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Updated: Jun 13, 2025
08:38
A Standardized Method for the Analysis of Liver Sinusoidal Endothelial Cells and Their Fenestrations by Scanning Electron Microscopy
Published on: April 30, 2015
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Link between persistent, unexplained gamma-glutamyltransferase elevation and porto-sinusoidal vascular disorder.
Nicola Pugliese1,2, Francesca Romana Ponziani3,4, Federica Cerini5,6
1Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Pieve Emanuele (MI), Italy.
JHEP Reports : Innovation in Hepatology
|September 12, 2024
Summary
Porto-sinusoidal vascular disorder (PSVD) is a common cause of unexplained high gamma-glutamyltransferase (GGT) levels. Male sex, lower liver stiffness, and GGT below 200 U/L are associated with PSVD.
Area of Science:
- Hepatology
- Vascular Biology
- Diagnostic Pathology
Background:
- Porto-sinusoidal vascular disorder (PSVD) involves lesions in the liver's portal venules and sinusoids.
- Elevated gamma-glutamyltransferase (GGT) can indicate underlying liver conditions.
- Liver biopsy is crucial for diagnosing PSVD.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of PSVD in patients with persistent, unexplained GGT elevation.
- To identify risk factors associated with PSVD in this patient group.
Main Methods:
- A multicenter study included 144 patients with unexplained GGT elevation undergoing liver biopsy.
- Data collected included patient demographics, liver stiffness measurements (LSM), and histological findings.
Main Results:
- PSVD was diagnosed in 67% of patients.
- PSVD was significantly associated with male sex (OR 2.60), LSM <10 kPa (OR 11.05), and GGT <200 U/L (OR 2.69).
- Alternative diagnoses included steatohepatitis, sarcoidosis, and congenital hepatic fibrosis.
Conclusions:
- PSVD is a primary cause of persistent, unexplained GGT elevation.
- Male sex, LSM <10 kPa, and GGT <200 U/L are predictive factors for PSVD.
- Liver biopsy is vital for diagnosing PSVD in patients with unexplained GGT elevations.
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