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Hepatic Encephalopathy Challenges, Burden, and Diagnostic and Therapeutic Approach

Beshoy Yanny1, Adam Winters1, Sandra Boutros2

  • 1Department of Medicine, University of California at Los Angeles, 1223 16th street, suite 3100, Santa Monica, CA 90404, USA.

Clinics in Liver Disease
|September 30, 2019
PubMed

Insights

Hepatic encephalopathy (HE) is a significant cause of illness and death in cirrhosis patients, increasing hospital admissions. This review explores current challenges and treatments for HE, a major health burden.

Area of Science:

  • Hepatology
  • Gastroenterology
  • Neurology

Background:

  • Hepatic encephalopathy (HE) is a major complication of cirrhosis, contributing significantly to patient morbidity and mortality.
  • The healthcare system faces a substantial burden due to increasing hospital admissions for HE.
  • HE poses a considerable challenge for patients, caregivers, and healthcare providers, often involving repeated hospitalizations.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the current literature on hepatic encephalopathy (HE).
  • To discuss the diagnostic challenges and therapeutic strategies for managing HE.
  • To highlight the profound impact of HE on patients, caregivers, and the healthcare system.

Main Methods:

  • Systematic review of existing literature on hepatic encephalopathy.
  • Analysis of diagnostic criteria and therapeutic interventions for HE.
  • Examination of the impact of HE on healthcare utilization and patient outcomes.

Main Results:

  • Hospital admissions for HE have risen over the past decade.
  • HE leads to a 'revolving door' phenomenon with frequent readmissions.
  • Cognitive impairments associated with HE can persist even after liver transplantation.

Conclusions:

  • Hepatic encephalopathy presents significant challenges in diagnosis and management.
  • Effective therapeutic approaches are crucial to mitigate the burden of HE.
  • Further research is needed to improve long-term outcomes for patients with HE.

Keywords:
Hepatic encephalopathyLiver cirrhosisPortal hypertensionRefractory hepatic encephalopathy

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