High Model For End-Stage Liver Disease Score Research Articles

Pattern Clustering of Symmetric Regional Cerebral Edema on Brain MRI in Patients with Hepatic Encephalopathy.

Metabolic abnormalities in hepatic encephalopathy (HE) cause brain edema or demyelinating disease, resulting in symmetric regional cerebral edema (SRCE) on MRI. This study aimed to investigate the usefulness of the clustering analysis of SRCE in predicting the development of brain failure. MR findings and clinical data of 98 consecutive patients with HE were retrospectively analyzed. The correlation between the 12 regions of SRCE was calculated using the phi (Φ) coefficient, and the pattern was classified using hierarchical clustering using the φ2 distance measure and Ward's method. The classified patterns of SRCE were correlated with clinical parameters such as the model for end-stage liver disease (MELD) score and HE grade. Significant associations were found between 22 pairs of regions of interest, including the red nucleus and corpus callosum (Φ = 0.81, p < 0.001), crus cerebri and red nucleus (Φ = 0.72, p < 0.001), and red nucleus and dentate nucleus (Φ = 0.66, p < 0.001). After hierarchical clustering, 24 cases were classified into Group I, 35 into Group II, and 39 into Group III. Group III had a higher MELD score (p = 0.04) and HE grade (p = 0.002) than Group I. Our study demonstrates that the SRCE patterns can be useful in predicting hepatic preservation and the occurrence of cerebral failure in HE.

Deranged Biochemical Markers As Early Predictors for the Development of Hepatorenal Syndrome in Patients With Alcoholic Liver Cirrhosis.

Objective To investigate predictive biomarkers correlated with the onset of hepatorenal syndrome (HRS) in individuals with alcoholic liver cirrhosis using various factors, including age, sex, and laboratory indicators such as serum sodium, bilirubin, PT/INR, and albumin levels. Additionally, we sought to establish a correlation between the occurrence of hepatic encephalopathy (HE), spontaneous bacterial peritonitis (SBP), and the model for end-stage liver disease (MELD) score at the time of diagnosis and the development of HRS in cirrhotic patients. Methods This cross-sectional study spanned 12 months and included a total of 83 patients as its sample size. This study was conducted at the Department of Internal Medicine, a tertiary care hospital situated in Mumbai, India. Two distinct groups were formed: one consisted of patients diagnosed with HRS, and the other group comprised patients with alcoholic liver cirrhosis but without HRS. This study aimed to investigate potential relationships with the suggested risk factors. To discern statistically meaningful distinctions among categorical variables, the chi-square test was employed, whereas for continuous variables, analysis of variance (ANOVA) was used. Only patients who provided written informed consent were included in this study. Results No correlation was found between patients with and without HRS with respect to age (p=0.056) and sex (p=0.067). The presence of HE (p<0.001), SBP (p=0.021), hyponatremia (p=0.0001), hypoalbuminemia (p<0.0001), higher PT/INR (p=0.03), and higher MELD score (p=0.0002) were found to be correlated with an increased risk of developing HRS. Hyperbilirubinemia was not correlated with an increased risk of developing HRS (p=0.157). Conclusions HRS is a severe and potentially avoidable complication associated with advanced liver cirrhosis, characterized by a notably high mortality rate. By closely monitoring key biomarkers, such as serum sodium, PT/INR, and albumin levels, in addition to assessing the presence of SBPand HEduring the initial presentation of patients with alcoholic cirrhosis, medical professionals may be able to identify those at a heightened risk of developing HRS. This, in turn, enables the swift diagnosis and implementation of aggressive treatment strategies. Such measures not only hold the potential to reverse HRSbut also enhance survival rates among individuals with alcoholic liver cirrhosis, thereby increasing the pool of candidates eligible for liver transplantation, which remains the cornerstone of treatment.

The influence of delirium on mortality and length of ICU stay and analysis of risk factors for delirium after liver transplantation.

To analyze the incidence, timing, risk factors and prognosis of delirium after liver transplantation (LT). The clinical data of 321 patients undergoing LT in the Third Xiangya Hospital of Central South University from January 2018 to December 2022 were collected to investigate the incidence, onset, and risk factors for post-LT delirium and the impact of delirium on LT recipients' prognosis by statistical analysis. The incidence of post-LT delirium was 19.3% (62/321), and the median interval between LT and onset of delirium was 20.1 h. Univariate analysis showed that pre-LT variables (Model for End Stage Liver Disease (MELD) score, hospital stay, hepatic encephalopathy, infection, white blood cell (WBC) count, lymphocyte count, abnormal potassium, lactulose use), intraoperative variables (red blood cell transfusion, remimazolam use, dexmedetomidine use) and post-LT variables (hypernatraemia, acute rejection, reoperation, basiliximab use, tacrolimus concentration) were associated with post-LT delirium. Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that MELD score at LT ≥22 [OR = 3.400, 95% CI:1.468-7.876, p = 0.004], pre-LT hepatic encephalopathy [OR = 3.224, 95% CI:1.664-6.244, p = 0.001], infection within 2 months prior to LT [OR = 2.238, 95% CI:1.151-4.351, p = 0.018], acute rejection [OR = 2.974, 95% CI:1.322-6.690, p = 0.008], and reoperation [OR = 11.919, 95% CI:2.938-48.350, p = 0.001] were independent risk factors for post-LT delirium. Post-LT delirium was reduced in LT recipients exposing to intraoperative remimazolam [OR = 0.287, 95% CI: 0.113-0.733, p = 0.009] or ≥ 25 μg of intraoperative dexmedetomidine [OR = 0.441, 95% CI 0.225-0.867, p = 0.018]. As for clinical outcomes, patients with delirium had a higher percentage of staying at the (ICU) ≥7 d after LT than those without delirium [OR = 2.559, 95% CI 1.418-4.617, p = 0.002]. The incidence of delirium was high and the onset of delirium was early after LT. Risk factors for post-LT delirium included high MELD score at LT, pre-LT hepatic encephalopathy and infections, acute rejection and reoperation. Intraoperative use of remimazolam or dexmedetomidine reduced post-LT delirium. Delirium had a negative impact on the length of ICU stay.

Clinical features, microbial spectrum, and antibiotic susceptibility patterns of spontaneous bacterial peritonitis in cirrhotic patients

Background and AimsThe microbial spectrum and antimicrobial resistance patterns change over time and vary across regions in patients with spontaneous bacterial peritonitis (SBP). There is an urgent need to clarify the factors associated with in-hospital mortality in these patients. MethodsIn this study, 377 patients with SBP and 794 patients with bacterascites were analyzed for the microbial spectrum, antimicrobial resistance profiles, and laboratory findings. ResultsThe most common pathogens were Escherichia coli (96, 25.5%), Staphylococcus epidermidis (55, 14.6%), and Enterococcus faecium (42, 11.1%). Multidrug-resistant (MDR) bacteria comprised 49.7% of gram-positive bacteria (GPB) and 48.8% of gram-negative bacteria (GNB). The most sensitive antibiotics were amikacin (91.5%), meropenem (89.8%) and piperacillin/tazobactam (87.6%). Extensively drug-resistant (XDR) (OR=51.457, p < 0.001), neutrophil count (OR=1.088, p < 0.001), and the model for end-stage liver disease (MELD) score (OR=1.124, p < 0.001) were independent predictive factors of in-hospital mortality in patients with SBP. ConclusionMDR represented nearly half of the bacteria isolated from patients with SBP, of which the high prevalence of extended-spectrum β-lactamase-producing and Carbapenem-resistant bacteria is concerning. The presence of XDR, higher MELD score, and neutrophil count were independent predictive factors associated with higher in-hospital mortality in patients with SBP, indicating that intensive care should be provided to these patients.

Outcomes of umbilical hernia repair in cirrhotic veterans: a VASQIP study.

Umbilical hernia repair (UHR) in cirrhotics with ascites is a challenging problem associated with increased morbidity and mortality. This study examines the outcomes of UHR in veterans, comparing those undergoing elective versus emergent repair. VASQIP was queried for all UHRs during the period 2008-2015. Data collection included demographics, operative details, Model for End-stage Liver Disease (MELD) score, and postoperative outcomes. Univariate and multivariate regression analyses were performed, and a p value of ≤ 0.05 was considered significant. A total of 383 patients were included in the analysis. Overall, mean age was 58.9, 99.0% were males, mean body mass index (BMI) was 26.7kg/m2, 98.2% had American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) classification ≥ III, and 87.7% had independent functional status. More than 1/3 the patients underwent emergent UHR (37.6%). Compared with the elective UHR group, who underwent emergent repair were older, more likely to be functionally dependent, higher MELD score. Hypoalbuminemia, emergency repair and MELD score were found to be independent predictors of poor outcomes. UHR in cirrhotic veterans has worse outcomes when performed emergently. Diagnosis should be followed by medical optimization and elective repair, rather than waiting for an emergent indication in > 1/3 of patients.

A study of the risk factors and outcome in patients with upper gastrointestinal bleed presenting to a tertiary care center in Kumaon region of Uttarakhand

Background: Upper gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding refers to blood loss within the intraluminal GI tract from any location between the upper esophagi to the duodenum at the level of the ligament of Treitz. Bleeding from the upper GI tract may present as hematemesis, melena, hematochezia, occult GI bleeding, and anemia. Aims and Objectives: The aims of this study were to study the risk factors and outcome in upper GI bleed patients presenting to a tertiary care center in Kumaon region of Uttarakhand. The primary objective was to estimate the proportion of mortality in upper GI bleed patients attending a tertiary care center. The secondary objective was to study the risk factors associated with upper GI bleed and their effect on mortality. Materials and Methods: This was a hospital-based observational prospective clinical study, carried out in the Department of General medicine, Dr. Susheela Tiwari Memorial Hospital and associated Government Medical College, Haldwani, from January 2020 to September 2021 after obtaining ethical clearance from the Institutional Review Committee and informed consent from the patient or patient relatives. Statistical testing has been conducted with the Statistical Package for the Social Science software (SPSS version 20.0). Results: The factors associated with mortality using multivariate analysis were high international normalized ratio (INR), low albumin, raised serum glutamic oxaloacetic transaminas, high Child Pugh Score, and high model for end stage liver disease (MELD) score found to be significant. Conclusion: The mortality rate in our patients was 18% and factors associated with increased mortality were high INR, low Albumin, raised creatinine, high Child Pugh Score, high MELD score, and presence of spontaneous bacterial peritonitis.

Characteristics of Gram-positive cocci infection and the therapeutic effect after liver transplantation.

Gram-positive cocci is the main pathogen responsible for early infection after liver transplantation (LT), posing a huge threat to the prognosis of liver transplant recipients. This study aims to analyze the distribution and drug resistance of Gram-positive cocci, the risk factors for infections and efficacy of antibiotics within 2 months after LT, and to guide the prevention and treatment of these infections. In this study, data of pathogenic bacteria distribution, drug resistance and therapeutic efficacy were collected from 39 Gram-positive cocci infections among 256 patients who received liver transplantation from donation after citizens' death in the Third Xiangya Hospital of Central South University from January 2019 to July 2022, and risk factors for Gram-positive cocci infection were analyzed. Enterococcus faecium was the dominant pathogenic bacteria (33/51, 64.7%), followed by Enterococcus faecalis (11/51, 21.6%). The most common sites of infection were abdominal cavity/biliary tract (13/256, 5.1%) and urinary tract (10/256, 3.9%). Fifty (98%) of the 51 Gram-positive cocci infections occurred within 1 month after LT. The most sensitive drugs to Gram-positive cocci were teicoplanin, tigecycline, linezolid and vancomycin. Vancomycin was not used in all patients, considering its nephrotoxicity. Vancomycin was not administered to all patients in view of its nephrotoxicity.There was no significant difference between the efficacy of daptomycin and teicoplanin in the prevention of cocci infection (P>0.05). Univariate analysis indicated that preoperative Model for End-Stage Liver Disease (MELD) score >25 (P=0.005), intraoperative red blood cell infusion ≥12 U (P=0.013) and exposure to more than 2 intravenous antibiotics post-LT (P=0.003) were related to Gram-positive cocci infections. Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that preoperative MELD score >25 (OR=2.378, 95% CI 1.124 to 5.032, P=0.024) and intraoperative red blood cell transfusion ≥ 12 U (OR=2.757, 95% CI 1.227 to 6.195, P=0.014) were independent risk factors for Gram-positive cocci infections after LT. Postoperative Gram-positive cocci infections were reduced in LT recipients exposing to more than two intravenous antibiotics post-LT (OR=0.269, 95% CI 0.121 to 0.598, P=0.001). Gram-positive cocci infections occurring early after liver transplantation were dominated by Enterococcus faecalis infections at the abdominal/biliary tract and urinary tract. Teicoplanin, tigecycline and linezolid were anti-cocci sensitive drugs. Daptomycin and teicoplanin were equally effective in preventing cocci infections due to Gram-positive cocci. Patients with high preoperative MELD score and massive intraoperative red blood cell transfusion were more likely to suffer Gram-positive cocci infection after surgery. Postoperative Gram-positive cocci infections were reduced in recipients exposing to more than two intravenous antibiotics post-LT.

Predictors and management of post-banding ulcer bleeding in cirrhosis: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

Post-banding ulcer bleeding (PBUB) is an understudied complication of oesophageal varices endoscopic band ligation (EBL). This systematic review with meta-analysis aimed at: (a) evaluating the incidence of PBUB in patients with cirrhosis treated with EBL in primary or secondary prophylaxis or urgent treatment for acute variceal bleeding and (b) identifying predictors of PBUB. We conducted a systematic review of articles in English published in 2006-2022 using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses guidelines. Searches were made in eight databases including Embase, PubMed and Cochrane Library. Random-effects meta-analysis was used to determine the incidence, mean interval and predictors of PBUB. Eighteen studies (9034 patients) were included. The incidence of PBUB was 5.5% (95% CI 4.3-7.1). The mean time for it to occur was 11 days (95% CI 9.94-11.97). Model for End-stage Liver Disease (MELD) score (OR 1.162, 95% CI 1.047-1.291) and EBL done in emergency setting (OR 4.902, 95% CI 2.99-8.05) independently predicted post-ligation ulcer bleeding. Treatment included drugs, endoscopic procedures and transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt. Refractory bleeding was treated with self-expandable metallic stents or balloon tamponade. Mortality was on average 22.3% (95% CI 14.1-33.6). Patients with high MELD score and receiving EBL in an emergency setting are more prone to develop PBUB. Prognosis is still poor and the best therapeutic strategy to address remains to be ascertained.

Prediction of In-Hospital Mortality in Spontaneous Bacterial Peritonitis Patients with Advanced Liver Disease

Introduction: Bacterial infections are known reason for morbidity and mortality in hospitalized patients with cirrhosis among which Spontaneous bacterial peritonitis (SBP) is most common, accounts for around 20% to 30% mortality rate. Objective: To evaluate the frequency of in-hospital mortality in SBP patients. Study Design: Descriptive case series. Setting: Asian Institute of Medical Sciences Hospital Hyderabad. Duration: From 1st January 2019 to 30th June 2019. Material and Methods: Adult patients diagnosed to have spontaneous bacterial peritonitis and followed for outcome. Results: 223 patients of spontaneous bacterial peritonitis I,e 165 (74%) male and 58 (26%) female fulfilling the inclusion criteria were enrolled in study. Mean age obtained was 47.56 ± 13.069 years and Hepatitis C with most common etiology for CLD was 128 (57.4%) followed by Hepatitis B 26 (11.7%), Hepatitis B + D 30 (13.5 %) and Alcohol 8 (3.6 %). Hepatocellular carcinoma in 70 (31.4 %) only. CTP (Child-Turcot-Pugh) score and MELD (Model for End-stage Liver Disease) score used to access stage of cirrhosis. 38 (17 %) patients with CTP class B and 185 (83 %) with CTP class C. The mean MELD score of all patients found to be 23.09 ± 15.686. Among 223 patients, in-hospital mortality was observed in 61 (27.4%), 115 (51.6%) were discharged with improvement and rest 47 (21.1%) discharged with no improvement. Practical Implication: This study's findings underscore the need for early detection and aggressive management of Spontaneous Bacterial Peritonitis in patients with advanced liver disease, especially those with CTP Class C and high MELD scores, to reduce the high in-hospital mortality rate. Conclusion: Significantly high in-hospital mortality was found to be associated with SBP, with CTP Class C, High MELD Score, increased creatinine, bilirubin, PT, INR and decreased albumin especially in females. Keywords: Cirrhosis; In-hospital mortality; Spontaneous bacterial peritonitis

Risk Factors and Prognosis of Delirium After Liver Transplantation

To analyze the incidence, the onset time, and the risk factors of delirium after liver transplantation (LT). The clinical data of 211 patients who underwent LT at Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University between January 2019 and December 2021 were collected to investigate the incidence and the onset time of postoperative delirium. Univariate analysis and multivariate logistic regression analysis were conducted to analyze the risk factors of delirium and to analyze the effect of delirium on clinical outcomes. The incidence of delirium was 20.4% (43/211) and the median interval between LT and the onset of delirium was 19 hours. Univariate analysis showed that the preoperative Model for End-Stage Liver Disease (MELD) score≥22, preoperative length-of-stay≥7, liver cancer, preoperative hepatic encephalopathy, infections within 2 months before LT, preoperative lymphocyte value<0.5×10 9 L －1, massive amount of intraoperative red blood cell infusion, and carbapenem antibiotics use for 3 days or longer were associated with postoperative delirium. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that preoperative infections within 2 months before LT (odds ratio [ OR]=2.597, 95% confidence interval [ CI]: 1.135-5.944, P=0.024), preoperative MELD score≥22 ( OR=2.967, 95% CI: 1.104-7.975, P=0.031), and preoperative hepatic encephalopathy ( OR=4.700, 95% CI: 2.043-10.602, P<0.001) were independent risk factors for delirium after LT, while carbapenems antibiotics use for 3 days or longer ( OR=0.192, 95% CI: 0.083-0.441, P<0.001) was a protective factor for postoperative delirium among LT recipients. Regarding clinical outcomes, patients with delirium had longer postoperative ICU length-of-stays than those without delirium did ( P=0.025). There is a high incidence of postoperative delirium among patients who undergo LT and the onset time of delirium after LT is early. Risk factors include preoperative infections, high MELD score, and hepatic encephalopathy. On the other hand, the use of carbapenems can help prevent delirium.

Risk factors and waiting time on the liver transplant list: patients from the Republic of Moldova

Liver transplantation is an important treatment for acute liver failure and end-stage liver disease. In 2002, the model for end-stage liver disease (MELD) was incorporated to prioritize patients awaiting liver transplantation. While there are data on how the MELD score affects wait time, there is a dearth of literature regarding other components. We aimed to evaluate the factors affecting the waiting time for TH. Using the database from the Republic of Moldova, patients aged 18- 65 listed for liver transplants in the period 2013-2022 were included. Variables tested in the model included patient characteristics, biochemical analyses, MELD score, and ABO blood group. The MELD score is used in prioritizing liver allocation and was expected to predict time on the waiting list. Mechanical ventilation and other markers of disease severity are associated with higher MELD scores, thus shorter waiting time. Further research is needed to address the reasons for ariation in waiting time in an attempt to reduce time to TH, standardize the listing process and improve patient outcomes.Objectives. The aim of the scientific paper was to analyze the risk factors and waiting time of patients with liver diseases on the waiting list for liver transplantation. Materials and methods. A retrospective 2013-2018 and prospective 2018-2022 study was conducted, in which 265 patients with decompensated liver cirrhosis, on the waiting list for liver transplantation, were included. The following databases were also used as a source of scientific literature: Google Scholar, PubMed and eLibrary. The keywords that were used in the search: „liver transplant”, „acute and chronic liver failure”. Results. Our results show that those with lower serum sodium had a shorter waiting time compared to candidates with higher sodium. Thus, patients with blood group A were the most patients, which is also a prognosis for this group to be more exposed to the risk of viral infection.

Impact of high MELD scores on CMV viremia following liver transplantation.

Advanced liver disease or cirrhosis is associated with an increased risk of infections; however, the impact of high pretransplant model for end-stage liver disease (MELD) score on cytomegalovirus (CMV) viremia after liver transplantation is unknown. This single-center, retrospective, cohort study evaluated CMV high-risk (CMV immunoglobulin G D+/R-) liver transplant recipients who received valganciclovir prophylaxis for 3 months between 2009 and 2019. Patients were stratified by pretransplant MELD score of <35 (low MELD) and ≥35 (high MELD). The primary outcome was 12-month CMV viremia, and secondary outcomes included CMV resistance and tissue invasive disease, mortality, biopsy-proven acute rejection (BPAR), leukopenia, and thrombocytopenia. Multivariable Cox proportional-hazards modeling was used to assess the association of MELD score with the time to CMV viremia. There were 162 and 79 patients in the low and high MELD groups, respectively. Pretransplant MELD score ≥35 was associated with an increased risk of CMV viremia (hazard ratio [HR] 1.73; confidence interval 1.06-2.82, p=.03). CMV viremia occurred at 162±61 days in the low MELD group and 139±62 days in the high MELD group. Although BPAR occurred early at 30 days (13-59) in the low-MELD group and at 18 days (11-66) in the high-MELD group (p=.56), BPAR was not associated with an increased risk of CMV viremia (HR 1.55 [0.93-2.60], p=.1). MELD scores ≥35 were associated with an increased hazards of CMV viremia. In liver transplant recipients with MELD scores ≥35 who are CMV high-risk, additional CMV intervention may be warranted.

Etiological Spectrum, Epidemiological Characteristics in Compensated and Decompensated Cirrhosis at First Presentation

ABSTRACT Context and Aim: Decompensation as a presenting feature is uncommon among cirrhosis-seeking consultations and may indicate the poor outcomes. This study will be assessing the etiology and epidemiological characteristics among compensated and decompensated cirrhosis at first presentation. Settings and Design: A cross-sectional study in a tertiary care hospital in south Kerala, India. Subjects and Methods: Two hundred and nine patients with liver cirrhosis were evaluated for: age at presentation to the hospital, biochemical, virologic, Child–Pugh and Model for end-stage liver disease (MELD), and MELD Sodium (MELD Na) scores. Using cutoff for MELD Na and Child scores A versus B and C, the degree of association in those with or without decompensation was evaluated. Results: The mean (standard deviation) age of participants was 58.24 (±9.9) years. Seventy-seven percent were males. 11.5% were with decompensated cirrhosis (DC). 61.2% had alcoholic liver disease (ALD); 8.1% had hepatitis B; 2.4% hepatitis C virus; 0.5% autoimmune hepatitis; and 27.8% had nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). In compensated cirrhosis (CC), 60.5% had ALD and 28.1% (n = 52) had NASH, whereas, in those with decompensation, 66.7% had ALD and 25% had NASH. In CC, 54.1% were Child A and the rest B and C compared to DC, wherein 58.3% were with Child B and C and 41.7% in Child A. MELD Score of 9+ was more in DC compared to CC (P = 0.05). Alcoholic hepatitis was observed in 32% of DC. Conclusions: Decompensation was the presenting feature in 11.5%, and alcohol abuse was the major risk factor. Those with DC have higher MELD scores.

Hypoglycemia on admission in patients with acute on chronic liver failure: a retrospective cohort analyzing the current situation, risk factors, and associations with prognosis.

Hypoglycemia is a common phenomenon in patients with various severe liver diseases. However, its implications for the prognosis of patients with acute on chronic liver failure remains largely unknown. This study investigated the status of hypoglycemia in patients with acute on chronic liver failure, as well as its risk factors and correlation with 90-day patient outcomes. A total of 218 patients with acute on chronic liver failure diagnosed and treated in our hospital from January 2019 to August 2021 were enrolled. Hypoglycemia is defined as a fasting blood glucose level ≤2.8 mmol/L. Baseline data on the patients' clinical characteristics and laboratory examinations were collected. Patients were followed-up with a primary outcome of 90-day mortality. The risk factors for hypoglycemia were identified by univariate and multivariate logistic regression. A total of 99 cases (45.41%) had hypoglycemia. Liver cirrhosis [odds ratio (OR) =5.16, P<0.001] and a higher model for end-stage liver disease (MELD) score (OR =1.29, P<0.001) were risk factors for hypoglycemia in acute on chronic liver failure, while higher fibrinogen (FIB) was a protective factor for hypoglycemia (OR =0.17, P=0.001). The 90-day mortality rate in the hypoglycemia group was significantly higher than that in the non-hypoglycemia group (72.73% vs. 48.74%, P<0.001). After adjusting for hepatic encephalopathy, cirrhosis, and MELD scores, hypoglycemia (OR =8.72, P=0.01) was still an independent risk factor for 90-day mortality in patients with acute on chronic liver failure. Hypoglycemia is common in patients with acute on chronic liver failure and is related to poor prognosis. Patients with cirrhosis, a higher MELD score, and a significant decrease in FIB are more likely to develop hypoglycemia. Thus whether ameliorating hypoglycemia could improve patient outcomes deserves additional investigations.

Evaluation of subclinical left ventricular systolic dysfunction using two-dimensional speckle-tracking echocardiography in patients with Child-Pugh A and B cirrhosis: A case-control study.

Although studies have proven that liver cirrhosis affects cardiac hemodynamics by means of circulatory overload, they present with definite cardiac functional alteration mostly with end-stage disease. There is limited data on relationship betweenprogression of cirrhosis, cardiac mechanics and sub-clinical dysfunction. This study was done to assess ventricular myocardial mechanics using speckle tracking and deformation imaging among Child-Turcotte-Pugh (CTP) classification A and B cirrhosis. Seventy patients with cirrhosis of Child-Pugh A/B class and sixty-two healthy subjects were prospectively evaluated by standard conventional echocardiography and deformation imaging with rotational echocardiography. Clinical stage of liver cirrhosis was assessed by model for end-stage liver disease (MELD) scores and CTP classification. Mean ages of patients with cirrhosis and controls were 55.64±14 years and 52.24±12 years, respectively. Though left ventricular (LV) dimensions (end diastolic dimension: 47.27±4.6 mm vs. 45.03±3.8 mm, p = 0.003; end systolic dimension: 30.33±4.9 mm vs. 28.40±2.91mm, p = 0.006) and volumes (end diastolic volume: 82.08±22.53 mL vs. 68.18±15.75 mL, p = 0.001; end systolic volume: 28.60±8.42 mL vs. 22.18±7.48 mL, p = 0.001) were significantly higher in patients with cirrhosis, mean ejection fraction (EF) by Simpsons method was higher among controls (65.83±5.79% vs. 68.35±5.79%, p = 0.009). Left atrial volume was higher in cirrhosis group indicating presence of diastolic dysfunction (41.24±14.10 mL vs. 26.08±6.4 mL, p = 0.001). Global longitudinal strain as assessed by speckle tracking echocardiography did not show statistical significant difference between two groups (-22.35±4.08% vs. -21.80±2.54%, p = 0.348). Median value of torsion parameters in patients with cirrhosis did not differ compared to controls (torsion in degrees: 2.46 vs. 2.79, p = 0.268). Patients with Child-Pugh A and B stages of cirrhosis present with preserved longitudinal strain, normal torsion but with subtle diastolic dysfunction. Higher MELD score may correlate with increased longitudinal strain possibly due to hyperdynamic state.

Temporal Trends in Portopulmonary Hypertension Model for End-stage Liver Disease Exceptions and Outcomes.

Using data from the Organ Procurement and Transplantation Network database, we describe the frequency of POPH MELD exceptions between 2006 and 2019, compare baseline patient characteristics, and characterize trends in liver disease and POPH severity' as well as POPH treatment and outcomes' over time. To facilitate comparison, we divided this 14-y period into 3 "eras" (2006-2010, 2011-2015, and 2016-2019). Between 2006 and 2019, 504 unique POPH MELD exceptions were granted. Both liver disease severity and patient age have increased over time (P = 0.04 and P = 0.006, respectively). Posttreatment hemodynamic values (mean pulmonary arterial pressure and pulmonary vascular resistance) have significantly improved (P < 0.001 and P = 0.008, respectively). Treatment with endothelin receptor antagonists has become more prevalent, whereas use of parenteral therapy and monotherapy regimens has decreased (P < 0.001). Neither waitlist nor liver transplant mortality outcomes have significantly changed over the eras analyzed. In conclusion, 504 patients have received POPH MELD exceptions between 2006 and 2019. Since 2010, nearly all patients granted POPH MELD exceptions have met hemodynamic criteria for POPH. Over time, there has been a trend toward older age and higher MELD scores with significant changes in pulmonary arterial hypertension treatment patterns and an improvement in posttreatment hemodynamics without major change in outcomes.

The potential liver donor with tuberculosis: A fresh look at international recommendations based on a survey of practice in Indian liver transplant centres.

Background The western recommendations for the use of organs from liver donors with tuberculosis (TB) come from an environment where the burden of disease is low and cadaveric organ donation rates are high-in complete contrast to the Indian scenario, where these recommendations may be too restrictive. Methods A questionnaire relating to current practice on the use of organs from liver donors with TB was sent to all liver transplant centres in India. Results Responses were obtained from 94% of centres. Two-thirds accepted organs from deceased donors with TB in the elective setting, especially for recipients with a high MELD (Model for end-stage liver disease) score. The proportion rose by 1.5 times in the setting of acute liver failure. Two-thirds advised anti-TB treatment (ATT) for corresponding recipients, and the remaining advised isonicotinic acid hydrazide (INH) prophylaxis. Untreated living donors with TB were not accepted. Half the respondents accepted living donors after completion of ATT, and did not treat recipients postoperatively. The remainder accepted them after 8 weeks of treatment and advised INH prophylaxis or ATT for recipients. Conclusions That this practice has not impacted recipient outcomes suggests that the guidelines for management of liver donors and recipients may need to be altered for populations endemic for TB.

346.2: Preoperative Neutrophil and Platelet-To-Lymphocyte Ratio As Predictors of Mortality and Surgical Related Complications After Liver Transplantation

Introduction: Liver transplantation (LT) is considered the only definitive treatment in patients with end-stage liver disease (ESLD). Nowadays, the 5-year overall survival (OS) after LT is 75%–85%. In addition, short-term mortality has decreased due to better perioperative care, advancements in operative techniques, as well as changes in patient selection. Despite these improvements, a subset of patients still dies within the first year after LT. Neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) and platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR) have been recently reported as simple and useful markers of various inflammatory changes and are calculated based on complete blood count data. It has been suggested that both parameters in the acute phase of LT are prognostic factors for early post-transplant survival. Method: We conducted a retrospective and analytic study. Among 410 LT recipients between January 2013 and February 2022 who were operated at the HPB surgery and liver transplant department of the Hospital de Alta Complejidad “El Cruce”, we selected 120 patients after simple random sampling. Patients’ demographic data, cirrhosis etiology, model for end-stage liver disease (MELD) scores, and hematological parameters were analyzed. Latest hematological parameters prior to surgery were recorded. NLR and PLR values were calculated based on the measured hematological parameters. Time and incidence of postoperative complications were analyzed. Fisher exact test, Mann–Whitney U test and Students T-test were used when appropriate. Two-sided p value equal or less than 0.05 was considered to indicate statistical significance with a confidence interval of 95%. All analyses were conducted using MedCalc version 20.027 (https://www.medcalc.org/). Results: The mean age of the 120 patients included in the study was 58.73 ± 7.04 years; 66.67% were male. All patients received decesead donor liver transplantation. The most common indication for LT was liver cirrhosis due to hepatitis C virus (HCV) (30%) followed by alcoholic liver cirrhosis (26.67%) (table 1). The mean MELD score was found to be 24.85 ± 4.67. 23 out of 120 patients died after LT (19.16%). 5 patients (4.16%) presented surgical-related complications. Mortality was higher in patients with higher MELD scores (p = 0.011). The mean preoperative NLR was 3.54 ± 4.08 and PLR was 80.73 ± 50.59. When NLR and PLR results with cut-off values of >3,77 and ≤34,18 respectively were compared with the incidence of major complications (Dindo-Clavien ≥3) a significant result was found (p = 0.01). No statistical significance was found between NLR, PLR and age and mortality (p=0.91, 0.93 and 0.47 respectively). Conclusion: Preoperative NLR and PLR were not found useful to predict mortality after OLT in our series. However, they may be of value to anticipate poor prognosis or major incidence of complications in patients undergoing OLT. With this simple indices, high-risk patients can be identified and preventive measures can be taken.

Trends and outcomes of liver transplantation among older recipients in the United States.

BACKGROUNDThe average age of recipients and donors of liver transplantation (LT) is increasing. Although there has been a change in the indications for LT over the years, data regarding the trends and outcomes of LT in the older population is limited.AIMTo assess the clinical characteristics, age-related trends, and outcomes of LT among the older population in the United States.METHODSWe analyzed data from the United Network for Organ Sharing database between 1987-2019. The sample was split into younger group (18-64 years old) and older group (≥ 65 years old).RESULTSBetween 1987-2019, 155758 LT were performed in the United States. During this period there was a rise in median age of the recipients and percentage of LT recipients who were older than 65 years increased (P < 0.05) with the highest incidence of LT among older population seen in 2019 (1920, 23%). Common primary etiologies of liver disease leading to LT in older patients when compared to the younger group, were non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (16.4% vs 5.9%), hepatocellular carcinoma (14.9% vs 6.9%), acute liver failure (2.5% vs 5.2%), hepatitis C cirrhosis (HCV) (19.2 % vs 25.6%) and acute alcoholic hepatitis (0.13% vs 0.35%). In older recipient group female sex and Asian race were higher, while model for end-stage liver disease (MELD) score and rates of preoperative mechanical ventilation were lower (P < 0.01). Median age of donor, female sex, body mass index (BMI), donor HCV positive status, and donor risk index (DRI) were significantly higher in older group (P < 0.01). In univariable analysis, there was no difference in post-transplant length of hospitalization, one-year, three-year and five-year graft survivals between the two groups. In multivariable Cox-Hazard regression analysis, older group had an increased risk of graft failure during the five-year post-transplant period (hazard ratio: 1.27, P < 0.001). Other risk factors for graft failure among recipients were male sex, African American race, re-transplantation, presence of diabetes, mechanical ventilation at the time of LT, higher MELD score, presence of portal vein thrombosis, HCV positive status, and higher DRI.CONCLUSIONWhile there is a higher risk of graft failure in older recipient population, age alone should not be a contraindication for LT. Careful selection of donors and recipients along with optimal management of risk factors during the postoperative period are necessary to maximize the transplant outcomes in this population.

Outcomes of liver transplant recipients with high MELD scores: an experience from a Canadian centre.

Background:The frequency with which patients with high Model for End-Stage Liver Disease (MELD) scores undergo liver transplantation has been increasing. Canadian literature regarding the outcomes of liver transplantation in recipients with high MELD scores is limited. The primary objective of this study was to assess patient and graft survival among recipients with high (> 35) and low (≤ 35) MELD scores. Secondary objectives were to potentially identify independent predictors of graft failure and patient mortality.Methods:We conducted a retrospective chart review of patients undergoing liver transplantation at a single Canadian centre from 2012 to 2017.Results:A total of 332 patients were included in the study: 280 patients had a MELD score of 35 or lower, and 52 had a MELD score above 35. Patients with high MELD scores had higher rates of pretransplant acute kidney injury and dialysis (p < 0.001), admission to the intensive care unit (ICU) or intubation (p < 0.001), intraoperative blood product transfusions (p < 0.001) and post-transplantation acute kidney injury and dialysis (p < 0.001), as well as longer ICU (p < 0.001) and hospital stays (p = 0.002). One- and 3-year patient survival in recipients with MELD scores of 35 or lower was 93.1% and 84.9% versus 85.0% and 80.0% in recipients with MELD scores above 35 (p = 0.37). One- and 3-year graft survival in recipients with MELD scores of 35 or lower was 91.7% and 90.9% versus 77.2% and 72.8% in recipients with MELD scores above 35 (p < 0.001). Prior liver transplant was an independent predictor of patient mortality, and no independent predictors of graft failure were identified. When MELD was replaced with D-MELD (donor age × recipient MELD), it predicted graft failure but not patient survival.Conclusion:No difference in patient mortality was found between MELD groups. Graft survival was significantly lower in recipients with MELD scores above 35. D-MELD may potentially be used as an adjunct in determining risk of graft failure in recipients with high MELD scores.