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Cheng H, Zhu Y. Cystatin C/albumin ratio for early diagnosis of esophageal varices in liver cirrhosis. Medicine (Baltimore) 2024; 103:e38481. [PMID: 38941375 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000038481] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/30/2024] Open
Abstract
The mortality rate related to variceal bleeding is high in patients with liver cirrhosis. Early detection and treatment of varices can reduce the risk of hemorrhage and thus decrease the mortality rate related to variceal bleeding. The study comprised 81 cirrhotic patients in training set, who were categorized into 2 groups: the patients with esophageal varices (EVs group) and the patients without esophageal varices (non-EVs group). The disparity in Cystatin C/albumin ratio (CAR) was assessed between these 2 groups. Subsequently, a regression model was constructed by generating a receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve to calculate the area under the curve (AUC). Then an external validation was performed in 25 patients. Among patients with cirrhosis in training set, a statistically significant difference in CAR was observed between the EVs group and non-EVs group (P < .05). At the CAR cutoff value of 2.79*10-5, the AUC for diagnosing EVs were 0.666. Further, a multivariate logistic regression model was constructed, after adjusting the model, the AUC for EVs diagnosis were 0.855. And the external validation showed that the model could not be considered as a poor fit. CAR exhibits potential as an early detection marker for EVs in liver cirrhosis, and the regression model incorporating CAR demonstrates a strong capability for early EVs diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui Cheng
- Department of Infectious Diseases, the First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
- Department of Gastroenterology, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
| | - Ying Zhu
- Department of Infectious Diseases, the First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
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Rizvi SRA, Wallam MDA, Siddiqui AR, Haqqi SAUH, Farrukh ZUI, Niaz SK, Farooq MU, Kakar F, Hashmi AA. Platelet Count to Prothrombin Time: A Noninvasive Predictor of Esophageal Varices in Patients With Chronic Liver Disease. Cureus 2024; 16:e59627. [PMID: 38832148 PMCID: PMC11145925 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.59627] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/03/2024] [Indexed: 06/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Esophageal variceal bleeding is a potentially deadly consequence of portal hypertension in patients with cirrhosis. Although upper gastrointestinal endoscopy is still the preferred method for identifying esophageal varices (EV), the present study measured the platelet count to prothrombin time (PLT/PT) ratio for the assessment of portal hypertension and subsequent diagnosis of EVs in patients with chronic liver disease (CLD). Methods This was an observational comparative study conducted in the outpatient department of Patel Hospital, Karachi, Pakistan, using a non-probability consecutive sampling technique. Ethical approval was obtained from the Patel Hospital ethical review committee (PH/IRB/2022/028). An independent sample t-test was used for parametric data, whereas the Mann-Whitney U test was used for non-parametric data. The chi-square test was used to compare the categorical data of patients with and without EV. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis was performed to evaluate the cutoff values for the PLT/PT ratio, sensitivity, specificity, and area under the curve (AUC). Results The study involved 105 patients with and without EV. Among them, 38 (63.3%) males and 22 (36.7%) females had EV, whereas 30 (66.7%) males and 15 (33.3%) females did not. The platelet (PLT) count was also significantly lower in patients with EV (87.6 ± 59.8) than in those without (176.6 ± 87.7) (p < 0.001). The PLT/PT ratio was significantly lower in patients with EV (median: 5.04, IQR: 3.12-9.21) compared to those without (median: 14.57, IQR: 8.08-20.58) (p < 0.001). The sensitivity and specificity of the PLT/PT ratio for identifying EVs were 97.80% and 83.30%, respectively. Conclusion We found a significantly lower PLT/PT ratio in cases with EV than those without EV. After defining an optimal cutoff, PLT/PT had a high sensitivity in identifying cases with EVs in CLD. Therefore, we conclude that in patients with CLD, the PLT/PT ratio is a noninvasive predictor for the presence of EV.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Fahad Kakar
- Gastroenterology, Patel Hospital, Karachi, PAK
| | - Atif A Hashmi
- Pathology, Liaquat National Hospital and Medical College, Karachi, PAK
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Zhang YH, Hu B. Future directions of noninvasive prediction of esophageal variceal bleeding: No worry about the present computed tomography inefficiency. World J Gastrointest Endosc 2024; 16:108-111. [PMID: 38577650 PMCID: PMC10989247 DOI: 10.4253/wjge.v16.i3.108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2023] [Revised: 01/16/2024] [Accepted: 02/06/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
In this editorial, we comment on the minireview by Martino A, published in the recent issue of World Journal of Gastrointestinal Endoscopy 2023; 15 (12): 681-689. We focused mainly on the possibility of replacing the hepatic venous pressure gradient (HVPG) and endoscopy with noninvasive methods for predicting esophageal variceal bleeding. The risk factors for bleeding were the size of the varices, the red sign and the Child-Pugh score. The intrinsic core factor that drove these changes was the HVPG. Therefore, the present studies investigating noninvasive methods, including computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, elastography, and laboratory tests, are working on correlating imaging or serum marker data with intravenous pressure and clinical outcomes, such as bleeding. A single parameter is usually not enough to construct an efficient model. Therefore, multiple factors were used in most of the studies to construct predictive models. Encouraging results have been obtained, in which bleeding prediction was partly reached. However, these methods are not satisfactory enough to replace invasive methods, due to the many drawbacks of different studies. There is still plenty of room for future improvement. Prediction of the precise timing of bleeding using various models, and extracting the texture of variceal walls using high-definition imaging modalities to predict the red sign are interesting directions to lay investment on.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu-Hang Zhang
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Bing Hu
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, Sichuan Province, China
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Ali K, Slah-Ud-Din S, Afzal M, Tariq MR, Waheed T, Yousuf H. Non-invasive Fibrosis Markers for Predicting Esophageal Varices: A Potential Alternative to Endoscopic Screening. Cureus 2024; 16:e56433. [PMID: 38638761 PMCID: PMC11024663 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.56433] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/18/2024] [Indexed: 04/20/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Chronic liver infections and diseases lead to chronic liver injury, which results in fibrosis. Due to this continuous scarring and regeneration, cirrhosis occurs, which is also responsible for several adverse sequelae, including but not limited to esophageal varices. Cirrhosis has resulted in patients' increased morbidity and mortality, especially in low socioeconomic settings such as Pakistan. Endoscopy is the gold standard for measuring the presence or absence of esophageal varices, along with their grade. Currently, some non-invasive markers (aspartate aminotransferase-to-alanine aminotransferase ratio (AAR), fibrosis 4 (FIB-4), AAR to platelet ratio index (AARPRI), aspartate aminotransferase-to-platelet ratio index (APRI), S-index, King's score) are being established that make use of laboratory tests, such as a complete blood profile, liver function profile, and coagulation profile, to estimate the extent of hepatic fibrosis. OBJECTIVES The objective of this study is to establish a correlation between non-invasive markers of fibrosis and the presence of esophageal varices and to assess their potential as a substitute for gastrointestinal endoscopy screening. Additionally, the study aims to compare these six scores, thereby generating data on their individual and relative accuracy. METHODOLOGY This was a cross-sectional study conducted at the Shalamar Institute of Health Sciences, Lahore, Pakistan. Outpatient (OPD) data were obtained from the Shalamar online portal system from June 2022 to December 2022. Laboratory tests, abdominal ultrasounds, and endoscopy results were accessed and recorded in the questionnaire. The patient's medical records and contact numbers were also noted in case further questions arose. Data were then compiled into a Microsoft Excel spreadsheet (Microsoft Corp., Redmond, WA) and analyzed after computing the non-invasive procedure formulas. It was analyzed using IBM SPSS Statistics for Windows, version 20.0 (IBM Corp., Armonk, NY). P-values were calculated, and conclusions were drawn. RESULTS Of the sample size of 100 patients with liver damage and injury, 60% were male and 40% were female. Among males, 15% had a milder (grade 1) degree of esophageal varices, and 45% had a moderate to advanced degree (grades 2-3) of esophageal varices. Among females, 19% had mild (grade 1) varices, while 21% had severe (grade 3) varices. The most common cause of varices in patients who had developed fibrosis and/or cirrhosis was hepatitis C, with a wide margin of other causes. The p-values obtained showed that from the selected list of non-invasive markers of fibrosis, only FIB-4 and AARPRI were statistically significant with p-values of 0.036 and 0.022, respectively. PRACTICAL IMPLICATIONS Though endoscopy is currently the gold-standard procedure for detecting the presence or absence and grade of esophageal varices, it is invasive, which makes the patients extremely uncomfortable and apprehensive. It can also lead to post-procedure infection, internal hemorrhages, and trauma due to instrument use. Due to its invasive nature, some patients also tend to refuse this procedure. Non-invasive fibrosis markers can help make a diagnosis without undergoing an endoscopy, which in turn will improve patient compliance and satisfaction. CONCLUSION It was observed that FIB-4 and AARPRI can be used together as reliable markers to assess the presence or absence of esophageal varices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kunza Ali
- Medicine and Surgery, Shalamar Medical & Dental College, Lahore, PAK
| | - Saad Slah-Ud-Din
- Internal Medicine, Shalamar Medical & Dental College, Lahore, PAK
| | | | - Mah R Tariq
- Graduate Medical Education, Combined Military Hospital (CMH) Lahore Medical College and Institute of Dentistry, Lahore, PAK
| | - Tallha Waheed
- Internal Medicine, Combined Military Hospital (CMH) Lahore Medical College and Institute of Dentistry, Lahore, PAK
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Li F, Wang T, Liang J, Qian B, Tang F, Gao Y, Lv J. Albumin‑bilirubin grade and INR for the prediction of esophagogastric variceal rebleeding after endoscopic treatment in cirrhosis. Exp Ther Med 2023; 26:501. [PMID: 37822588 PMCID: PMC10562956 DOI: 10.3892/etm.2023.12200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2023] [Accepted: 08/18/2023] [Indexed: 10/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Rebleeding following endoscopic treatment in patients with cirrhosis is a serious life-threatening complication. In the present study, a novel, reliable and non-invasive score for prediction of rebleeding following endoscopic therapy for esophagogastric variceal bleeding (EGVB) was developed. The present retrospective study recruited cirrhotic patients with EGVB (n=596) who underwent endoscopic therapy. Patients hospitalized from January 2015 to January 2020 were grouped into a training (n=437) cohort to develop the new score and those hospitalized from February 2020 to February 2022 were grouped into a validation (n=159) cohort to validate the score. The international normalized ratio (INR) and albumin-bilirubin (ALBI) grade were used to develop the INR-ALBI (IALBI) score to predict risk of rebleeding. In the training cohort, the prognostic performance of the IALBI score and other ALBI-associated scores (modified ALBI, platelet-ALBI and ALBI-fibrosis-4) at 1, 3 and 12 months was assessed using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve and Kaplan-Meier analysis. At each time point, most areas under the ROC curve of IALBI were higher than those of other ALBI-associated scores, particularly for prediction of early rebleeding. At 1 month, the rebleeding rates of patients with IALBI grade 2 and 3 were ~10.0- and 19.5-times higher than those of patients with grade 1, respectively. The negative predictive value (NPV) of IALBI for the training and validation cohort at 1 month was 100.0 and 97.8%, respectively. For viral and non-viral patients in the training cohort, IALBI showed good predictive ability and NPV for early rebleeding. The IALBI grading system successfully assessed rebleeding, particularly early rebleeding, in cirrhotic patients with EGVB following endoscopic therapy IALBI grade 1, predicted low risk of rebleeding and may not require endoscopic treatment again in the short-term.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fenghui Li
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, The Third Central Hospital of Tianjin, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Extra-Corporeal Life Support for Critical Diseases, Artificial Cell Engineering Technology Research Center, Tianjin Institute of Hepatobiliary Disease, Tianjin 300170, P.R. China
| | - Tao Wang
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, The Third Central Hospital of Tianjin, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Extra-Corporeal Life Support for Critical Diseases, Artificial Cell Engineering Technology Research Center, Tianjin Institute of Hepatobiliary Disease, Tianjin 300170, P.R. China
| | - Jing Liang
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, The Third Central Hospital of Tianjin, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Extra-Corporeal Life Support for Critical Diseases, Artificial Cell Engineering Technology Research Center, Tianjin Institute of Hepatobiliary Disease, Tianjin 300170, P.R. China
| | - Baoxin Qian
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, The Third Central Hospital of Tianjin, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Extra-Corporeal Life Support for Critical Diseases, Artificial Cell Engineering Technology Research Center, Tianjin Institute of Hepatobiliary Disease, Tianjin 300170, P.R. China
| | - Fei Tang
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, The Third Central Hospital of Tianjin, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Extra-Corporeal Life Support for Critical Diseases, Artificial Cell Engineering Technology Research Center, Tianjin Institute of Hepatobiliary Disease, Tianjin 300170, P.R. China
| | - Yanying Gao
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, The Third Central Hospital of Tianjin, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Extra-Corporeal Life Support for Critical Diseases, Artificial Cell Engineering Technology Research Center, Tianjin Institute of Hepatobiliary Disease, Tianjin 300170, P.R. China
| | - Jiayu Lv
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, The Third Central Hospital of Tianjin, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Extra-Corporeal Life Support for Critical Diseases, Artificial Cell Engineering Technology Research Center, Tianjin Institute of Hepatobiliary Disease, Tianjin 300170, P.R. China
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Samy M, Gamal D, Othman MHM, Ahmed SA. Assessment of variceal bleeding in cirrhotic patients: accuracy of multi-detector computed tomography. THE EGYPTIAN JOURNAL OF RADIOLOGY AND NUCLEAR MEDICINE 2022. [DOI: 10.1186/s43055-022-00738-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Background
Esophageal variceal hemorrhage (EVH) has been shown to be a leading cause of mortality in patients with portal hypertension. Our purpose was to assess the utility of multi-detector computed tomography (MDCT) features in the assessment of esophageal varices (EVs) and esophageal variceal hemorrhage (EVH). This prospective study included 85 cirrhotic patients who underwent MDCT and Upper Gastrointestinal Tract (UGIT) endoscopy within 2 weeks. Four radiologists evaluated the presence of EVs and the presence and size of different collaterals. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was calculated to investigate the significant predictors influencing EV and EVH.
Results
Findings of EV with MDCT were the best predictor of EV or EVH. The presence (and/or size) of following collaterals had significant association with both EV and EVH: paraesophageal (p < 0.001, < 0.001), short gastric (p = 0.024, 0.010), gastric varicosities (p < 0.001, < 0.001), coronary (p < 0.001, < 0.001), and main coronary vein (MCV) (p < 0.001, = 0.011). We proposed an imaging-based model (presence of coronary collaterals, main coronary vein size > 3.5 mm, presence of short gastric collaterals, presence of gastric varicosities, size > 1.5 mm) with 97% sensitivity, 91% specificity, and 94% accuracy to predict EVs. We suggested another model (presence of paraesophageal collaterals, presence of short gastric vein (SGC), SGC size > 2.5 mm, main coronary vein size > 3.5 mm, gastric varicosities size > 1.5 mm, size of EVs > 4 mm, and Child C score) to predict EVH with 98% sensitivity, 81% specificity, and 89.5% accuracy. Inter-observer agreement was high in the detection of EVs (W. Kappa = 0.71–0.88).
Conclusion
MDCT is an effective modality in the diagnosis of EVs. At MDCT, the presence and/or size of various collaterals including para-esophageal, short gastric, coronary collaterals, and gastric varicosities are accurate predictors for either EVs existence or EVH. We suggested two computed tomography imaging-based models with high reproducibility and acceptable accuracy for the prediction of EV and EVH. With cirrhotic patients, we recommend that radiologists report collaterals in their daily practice.
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Milovanovic T, Lugonja S, Pantic I, Miltenovic S, Vlaisavljevic Z, Mardani A. Cirrhosis Due to Alcohol-Related Liver Disease Hospitalizations in Belgrade, Serbia: A 10-Year Retrospective. IRANIAN JOURNAL OF PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 51:2271-2280. [PMID: 36415809 PMCID: PMC9647601 DOI: 10.18502/ijph.v51i10.10985] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2021] [Accepted: 07/24/2021] [Indexed: 08/29/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cirrhosis due to alcohol-related liver disease (ALD cirrhosis) is a significant burden to health systems worldwide. We aimed to determine the trends in hospitalization frequency due to ALD cirrhosis and to analyze their characteristics. METHODS This cross-sectional study used data from the Institute of Public Health of Belgrade database, and included all hospitalization reports which contained code K70.3 (Cirrhosis hepatis alcoholica) as the primary diagnosis, including re-hospitalizations, on the territory of Belgrade, between January 2009 and December 2018. RESULTS A total of 4644 patients with ALD cirrhosis were hospitalized (male: 4154, 89.45%), with a mean age of 58.83±10.02 years. During the 2009-2018 decade, no difference in the number of ALD cirrhosis hospitalizations in subsequent years was observed. Men more commonly developed esophageal and gastric varices with bleeding compared to women (P=0.037), while women developed acute-on-chronic liver failure (ACLF) almost two-times more often compared to men (P<0.001). Patients with hepatocellular carcinoma were significantly older (P<0.001), while those who developed ascites and splenomegaly were significantly younger compared to those who did not (P<0.001 and P=0.04, respectively). Altogether, complications of portal hypertension were registered and reported with very low frequency, and therefore do not represent actual frequencies of these conditions. The median duration of hospital stay was 9 days (range 0-243). Patients in whom lethal outcome occurred during the hospitalization were significantly older, and more commonly developed chronic renal failure. CONCLUSION These data offer an important insight into the ALD cirrhosis-related hospitalizations while drawing attention to inadequate coding as an important public health issue at the same time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tamara Milovanovic
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
- Clinic of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University Clinical Center of Serbia, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Sofija Lugonja
- General Hospital “DjordjeJoanovic”, Department of Internal Medicine, Division of gastroenterology, Zrenjanin, Serbia
| | - Ivana Pantic
- Clinic of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University Clinical Center of Serbia, Belgrade, Serbia
| | | | - Zeljko Vlaisavljevic
- Clinic of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University Clinical Center of Serbia, Belgrade, Serbia
- Medical School of Vocational Studies Medika, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Abbas Mardani
- Nursing Care Research Center, Department of Medical Surgical Nursing, School of Nursing and Midwifery, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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Liu H, Zhang Q, Gao F, Yu H, Jiang Y, Wang X. Platelet Count/Spleen Thickness Ratio and the Risk of Variceal Bleeding in Cirrhosis With Esophagogastric Varices. Front Med (Lausanne) 2022; 9:870351. [PMID: 35911391 PMCID: PMC9329511 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2022.870351] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2022] [Accepted: 06/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
IntroductionThe platelet count/spleen thickness ratio (PC/ST ratio) is associated with the grade of esophagogastric varices (EGV) in cirrhotic patients, but little is known about its relationship with esophagogastric variceal bleeding (EGVB). The aim of this study was to investigate the association between the PC/ST ratio and the risk of EGVB within 1 year in cirrhotic patients.MethodsA total of 1,354 patients with cirrhosis who had EGV were enrolled in this cohort study. A logistic regression model was used to determine the association between the PC/ST ratio and the risk of EGVB within 1 year in patients with cirrhosis by adjusting the PC/ST ratio with all the important clinical variables and confounders.ResultsThe quartile values of the PC/ST ratio were 1.01, 1.36, and 1.98, respectively. The PC/ST ratio was an independent risk factor for variceal bleeding in cirrhotic patients with moderate or severe EGV. After adjusting for multiple variables, the relationship was still unchanged. The odds ratios of the first EGVB in these patients were 5.07-fold at non-adjustment and 3.28-fold after multivariate adjustment. The odds ratios of rebleeding in these patients from the lowest to the highest quartile were 2.34-fold at non-adjustment and 2.01-fold after multivariable adjustment. The PC/ST ratio ≤ 1.36 elevated the 1-year risk of first-time variceal bleeding or rebleeding in cirrhotic patients with moderate or severe EGV (All P < 0.05).ConclusionThe PC/ST ratio ≤ 1.36 is an independent risk factor for the onset of first bleeding or rebleeding in cirrhotic patients with moderate or severe EGV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huimin Liu
- Center of Integrative Medicine, Beijing Ditan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- Department of Traditional Medicine, Beijing Tsinghua Changgung Hospital, School of Clinical Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Qun Zhang
- Center of Integrative Medicine, Beijing Ditan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Fangyuan Gao
- Center of Integrative Medicine, Beijing Ditan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Hao Yu
- Center of Integrative Medicine, Beijing Ditan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Yuyong Jiang
- Center of Integrative Medicine, Beijing Ditan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- *Correspondence: Yuyong Jiang,
| | - Xianbo Wang
- Center of Integrative Medicine, Beijing Ditan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- Xianbo Wang,
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Liang H, Si H, Liu M, Yuan L, Ma R, Zhang G, Yang J, Mo Z, Zhao Q. Non-Invasive Prediction Models for Esophageal Varices and Red Signs in Patients With Hepatitis B Virus-Related Liver Cirrhosis. Front Mol Biosci 2022; 9:930762. [PMID: 35911970 PMCID: PMC9332338 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2022.930762] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2022] [Accepted: 06/20/2022] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Red signs are closely related to esophageal variceal bleeding, and, despite improvements in therapy, the mortality rate remains high. We aimed to identify non-invasive predictors of esophageal varices and red signs in patients with hepatitis B virus-related liver cirrhosis. Methods: This retrospective study included 356 patients with hepatitis B virus-related liver cirrhosis after applying inclusion and exclusion criteria among 661 patients. All patients underwent endoscopy, ultrasonography, laboratory examinations, and computed tomography/magnetic resonance imaging. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analysis were performed, and prediction models for esophageal varices and red signs were constructed. Results: Multivariate analysis revealed that spleen diameter, splenic vein diameter, and lymphocyte ratio were independent risk factors for esophageal varices and red signs. On this basis, we proposed two models: i) a spleen diameter-splenic vein diameter-lymphocyte ratio-esophageal varices prediction model (SSL-EV model); and ii) a spleen diameter-splenic vein diameter-lymphocyte ratio-red sign prediction model (SSL-RS model). The areas under the receiver operating characteristic curve for the two prediction models were 0.843 and 0.783, respectively. With a cutoff value of 1.55, the first prediction model had 81.3% sensitivity and 76.1% specificity for esophageal varices prediction. With a cutoff value of −0.20, the second prediction model had 72.1% sensitivity and 70.7% specificity for the prediction of red signs. Conclusions: We proposed a new statistical model, the spleen diameter-splenic vein diameter-lymphocyte ratio-red sign prediction model (SSL-RS model), to predict the presence of red signs non-invasively. Combined with the spleen diameter-splenic vein diameter-lymphocyte ratio-esophageal varices prediction model (SSL-EV model), these non-invasive prediction models will be helpful in guiding clinical decision-making and preventing the occurrence of esophageal variceal bleeding.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huixin Liang
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The Third Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Liver Disease Research, The Third Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Hang Si
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The Third Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Mingzhu Liu
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The Third Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Lianxiong Yuan
- Department of Science and Research, The Third Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Ruiying Ma
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The Third Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Genglin Zhang
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The Third Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jianrong Yang
- Department of Genetics and Biomedical Informatics, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhishuo Mo
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The Third Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Liver Disease Research, The Third Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Qiyi Zhao, ; Zhishuo Mo,
| | - Qiyi Zhao
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The Third Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Liver Disease Research, The Third Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Qiyi Zhao, ; Zhishuo Mo,
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Gastroesophageal varices are common complications of chronic liver diseases (CLDs) and portal hypertension. Small varices have the risk of progressing to larger varices, causing bleeding or even death. Thus, early detection and appropriate management of small varices are necessary. The purpose of this review is to summarize the advance in the recent 5years about diagnosing and managing the small varices in CLDs. RECENT FINDINGS The diagnosing methods of small varices in recent studies include improved endoscopic examinations, such as capsule endoscopy, and many noninvasive methods, including blood tests, ultrasound, computed tomography and magnetic resonance. For the management of small varices, though it is controversial, prevention using nonselective beta-blockers is still an essential part. SUMMARY In this review, we summarize the classification of varices, the invasive and noninvasive diagnostic methods, their performances, and the emerging progression in the management of small varices in the recent 5 years. We hope that this review provides relevant information to understand better and appropriately manage small varices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Zhu
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian
| | - Hui Cheng
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian
| | - Jianyong Chen
- Department of Gastroenterology, Jiangxi Provincial People's Hospital, Nanchang
| | - Yifei Huang
- CHESS Center, Institute of Portal Hypertension, The First Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Hao Liu
- Department of Surgery, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Xiaolong Qi
- CHESS Center, Institute of Portal Hypertension, The First Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
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Zidan MHS, Zaghloul SG, Seleem WM, Ahmed HS, Gad AI. Bacteremia as a risk factor for variceal upper gastrointestinal tract bleeding in cirrhotic patients: a hospital-based study. EGYPTIAN LIVER JOURNAL 2021. [DOI: 10.1186/s43066-021-00078-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Background
The presence of bacteremia as a complication of variceal bleeding in patients with liver cirrhosis had been investigated by many studies. The aim of this study was to assess the bacteremia as a risk factor for variceal upper gastrointestinal tract bleeding in cirrhotic patients. A cross-sectional study was conducted on 99 patients with chronic liver disease divided into three groups: group I included 35 patients presented with first attack of variceal bleeding, group II included 35 patients presented with recurrent attacks of variceal bleeding, and group III included 29 patients with no history of previous variceal bleeding as a control group. Routine laboratory tests were done, upper GI endoscopy, blood culture, and measurement of procalcitonin level in blood.
Results
Patients with recurrent variceal bleeding had statistically (p < 0.05) the highest percentage of positive blood culture followed by patients with first variceal bleeding and the control (60% vs 45.7% vs 24.1%) respectively. In addition to procalcitonin results, patients with recurrent variceal bleeding had statistically the highest values of PCT followed by patients with first variceal bleeding and the control (1.92 vs 0.325 vs 0.22 ng/ml) respectively. Multivariate regression analysis showed that procalcitonin and hemoglobin only was the significant predictors for variceal bleeding. Hemoglobin at cutoff value of ≤ 9.6 and procalcitonin (ng/dl) at cutoff value of > 1.76 is the most specific in predicting bleeding 86.21%, 86.21% (CI 95%) respectively.
Conclusion
Bacteremia and procalcitonin are risk factor for variceal bleeding in cirrhotic patients. Procalcitonin can be used as easily measurable and surrogate biomarker for bacteremia and variceal bleeding.
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Taher M, El-Hadidi A, El-Shendidi A, Sedky A. Soluble CD163 for Prediction of High-Risk Esophageal Varices and Variceal Hemorrhage in Patients with Liver Cirrhosis. GE-PORTUGUESE JOURNAL OF GASTROENTEROLOGY 2021; 29:82-95. [DOI: 10.1159/000516913] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2021] [Accepted: 04/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
<b><i>Introduction:</i></b> Activation of hepatic macrophages in liver disease is pathogenically related to portal hypertension (PH). Soluble CD163 (sCD163) is shed in blood by activated macrophages and may predict PH progression noninvasively. This study was designed to investigate the relation of serum sCD163 to the grade and bleeding risk of esophageal varices (EV) and its role for prediction of variceal hemorrhage (VH). <b><i>Methods:</i></b> The study included cirrhotic patients divided into 3 groups: patients who presented with acute upper gastrointestinal bleeding (UGIB) proved to originate from EV on endoscopy, patients without any history of UGIB but who revealed EV on surveillance endoscopy, and patients without endoscopic evidence of varices. Variceal grade and risk signs and bleeding stigmata were noted simultaneously with measurement of serum sCD163 concentration. <b><i>Results:</i></b> Serum sCD163 concentration showed a significant increase in cirrhotic patients compared to healthy subjects (<i>p</i> < 0.001) with a stepwise increase among the group without varices, nonbleeder group, and bleeder group sequentially. Serum sCD163 levels correlated positively with the variceal grade and risk signs in both the bleeder and nonbleeder groups (<i>p</i> = 0.002, <i>p</i> < 0.001 and <i>p</i> = 0.004, <i>p</i> < 0.001, respectively). Serum sCD163 at a cutoff value of 3.6 mg/L performed significantly for prediction of EV presence (AUC = 0.888). Serum sCD163 at a cutoff value >4 mg/L significantly predicted large-size and high-risk EV (AUC = 0.910 and AUC = 0.939, respectively) and the index bleed risk (AUC = 0.977). Serum sCD163 at a cutoff value >4.05 mg/L modestly discriminated bleeding EV from those that had never bled (AUC = 0.811). <b><i>Conclusions:</i></b> Serum sCD163 levels accurately predicted high-grade and high-risk EV and could help plan for primary prophylaxis. However, it modestly identified VH occurrence, and endoscopy would be required to make a definitive diagnosis.
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The role of fibrosis index FIB-4 in predicting liver fibrosis stage and clinical prognosis: A diagnostic or screening tool? J Formos Med Assoc 2021; 121:454-466. [PMID: 34325952 DOI: 10.1016/j.jfma.2021.07.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2021] [Revised: 04/09/2021] [Accepted: 07/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
This review evaluates the ability of the fibrosis index based on four factors (FIB-4) identifying fibrosis stages, long-time prognosis in chronic liver disease, and short-time outcomes in acute liver injury. FIB-4 was accurate in predicting the absence or presence of advanced fibrosis with cut-offs of 1.0 and 2.65 for viral hepatitis B, 1.45 and 3.25 for viral hepatitis C, 1.30 (<65 years), 2.0 (≥65 years), and 2.67 for non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), respectively, but had a low-to-moderate accuracy in alcoholic liver disease (ALD) and autoimmune hepatitis. It performed better in excluding fibrosis, so we built an algorithm for identifying advanced fibrosis by combined methods and giving work-up and follow-up suggestions. High FIB-4 in viral hepatitis, NAFLD, and ALD was associated with significantly high hepatocellular carcinoma incidence and mortality. Additionally, FIB-4 showed the ability to predict high-risk varices with cut-offs of 2.87 and 3.91 in cirrhosis patients and predict long-term survival in hepatocellular carcinoma patients after hepatectomy. In acute liver injury caused by COVID-19, FIB-4 had a predictive value for mechanical ventilation and 30-day mortality. Finally, FIB-4 may act as a screening tool in the secondary prevention of NAFLD in the high-risk population.
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Rhodes FA, Trembling P, Panovska-Griffiths J, Tanwar S, Westbrook RH, Rodger A, Rosenberg WM. Systematic review: Investigating the prognostic performance of four non-invasive tests in alcohol-related liver disease. J Gastroenterol Hepatol 2021; 36:1435-1449. [PMID: 33171534 DOI: 10.1111/jgh.15335] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2020] [Accepted: 10/24/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIM Mortality of alcohol-related liver disease (ArLD) is increasing, and liver fibrosis stage is the best mortality predictor. Non-invasive tests (NITs) are increasingly used to detect fibrosis, but their value as prognostic tests in chronic liver disease, and in particular in ArLD, is less well recognized. We aimed to describe the prognostic performance of four widely used NITs (Fibrosis 4 test [FIB4], Enhanced Liver Fibrosis [ELF] test, FibroScan, and FibroTest) in ArLD. METHODS Applying systematic review methodology, we searched four databases from inception to May 2020. Inclusion/exclusion criteria were applied to search using Medical Subject Heading terms and keywords. The first and second reviewers independently screened results, extracted data, and performed risk-of-bias assessment using Quality in Prognosis Studies tool. RESULTS Searches produced 25 088 articles. After initial screening, 1020 articles were reviewed independently by both reviewers. Eleven articles remained after screening for eligibility: one on ELF, four on FibroScan, four on FIB4, one on FIB4 + FibroScan, and one on FibroTest + FIB4. Area under the receiver operating characteristic curves for outcome prediction ranged from 0.65 to 0.76 for FibroScan, 0.64 to 0.83 for FIB4, 0.69 to 0.79 for FibroTest, and 0.72 to 0.85 for ELF. Studies scored low-moderate risk of bias for most domains but high risk in confounding/statistical reporting domains. The results were heterogeneous for outcomes and reporting, making pooling of data unfeasible. CONCLUSIONS This systematic review returned 11 papers, six of which were conference abstracts and one unpublished manuscript. While the heterogeneity of studies precluded direct comparisons of NITs, each NIT performed well in individual studies in predicting prognosis in ArLD (area under the receiver operating characteristic curves >0.7 in each NIT category) and may add value to prognostication in clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Freya A Rhodes
- Institute for Liver and Digestive Health, Division of Medicine, University College London, London, UK
| | - Paul Trembling
- Institute for Liver and Digestive Health, Division of Medicine, University College London, London, UK
| | - Jasmina Panovska-Griffiths
- Department of Applied Health Research, University College London, London, UK.,Institute for Global Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Sudeep Tanwar
- Institute for Liver and Digestive Health, Division of Medicine, University College London, London, UK.,Barts Health NHS Trust, London, UK
| | - Rachel H Westbrook
- Institute for Liver and Digestive Health, Division of Medicine, University College London, London, UK
| | - Alison Rodger
- Institute for Global Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - William M Rosenberg
- Institute for Liver and Digestive Health, Division of Medicine, University College London, London, UK
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Cifci S, Ekmen N. Evaluation of Non-invasive Fibrosis Markers in Predicting Esophageal Variceal Bleeding. Clin Endosc 2021; 54:857-863. [PMID: 34034454 PMCID: PMC8652170 DOI: 10.5946/ce.2021.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2020] [Accepted: 01/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND/AIMS Esophageal variceal bleeding (EVB) is an important cause of mortality and morbidity in liver cirrhosis. In this study, we aimed to predict the possibility of EVB in patients with cirrhosis using a non-invasive score. METHODS A total of 359 patients with cirrhosis were divided into two groups based on the presence or absence of EVB. ChildTurcotte-Pugh (CTP) score, a model for end-stage liver disease, aspartate aminotransferase to alanine aminotransferase ratio, aspartate aminotransferase to platelet ratio index (APRI), fibrosis-4-index (FIB-4), aspartate aminotransferase to alanine aminotransferase ratio/platelet ratio index (AARPRI), and S-index were measured for all participants. Receiver operating characteristic curves were obtained for all parameters, and the optimal cut-off value was determined in predicting EVB. RESULTS In patients with EVB, the number of platelets (PLT) were low (p<0.001) and APRI, AARPRI, FIB-4, and S-index were significantly higher than those in patients without EBV. APRI, AARPRI, FIB-4, PLT, and S-index were statistically significant predictors of EVB (p<0.05). CONCLUSION FIB-4 and AARPRI, which are non-invasive markers of fibrosis, can be used to predict EVB. In addition, the 66.5 109/L cut-off value for PLT is important for EVB.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sami Cifci
- Department of Gastroenterology, İstanbul Basaksehir Cam-Sakura City Hospital, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Nergiz Ekmen
- Department of Gastroenterology Gazi University Medical Faculty, Ankara, Turkey
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Furuichi Y, Abe M, Kasai Y, Takeuchi H, Yoshimasu Y, Itoi T. Secure intravariceal sclerotherapy with red dichromatic imaging decreases the recurrence rate of esophageal varices: A propensity score matching analysis. JOURNAL OF HEPATO-BILIARY-PANCREATIC SCIENCES 2021; 28:431-442. [PMID: 33453078 DOI: 10.1002/jhbp.894] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2020] [Revised: 12/01/2020] [Accepted: 01/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Red dichromatic imaging (RDI) is next-generation image-enhanced endoscopy technique released in July 2020. We previously reported that RDI can predict esophageal varices (EV) depth and decrease their recurrence rate by accurate intravariceal injections during endoscopic injection sclerotherapy (EIS) using unreleased prototype RDI endoscope. In this study, we analyzed whether RDI improves the overall survival (OS) rate and whether it is more accurate independent predictor of EV recurrence than white light imaging (WLI), using propensity score matching. METHODS A total of 179 patients were enrolled. Patients were matched for age, platelet count, liver function, EV size, luminal diameter, and EV depth using propensity score matching, and 78 patients (RDI, 39; WLI, 39) were finally matched. Primary endpoints were OS and recurrence rates. Secondary endpoints were success rate of intravariceal injection, operating time, incidence of adverse events (AEs), and predictors associated with OS and recurrence rates. RESULTS There was no difference in OS (P = .193), but the cumulative recurrence rate in the RDI group was significantly lower than in the WLI group (P = .002). Success rates of intrainjection, operating time, and incidence of AEs were better in the RDI group (p = 0.035, .026, and .0019, respectively). Independent predictors associated with recurrence rate by Cox proportional regression were RDI function and luminal diameter (P < .001 and .017, respectively). CONCLUSION RDI did not improve OS but decreased the recurrence rate. Independent predictors of recurrence rate were RDI and luminal diameter, resulting from secure intravariceal injections in EIS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoshihiro Furuichi
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Tokyo Medical University, Tokyo, Japan.,Department of Gastroenterology, Niiza Shiki Central General Hospital, Saitama, Japan
| | - Masakazu Abe
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Tokyo Medical University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yoshitaka Kasai
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Tokyo Medical University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Hirohito Takeuchi
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Tokyo Medical University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yuu Yoshimasu
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Tokyo Medical University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Takao Itoi
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Tokyo Medical University, Tokyo, Japan
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Plateletcrit and Mean Platelet Volume in the Evaluation of Alcoholic Liver Cirrhosis and Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease Patients. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2021; 2021:8867985. [PMID: 33644233 PMCID: PMC7901043 DOI: 10.1155/2021/8867985] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2020] [Revised: 01/07/2021] [Accepted: 02/05/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Platelet (PLT) indices have been proposed as potential markers in the assessment of liver fibrosis and exacerbation of liver failure. The aim of our study was to verify mean platelet volume (MPV), platelet distribution width (PDW), and plateletcrit (PCT) in alcohol-related liver cirrhosis (ALC) and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) patients. One hundred forty-two patients with ALC, 92 with NAFLD, and 68 in control group were enrolled in this study. Hematological indices (MPV, PCT, and PDW) and serological (indirect and direct) markers of liver fibrosis (AAR, APRI, FIB-4, GPR, PICP, PIIINP, TGF-α, PDGF-AB, laminin) were measured in each participant. MELD score in ALC patients and NAFLD fibrosis score (NFS) together with BARD score in the NAFLD group were also obtained. Results were compared between research and control groups. Then, a correlation between evaluated indices was performed in study groups. Receiver operating characteristic curves (ROCs) and area under the curve (AUC) values were applied to assess the diagnostic accuracy of measured indices. Significant increase in PDW and decrease in PCT in comparison to controls were noted in examined ALC (60.4% vs. 51.2% and 0.1% vs. 0.21%, respectively, p < 0.0001) and NAFLD (54.75% vs. 51.2% and 0.19 vs. 0.21%, respectively, p < 0.01) patients. Decreased level of MPV was observed in NAFLD group (7.85 fl vs. 8.90 fl, p < 0.0001). Additionally, PCT correlated with NFS (p < 0.0001). Evaluated PLT indices correlated with MELD score (MPV and PDW, p < 0.001; PCT, p < 0.05). They correlated with indirect and direct markers of liver fibrosis in the whole research group, too. PCT was the parameter with the greatest diagnostic accuracy in ALC patients (AUC = 0,839 for cutoff < 0.17%); in NAFLD group, it was MPV (AUC = 0,808 for cutoff < 7.9 fl). PCT in ALC and MPV in NAFLD can be perceived as potential diagnostic markers.
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Afsar A, Nadeem M, Shah SAA, Hussain H, Rani A, Ghaffar S. Platelet count can predict the grade of esophageal varices in cirrhotic patients: a cross-sectional study. F1000Res 2021; 10:101. [PMID: 35035881 PMCID: PMC8729194 DOI: 10.12688/f1000research.28005.2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Bleeding from esophageal varices is a life-threatening complication in cirrhosis. Screening endoscopy is recommended in cirrhotic patients to identify patients at risk of variceal hemorrhage, but this is an invasive procedure and has limitations. Therefore, thrombocytopenia has been proposed to predict the existence and grade of esophageal varices. The aim of the current study was to determine a correlation between platelet count and grades of esophageal varices in patients with liver cirrhosis. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted at the POF Hospital, Wah Cantt from 1 st October, 2017 to 30 th May, 2018. Newly diagnosed cases of cirrhosis having varices of any grade on endoscopy were included. Endoscopic findings of patients were standardized using Paquet grading system. On the basis of platelet count, patients were divided into four subgroups. Platelet count groups were correlated with grading of esophageal varices using Spearman rank correlations. Chi Square test was used to see association between the platelet count and grade of esophageal varices. Results: 110 patients were included in the study, 55.5% (n=61) were male. Mean age of the patients was 59.89±9.01 years. Platelet count was <50,000/uL in 35.5% patients, 50,000-99,000/uL in 26.4%, 100,000-150000 in 12.7%, and >150,000/uL in 25.5% patients. Grade I esophageal varices were found in 23.6% of patients, whereas grade II, III and IV were found in 24.5%, 33.6% and 18.2% of patients, respectively. Mean platelet count was 213884.62/mm 3 in patients with grade I varices, whereas it was 119518.52/mm 3, 58386.49/mm 3 and 21600.00/mm 3 in patients with grade II, III and IV varices, respectively (p=<0.0001). A significant negative correlation between platelet count and grades of esophageal varices was found (p<0.001). Conclusion: Platelet count can predict the grade of esophageal varices in cirrhotic patients. There is significant negative correlation between platelet count and grades of esophageal varices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anum Afsar
- POF Hospital, Wah Cantt, Punjab, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Nadeem
- Department of Medicine, Poonch Medical College, Rawalakot, Rawalakot, Pakistan
| | - Syed Asim Ali Shah
- Department of Medicine, Wah Medical College, Wah Cantt, Punjab, Pakistan
| | - Huma Hussain
- Department of Medicine, Wah Medical College, Wah Cantt, Punjab, Pakistan
| | - Aysha Rani
- POF Hospital, Wah Cantt, Punjab, Pakistan
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