Cirrhotic cardiomyopathy

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Hepatology
• Internal Medicine

Background:

• Cardiovascular dysfunction in liver cirrhosis was historically attributed solely to alcoholic cardiomyopathy.
• The term cirrhotic cardiomyopathy (CCM) emerged in the last two decades to define cardiac dysfunction specific to cirrhosis.
• CCM is often latent, presenting under stress, leading to underdiagnosis.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide a comprehensive overview of cirrhotic cardiomyopathy (CCM).
• To discuss the definition, prevalence, pathogenesis, clinical presentation, diagnostic tools, and management of CCM.
• To review the latest literature on CCM.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of recent publications on cirrhotic cardiomyopathy.
• Synthesis of information regarding CCM's characteristics and clinical implications.

Main Results:

• CCM is characterized by systolic and diastolic dysfunction, along with electrophysiological abnormalities.
• Overt cardiac failure can occur post-transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) and liver transplantation.
• Diagnosis remains challenging due to a lack of specific diagnostic tools.

Conclusions:

• CCM is a significant complication of liver cirrhosis with no specific treatment beyond liver transplantation.
• Increased mortality and postoperative complications are associated with CCM.
• Further research is needed for improved diagnosis and management strategies for CCM.