[Plasma histamine concentration and hemodynamic changes in liver cirrhosis (author's transl)]

Different causal factors have been speculated about in regard to hemodynamic changes (hyperdynamic circulation) in liver cirrhosis. Effects of various vasoactive substances upon the increased arterio-venous intrapulmonary shunting in cirrhosis have been demonstrated, including reduced ferritin, bradykinin, prostaglandins, VIP and parenterally applied histamine. In cirrhotic patients pre- and posthepatic plasma concentrations of histamine are definitely elevated, and elimination of histamine by the liver is reduced. It is speculated, that elevated plasma concentrations of endogenous histamine may contribute to hemodynamic changes in liver cirrhosis.