Validation of NIAAAm-CRP criteria to predict alcohol-associated steatohepatitis on liver histology.

Background & Aims: In clinical practice, the diagnosis of alcohol-associated hepatitis (AH) is mostly based on non-invasive criteria, which were defined at a consensus conference by the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA). These criteria were recently modified by adding C-reactive protein (CRP) and termed NIAAAm-CRP criteria, which showed superior diagnostic accuracy for presence of alcohol-associated steatohepatitis (ASH) on liver histology. The aim of our study was to validate the diagnostic accuracy of both original NIAAA criteria and NIAAAm-CRP criteria for presence of ASH on liver histology in an independent cohort. Methods: Data from a large multinational cohort of 445 patients with alcohol-associated liver disease (ALD) that served to establish a novel grading and staging system of alcohol-associated liver disease were analyzed retrospectively. Diagnosis of ASH was based on presence of hepatocyte ballooning plus lobular neutrophil infiltration and established in virtual consensus meetings of multiple expert liver pathologists. Results: Complete data including CRP values were available in 346 patients. Overall diagnostic accuracy for prediction of ASH was 73% for NIAAA criteria and 77% for NIAAAm-CRP criteria. In a subgroup with suspected severe AH (MELD >20, n = 123), overall diagnostic accuracy for prediction of ASH was 69% for NIAAA criteria and 74% for NIAAAm-CRP criteria. Conclusion: Our findings confirm recent data on suboptimal diagnostic accuracy of original NIAAA criteria and validate slightly better but still suboptimal performance of NIAAAm-CRP criteria for presence of ASH. Impact and Implications: Alcohol-associated steatohepatitis (ASH) is diagnosed on liver histology but liver biopsy is not always feasible. Non-invasive diagnosis based on clinical findings has been proposed using the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA) criteria and recently improved using NIAAAm-CRP criteria. Our findings validate slightly better but still suboptimal performance of NIAAAm-CRP criteria for the presence of histological ASH. Clinical trials of novel drugs should focus on histologically proven ASH.

An artificial intelligence-generated model predicts 90-day survival in alcohol-associated hepatitis: A global cohort study.

BACKGROUND AIMS: Alcohol-associated hepatitis (AH) poses significant short-term mortality. Existing prognostic models lack precision for 90-day mortality. Utilizing artificial intelligence (AI) in a global cohort, we sought to derive and validate an enhanced prognostic model. APPROACH AND RESULTS: The Global AlcHep initiative, a retrospective study across 23 centers in 12 countries, enrolled AH patients per NIAAA criteria. Centers were partitioned into derivation (11 centers, 860 patients) and validation cohorts (12 centers, 859 patients). Focusing on 30 and 90-day post-admission mortality, three AI algorithms (Random Forest, Gradient Boosting Machines, and eXtreme Gradient Boosting) informed an ensemble model, subsequently refined via Bayesian updating, integrating the derivation cohort's average 90-day mortality with each center's approximate mortality rate to produce post-test probabilities. The ALCoholic Hepatitis Artificial INtelligence (ALCHAIN) Ensemble score integrated age, gender, cirrhosis, and 9 laboratory values, with center-specific mortality rates. Mortality was 18.7% (30-day) and 27.9% (90-day) in the derivation cohort, versus 21.7% and 32.5% in the validation cohort. Validation cohort 30 and 90-day AUCs were 0.811 (0.779 - 0.844) and 0.799 (0.769 - 0.830), significantly surpassing legacy models like Maddrey's Discriminant Function, MELD variations, ABIC, Glasgow, and modified Glasgow Scores (p<0.001). ALCHAIN Ensemble score also showcased superior calibration against MELD and its variants. Steroid use improved 30-day survival for those with an ALCHAIN Ensemble score>0.20 in both derivation and validation cohorts. CONCLUSIONS: Harnessing AI within a global consortium, we pioneered a scoring system excelling over traditional models for 30 and 90-day AH mortality predictions. Beneficial for clinical trials, steroid therapy, and transplant indications, it's accessible at: https://aihepatology.shinyapps.io/ALCHAIN/.

The Interplay between Liver Sinusoidal Endothelial Cells, Platelets, and Neutrophil Extracellular Traps in the Development and Progression of Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease.

Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) represents a societal burden due to the lack of effective treatment and incomplete pathophysiology understanding. This review explores the intricate connections among liver sinusoidal endothelial cells (LSECs), platelets, neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs), and coagulation disruptions in MASLD pathogenesis. In MASLD's early stages, LSECs undergo capillarization and dysfunction due to excessive dietary macronutrients and gut-derived products. Capillarization leads to ischemic changes in hepatocytes, triggering pro-inflammatory responses in Kupffer cells (KCs) and activating hepatic stellate cells (HSCs). Capillarized LSECs show a pro-inflammatory phenotype through adhesion molecule overexpression, autophagy loss, and increased cytokines production. Platelet interaction favors leucocyte recruitment, NETs formation, and liver inflammatory foci. Liver fibrosis is facilitated by reduced nitric oxide, HSC activation, profibrogenic mediators, and increased angiogenesis. Moreover, platelet attachment, activation, α-granule cargo release, and NETs formation contribute to MASLD progression. Platelets foster fibrosis and microthrombosis, leading to parenchymal extinction and fibrotic healing. Additionally, platelets promote tumor growth, epithelial-mesenchymal transition, and tumor cell metastasis. MASLD's prothrombotic features are exacerbated by insulin resistance, diabetes, and obesity, manifesting as increased von Willebrand factor, platelet hyperaggregability, hypo-fibrinolysis, and a prothrombotic fibrin clot structure. Improving LSEC health and using antiplatelet treatment appear promising for preventing MASLD development and progression.

Multiparametric ultrasound evaluation of liver fibrosis, steatosis, and viscosity in patients with chronic liver disease.

AIMS: This study assessed the effectiveness of three ultrasound-based techniques (2D-SWE.PLUS, Att.PLUS, Vi.PLUS) for non-invasive evaluation of liver fibrosis, steatosis, and inflammation in chronic liver disease (CLD) patients.Materials and methods: Involving 209 consecutive compensated CLD patients, the study compared these ultrasound methods from Aixplorerwith standard Vibration-controlled Transient Elastography (VCTE) and Controlled Attenuation Parameter (CAP) from Fibroscan, alongside non-invasive serological markers. RESULTS: High validity rates were observed in measurements: 99% for VCTE, 89% for 2D-SWE.PLUS/Vi.PLUS, and 96.6% for Att.PLUS. 2D-SWE.PLUS showed a strong correlation with VCTE (R=0.91) and excelled at a lower Stability Index (80%), with optimal cut-offs for moderate and severe fibrosis at 8 kPa and 10 kPa, respectively. 2D-SWE.PLUS was superior to Fib4, eLIFT, APRI, BARD, and NFS in detecting advanced CLD. Att.PLUS moderately correlated with CAP (R=0.47) for steatosis grades, while Viscosity was highly effective in identifying significant fibrosis (AUC=0.87) but less so for inflammation. CONCLUSIONS: 2D-SWE.PLUS demonstrated superior diagnostic precision in liver fibrosis, exceeding other non-invasive markers. Att.PLUS was relatively accurate for liver steatosis, and viscosity more effectively indicated fibrosis stages than inflammation in CLD patients.

Lactobacillus rhamnosus probiotic treatment modulates gut and liver inflammatory pathways in a hepatocellular carcinoma murine model. A preliminary study.

BACKGROUND AND AIMS: Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a growing global concern with an increasing incidence rate. The intestinal microbiota has been identified as a potential culprit in modulating the effects of antitumoral drugs. We aimed to assess the impact of adding Lactobacillus rhamnosus probiotic to regorafenib in mice with HCC. METHODS: Cirrhosis and HCCs were induced in 56 male Swiss mice via diethylnitrosamine injection and carbon tetrachloride administration. Mice were divided into four groups: treated with vehicle (VC), regorafenib (Rego), L. rhamnosus probiotic, and a combination of regorafenib and probiotic (Rego-Pro). After 3 weeks of treatment, liver and intestinal fragments were collected for analysis. RESULTS: Regorafenib elevated gut permeability, an effect mitigated by probiotic intervention, which exhibited a notable correlation with reduced inflammation (p < 0.01). iNOS levels were also reduced by adding the probiotic with respect to the mice treated with regorafenib only (p < 0.001). Notably, regorafenib substantially increased IL-6, TNF-a and TLR4 in intestinal fragments (p < 0.01). The administration of the probiotic effectively restored IL-6 to its initial levels (p < 0.001). CONCLUSION: Reducing systemic and intestinal inflammation by administering L. rhamnosus probiotic may alleviate tumoral resistance and systemic adverse effects.

TIPS with a Twist - The Real Life Management of a Case of Budd-Chiari-related Acute Liver and Subsequent Multiple Organ Failure.

INTRODUCTION: Budd-Chari syndrome (BCS) is a rare condition defined by the obstruction of hepatic venous outflow. BCS is a relatively infrequent cause of acute liver failure (ALF), accounting for less than 1% of cases. Treatment for acute BCS consists of a stepwise approach, requiring anticoagulation, angioplasty, transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS), and liver transplantation. CASE REPORT: We present the case of a 31-year-old female patient with BCS, which led to ALF and subsequent multiple organ failure, which was successfully treated with TIPS and endovascular coil placement. Initial diagnostic workup revealed the complete obstruction of the hepatic venous outflow, spleno-mesenteric confluent thrombosis, and biochemical criteria of ALF. Her condition rapidly deteriorated towards multiple organ failure. At one point, the MELD score was 42, while the SOFA score predicted a mortality rate of >95%. Following continuous venovenous hemodiafiltration with cytokine adsorbent filters, TIPS was inserted, resulting in a portal pressure gradient (PPG) of 14 mmHg. Following TIPS, the patient had persistent ascites and later presented an episode of gastric variceal bleeding with endoscopic and surgical treatment failure. TIPS revision with further dilation led to a final PPG of 6 mmHg. During the procedure, selective embolization by coil placement of the spleno-gastric collateral circulation ultimately resolved the variceal bleeding. In the aftermath, the patient had complete organ failure remission and was successfully discharged with no ascites, encephalopathy, or significant impairment regarding daily life activities. CONCLUSION: In the rare setting of BCS complicated with ALF and portal hypertension-related complications, TIPS and endovascular embolization provide a unique, effective, and against-all-odd solution.

Accuracy of spleen stiffness measurement for the diagnosis of clinically significant portal hypertension in patients with compensated advanced chronic liver disease: a systematic review and individual patient data meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND: The diagnosis of clinically significant portal hypertension is crucial for prognosis and treatment guidance in patients with compensated advanced chronic liver disease (ACLD). Spleen stiffness measurement (SSM) might improve the non-invasive diagnosis of clinically significant portal hypertension, but previous studies have reported heterogeneous SSM cutoffs. We aimed to evaluate the accuracy of SSM and SSM-based algorithms in this setting. METHODS: In this systematic review and individual patient data meta-analysis, we searched PubMed, Embase, Scopus, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Library from database inception to Dec 31, 2022, for articles, abstracts, and letters, with no restrictions on language. Cross-sectional studies reporting hepatic venous pressure gradient and SSM by different techniques (transient elastography; two-dimensional shear-wave elastography [2D-SWE]; point shear-wave elastography [p-SWE]) in adults (≥18 years) with compensated ACLD were eligible for inclusion. The main outcome was the diagnostic performance of two SSM-based algorithms, with the Baveno VII model as a reference, evaluating sensitivity and specificity, as well as summary negative predictive values (NPVs) and positive predictive values (PPVs). In the Baveno VII model, clinically significant portal hypertension was ruled out if patients had a liver stiffness measurement (LSM) of 15 kPa or less and a platelet count of 150 × 109 platelets per L or higher and ruled in if they had an LSM of greater than 25 kPa. The two SSM-based models combined these same cutoffs with additional criteria. In the Baveno VII-SSM single cutoff model, clinically significant portal hypertension was ruled out if at least two of the following were present: LSM of 15 kPa or less, platelet count of 150 × 109 platelets per L or higher, and SSM of 40 kPa or less; and ruled in if at least two were present: LSM of greater than 25 kPa, platelet count of less than 150 × 109 platelets per L, and SSM of greater than 40 kPa. The Baveno VII-SSM dual cutoff model used the same criteria, but with a cutoff of SSM of less than 21 kPa to rule out, and greater than 50 kPa to rule in, clinically significant portal hypertension. This study is registered with PROSPERO, CRD42019127164. FINDINGS: Of the 44 records assessed for eligibility, 17 studies (with 1245 patients) were included in the meta-analysis. In the transient elastography cohort (n=600), the Baveno VII algorithm was validated for both ruling out (NPV 100%, 95% CI 64-100; sensitivity 100%, 95% CI 70-100) and ruling in (PPV 95%, 85-98; specificity 94%, 95% CI 87-97) clinically significant portal hypertension, but the proportion of patients with indeterminate results (grey zone) was 48% (95% CI 44-52); 57% (95% CI 52-62) of patients with clinically significant portal hypertension were included in the rule-in zone. The Baveno VII-SSM dual cutoff model had adequate NPV (98%, 95% CI 58-100; sensitivity 100%, 95% CI 91-100) and PPV (93%, 95% CI 84-97; specificity 89%, 95% CI 84-93), with 32% (95% CI 28-36) of patients in the grey zone; 76% (95% CI 72-80) of the patients with clinically significant portal hypertension were in the rule-in zone. The Baveno VII-SSM single cutoff model had a sensitivity of 93% (95% CI 85-97) and a NPV of 85% (95% CI 60-96) for ruling out, and a specificity of 86% (95% CI 80-91) and a PPV of 92% (95% CI 83-95) for ruling in, clinically significant portal hypertension. 88% (95% CI 84-91) of patients with clinically significant portal hypertension were included in the rule-in zone and 9% (95% CI 7-12) of patients were in the grey zone. In the 2D-SWE cohort (n=225), all three algorithms could safely rule in clinically significant portal hypertension with adequate PPV (≥90%), but NPV was inadequate for ruling out clinically significant portal hypertension. Insufficient data were available to evaluate the performance of SSM assessed by p-SWE. Heterogeneity was low (I2<25%) for most estimates. INTERPRETATION: Algorithms combining Baveno VII criteria with SSM showed good performance and reduced the diagnostic grey zone for clinically significant portal hypertension compared with Baveno VII criteria alone. Future studies should evaluate whether SSM-based diagnosis allows for the identification of patients who would benefit from non-selective ß-blocker treatment. FUNDING: None.

Enhanced diagnosis and prognosis of severe alcoholic hepatitis using novel metabolomic biomarkers.

AIM: Differentiating alcoholic hepatitis (AH) from acute decompensation of alcoholic cirrhosis (DC) is challenging, as the presentation and biochemistry are similar. We aimed to identify potential metabolomic biomarkers to differentiate between AH and DC, and to predict short-term mortality. METHODS: We included consecutive biopsy proven AH and DC patients, which were managed according to current guidelines and followed up until the end of the study. Untargeted metabolomics was assessed in all patients at baseline. Specific analyses were successively performed to identify potential biomarkers, which were further semi-quantitatively analysed against relevant clinical endpoints. RESULTS: Thirty-four patients with AH and 37 with DC were included. UHPLC-MS analysis identified 83 molecules potentially differentiating between AH and DC. C16-Sphinganine-1P (S1P) was the most increased, whereas Prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) was the most decreased. The PGE2/S1P ratio < 1.03 excellently discriminates between AH and DC: AUC 0.965 (p < 0.001), Se 90%, Sp 100%, PPV 0.91, NPV 1, and diagnostic accuracy 95%. This ratio is not influenced by the presence of infection (AUC 0.967 vs. 0.962), correlates with the Lille score at 7 days (r = -0.60; P = 0.022) and tends to be lower in corticosteroid non-responders as compared with patients who responded [0.85(±0.02) vs. 0.89(±0.05), P = 0.069]. Additionally, decreased ursodeoxycholic acid levels are correlated with MELD and Maddrey scores and predict mortality with a 77.27% accuracy (NPV = 100%). CONCLUSION: This study suggests the PGE2 (decreased)/S1P (increased) ratio as a biomarker to differentiate AH from DC. The study also finds that low levels of ursodeoxycholic acid could predict increased mortality in AH.

Presence of Hepatocellular Carcinoma Does Not Affect Course and Response to Anticoagulation of Bland Portal Vein Thrombosis in Cirrhotic Patients.

Background: Malignancies are generally considered a risk factor for deep vein thrombosis and may hamper the recanalisation of thrombosed veins. Aim: We investigate whether the natural course and response to anticoagulant treatment of bland portal vein thrombosis (PVT) in patients with cirrhosis complicated by hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) differ from those without HCC. Methods: Retrospective study in two hepatology referral centres, in Italy and Romania where patients with a diagnosis of PVT on cirrhosis and follow-up of at least 3 months with repeated imaging were included. Results: A total of 162 patients with PVT and matching inclusion and exclusion criteria were identified: 30 with HCC were compared to 132 without HCC. Etiologies, Child-Pugh Score (7 vs 7) and MELD scores (11 vs 12, p=0.3679) did not differ. Anticoagulation was administered to 43% HCC vs 42% nonHCC. The extension of PVT in the main portal trunk was similar: partial/total involvement was 73.3/6.7% in HCC vs 67.4/6.1% in nonHCC, p=0.760. The remainder had intrahepatic PVT. The recanalization rate was 61.5% and 60.7% in HCC/nonHCC in anticoagulated patients (p=1). Overall PVT recanalisation, including treated and untreated patients, was observed in 30% of HCC vs 37.9% of nonHCC, p=0.530. Major bleeding incidence was almost identical (3.3% vs 3.8%, p=1). Progression of PVT after stopping anticoagulation did not differ (10% vs 15.9%, respectively, HCC/nHCC, p=0.109). Conclusion: The course of bland non-malignant PVT in cirrhosis is not affected by the presence of active HCC. Treatment with anticoagulation in patients with active HCC is safe and as effective as in nonHCC patients, this can potentially allow us to use otherwise contraindicated therapies (ie TACE) if a complete recanalization is achieved with anticoagulation.

Individual and population screening of varices needing treatment by a simple, safe and accurate test.

BACKGROUND: Several tests have been developed to screen varices needing treatment (VNT) in different screening settings. We aimed to develop simple estimators to quantify VNT risk and spare endoscopy while missing <5% of VNT, adapted to different screenings in the main etiologies. METHODS: 2,368 patients with chronic liver disease were included. The main VNT predictors were platelets, prothrombin index (PI) and LSM. Their interactions led to score construction, LIP: (LSM*45)/(PI*platelets), and BLIP: BMI-adjusted LIP in NAFLD. Scores were categorized either for population (VNT sensitivity ≥95%) or individual (negative predictive value ≥95%) VNT screening. RESULTS: 1) Scores diagnosing VNT. AUROCs were, PLER: 0.767 Anticipate: 0.773 (p=0.059 vs previous), LIP: 0.779 (p=0.136), PLEASE: 0.789 (p=0.196). 2) Population screening performance was in increasing order (with missed VNT rate), Baveno6 criteria: 23.9% (2.5%), Anticipate: 24.5%, p=0.367 vs previous (3.3%), PLER: 27.3%, p<0.001 (3.6%), LIP: 33.4%, p<0.001 (4.2%), PLEASE: 35.2%, p=0.006 (3.6%). In NAFLD, LIP: 38.6%, BLIP: 40.8%, p=0.038. 3) Individual screening performance was, expanded Baveno6 criteria: 42.7%, LIP: 54.1%, p<0.001. In NAFLD, performance was, NAFLD-cirrhosis criteria: 66.7%, BLIP: 74.6%, p<0.001. CONCLUSION: LIP combined simplicity, performance and safety in each etiology. In NAFLD, BMI-adjusted LIP outperformed other tests.

Is Fasting Good When One Is at Risk of Liver Cancer?

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths worldwide, is a multistep process that usually develops in the background of cirrhosis, but also in a non-cirrhotic state in patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) or viral hepatis. Emerging evidence suggests that intermittent fasting can reduce the risk of cancer development and could improve response and tolerance to treatment through the metabolic and hormonal adaptations induced by the low energy availability that finally impairs cancer cells' adaptability, survival and growth. The current review will outline the beneficial effects of fasting in NAFLD/NASH patients and the possible mechanisms that can prevent HCC development, including circadian clock re-synchronization, with a special focus on the possibility of applying this dietary intervention to cirrhotic patients.

The threat of carbapenem resistance in Eastern Europe in patients with decompensated cirrhosis admitted to intensive care unit.

BACKGROUND: Multidrug-resistant organisms are an increasing concern in patients with decompensated cirrhosis. AIM: We aimed to evaluate the prevalence of infections with carbapenem-resistant Enterobacteriaceae in patients with decompensated cirrhosis. METHODS: Patients with decompensated cirrhosis admitted to ICU were included. The isolated Enterobacteriaceae strains were tested for carbapenemase-producing genes using the Roche LightMix® Modular VIM/IMP/NDM/GES/KPC/OXA48-carbapenemase detection kit. RESULTS: 48 culture-positive infections were registered in 75 patients with acutely decompensated cirrhosis. Thirty patients contracted a second infection. 46% of bacteria isolated at admission and 60% of bacteria responsible for infections identified during ICU-stay were multiresistant. ESBL+ Enterobacteriaceae were predominant at admission, while carbapenem-resistance was dominant in both Enterobacteriaceae and Non-Fermenting-Gram-Negative Bacteria responsible for infections diagnosed during hospitalisation. OXA 48 or KPC type carbapenemases were present in 30% of the analyzed Enterobacteriaceae and in 40% of the phenotypically carbapenem-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae strains. The length of ICU stay was a risk-factor for a second infection (p=0.04). Previous carbapenem usage was associated with occurence of infections with carbapenem-resistant Gram-negative bacteria during hospitalization (p=0.03). CONCLUSION: The prevalence of infections with carbapenem-resistant Enterobacteriaceae is high in patients with decompensated cirrhosis admitted to ICU. Carbapenemase-producing genes in Enterobacteriaceae in our center are blaOXA-48 and blaKPC.

Mechanistic Insights in Hemophagocytic Lymphohistiocytosis: Subsequent Acute Hepatic Failure in a Multiple Myeloma Patient Following Therapy with Ixazomib-Lenalidomide-Dexamethasone.

Hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH) is a rare, elusive, and life-threatening condition that is characterized by the pathologic and uncontrolled secondary activation of the cytotoxic T-cells, natural killer cells (NK-cells), and macrophages of the innate immune system. This condition can develop in sporadic or familial contexts associated with hematological malignancies, as a paraneoplastic syndrome, or linked to an infection related to immune system deficiency. This leads to the systemic inflammation responsible for the overall clinical manifestations. Diagnosis should be thorough, and treatment should be initiated as soon as possible. In the current manuscript, we focus on classifying the HLH spectrum, describing the pathophysiology and the tools needed to search for and correctly identify HLH, and the current therapeutic opportunities. We also present the first case of a multiple myeloma patient that developed HLH following therapy with the ixazomib-lenalidomide-dexamethasone protocol.

Comparison of screening strategies with two new tests to score and diagnose varices needing treatment.

BACKGROUND AND AIMS: We aimed to improve non-invasive screening of varices needing treatment (VNT) and compare different screening strategies. METHODS: 2,290 patients with chronic liver disease were included in a retrospective study. Etiologies were: virus: 50.0%, NAFLD: 29.5%, alcohol: 20.5%, VNT: 14.9%. Test descriptors were performance (spared endoscopy) and safety (missed VNT). VNT tests were evaluated according to their safety levels either for individual screening (95% negative predictive value (NPV)), population screening (95% sensitivity) or undifferentiated screening (100% sensitivity/NPV) without missed VNT. The tests provided three categories: missed VNT <5%, VNT 100% specificity (new category), both sparing endoscopies, and intermediate (endoscopy required). RESULTS: Independent VNT predictors (etiology, sex, age, platelets, prothrombin index, albumin, ALT, liver stiffness) were included in two tests: VNT virus alcohol NAFLD test (VANT) and varice risk score (VARS). We report results of the whole population. Considering population screening, performances were, Baveno VI criteria: 24.1%, Anticipate: 24.7%, VariScreen: 35.3%, VANT: 40.2% (p<0.001 vs other tests). VANT spared 58.0% more endoscopies in the whole population than Baveno criteria in compensated advanced chronic liver diseases. Considering individual screening, VARS performance was, in all patients: 62.0% vs 42.9% for the expanded Baveno VI criteria (p<0.001), and, in NAFLD: 72.8% vs 65.1% for the NAFLD cirrhosis criteria (p<0.001). Considering undifferentiated screening, VARS performance was 12%. The VARS score estimated VNT probability from 0 to 100% (AUROC: 0.826). CONCLUSION: VANT and VARS spared from 12% (undifferentiated screening) to 40% (population screening) or 62% (individual screening) of endoscopies in main-etiology patients without ascites.

Navigating through the Lipid Metabolism Maze: Diagnosis and Prognosis Metabolites of Hepatocellular Carcinoma versus Compensated Cirrhosis.

(1) Background: The pursuit of finding biomarkers for the diagnosis and prognosis of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) has never been so paramount in the days of personalized medicine. The main objective of our study is to identify new biomarkers for diagnosing HCC, and to identify which patients are at risk of developing tumor recurrence, decompensation, or even possesses the risk of cancer-related death. (2) Methods: We have conducted an untargeted metabolomics study from the serum of 69 European patients­32 compensated cirrhotic patients without HCC (controls), and 37 cirrhotic patients with HCC with compensated underlying liver disease (cases), that underwent curative treatment (surgery or ablation), performing ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with electrospray ionization quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (UHPLC-QTOF- (ESI+)-MS) with an emphasis on lipid metabolites. (3) Results: 1,25-dihydroxy cholesterol (m/z = 419.281), myristyl palmitate (m/z = 453.165), 25-hydroxy vitamin D2 (m/z = 413.265), 12-ketodeoxycholic acid (m/z = 391.283), lysoPC (21:4) (m/z = 558.291), and lysoPE (22:2) (m/z = 534.286) represent notable biomarkers that differentiate compensated cirrhosis from early HCC, and ceramide species are depleted in the serum of HCC patients. Regarding prognosis, no metabolite identified in our study could determine tumor relapse. To distinguish between the HCC patients that survived curative treatment and those at risk that developed tumor burden, we have identified two notable phosphocholines (PC (30:2); PC (30:1)) with AUROCs of 0.820 and 0.807, respectively, that seem to increase when patients are at risk. In a univariate analysis, arachidonic acid was the only metabolite to predict decompensation (OR = 0.1, 95% CI: 0−0.16, p < 0.005), while in the multivariate analysis, dismally, no variable was associated with decompensation. Furthermore, in the multivariate analysis, we have found out for the first time that the increased expression of 1,25-dihydroxy cholesterol, myristyl palmitate, 12-keto deoxycholic acid, lysoPC (21:4), and lysoPE (22:2) are independent markers of survival. (4) Conclusions: Our study reveals that lipids play a crucial role in discriminating compensated cirrhosis and early hepatocellular carcinoma, and might represent markers of survival and prognosis in personalized and minimally invasive medicine.

Blood Metabolomic Signatures to Identify Bacterial Infection in Patients with Decompensated Cirrhosis.

BACKGROUND AND AIMS: Bacterial infections are associated with high mortality rates in patients with decompensated cirrhosis. Early diagnosis with the available diagnostic tools is challenging. Metabolomics is a novel technique with a widespread application in hepatology. The aims of our study were to find new biomarkers for decompensated cirrhosis and for those with overlapping bacterial infections. METHODS: 43 patients with compensated and 54 patients with decompensated cirrhosis were enrolled in the study. In patients with decompensation, a complete infectious workup was performed at admission. Blood and ascitic fluid were collected and stored at -80° C until performing the metabolomic analysis. Statistical analysis was performed using the Metaboanalyst 4.0 software. RESULTS: 36 patients (66%) in the decompensated group were infected. Among them, 15 had multiple infections; thus, finally, 52 infections were diagnosed. The main metabolic pathways affected in patients with decompensated cirrhosis were those related to lipid metabolism, involving acylcarnitines, stearic acid derivatives, and 12/15 HETE-GABA. N-oleoyl ethanolamine was the most promising biomarker for bacterial infection diagnosis. Moreover, prostaglandin E2/D2/H2 and N-oleoyl alanine levels were higher in Gram- positive infections and ceramides (d16:2/18:0), in Gram-negative infections, respectively. L-phenylalanine (m/z=166.09) and lysophosphatidylethanolamine (18:3/0:0) were the two most relevant identified ascitic biomarkers for spontaneous bacterial peritonitis diagnosis. CONCLUSIONS: The lipid and energetic metabolic pathways were the most affected in patients with decompensated cirrhosis and those with overlapping infections.

Decompensation in Advanced Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease May Occur at Lower Hepatic Venous Pressure Gradient Levels Than in Patients With Viral Disease.

BACKGROUND & AIMS: Portal hypertension is the strongest predictor of hepatic decompensation and death in patients with cirrhosis. However, its discriminatory accuracy in patients with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) has been challenged because hepatic vein catheterization may not reflect the real portal vein pressure as accurately as in patients with other etiologies. We aimed to evaluate the relationship between hepatic venous pressure gradient (HVPG) and presence of portal hypertension-related decompensation in patients with advanced NAFLD (aNAFLD). METHODS: Multicenter cross-sectional study included 548 patients with aNAFLD and 444 with advanced RNA-positive hepatitis C (aHCV) who had detailed portal hypertension evaluation (HVPG measurement, gastroscopy, and abdominal imaging). We examined the relationship between etiology, HVPG, and decompensation by logistic regression models. We also compared the proportions of compensated/decompensated patients at different HVPG levels. RESULTS: Both cohorts, aNAFLD and aHVC, had similar baseline age, gender, Child-Pugh score, and Model for End-Stage Liver Disease score. Median HVPG was lower in the aNAFLD cohort (13 vs 15 mmHg) despite similar liver function and higher rates of decompensation in aNAFLD group (32% vs 25%; P = .019) than in the aHCV group. For any of the HVPG cutoff analyzed (<10, 10-12, or 12 mmHg) the prevalence of decompensation was higher in the aNAFLD group than in the aHCV group. CONCLUSIONS: Patients with aNAFLD have higher prevalence of portal hypertension-related decompensation at any value of HVPG as compared with aHCV patients. Longitudinal studies aiming to identify HVPG thresholds able to predict decompensation and long-term outcomes in aNAFLD population are strongly needed.

Extrahepatic Portal Vein Thrombosis, an Important Cause of Portal Hypertension in Children.

One of the most important causes of portal hypertension among children is extrahepatic portal vein thrombosis (EHPVT). The most common risk factors for EHPVT are neonatal umbilical vein catheterization, transfusions, bacterial infections, dehydration, and thrombophilia. Our study aimed to describe the clinical manifestations, treatment, evolution, and risk factors of children with EHPVT. METHODS: We analyzed retrospectively all children admitted and followed in our hospital with EHPVT between January 2011-December 2020. The diagnosis was made by ultrasound or contrast magnetic resonance imaging. We evaluated the onset symptoms, complications, therapeutic methods, and risk factors. RESULTS: A total of 63 children, mean age 5.14 ± 4.90 (33 boys, 52.38%), were evaluated for EHPVT during the study period. The first symptoms were upper gastrointestinal bleeding (31 children, 49.21%) and splenomegaly (22 children, 34.92%). Thrombocytopenia was present in 44 children (69.84%). The most frequent risk factors were umbilical vein catheterization (46 children, 73.02%) and bacterial infections during the neonatal period (30 children, 47.62%). Protein C, protein S, antithrombin III levels were decreased in 44 of the 48 patients tested. In 42 of these cases, mutations for thrombophilia were tested, and 37 were positive. Upper digestive endoscopy was performed in all cases, revealing esophageal varices in 56 children (88.89%). All children with gastrointestinal bleeding received an octreotide infusion. In 26 children (41.27%), variceal ligation was performed, and in 5 children (7.94%), sclerotherapy. Porto-systemic shunt was performed in 11 children (17.46%), and Meso-Rex shunt was done in 4 children (6.35%). The evolution was favorable in 62 cases (98.41%). Only one child died secondary to severe sepsis. CONCLUSIONS: EHPVT is frequently diagnosed in the last period in our region due to the increased use of umbilical vein catheterization. Furthermore, genetic predisposition, neonatal bacterial infections, and prematurity certainly play an important role in this condition. A proactive ultrasound assessment of children with risk factors for EHPVT should be encouraged for early diagnosis and treatment.

Validation and Performance of Chronic Liver Disease Questionnaire (CLDQ-RO) in the Romanian Population.

BACKGROUND AND AIMS: Health-related quality of life is an essential part of managing chronically ill patients, including patients with chronic liver disease. Various methods are used to try to assess the quality of life ranging from generic to disease-specific questionnaires. Some of the results may reveal a novel connection to the disease's evolution, which is observed directly by the patient. This study aimed to validate and assess the chronic liver disease questionnaire (CLDQ-RO) performance in the Romanian population. METHODS: A two-phase study was designed. The first phase consisted of linguistic validation of CLDQ-RO (translation and piloting), while in the second phase, the questionnaire was applied to patients with various chronic liver diseases. Statistical validation (reliability, structural, and construct validity) was performed using SPSS v20.0, and statistical significance was considered p<0.05. RESULTS: The CLDQ-RO was applied to 231 patients with chronic liver disease (14.3% with chronic hepatitis, 35.5% with compensated cirrhosis, and 50.2% with decompensated cirrhosis). The questionnaire showed excellent overall reliability (Cronbach's alpha=0.93) and good structural and construct validity, with most of the items in CLDQ-RO fitting in the domains of the original version of the questionnaire. There was a significant decrease in the overall score of the CLDQ-RO with the progression of disease (p<0.001), indicating a substantial impact of the decompensation event on health-related quality of life. Regarding the type of decompensation, ascites accurately predicted a lower quality of life (p=0.004). CONCLUSIONS: The CLDQ-RO is a valid and disease-specific method for assessing patients' health-related quality of life with liver disease. Among the decompensation events, it seems that ascites seriously impacts the quality of life.

Development and prognostic relevance of a histologic grading and staging system for alcohol-related liver disease.

BACKGROUND & AIMS: The SALVE Histopathology Group (SHG) developed and validated a grading and staging system for the clinical and full histological spectrum of alcohol-related liver disease (ALD) and evaluated its prognostic utility in a multinational cohort of 445 patients. METHODS: SALVE grade was described by semiquantitative scores for steatosis, activity (hepatocellular injury and lobular neutrophils) and cholestasis. The histological diagnosis of steatohepatitis due to ALD (histological ASH, hASH) was based on the presence of hepatocellular ballooning and lobular neutrophils. Fibrosis staging was adapted from the Clinical Research Network staging system for non-alcoholic fatty liver disease and the Laennec staging system and reflects the pattern and extent of ALD fibrosis. There are 7 SALVE fibrosis stages (SFS) ranging from no fibrosis to severe cirrhosis. RESULTS: Interobserver κ-value for each grading and staging parameter was >0.6. In the whole study cohort, long-term outcome was associated with activity grade and cholestasis, as well as cirrhosis with very broad septa (severe cirrhosis) (p <0.001 for all parameters). In decompensated ALD, adverse short-term outcome was associated with activity grade, hASH and cholestasis (p = 0.038, 0.012 and 0.001, respectively), whereas in compensated ALD, hASH and severe fibrosis/cirrhosis were associated with decompensation-free survival (p = 0.011 and 0.001, respectively). On multivariable analysis, severe cirrhosis emerged as an independent histological predictor of long-term survival in the whole study cohort. Severe cirrhosis and hASH were identified as independent predictors of short-term survival in decompensated ALD, and also as independent predictors of decompensation-free survival in compensated ALD. CONCLUSION: The SALVE grading and staging system is a reproducible and prognostically relevant method for the histological assessment of disease activity and fibrosis in ALD. LAY SUMMARY: Patients with alcohol-related liver disease (ALD) may undergo liver biopsy to assess disease severity. We developed a system to classify ALD under the microscope by grading ALD activity and staging the extent of liver scarring. We validated the prognostic performance of this system in 445 patients from 4 European centers.