[Blood catecholamines in liver cirrhosis]
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Minerva Medica
|October 27, 1985
Insights
Cirrhotic patients with ascites show elevated catecholamines, indicating heightened sympathetic nervous system activity. This suggests beta-blockers may help manage fluid retention in these patients.
Area of Science:
- Hepatology
- Endocrinology
- Cardiovascular Physiology
Abstract:
Haematic concentrations of catecholamines were found to be higher in cirrhotic patients with ascites, than cirrhotic patients without ascites and controls. In compensated and decompensated cirrhosis, different forms of sympathetic nervous activity were observed. The high catecholamine values in cirrhotic patients and the activation of the renin angiotensin-aldosterone system suggest the use of beta-blockers to reduce sodium-water retention.