Non-Selective Beta-Blockers Decrease Infection, Acute Kidney Injury Episodes, and Ameliorate Sarcopenic Changes in...

Area of Science:

• Hepatology
• Nephrology
• Geriatrics

Background:

• Portal hypertension in cirrhosis leads to complications.
• Non-selective beta-blockers (NSBBs) are known to reduce some complications.
• Limited research exists on NSBBs' effects on other cirrhosis complications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the impact of NSBBs on infection, AKI, chronic kidney decline, and sarcopenia in cirrhosis.
• To compare the effects of NSBBs versus non-NSBBs on these complications.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of 4946 cirrhosis patients with a 4-year follow-up.
• Propensity-score matching (PSM) for cohort selection.
• Generalized estimating equation (GEE) and generalized linear mixed models for statistical analysis.

Main Results:

• 166 patients were included (83 NSBBs, 83 non-NSBBs).
• NSBBs were associated with reduced infections and a trend towards fewer AKIs.
• Non-NSBBs showed no significant difference in chronic renal function decline but were linked to sarcopenic changes.

Conclusions:

• Chronic NSBB use is beneficial in reducing infections and AKIs in cirrhosis.
• Non-NSBBs are associated with sarcopenic changes in cirrhosis patients.