Cirrhotic cardiomyopathy: Pathogenesis, clinical features, diagnosis, treatment and prognosis

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Hepatology
• Internal Medicine

Background:

• Cirrhotic cardiomyopathy (CCM) is a recognized syndrome of chronic cardiac dysfunction in patients with cirrhosis.
• It affects approximately 60% of patients, irrespective of cirrhosis etiology, and impacts disease progression and treatment outcomes.
• CCM is often asymptomatic, making diagnosis difficult and requiring a high index of suspicion.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compile and summarize current data on cirrhotic cardiomyopathy.
• To review the pathogenesis, clinical features, diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis of CCM.

Main Methods:

• Literature review and data synthesis.
• Focus on recent research and diagnostic criteria from the Cirrhotic Cardiomyopathy Consortium.
• Compilation of information on CCM pathophysiology and clinical presentation.

Main Results:

• CCM is characterized by impaired myocardial contractility, inadequate ventricular relaxation, and electrophysiological abnormalities (e.g., prolonged QT interval).
• Despite recent advances in diagnostic criteria, CCM remains underrecognized among clinicians.
• Significant gaps exist in understanding CCM pathophysiology and optimal treatment strategies.

Conclusions:

• Cirrhotic cardiomyopathy is a prevalent and critical condition in cirrhosis patients.
• Early and accurate diagnosis of CCM is essential for improved patient management.
• Further research is needed to fully elucidate CCM's pathophysiology and establish effective treatments.