Increased intestinal macromolecular permeability and urine nitrite excretion associated with liver cirrhosis with ascites

AIM: To determine intestinal permeability,the serum tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α level and urine nitric oxide (NO) metabolites are altered in liver cirrhosis (LC) with or without ascites. METHODS: Fifty-three patients with LC and 26 healthy control subjects were enrolled in the study. The intestinal permeability value is expressed as the percentage of polyethylene glycol (PEG) 400 and 3350 retrieval in 8-h urine samples as determined by high performance liquid chromatography. Serum TNF-α concentrations and urine NO metabolites were determined using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and Greiss reaction method,respectively. RESULTS: The intestinal permeability index wassignif icantly higher in patients with LC with ascites than in healthy control subjects or patients with LC without ascites (0.88 ± 0.12 vs 0.52 ± 0.05 or 0.53 ± 0.03,P < 0.05) and correlated with urine nitrite excretion (r = 0.98). Interestingly,the serum TNF-α concentra-tion was significantly higher in LC without ascites than in control subjects or in LC with ascites (198.9 ± 55.8 pg/mL vs 40.9 ± 12.3 pg/mL or 32.1 ± 13.3 pg/mL,P < 0.05). Urine nitrite excretion was significantly higher in LC with ascites than in the control subjects or in LC without ascites (1170.9 ± 28.7 μmol/L vs 903.1 ± 55.1 μmol/L or 956.7 ± 47.7 μmol/L,P < 0.05). CONCLUSION: Increased intestinal macromolecular permeability and NO is probably of importance in the pathophysiology and progression of LC with ascites,but the serum TNF-α concentration was not related to LC with ascites.

The Effectiveness of Albumin Combined with Diuretics in Treating Ascites in Cirrhosis

Cirrhosis often leads to various complications during its progression,with ascites being one of the most common.Among these cases,5%to 10%are classified as refractory ascites.In recent years,clinical research on the treatment of cirrhotic ascites has yielded increasingly enriched results.In this paper,a large number of clinical data on the treatment of ascites using albumin combined with diuretics were collected,and it was found that there were more results in group control studies.It was believed that albumin combined with diuretic therapy could effectively improve symptoms,reduce the occurrence of adverse reactions,ensure the safety of patients,and have a good clinical application prospect.This paper reviews the efficacy of albumin combined with diuretics in the treatment of ascites in cirrhosis.

Colon signet-ring cell carcinoma with chylous ascites caused by immunosuppressants following liver transplantation:A case report

BACKGROUND Chylous ascites is caused by disruption of the lymphatic system,which is characterized by the accumulation of a turbid fluid containing high levels of triglycerides within the abdominal cavity.The two most common causes are cirrhosis and tuberculosis,and colon signer ring cell carcinoma(SRCC)due to the use of immunosuppressants is extremely rare in cirrhotic patients after liver transplantation,making it prone to misdiagnosis and missed diagnosis.CASE SUMMARY A 52-year-old man who underwent liver transplantation and was administered with immunosuppressants for 8 months was admitted with a 3-month history of progressive abdominal distention.Initially,based on lymphoscintigraphy and lymphangiography,lymphatic obstruction was considered,and cystellar chyli decompression with band lysis and external membrane stripping of the lymphatic duct was performed.However,his abdominal distention was persistent without resolution.Abdominal paracentesis revealed allogenic cells in the ascites,and immunohistochemistry analysis revealed adenocarcinoma cells with phenotypic features suggestive of a gastrointestinal origin.Gastrointestinal endoscopy was performed,and biopsy showed atypical signet ring cells in the ileocecal valve.The patient eventually died after a three-month follow-up due to progression of the tumor.CONCLUSION Colon SRCC,caused by immunosuppressants,is an unusual but un-neglected cause of chylous ascites.

Prevalence and risk factors of lymphatic dysfunction in cirrhosis patients with refractory ascites:An often unconsidered mechanism

BACKGROUND The lymphatic system is crucial in maintaining the body fluid homeostasis.A dysfunctional lymphatic system may contribute to the refractoriness of ascites and edema in cirrhosis patients.Therefore,assessment of lymphatic dysfunction in cirrhosis patients with refractory ascites(RA)can be crucial as it would call for using different strategies for fluid mobilization.AIM To assessing the magnitude,spectrum,and clinical associations of lymphatic dysfunction in liver cirrhosis patients with RA.METHODS This observational study included 155 consecutive cirrhosis patients with RA.The presence of clinical signs of lymphedema,such as peau d’orange appearance and positive Stemmer sign,intestinal lymphangiectasia(IL)on duodenal biopsy seen as dilated vessels in the lamina propria with strong D2-40 immunohistochemistry,and chylous ascites were used to diagnose the overt lymphatic dysfunctions.RESULTS A total of 69(44.5%)patients out of 155 had evidence of lymphatic dysfunction.Peripheral lymphedema,found in 52(33.5%)patients,was the most common manifestation,followed by IL in 42(27.0%)patients,and chylous ascites in 2(1.9%)patients.Compared to patients without lymphedema,those with lymphedema had higher mean age,median model for end-stage liver disease scores,mean body mass index,mean ascitic fluid triglyceride levels,and proportion of patients with hypoproteinemia(serum total protein<5 g/dL)and lymphocytopenia(<15%of total leukocyte count).Patients with IL also had a higher prevalence of lymphocytopenia and hypoproteinemia(28.6%vs.9.1%,P=0.004).Seven(13%)patients with lymphedema had lower limb cellulitis compared to none in those without it.On multivariate regression analysis,factors independently associated with lymphatic dysfunction included obesity[odds ratio(OR):4.2,95%confidence intervals(95%CI):1.1–15.2,P=0.027],lymphocytopenia[OR:6.2,95%CI:2.9–13.2,P<0.001],and hypoproteinemia[OR:3.7,95%CI:1.5–8.82,P=0.003].CONCLUSION Lymphatic dysfunction is common in cirrhosis patients with RA.Significant indicators of its presence include hypoproteinemia and lymphocytopenia,which are likely due to the loss of lymphatic fluid from the circulation.Future efforts to mobilize fluid in these patients should focus on methods to improve lymphatic drainage.

Effects of Lactobacillus paracasei N1115 on gut microbial imbalance and liver function in patients with hepatitis B-related cirrhosis

BACKGROUND Hepatitis B cirrhosis(HBC)is a chronic disease characterized by irreversible diffuse liver damage and aggravated by intestinal microbial imbalance and metabolic dysfunction.Although the relationship between certain single probiotics and HBC has been explored,the impact of the complex ready-to-eat Lactobacillus paracasei N1115(LP N1115)supplement on patients with HBC has not been determined.AIM To compare the changes in the microbiota,inflammatory factor levels,and liver function before and after probiotic treatment in HBC patients.METHODS This study included 160 HBC patients diagnosed at the General Hospital of Ningxia Medical University between October 2018 and December 2020.Patients were randomly divided into an intervention group that received LP N1115 supplementation and routine treatment and a control group that received routine treatment only.Fecal samples were collected at the onset and conclusion of the 12-wk intervention period.The structure of the intestinal microbiota and the levels of serological indicators,such as liver function and inflammatory factors,were assessed.RESULTS Following LP N1115 intervention,the intestinal microbial diversity significantly increased in the intervention group(P<0.05),and the structure of the intestinal microbiota was characterized by an increase in the proportions of probiotic microbes and a reduction in harmful bacteria.Additionally,the intervention group demonstrated notable improvements in liver function indices and significantly lower levels of inflammatory factors(P<0.05).CONCLUSION LP N1115 is a promising treatment for ameliorating intestinal microbial imbalance in HBC patients by modulating the structure of the intestinal microbiota,improving liver function,and reducing inflammatory factor levels.

Predictive model for non-malignant portal vein thrombosis associated with cirrhosis based on inflammatory biomarkers

BACKGROUND Portal vein thrombosis(PVT),a complication of liver cirrhosis,is a major public health concern.PVT prediction is the most effective method for PVT diagnosis and treatment.AIM To develop and validate a nomogram and network calculator based on clinical indicators to predict PVT in patients with cirrhosis.METHODS Patients with cirrhosis hospitalized between January 2016 and December 2021 at the First Hospital of Lanzhou University were screened and 643 patients with cirrhosis who met the eligibility criteria were retrieved.Following a 1:1 propensity score matching 572 patients with cirrhosis were screened,and relevant clinical data were collected.PVT risk factors were identified using the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator(LASSO)and multivariate logistic regression analysis.Variance inflation factors and correlation matrix plots were used to analyze multicollinearity among the variables.A nomogram was constructed to predict the probability of PVT based on independent risk factors for PVT,and its predictive performance was verified using a receiver operating characteristic curve(ROC),calibration curves,and decision curve analysis(DCA).Finally,a network calculator was constructed based on the nomograms.RESULTS This study enrolled 286 cirrhosis patients with PVT and 286 without PVT.LASSO analysis revealed 13 variables as strongly associated with PVT occurrence.Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed nine indicators as independent PVT risk factors,including etiology,ascites,gastroesophageal varices,platelet count,D-dimer,portal vein diameter,portal vein velocity,aspartate transaminase to neutrophil ratio index,and platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio.LASSO and correlation matrix plot results revealed no significant multicollinearity or correlation among the variables.A nomogram was constructed based on the screened independent risk factors.The nomogram had excellent predictive performance,with an area under the ROC curve of 0.821 and 0.829 in the training and testing groups,respectively.Calibration curves and DCA revealed its good clinical performance.Finally,the optimal cutoff value for the total nomogram score was 0.513.The sensitivity and specificity of the optimal cutoff values were 0.822 and 0.706,respectively.CONCLUSION A nomogram for predicting PVT occurrence was successfully developed and validated,and a network calculator was constructed.This can enable clinicians to rapidly and easily identify high PVT risk groups.

Risk factors for hepatic decompensation in patients with primary biliary cirrhosis

AIM:To examine the clinical features and analyze prognostic factors in a prospective study of primary biliary cirrhosis(PBC) patients.METHODS:From 1995 to 2010,PBC patients without hepatic decompensation seen at the Peking Union Medical College Hospital were enrolled.Clinical signs and manifestations(pruritus,persistent fatigue,jaundice and pain in the right hypochondrium),laboratory parameters(auto-antibodies for autoimmune hepatic disease,biliary and hepatic enzymes,immunoglobulin,bilirubin,and albumin) and imaging findings were recorded at entry and at specific time points during follow-up.Cox regression and Kaplan-Meier analyses,respectively,assessed the risk factors for hepatic decompensation and survival.RESULTS:Two hundred and sixty-two PBC patients were enrolled with a median follow-up of 75.2 mo(range,21-201 mo).The 240 patients were aged 51.5 ± 10.2 years at diagnosis and 91.6% were female.Two hundred and forty-five(93.5%) were seropositive for anti-mitochondrial antibodies.At presentation,170 patients(64.9%) were symptomatic,while 96 patients(36.6%) had extra-hepatic autoimmune disease.During the follow-up period,62(23.7%) patients developed hepatic decompensation of whom four underwent liver transplantation and 17 died.The cumulative survival rate and median survival time were 83.9% and 181.7 mo,respectively.Cox regression analysis revealed that an incomplete ursodeoxycholic acid(UDCA) response or inconsistent treatment [P < 0.001;hazard risk(HR) 95%CI = 2.423-7.541],anti-centromere antibodies(ACA) positivity(P < 0.001;HR 95%CI = 2.516-7.137),alanine aminotransferase ratio(AAR) elevations(P < 0.001;HR 95%CI = 1.357-2.678),and histological advanced liver disease(P = 0.006;HR 95%CI = 1.481-10.847) were predictors of hepatic decompensation.The clinical features and survival of PBC in China are consistent with those described in Western countries.CONCLUSION:Incomplete UDCA response or inconsistent treatment,ACA positivity,AAR elevations,and advanced histological stage are predictors of decompensation.

Clinical study on the relationship between liver cirrhosis,ascites,and hyponatremia

BACKGROUND Cirrhosis is a common liver disease,and ascites is one of the common clinical conditions.However,the clinical manifestations of ascites combined with hyponatremia as a high-risk condition and its relationship to patient prognosis have not been fully studied.AIM To explore the clinical manifestations,prognostic factors,and relationships of ascites with hyponatremia in patients with cirrhosis to provide better diagnostic and treatment strategies.METHODS In this study,we retrospectively analyzed the clinical data of 150 patients diagnosed with cirrhosis and ascites between 2017 and 2022.Patients were divided into two groups:ascites combined with hyponatremia group and ascites group.We compared the general characteristics,degree of hyponatremia,complications,treatment,and prognosis between the two groups.RESULTS In the study results,patients in the ascites combined with hyponatremia group showed an older average age(58.2±8.9 years),64.4%were male,and had a significantly longer hospitalization time(12.7±5.3 d).Hyponatremia was more severe in this group,with a mean serum sodium concentration of 128.5±4.3 mmol/L,which was significantly different from the ascites group of 137.6±2.1 mmol/L.Patients with ascites and hyponatremia were more likely to develop hepatic encephalopathy(56.2%vs 39.0%),renal impairment(45.2%vs 28.6%)and infection(37.0%vs 23.4%).Regarding treatment,this group more frequently used diuretics(80.8%vs 62.3%)and salt supplements(60.3%vs 38.9%).Multiple logistic regression analysis identified older age[Odds ratio(OR)=1.06,P=0.025]and male gender(OR=1.72,P=0.020)as risk factors for hyponatremia combined with ascites.Overall,patients with ascites and hyponatremia present a clear high-risk status,accompanied by severe complications and poor prognosis.CONCLUSION In patients with cirrhosis,ascites with hyponatremia is a high-risk condition that is often associated with severe complications.

Distinctive aspects of peptic ulcer disease,Dieulafoy'slesion,and Mallory-Weiss syndrome in patients withadvanced alcoholic liver disease or cirrhosis

AIM:To systematically review the data on distinctive aspects of peptic ulcer disease(PUD),Dieulafoy’s lesion(DL),and Mallory-Weiss syndrome(MWS)in patients with advanced alcoholic liver disease(a ALD),including alcoholic hepatitis or alcoholic cirrhosis.METHODS:Computerized literature search performed via Pub Med using the following medical subject heading terms and keywords:"alcoholic liver disease","alcoholic hepatitis","alcoholic cirrhosis","cirrhosis","liver disease","upper gastrointestinal bleeding","nonvariceal upper gastrointestinal bleeding","PUD",‘‘DL’’,‘‘Mallory-Weiss tear",and"MWS’’.RESULTS:While the majority of acute gastrointestinal(GI)bleeding with a ALD is related to portal hypertension,about 30%-40%of acute GI bleeding in patients with a ALD is unrelated to portal hypertension.Such bleeding constitutes an important complication of a ALD because of its frequency,severity,and associated mortality.Patients with cirrhosis have a markedly increased risk of PUD,which further increases with the progression of cirrhosis.Patients with cirrhosis or a ALD and peptic ulcer bleeding(PUB)have worse clinical outcomes than other patients with PUB,including uncontrolled bleeding,rebleeding,and mortality.Alcohol consumption,nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug use,and portal hypertension may have a pathogenic role in the development of PUD in patients with a ALD.Limited data suggest that Helicobacter pylori does not play a significant role in the pathogenesis of PUD in most cirrhotic patients.The frequency of bleeding from DL appears to be increased in patients with a ALD.DL may be associated with an especially high mortality in these patients.MWS is strongly associated with heavy alcohol consumption from binge drinking or chronic alcoholism,and is associated with a ALD.Patients with a ALD have more severe MWS bleeding and are more likely to rebleed when compared to non-cirrhotics.Preendoscopic management of acute GI bleeding in patients with a ALD unrelated to portal hypertension is similar to the management of a ALD patients with GI bleeding from portal hypertension,because clinical distinction before endoscopy is difficult.Most patients require intensive care unit admission and attention to avoid over-transfusion,to correct electrolyte abnormalities and coagulopathies,and to administer antibiotic prophylaxis.Alcoholics should receive thiamine and be closely monitored for symptoms of alcohol withdrawal.Prompt endoscopy,after initial resuscitation,is essential to diagnose and appropriately treat these patients.Generally,the same endoscopic hemostatic techniques are used in patients bleeding from PUD,DL,or MWS in patients with a ALD as in the general population.CONCLUSION:Nonvariceal upper GI bleeding in patients with a ALD has clinically important differences from that in the general population without a ALD,including:more frequent and more severe bleeding from PUD,DL,or MWS.

Toll-like receptor 4 polymorphisms and bacterial infections in patients with cirrhosis and ascites

AIM To assess the relationship between the presence of toll-like receptor 4(TLR4) polymorphisms and bacterial infections in cirrhotic patients with ascites. METHODS We prospectively included consecutive patients with cirrhosis and ascites hospitalized during a 6-year period. Patients with human immunodeficiency virus(HIV) infection or any other immunodeficiency, patients with advanced hepatocellular carcinoma(beyond Milan's criteria) or any other condition determining poor short-term prognosis, and patients with a permanent urinary catheter were excluded. The presence of D299 G and/or T399 I TLR4 polymorphisms was determined by sequencing and related to the incidence and probability of bacterial infections, other complications of cirrhosis, hepatocellular carcinoma, and mortality during follow-up. A multivariate analysis to identify predictive variables of mortality in the whole series was performed. RESULTS We included 258 patients: 28(10.8%) were carriers of D299G and/or T399I TLR4 polymorphisms(polymorphism group) and 230 patients were not(wildtype group). The probability of developing any bacterial infection at one-year follow-up was 78% in the polymorphism group and 69% in the wild-type group(P = 0.54). The one-year probability of presenting infections caused by gram-negative bacilli(51% vs 44%, P = 0.68), infections caused by gram-positive cocci(49% vs 40%, P = 0.53), and spontaneous bacterial peritonitis(29% vs 34%, respectively, P = 0.99) did not differ between the two groups. The oneyear probability of transplant-free survival was 55% in the polymorphism group and 66% in the wild-type group(P = 0.15). Multivariate analysis confirmed that age, Child-Pugh score, active alcohol intake, previous hepatic encephalopathy, hepatocellular carcinoma and serum creatinine were associated with a higher risk of death during follow-up. CONCLUSION Genetic polymorphisms D299 G and/or T399 I of TLR4 do not seem to play a relevant role in the predisposition of cirrhotic patients with ascites to bacterial infections.

Predictors of fifty days in-hospital mortality in decompensated cirrhosis patients with spontaneous bacterial peritonitis

AIM: To determine the predictors of 50 d in-hospital mortality in decompensated cirrhosis patients with spontaneous bacterial peritonitis(SBP).METHODS: Two hundred and eighteen patients admitted to an intensive care unit in a tertiary care hospital between June 2013 and June 2014 with the diagnosis of SBP(during hospitalization) and cirrhosis were retrospectively analysed. SBP was diagnosed by abdominal paracentesis in the presence of polymorphonuclear cell count ≥ 250 cells/mm3 in the peritoneal fluid. Student's t test, multivariate logistic regression, cox proportional hazard ratio(HR), receiver operating characteristics(ROC) curves and Kaplan-Meier survival analysis were utilized for statistical analysis. Predictive abilities of several variables identified by multivariate analysis were compared using the area under ROC curve. P < 0.05 were considered statistical significant. RESULTS: The 50 d in-hospital mortality rate attributable to SBP is 43.11%(n = 94). Median survival duration for those who died was 9 d. In univariate analysis acute kidney injury(AKI), hepatic encephalopathy, septic shock, serum bilirubin, international normalized ratio, aspartate transaminase, and model for end-stage liver disease- sodium(MELD-Na) were significantly associated with in- hospital mortality in patients with SBP(P ≤ 0.001). Multivariate coxproportional regression analysis showed AKI(HR = 2.16, 95%CI: 1.36-3.42, P = 0.001) septic shock(HR = 1.73, 95%CI: 1.05-2.83, P = 0.029) MELD-Na(HR = 1.06, 95%CI: 1.02-1.09, P ≤ 0.001) was significantly associated with 50 d in-hospital mortality. The prognostic accuracy for AKI, MELD-Na and septic shock was 77%, 74% and 71% respectively associated with 50 d inhospital mortality in SBP patients.CONCLUSION: AKI, MELD-Na and septic shock were predictors of 50 d in-hospital mortality in decompensated cirrhosis patients with SBP.

Development and validation of a nomogram for predicting in-hospital mortality of intensive care unit patients with liver cirrhosis

BACKGROUND Liver cirrhosis patients admitted to intensive care unit(ICU)have a high mortality rate.AIM To establish and validate a nomogram for predicting in-hospital mortality of ICU patients with liver cirrhosis.METHODS We extracted demographic,etiological,vital sign,laboratory test,comorbidity,complication,treatment,and severity score data of liver cirrhosis patients from the Medical Information Mart for Intensive Care IV(MIMIC-IV)and electronic ICU(eICU)collaborative research database(eICU-CRD).Predictor selection and model building were based on the MIMIC-IV dataset.The variables selected through least absolute shrinkage and selection operator analysis were further screened through multivariate regression analysis to obtain final predictors.The final predictors were included in the multivariate logistic regression model,which was used to construct a nomogram.Finally,we conducted external validation using the eICU-CRD.The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve(AUC),decision curve,and calibration curve were used to assess the efficacy of the models.RESULTS Risk factors,including the mean respiratory rate,mean systolic blood pressure,mean heart rate,white blood cells,international normalized ratio,total bilirubin,age,invasive ventilation,vasopressor use,maximum stage of acute kidney injury,and sequential organ failure assessment score,were included in the multivariate logistic regression.The model achieved AUCs of 0.864 and 0.808 in the MIMIC-IV and eICU-CRD databases,respectively.The calibration curve also confirmed the predictive ability of the model,while the decision curve confirmed its clinical value.CONCLUSION The nomogram has high accuracy in predicting in-hospital mortality.Improving the included predictors may help improve the prognosis of patients.

Computed tomography-based radiomics to predict early recurrence of hepatocellular carcinoma post-hepatectomy in patients background on cirrhosis

BACKGROUND The prognosis for hepatocellular carcinoma(HCC)in the presence of cirrhosis is unfavourable,primarily attributable to the high incidence of recurrence.AIM To develop a machine learning model for predicting early recurrence(ER)of posthepatectomy HCC in patients with cirrhosis and to stratify patients’overall survival(OS)based on the predicted risk of recurrence.METHODS In this retrospective study,214 HCC patients with cirrhosis who underwent curative hepatectomy were examined.Radiomics feature selection was conducted using the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator and recursive feature elimination methods.Clinical-radiologic features were selected through univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses.Five machine learning methods were used for model comparison,aiming to identify the optimal model.The model’s performance was evaluated using the receiver operating characteristic curve[area under the curve(AUC)],calibration,and decision curve analysis.Additionally,the Kaplan-Meier(K-M)curve was used to evaluate the stratification effect of the model on patient OS.RESULTS Within this study,the most effective predictive performance for ER of post-hepatectomy HCC in the background of cirrhosis was demonstrated by a model that integrated radiomics features and clinical-radiologic features.In the training cohort,this model attained an AUC of 0.844,while in the validation cohort,it achieved a value of 0.790.The K-M curves illustrated that the combined model not only facilitated risk stratification but also exhibited significant discriminatory ability concerning patients’OS.CONCLUSION The combined model,integrating both radiomics and clinical-radiologic characteristics,exhibited excellent performance in HCC with cirrhosis.The K-M curves assessing OS revealed statistically significant differences.

sTREM-1 as promising prognostic biomarker for acute-on-chronic liver failure and mortality in patients with acute decompensation of cirrhosis

BACKGROUND Acute decompensation(AD)of cirrhosis is associated with high short-term mortality,mainly due to the development of acute-on-chronic liver failure(ACLF).Thus,there is a need for biomarkers for early and accurate identification of AD patients with high risk of development of ACLF and mortality.Soluble triggering receptor expressed on myeloid cells-1(sTREM-1)is released from activated innate immune cells and correlated with various inflammatory processes.AIM To explore the prognostic value of sTREM-1 in patients with AD of cirrhosis.METHODS A multicenter prospective cohort of 442 patients with cirrhosis hospitalized for AD was divided into a study cohort(n=309)and validation cohort(n=133).Demographic and clinical data were collected,and serum sTREM-1 was measured at admission.All enrolled patients were followed-up for at least 1 year.RESULTS In patients with AD and cirrhosis,serum sTREM-1 was an independent prognosis predictor for 1-year survival and correlated with liver,coagulation,cerebral and kidney failure.A new prognostic model of AD(P-AD)incorporating sTREM-1,blood urea nitrogen(BUN),total bilirubin(TBil),international normalized ratio(INR)and hepatic encephalopathy grades was established and performed better than the model for end-stage liver disease(MELD),MELD-sodium(MELD-Na),chronic liver failure-consortium(CLIF-C)ACLF and CLIF-C AD scores.Additionally,sTREM-1 was increased in ACLF and predicted the development of ACLF during first 28-d follow-up.The ACLF risk score incorporating serum sTREM-1,BUN,INR,TBil and aspartate aminotransferase levels was established and significantly superior to MELD,MELD-Na,CLIF-C ACLF,CLIF-C AD and P-AD in predicting risk of ACLF development.CONCLUSION Serum sTREM-1 is a promising prognostic biomarker for ACLF development and mortality in patients with AD of cirrhosis.

Analysis of the Clinical Value of Baogan Lishui Decoction and Conventional Western Medicine in Treating Hepatitis B Cirrhosis Refractory Ascites

The objective of this study was to investigate the clinical effect of combination treatment of Chinese medicine Baogan Lishui decoction and western medicine on hepatitis B(Hep B)cirrhosis-related refractory ascites.The control group was given conventional western medicine therapy while the observation group was given same conventional western medicine therapy with additional of Chinese medicine Baogan Lishui decoction.The total effective of clinical treatment on Hep B cirrhosis-related refractory ascites in observation group was higher than that of the control group which was 88.89%compared to 71.11%,respectively,and it was significant different(P<0.05).The combination treatment of Chinese medicine Baogan Lishui decoction and conventional western medicine can significantly increase the treatment effect on Hep B cirrhosis refractory ascites,and thus increases the quality and safety of life.

Plasma Nogo-A and placental growth factor levels are associated with portal hypertension in patients with liver cirrhosis

BACKGROUND Clinically significant portal hypertension(CSPH) and severe portal hypertension(SPH) increase the risk for decompensation and life-threatening complications in liver cirrhosis. Pathologic angiogenesis might contribute to the formation of these conditions. Placental growth factor(PlGF) and Nogo-A protein are biomarkers of pathological angiogenesis, but data on their role in liver cirrhosis and portal hypertension is scarce.AIM To determine plasma levels of PlGF and Nogo-A in patients with liver cirrhosis,CSPH, SPH and potential to predict portal hypertension.METHODS A cohort of 122 patients with hepatitis C virus and/or alcohol-induced liver cirrhosis with characterized hepatic venous pressure gradient(HVPG) were included in the study. Demographic data, medical history, Child-Turcotte-Pugh and Model of End Stage liver disease score, clinical chemistry, liver stiffnessvalues were recorded on the day of the procedure prior HVPG measurement. The degree of portal hypertension was determined by the invasive HVPG measurement. Nogo-A and PlGF plasma levels were evaluated using enzyme linked immunosorbent assay. The control group consisted of 30 healthy age-and sex-matched individuals.RESULTS Peripheral PlGF levels were higher and Nogo-A levels were lower in patients with liver cirrhosis(23.20 vs 9.85;P < 0.0001 and 2.19 vs 3.12;P = 0.004 respectively). There was a positive linear correlation between peripheral levels of PlGF and HVPG(r = 0.338, P = 0.001) and negative linear correlation between the peripheral Nogo-A levels and HVPG(r =-0.267, P = 0.007). PlGF levels were higher in CSPH and SPH(P = 0.006;P < 0.0001) whereas Nogo-A levels were lower(P = 0.01;P < 0.033). Area under the curve for the diagnosis of CSPH for PlGF was 0.68(P = 0.003) and for Nogo-A-0.67(P = 0.01);for SPH 0.714(P <0.0001) and 0.65(P = 0.014) respectively. PlGF levels were higher and Nogo-A levels were lower in patients with esophageal varices(P < 0.05). PlGF cut-off value of 25 pg/mL distinguished patients with CSPH at 55.7% sensitivity and76.7% specificity;whereas Nogo-A cut-off value of 1.12 ng/mL was highly specific(93.1%) for the diagnosis of CSPH.CONCLUSION Plasma PlGF levels were higher while Nogo-A levels were lower in patients with liver cirrhosis and portal hypertension. Biomarkers showed moderate predictive value in determining CSPH and SPH.

Correlation between serum markers and transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt prognosis in patients with cirrhotic ascites

BACKGROUND Individuals with refractory ascites in the context of liver cirrhosis typically face an adverse prognosis.The transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt(TIPS)is an efficacious intervention,but there is a lack of reliable tools for postoperative pro-gnosis assessment.Previously utilized clinical biochemical markers,such as the serum albumin concentration(Alb),sodium(Na+)concentration,and serum creatinine(Scr),have limited predictive value.Therefore,the quest for novel,specific biomarkers to evaluate the post-TIPS prognosis in patients with liver cirrhosis and refractory ascites holds significant practical importance.A retrospective analysis was conducted on 75 patients with liver cirrhosis and refractory ascites who underwent TIPS at our institution from August 2019 to August 2021.These patients were followed up regularly for two years,and the death toll was meticulously documented.The patients were allocated into a survival group(n=45 patients)or a deceased group(n=30 patients)based on their prognosis status.The clinical data of the two groups were collected,and Child-Pugh scores and MELD scores were calculated for analysis.Spearman correlation analysis was carried out to evaluate the correlation of prognosis with Child-Pugh grade,MELD score,and Cys C level.Additionally,a multiple-factor analysis utilizing the Cox proportional hazard model was used to identify independent risk factors affecting the post-TIPS prognosis of patients with liver cirrhosis and refractory ascites.The receiver operating characteristic curve(ROC)ascertained the predictive value of the Cys C concen-tration,Child-Pugh grade,and MELD score for the prognosis of liver cirrhosis with refractory ascites in post-TIPS patients.RESULTS During a 2-year follow-up period,among 75 patients with liver cirrhosis and refractory ascites who underwent TIPS treatment,30 patients(40.00%)passed away.The deceased cohort exhibited heightened aspartate aminotrans-ferase,alanine aminotransferase,total bilirubin,Scr,prothrombin time,Cys C,international normalized ratio,Child-Pugh,and MELD scores compared to those of the survival cohort,while Alb and Na+levels were attenuated in the deceased group(P<0.05).Spearman analysis revealed moderate to high positive correlations between prognosis and Child-Pugh score,MELD score,and Cys C level(r=0.709,0.749,0.671,P<0.05).Multivariate analysis using the Cox proportional hazard model demonstrated that the independent risk factors for post-TIPS prognosis in patients with liver cirrhosis and refractory ascites were Cys C(HR=3.802;95%CI:1.313-11.015),Child-Pugh(HR=3.030;95%CI:1.858-4.943),and MELD(HR=1.222;95%CI:1.073-1.393)scores.ROC analysis confirmed that,compared to those of the classic prognostic models for Child-Pugh and MELD scores,the predictive accuracy of Cys C for post-TIPS prognosis in patients with liver cirrhosis and refractory ascites was slightly lower.This analysis yielded sensitivity and specificity values of 83.33%and 82.22%,respectively.The area under the curve value at this juncture was 0.883,with an optimal cutoff value set at 1.95 mg/L.CONCLUSION Monitoring the serum Cys C concentration is valuable for assessing the post-TIPS prognosis in patients with liver cirrhosis and refractory ascites.Predictive models based on serum Cys C levels,as opposed to Scr levels,are more beneficial for evaluating the condition and prognosis of patients with ascites due to cirrhosis.

Predictors of Spontaneous Bacterial Peritonitis (SBP) in Liver Cirrhosis: Current Knowledge and Future Frontiers

Spontaneous bacterial peritonitis (SBP) in patients with cirrhotic liver disease is a serious complication that contributes to the high morbidity and mortality rate seen in this population. Currently, there is a lack of consensus amongst the research community on the clinical predictors of SBP as well as the risks and benefits of prophylactic antibiotic therapy in these patients. Pharmacological gastric acid suppression (namely with PPIs and H2RAs) are frequently prescribed for these patients, many times without a clear indication, and may contribute to gut bacterial overflow and SBP development. However, this remains controversial as there are conflicting findings in SBP prevalence between PPI/H2RA-users and non-users. In addition, studies show recent antibiotic use, whether for SBP prophylaxis or for another infectious process, appear to be associated with higher rates of SBP and drug-resistant organisms. Other researchers have also explored the link between zinc, platelet indices (MPV), and macrophage inflammatory protein-1 β (MIP-1β) levels in liver cirrhosis, all of which appear to be promising markers for classifying SBP risk and diagnosis. This literature review was limited by the number and quality of studies available as most are retrospective in nature. Thus, more ongoing, prospective studies and trials are needed to judge the true value of the findings in the studies reviewed in hopes that they can guide appropriate prevention, diagnosis, and management of SBP.

Current approaches to the management of patients with cirrhotic ascites

This review describes current approaches to the management of patients with cirrhotic ascites in relation to the severity of its clinical manifestations. The PubMed database, the Google Scholar retrieval system, the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, and the reference lists from related articles were used to search for relevant publications. Articles corresponding to the aim of the review were selected for 1991-2018 using the keywords:“liver cirrhosis,”“portal hypertension,”“ascites,”“pathogenesis,”“diagnostics,” and “treatment.” Uncomplicated and refractory ascites in patients with cirrhosis were the inclusion criteria. The literature analysis has shown that despite the achievements of modern hepatology, the presence of ascites is associated with poor prognosis and high mortality. The key to successful management of patients with ascites may be the stratification of the risk of an adverse outcome and personalized therapy. Pathogenetically based approach to the choice of pharmacotherapy and optimization of minimally invasive methods of treatment may improve the quality of life and increase the survival rate of this category of patients.

Predictors of portal vein thrombosis after splenectomy in patients with cirrhosis

BACKGROUND Portal vein thrombosis(PVT)is a commonthsn complication after splenectomy in patients with cirrhosis.However,the predictors of postoperative PVT are not known.AIM To investigate the predictors of PVT after splenectomy in patient with cirrhosis.METHODS A total of 45 patients with cirrhosis who underwent splenectomy were consecutively enrolled from January 2017 to December 2018.The incidence of PVT at 1 months,3 months,and 12 months after splenectomy in patients with cirrhosis was observed.The hematological indicators,biochemical and coagulation parameters,and imaging features were recorded at baseline and at each observation point.The univariable,multivariable,receiver operating characteristic curve and timedependent curve analyses were performed.RESULTS The cumulative incidence of PVT was 40.0%,46.6%,and 48.9%at 1 months,3 months,and 12 months after splenectomy.Multivariable analysis showed that portal vein diameter(PVD)≥14.5 mm and monthsdel end-stage liver disease(MELD)score>10 were independent predictors of PVT at 1 months,3 months,and 12 months after splenectomy(P<0.05).Time-dependent curve showed that the cumulative incidence of PVT was significantly different between patients with MELD score≤10 and>10(P<0.05).In addition,the cumulative incidence of PVT in the PVD≥14.5 mm group was significantly higher than that in the PVD<14.5 mm group(P<0.05).CONCLUSION Wider PVD and MELD score>10 were independent predictors of PVT at 1 months,3 months,and 12 months after splenectomy in patient with cirrhosis.