han SK, Kim MY, Kang SH, Baik SK. Application of ultrasound for the diagnosis of cirrhosis/portal hypertension. J Med Ultrason (2001) 2022; 49:321-331. [PMID: 35179669 DOI: 10.1007/s10396-022-01191-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2021] [Accepted: 12/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
With advances in technologic approaches in patients with cirrhosis, including the improvement of management, a simple, one-step approach for advanced fibrotic state of the liver is clinically useful. Although refining the diagnosis of cirrhosis to reflect disease heterogeneity is essential, current diagnostic tests have not kept pace with the progression of this new paradigm. There are unmet needs in primary care centers with respect to patients with cirrhosis. Liver biopsy and measurement of hepatic venous pressure gradient in patients with cirrhosis are the gold standards for the estimation of hepatic fibrosis, and they have diagnostic and prognostic value. However, both approaches are invasive and cannot be used repeatedly in clinical practice. Ultrasonography (US) is safe, easy to perform, inexpensive, and yields numerical and accurate results. Conventionally, the size of the liver and spleen, bluntness of the liver edge, nodularity of the liver surface, and coarseness of the liver parenchyma have been known as useful parameters for hepatic fibrosis or portal hypertension (PHT) in chronic liver disease. Additionally, some functional US indices including Doppler and CEUS-based examination have been suggested as promising markers for diagnosing cirrhosis and PHT. Identification of the reproducibility and long-term prognostic value through further investigations can demonstrate the clinical usefulness of functional US indices, which are characterized as quantitative parameters for hepatic fibrosis and PHT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seul Ki Han
- Department of Internal Medicine, Wonju Severance Christian Hospital, Yonsei University Wonju College of Medicine, 20 Ilsanro, Wonju, 220-701, Republic of Korea
| | - Moon Young Kim
- Department of Internal Medicine, Wonju Severance Christian Hospital, Yonsei University Wonju College of Medicine, 20 Ilsanro, Wonju, 220-701, Republic of Korea.,Regeneration Medicine Research Center, Yonsei University Wonju College of Medicine, Wonju, Republic of Korea.,Cell Therapy and Tissue Engineering Center, Yonsei University Wonju College of Medicine, Wonju, Republic of Korea
| | - Seong Hee Kang
- Department of Internal Medicine, Wonju Severance Christian Hospital, Yonsei University Wonju College of Medicine, 20 Ilsanro, Wonju, 220-701, Republic of Korea.,Regeneration Medicine Research Center, Yonsei University Wonju College of Medicine, Wonju, Republic of Korea
| | - Soon Koo Baik
- Department of Internal Medicine, Wonju Severance Christian Hospital, Yonsei University Wonju College of Medicine, 20 Ilsanro, Wonju, 220-701, Republic of Korea. .,Regeneration Medicine Research Center, Yonsei University Wonju College of Medicine, Wonju, Republic of Korea. .,Cell Therapy and Tissue Engineering Center, Yonsei University Wonju College of Medicine, Wonju, Republic of Korea.
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2
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Yoon U, Topper J, Goldhammer J. Preoperative Evaluation and Anesthetic Management of Patients With Liver Cirrhosis Undergoing Cardiac Surgery. J Cardiothorac Vasc Anesth 2020; 36:1429-1448. [PMID: 32891522 DOI: 10.1053/j.jvca.2020.08.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2020] [Revised: 07/30/2020] [Accepted: 08/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Preoperative evaluation and anesthetic management of patients with liver cirrhosis undergoing cardiac surgery remain a clinical challenge because of its high risk for perioperative complications. This narrative review article summarizes the pathophysiology and anesthetic implication of liver cirrhosis on each organ system. It will help physicians to evaluate surgical candidates, to optimize intraoperative management, and to anticipate complications in liver cirrhosis patients undergoing cardiac surgery. Morbidity typically results from bleeding, sepsis, multisystem organ failure, or hepatic insufficiency. These complications occur as a result of the presence of coagulopathy, poor nutritional status, immune dysfunction, cirrhotic cardiomyopathy, and renal and pulmonary dysfunction that occur with liver cirrhosis. Therefore, liver cirrhosis should not be seen as a single disease, but one that manifests with multiorgan dysfunction. Cardiac surgery in patients with liver cirrhosis increases the risk of perioperative complications, and it presents a particular challenge to the anesthesiologist in that nearly every aspect of normally functioning physiology may be jeopardized in a unique way. Accurately classifying the extent of liver disease, preoperative optimization, and surgical risk communication with the patient are crucial. In addition, all teams involved in the surgery should communicate openly and coordinate in order to ensure optimal care. To reduce perioperative complications, consider using off-pump cardiopulmonary bypass techniques and optimal perfusion modalities to mimic current physiologic conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Uzung Yoon
- Department of Anesthesiology, Thomas Jefferson University Hospital, Philadelphia, PA.
| | - James Topper
- Department of Anesthesiology, Thomas Jefferson University Hospital, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Jordan Goldhammer
- Department of Anesthesiology, Thomas Jefferson University Hospital, Philadelphia, PA
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3
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Nascimento M, Piran R, Da Costa RM, Giordani MA, Carneiro FS, Aguiar DH, Dias MC, Sugizaki MM, Luvizotto RA, Nascimento AF, Bomfim GF. Hepatic injury induced by thioacetamide causes aortic endothelial dysfunction by a cyclooxygenase-dependent mechanism. Life Sci 2018; 212:168-175. [PMID: 30292829 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2018.09.051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2018] [Revised: 09/22/2018] [Accepted: 09/30/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Liver cirrhosis is associated with a wide range of cardiovascular abnormalities including hyperdynamic circulation and cirrhotic cardiomyopathy. The pathogenic mechanisms of these cardiovascular changes are multifactorial and include vascular dysregulations. AIM The present study tested the hypothesis that the systemic vascular hyporesponsiveness in thioacetamide (TAA)-induced liver injury model is dependent on nitric oxide (NO) and cyclooxygenase (COX) derivatives. MAIN METHODS Wistar rats were treated with TAA for eight weeks to induce liver injury. KEY FINDINGS The maximal contractile response in concentration-effect curves to phenylephrine was decreased in aorta from TAA-treated rats, but no differences were found in aorta without endothelium, suggesting an endothelium-dependent mechanism in decreased contractile response. There was no difference in the contractile response with and without L-NAME (N(ω)-nitro-l-arginine methyl ester) in rats with liver injury, showing that the TAA treatment impairs NO synthesis. Pre-incubation of the aorta with indomethacin, a COX-inhibitor, normalized the reduced contractile response to phenylephrine in arteries from TAA group. Also, COX-2 and iNOS (inducible nitric oxide syntase) protein expression was increased in aorta from TAA group compared to control group. Animals submitted to TAA treatment had a reduction in systolic blood pressure. Our findings demonstrated that liver injury induced by TAA caused a decrease in aortic contractile response by a COX-dependent mechanism but not by NO release. Also, it was demonstrated an inflammatory process in the aorta of TAA-treated rats by increased expression of COX-2 and iNOS. SIGNIFICANCE Therefore, there is an essential contribution of COX-2 activation in extra-hepatic vascular dysfunction and inflammation present in cirrhosis induced by TAA.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Nascimento
- Institute of Health Science, Federal University of Mato Grosso, Sinop, MT, Brazil
| | - R Piran
- Institute of Health Science, Federal University of Mato Grosso, Sinop, MT, Brazil
| | - R M Da Costa
- Department of Physiology, Institute of Health Sciences, Federal University of Goias, Jatai, Brazil
| | - M A Giordani
- Institute of Health Science, Federal University of Mato Grosso, Sinop, MT, Brazil
| | - F S Carneiro
- Department of Pharmacology, Ribeirao Preto Medical School, University of Sao Paulo, Ribeirao Preto, Brazil
| | - D H Aguiar
- Institute of Health Science, Federal University of Mato Grosso, Sinop, MT, Brazil
| | - M C Dias
- Institute of Health Science, Federal University of Mato Grosso, Sinop, MT, Brazil
| | - M M Sugizaki
- Institute of Health Science, Federal University of Mato Grosso, Sinop, MT, Brazil
| | - R A Luvizotto
- Institute of Health Science, Federal University of Mato Grosso, Sinop, MT, Brazil
| | - A F Nascimento
- Institute of Health Science, Federal University of Mato Grosso, Sinop, MT, Brazil
| | - G F Bomfim
- Institute of Health Science, Federal University of Mato Grosso, Sinop, MT, Brazil.
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KASL clinical practice guidelines for liver cirrhosis: Ascites and related complications. Clin Mol Hepatol 2018; 24:230-277. [PMID: 29991196 PMCID: PMC6166105 DOI: 10.3350/cmh.2018.1005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2018] [Accepted: 04/06/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
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Shim KY, Eom YW, Kim MY, Kang SH, Baik SK. Role of the renin-angiotensin system in hepatic fibrosis and portal hypertension. Korean J Intern Med 2018; 33:453-461. [PMID: 29462546 PMCID: PMC5943664 DOI: 10.3904/kjim.2017.317] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2016] [Accepted: 09/05/2017] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The renin-angiotensin system (RAS) is an important regulator of cirrhosis and portal hypertension. As hepatic fibrosis progresses, levels of the RAS components angiotensin (Ang) II, Ang-(1-7), angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE), and Ang II type 1 receptor (AT1R) are increased. The primary effector Ang II regulates vasoconstriction, sodium homoeostasis, fibrosis, cell proliferation, and inflammation in various diseases, including liver cirrhosis, through the ACE/Ang II/AT1R axis in the classical RAS. The ACE2/Ang-(1-7)/Mas receptor and ACE2/Ang-(1-9)/AT2R axes make up the alternative RAS and promote vasodilation, antigrowth, proapoptotic, and anti-inflammatory effects; thus, countering the effects of the classical RAS axis to reduce hepatic fibrogenesis and portal hypertension. Patients with portal hypertension have been treated with RAS antagonists such as ACE inhibitors, Ang receptor blockers, and aldosterone antagonists, with very promising hemodynamic results. In this review, we examine the RAS, its roles in hepatic fibrosis and portal hypertension, and current therapeutic approaches based on the use of RAS antagonists in patients with portal hypertension.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kwang Yong Shim
- Department of Internal Medicine, Yonsei University Wonju College of Medicine, Wonju, Korea
| | - Young Woo Eom
- Cell Therapy and Tissue Engineering Center, Yonsei University Wonju College of Medicine, Wonju, Korea
| | - Moon Young Kim
- Department of Internal Medicine, Yonsei University Wonju College of Medicine, Wonju, Korea
| | - Seong Hee Kang
- Department of Internal Medicine, Yonsei University Wonju College of Medicine, Wonju, Korea
| | - Soon Koo Baik
- Department of Internal Medicine, Yonsei University Wonju College of Medicine, Wonju, Korea
- Institute of Evidence Based Medicine, Yonsei University Wonju College of Medicine, Wonju, Korea
- Correspondence to Soon Koo Baik, M.D. Department of Internal Medicine, Yonsei University Wonju College of Medicine, 20 Ilsan-ro, Wonju 26426, Korea Tel: +82-33-741-1223 Fax: +82-33-745-6782 E-mail:
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Annamalai A, Wisdom L, Herada M, Nourredin M, Ayoub W, Sundaram V, Klein A, Nissen N. Management of refractory ascites in cirrhosis: Are we out of date? World J Hepatol 2016; 8:1182-1193. [PMID: 27729954 PMCID: PMC5055587 DOI: 10.4254/wjh.v8.i28.1182] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2016] [Revised: 07/22/2016] [Accepted: 08/06/2016] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Cirrhosis is a major cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide with liver transplantations as it only possible cure. In the face of a significant organ shortage many patients die waiting. A major complication of cirrhosis is the development of portal hypertension and ascites. The management of ascites has barely evolved over the last hundred years and includes only a few milestones in our treatment approach, but has overall significantly improved patient morbidity and survival. Our mainstay to ascites management includes changes in diet, diuretics, shunt procedures, and large volume paracentesis. The understanding of the pathophysiology of cirrhosis and portal hypertension has significantly improved in the last couple of decades but the changes in ascites management have not seemed to mirror this newer knowledge. We herein review the history of ascites management and discuss some its current limitations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alagappan Annamalai
- Alagappan Annamalai, Lauren Wisdom, Megan Herada, Mazen Nourredin, Walid Ayoub, Vinay Sundaram, Andrew Klein, Nicholas Nissen, Comprehensive Transplant Center, Cedars Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, United States
| | - Lauren Wisdom
- Alagappan Annamalai, Lauren Wisdom, Megan Herada, Mazen Nourredin, Walid Ayoub, Vinay Sundaram, Andrew Klein, Nicholas Nissen, Comprehensive Transplant Center, Cedars Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, United States
| | - Megan Herada
- Alagappan Annamalai, Lauren Wisdom, Megan Herada, Mazen Nourredin, Walid Ayoub, Vinay Sundaram, Andrew Klein, Nicholas Nissen, Comprehensive Transplant Center, Cedars Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, United States
| | - Mazen Nourredin
- Alagappan Annamalai, Lauren Wisdom, Megan Herada, Mazen Nourredin, Walid Ayoub, Vinay Sundaram, Andrew Klein, Nicholas Nissen, Comprehensive Transplant Center, Cedars Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, United States
| | - Walid Ayoub
- Alagappan Annamalai, Lauren Wisdom, Megan Herada, Mazen Nourredin, Walid Ayoub, Vinay Sundaram, Andrew Klein, Nicholas Nissen, Comprehensive Transplant Center, Cedars Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, United States
| | - Vinay Sundaram
- Alagappan Annamalai, Lauren Wisdom, Megan Herada, Mazen Nourredin, Walid Ayoub, Vinay Sundaram, Andrew Klein, Nicholas Nissen, Comprehensive Transplant Center, Cedars Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, United States
| | - Andrew Klein
- Alagappan Annamalai, Lauren Wisdom, Megan Herada, Mazen Nourredin, Walid Ayoub, Vinay Sundaram, Andrew Klein, Nicholas Nissen, Comprehensive Transplant Center, Cedars Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, United States
| | - Nicholas Nissen
- Alagappan Annamalai, Lauren Wisdom, Megan Herada, Mazen Nourredin, Walid Ayoub, Vinay Sundaram, Andrew Klein, Nicholas Nissen, Comprehensive Transplant Center, Cedars Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, United States
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Kim G, Cho YZ, Baik SK, Kim MY, Hong WK, Kwon SO. The accuracy of ultrasonography for the evaluation of portal hypertension in patients with cirrhosis: a systematic review. Korean J Radiol 2015; 16:314-24. [PMID: 25741193 PMCID: PMC4347267 DOI: 10.3348/kjr.2015.16.2.314] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2014] [Accepted: 12/15/2014] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective Studies have presented conflicting results regarding the accuracy of ultrasonography (US) for diagnosing portal hypertension (PH). We sought to identify evidence in the literature regarding the accuracy of US for assessing PH in patients with liver cirrhosis. Materials and Methods We conducted a systematic review by searching databases, including MEDLINE, EMBASE, and the Cochrane Library, for relevant studies. Results A total of 14 studies met our inclusion criteria. The US indices were obtained in the portal vein (n = 9), hepatic artery (n = 6), hepatic vein (HV) (n = 4) and other vessels. Using hepatic venous pressure gradient (HVPG) as the reference, the sensitivity (Se) and specificity (Sp) of the portal venous indices were 69-88% and 67-75%, respectively. The correlation coefficients between HVPG and the portal venous indices were approximately 0.296-0.8. No studies assess the Se and Sp of the hepatic arterial indices. The correlation between HVPG and the hepatic arterial indices ranged from 0.01 to 0.83. The Se and Sp of the hepatic venous indices were 75.9-77.8% and 81.8-100%, respectively. In particular, the Se and Sp of HV arrival time for clinically significant PH were 92.7% and 86.7%, respectively. A statistically significant correlation between HVPG and the hepatic venous indices was observed (0.545-0.649). Conclusion Some US indices, such as HV, exhibited an increased accuracy for diagnosing PH. These indices may be useful in clinical practice for the detection of significant PH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gaeun Kim
- College of Nursing, Research Institute for Nursing Science, Keimyung Univercity, Daegu 704-701, Korea
| | - Youn Zoo Cho
- Department of Internal Medicine, Wonju Severance Christian Hospital, Yonsei University Wonju College of Medicine, Wonju 220-701, Korea
| | - Soon Koo Baik
- Department of Internal Medicine, Wonju Severance Christian Hospital, Yonsei University Wonju College of Medicine, Wonju 220-701, Korea
| | - Moon Young Kim
- Department of Internal Medicine, Wonju Severance Christian Hospital, Yonsei University Wonju College of Medicine, Wonju 220-701, Korea
| | - Won Ki Hong
- Department of Internal Medicine, Wonju Severance Christian Hospital, Yonsei University Wonju College of Medicine, Wonju 220-701, Korea
| | - Sang Ok Kwon
- Department of Internal Medicine, Wonju Severance Christian Hospital, Yonsei University Wonju College of Medicine, Wonju 220-701, Korea
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GUO SHIBIN, LI QING, DUAN ZHIJUN, WANG QIUMING, ZHOU QIN, SUN XIAOYU. Octreotide attenuates liver fibrosis by inhibiting hepatic heme oxygenase-1 expression. Mol Med Rep 2015; 11:83-90. [PMID: 25338529 PMCID: PMC4237075 DOI: 10.3892/mmr.2014.2735] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2013] [Accepted: 07/21/2014] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
The aim of the present study was to investigate the effects of octreotide treatment on hepatic heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) expression, together with the influence of altered hepatic HO-1 expression levels on hepatic function and fibrosis in bile duct-ligated rats. The rats were divided randomly into sham, cirrhotic, cobalt protoporphyrin and octreotide treatment groups. The expression levels of hepatic HO-1 mRNA were measured by reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction, while the protein expression was determined by western blotting and immunohistochemical analysis. Hematoxylin and eosin, and Van Gieson's staining, along with determination of the hydroxyproline content in the liver, were performed to determine the degree of liver fibrosis. The serum levels of alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), total bilirubin (TBIL) and carboxyhemoglobin (COHb) in arterial blood, and the mean arterial pressure and portal vein pressure were also measured. As compared with the sham group, hepatic HO-1 mRNA and protein expression levels, serum levels of ALT, AST and TBIL, COHb in arterial blood, hydroxyproline and collagen type I content were all significantly increased in the cirrhotic group. As compared with the cirrhotic group, the octreotide-treated group exhibited significantly reduced hepatic HO-1 expression levels, serum levels of ALT, AST and TBIL, COHb in arterial blood and the extent of hepatic fibrosis, whereas the cobalt protoporphyrin group exhibited significantly increased hepatic HO-1 expression levels, as well as aggravated hepatic function and fibrosis (P<0.05). In conclusion, octreotide inhibited hepatic HO-1 overexpression in cirrhotic rats, reduced hepatic HO-1 expression levels to relieve liver injury and attenuated liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- SHI-BIN GUO
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, Liaoning 0086-116011, P.R. China
| | - QING LI
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, Liaoning 0086-116011, P.R. China
- Department of Gastroenterology, Dalian Friendship Hospital, Dalian, Liaoning 0086-116011, P.R. China
| | - ZHI-JUN DUAN
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, Liaoning 0086-116011, P.R. China
| | - QIU-MING WANG
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, Liaoning 0086-116011, P.R. China
| | - QIN ZHOU
- Department of Pharmacology, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, Liaoning 0086-116011, P.R. China
| | - XIAO-YU SUN
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, Liaoning 0086-116011, P.R. China
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Hong WK, Shim KY, Baik SK, Kim MY, Cho MY, Jang YO, Park YS, Han J, Kim G, Cho YZ, Hwang HW, Lee JH, Chae MH, Kwon SO. Relationship between tetrahydrobiopterin and portal hypertension in patients with chronic liver disease. J Korean Med Sci 2014; 29:392-9. [PMID: 24616589 PMCID: PMC3945135 DOI: 10.3346/jkms.2014.29.3.392] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2013] [Accepted: 01/08/2014] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Tetrahydrobiopterin (BH4) is an essential cofactor in NO synthesis by endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) enzymes. It has been previously suggested that reduced intrahepatic BH4 results in a decrease in intrahepatic NO and contributes to increased hepatic vascular resistance and portal pressure in animal models of cirrhosis. The main aim of the present study was to evaluate the relationship between BH4 and portal hypertension (PHT). One hundred ninety-three consecutive patients with chronic liver disease were included in the study. Liver biopsy, measurement of BH4 and hepatic venous pressure gradient (HVPG) were performed. Hepatic fibrosis was classified using the Laennec fibrosis scoring system. BH4 levels were determined in homogenized liver tissues of patients using a high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) system. Statistical analysis was performed to evaluate the relationship between BH4 and HVPG, grade of hepatic fibrosis, clinical stage of cirrhosis, Child-Pugh class. A positive relationship between HVPG and hepatic fibrosis grade, clinical stage of cirrhosis and Child-Pugh class was observed. However, the BH4 level showed no significant correlation with HVPG or clinical features of cirrhosis. BH4 concentration in liver tissue has little relation to the severity of portal hypertension in patients with chronic liver disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Won Ki Hong
- Department of Internal Medicine, Wonju Severance Christian Hospital, Yonsei University Wonju College of Medicine, Wonju, Korea
| | - Kwang Yong Shim
- Department of Internal Medicine, Wonju Severance Christian Hospital, Yonsei University Wonju College of Medicine, Wonju, Korea
| | - Soon Koo Baik
- Department of Internal Medicine, Wonju Severance Christian Hospital, Yonsei University Wonju College of Medicine, Wonju, Korea
| | - Moon Young Kim
- Department of Internal Medicine, Wonju Severance Christian Hospital, Yonsei University Wonju College of Medicine, Wonju, Korea
| | - Mee Yon Cho
- Department of Pathology, Wonju Severance Christian Hospital, Yonsei University Wonju College of Medicine, Wonju, Korea
| | - Yoon Ok Jang
- Department of Internal Medicine, Wonju Severance Christian Hospital, Yonsei University Wonju College of Medicine, Wonju, Korea
| | - Young Shik Park
- School of Biological Sciences, Inje University College of Medicine, Gimhae, Korea
| | - Jin Han
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Inje University College of Medicine, Busan, Korea
| | - Gaeun Kim
- Department of Nursing, Keimyung University College of Nursing, Daegu, Korea
| | - Youn Zoo Cho
- Department of Internal Medicine, Wonju Severance Christian Hospital, Yonsei University Wonju College of Medicine, Wonju, Korea
| | - Hye Won Hwang
- Department of Internal Medicine, Wonju Severance Christian Hospital, Yonsei University Wonju College of Medicine, Wonju, Korea
| | - Jin Hyung Lee
- Department of Internal Medicine, Wonju Severance Christian Hospital, Yonsei University Wonju College of Medicine, Wonju, Korea
| | - Myeong Hun Chae
- Department of Internal Medicine, Wonju Severance Christian Hospital, Yonsei University Wonju College of Medicine, Wonju, Korea
| | - Sang Ok Kwon
- Department of Internal Medicine, Wonju Severance Christian Hospital, Yonsei University Wonju College of Medicine, Wonju, Korea
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Qi SW, Tu ZG, Peng WJ, Wang LX, Ou-Yang X, Cai AJ, Dai Y. 1H NMR-based serum metabolic profiling in compensated and decompensated cirrhosis. World J Gastroenterol 2012; 18:285-90. [PMID: 22294833 PMCID: PMC3261547 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v18.i3.285] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2011] [Revised: 06/13/2011] [Accepted: 06/20/2011] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
AIM: To study the metabolic profiling of serum samples from compensated and decompensated cirrhosis patients.
METHODS: A pilot metabolic profiling study was conducted using three groups: compensated cirrhosis patients (n = 30), decompensated cirrhosis patients (n = 30) and healthy controls (n = 30). A 1H nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR)-based metabonomics approach was used to obtain the serum metabolic profiles of the samples. The acquired data were processed by multivariate principal component analysis and orthogonal partial least-squares discriminant analysis (OPLS-DA).
RESULTS: The OPLS-DA model was capable of distinguishing between decompensated and compensated cirrhosis patients, with an R2Y of 0.784 and a Q2Y of 0.598. Twelve metabolites, such as pyruvate, phenylalanine and succinate, were identified as the most influential factors for the difference between the two groups. The validation of the diagnosis prediction showed that the accuracy of the OPLS-DA model was 85% (17/20).
CONCLUSION: 1H NMR spectra combined with pattern recognition analysis techniques offer a new way to diagnose compensated and decompensated cirrhosis in the future.
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Zhang L, Yin J, Duan Y, Yang Y, Yuan L, Cao T. Assessment of intrahepatic blood flow by Doppler ultrasonography: relationship between the hepatic vein, portal vein, hepatic artery and portal pressure measured intraoperatively in patients with portal hypertension. BMC Gastroenterol 2011; 11:84. [PMID: 21767412 PMCID: PMC3156747 DOI: 10.1186/1471-230x-11-84] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2010] [Accepted: 07/19/2011] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Abnormality of hepatic vein (HV) waveforms evaluated by Doppler ultrasonography has been widely studied in patients with chronic liver disease. We investigated the correlation between changes in HV waveforms and portal vein velocity (PVVel), the hepatic artery pulsatility index (HAPI), and also the extent of abnormal Doppler HV waveforms expressed as damping index (DI), severity of portal hypertension expressed as Child-Pugh scores and portal pressure (PP) measured directly from patients with portal hypertension (PHT) to evaluate the indicative value of abnormal HV waveforms and discuss the cause of abnormal HV waveform. METHODS Sixty patients who had been diagnosed with PHT and accepted surgical therapy of portosystemic shunts were investigated. PP was measured intraoperatively. Thirty healthy volunteers with no history of chronic liver disease were enrolled as the control group. HV waveforms were categorized as triphasic, biphasic or monophasic. DI was compared as the quantitative indicator of abnormal HV waveforms. Another two Doppler parameters, PVVel and HAPI were also measured. These Doppler features were compared with PP, Child-Pugh scores and histological changes assessed by liver biopsy. RESULTS In the patient group, the Doppler flow waveforms in the middle HV were triphasic in 31.6%, biphasic in 46.7%, and monophasic in 21.6% of subjects. These figures were 86.7%, 10.0%, and 3.3%, respectively, in healthy subjects. With the flattening of HV waveforms, the HAPI increased significantly (r = 00.438, p < 0.0001), whereas PVVel decreased significantly (r = -0.44, p <0.0001). Blood flow parameters, HAPI, PVVel and HV-waveform changes showed no significant correlations with Child-Pugh scores. The latter showed a significant correlation with PP (r = 0.589, p = 0.044). Changes of HV waveform and DI significantly correlated with PP (r = 0.579, r = 0.473, p <0.0001), and significant correlation between DI and Child-Pugh scores was observed (r = 0.411, p = 0.001). PP was significantly different with respect to nodule size (p < 0.05), but HV-waveform changes were not significantly correlated with pathological changes. CONCLUSION In patients with PHT, a monophasic HV waveform indicates higher portal pressure. Furthermore, quantitative indicator DI can reflect both higher portal pressure and more severe liver dysfunction. Flattening of HV waveforms accompanied by an increase in the HAPI and decrease in PVVel support the hypothesis that histological changes reducing HV compliance be the cause of abnormality of Doppler HV waveforms from the hemodynamic angle.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Zhang
- Department of Ultrasound Diagnostics, Tangdu Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
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Kim MY, Baik SK, Lee SS. Hemodynamic alterations in cirrhosis and portal hypertension. THE KOREAN JOURNAL OF HEPATOLOGY 2011; 16:347-52. [PMID: 21415576 PMCID: PMC3304610 DOI: 10.3350/kjhep.2010.16.4.347] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Portal hypertension (PHT) is associated with hemodynamic changes in intrahepatic, systemic, and portosystemic collateral circulation. Increased intrahepatic resistance and hyperdynamic circulatory alterations with expansion of collateral circulation play a central role in the pathogenesis of PHT. PHT is also characterized by changes in vascular structure, termed vascular remodeling, which is an adaptive response of the vessel wall that occurs in response to chronic changes in the environment such as shear stress. Angiogenesis, the formation of new blood vessels, also occurs with PHT related in particular to the expansion of portosystemic collateral circulation. The complementary processes of vasoreactivity, vascular remodeling, and angiogenesis represent important targets for the treatment of portal hypertension. Systemic and splanchnic vasodilatation can induce hyperdynamic circulation which is related with multi-organ failure such as hepatorenal syndrome and cirrhotic cadiomyopathy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Moon Young Kim
- Department of Internal Medicine, Yonsei University Wonju College of Medicine, Wonju, Korea
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14
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Jung JY, Jun DW, Lee JH. Lung diffusion capacity in early cirrhosis: is lung diffusion capacity a predictor of esophageal varices and ascites? Dig Dis Sci 2011; 56:1229-34. [PMID: 20945096 DOI: 10.1007/s10620-010-1406-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2010] [Accepted: 08/18/2010] [Indexed: 12/09/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Varices and ascites are clinical manifestations of hyperdynamic circulation syndrome originating from increased nitric oxide in cirrhosis. Research was conducted in order to find any correlation between lung diffusion capacity and the presence of varices and ascites in cirrhosis. METHODS The study was conducted on a total of 120 subjects. Tests for pulmonary function, including carbon monoxide diffusing capacity (DLCO) and fractional exhaled nitric oxide (FENO), were performed. RESULTS DLCO/alveolar ventilation (VA) values were lower in cirrhosis and chronic liver disease groups than in the control group (3.79 vs. 4.5 vs. 5.1 ml/mmHg/min, p<0.001). DLCO/VA showed a negative correlation with the Child score and the MELD score (r=-0.3 vs. r=-0.41). In patients with varices, the DLCO/VA value was 3.75 ml/mmHg/min, which was lower than the 4.12 ml/mmHg/min observed in patients without varices (p=0.029). FENO levels were higher in the chronic liver disease and liver cirrhosis groups than in the control group. FENO and DLCO showed a negative correlation (r=-0.25, p=0.006). The frequency of significant varix and decompensation were higher in the high FeNO group. CONCLUSIONS Lung diffusion capacity decreased according to the disease's severity in early cirrhosis, and showed a good correlation with esophageal varices and ascites.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun Young Jung
- Department of Internal Medicine, Eulji University School of Medicine, Eulji Hospital, Seoul, Korea
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15
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Magan AA, Khalil AA, Ahmed MH. Terlipressin and hepatorenal syndrome: What is important for nephrologists and hepatologists. World J Gastroenterol 2010; 16:5139-47. [PMID: 21049548 PMCID: PMC2975085 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v16.i41.5139] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatorenal syndrome (HRS) is a reversible form of functional renal failure that occurs with advanced hepatic cirrhosis and liver failure. Despite mounting research in HRS, its etiology and medical therapy has not been resolved. HRS encompasses 2 distinct types. Type 1 is characterized by the rapid development of renal failure that occurs within 2 wk and involves a doubling of initial serum creatinine. Type 2 has a more insidious onset and is often associated with ascites. Animal studies have shown that both forms, in particular type 1 HRS, are often precipitated by bacterial infections and circulatory changes. The prognosis for HRS remains very poor. Type 1 and 2 both have an expected survival time of 2 wk and 6 mo, respectively. Progression of liver cirrhosis and the resultant portal hypertension leads to the pooling of blood in the splanchnic vascular bed. The ensuing hyperdynamic circulation causes an ineffective circulatory volume which subsequently activates neurohormonal systems. Primarily the sympathetic nervous system and the renin angiotensin system are activated, which, in the early stages of HRS, maintain adequate circulation. Both advanced cirrhosis and prolonged activation of neurohormonal mechanisms result in fatal complications. Locally produced nitric oxide may have the potential to induce a deleterious vasodilatory effect on the splanchnic circulation. Currently medical therapy is aimed at reducing splanchnic vasodilation to resolve the ineffective circulation and maintain good renal perfusion pressure. Terlipressin, a vasopressin analogue, has shown potential benefit in the treatment of HRS. It prolongs both survival time and has the ability to reverse HRS in the majority of patients. In this review we aim to focus on the pathogenesis of HRS and its treatment with terlipressin vs other drugs.
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Abstract
Doppler ultrasonography (US) has an advantage of being non-invasive; therefore, several attempts have been made to investigate the haemodynamic alterations in cirrhosis and the response to medical treatment of portal hypertension. Doppler indices, which have been commonly used for the evaluation of portal hypertension, include the measurement of portal and splenic venous blood velocity and flows, and the resistive and pulsatility index at hepatic, splenic, renal, superior mesenteric artery. Although many positive evidences have been suggested, its clinical usefulness in portal hypertension remains unsettled because of being plagued by lack of reproducibility and accuracy characterized by intra- and interobserver variation. However, recently, Doppler's usefulness in assessment of severity of portal hypertension in terms of reproducibility, technical ease and accuracy and response to drugs that reduce the portal pressure has been proposed. In addition, because most of the patients with cirrhosis and portal hypertension have intrahepatic shunts, they show a decrease in intrahepatic circulatory time (IHCT). Doppler US using microbubble contrast agents allows measurement of IHCT. Therefore, application of contrast-enhanced Doppler US can be prospective for the assessment of the severity of portal hypertension. Several reports have demonstrated that colour Doppler endoscopic US enable haemodynamic study to assess the portal hypertension and has a role of guidance to measure the imaging-based variceal pressure. We have reviewed briefly the clinical usefulness of Doppler US in assessing the severity of portal hypertension and its response to treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soon Koo Baik
- Department of Internal Medicine, Yonsei University Wonju College of Medicine, Wonju, South Korea.
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