An Overview of the Clinical Implications of Cirrhotic Cardiomyopathy

AbstractPurpose of ReviewCirrhotic cardiomyopathy (CCM) is a clinical entity that reflects the maladaptive responses of the heart to advanced chronic liver disease. With the recent developments in this field, this review details the most up to date knowledge about the pathogenesis of CCM, recent changes in its diagnostic criteria, and its clinical relevance.Recent FindingsAdvances in echocardiographic techniques over the last several years and recent research have highlighted the high prevalence of CCM approaching 35% and demonstrated adverse impact of CCM on clinical outcomes following transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunting (TIPS) and liver transplantation (LT).SummaryThe diagnostic criteria for cirrhotic cardiomyopathy have evolved with advancements in echocardiographic techniques allowing for precise and perhaps timely identification of those with subclinical cardiac impairment. CCM increases the risk for adverse outcomes in patients with cirrhosis and liver transplant recipients. Future studies are needed to identify subgroups of patients at highest risk for cirrhotic cardiomyopathy, the frequency and duration of monitoring for those with CCM, and potential therapeutics for patients with cirrhosis and liver transplant who have been diagnosed with cirrhotic cardiomyopathy.
Source: Current Hepatitis Reports - Category: Infectious Diseases Source Type: research