Abstract
It is well known that portal hypertension is associated with a hyperdynamic systemic circulatory state. This study measures systemic and splanchnic haemodynamics in an experimental rat model of hepatic cirrhosis. It also investigates the association between haemodynamic changes in cirrhotic animals and circulating levels of the vasoactive hormones glucagon and vasoactive intestinal polypeptide (VIP). Splanchnic blood flow was significantly increased in the cirrhotic group (13.2 ± 1.3 vs. 9.2 ± 1.6 ml/min, P < 0.05). Circulating levels of glucagon and VIP were two and five fold increased respectively in cirrhotic animals compared to controls. There was a strong correlation between portal pressure and glucagon levels in the cirrhotic group (r = 0.85). Raised splanchnic blood flow is partly responsible for elevated portal pressure in this model and this rise may be humorally mediated.
Highlights
MATERIALS AND METHODSIt has been well established that portal hypertension is associated with hyperdynamic systemic and splanchnic circulatory states 1’2
There was a significant rise in splanchnic blood flow which was associated with a reduction in splanchnic arteriolar resistance
This study shows that experimental cirrhosis is associated with hyperdynamic systemic and splanchnic circulatory states
Summary
MATERIALS AND METHODSIt has been well established that portal hypertension is associated with hyperdynamic systemic and splanchnic circulatory states 1’2. Portasystemic shunting was not detectable in controls but 23.4% portal blood was diverted into the systemic circulation in cirrhotic animals. There was no correlation between portal pressure and levels of vasoactive intestinal polypeptide in cirrhotic animals. Glucagon and vasoactive intestinal polypeptide are known to increase splanchnic blood flow.
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