Hepatopulmonary syndrome: which blood gas analysis criteria and position should we use for diagnosis?

Introduction: Different blood gas criteria have been used in the diagnosis of hepatopulmonary syndrome (HPS).

Patients And Methods: Arterial blood gases were prospectively evaluated in 194 cirrhotic candidates for liver transplantation (LT) in the supine and seated position. Three blood gas criteria were analyzed: classic (partial pressure of oxygen [PaO2] < 70 mmHg and/or alveolar-arterial gradient of oxygen [A-a PO2] ≥ 20 mmHg), modern (A-a PO2 ≥ 15 mmHg or ≥ 20 mmHg in patients over 64) and the A-a PO2 ≥ threshold value adjusted for age.

Clinical outcomes of patients undergoing antiviral therapy while awaiting liver transplantation.

Background & Aims: Antiviral therapy for the treatment of hepatitis C (HCV) infection has proved to be safe and efficacious in patients with cirrhosis awaiting liver transplantation (LT). However, the information regarding the clinical impact of viral eradication in patients on the waiting list is still limited. The aim of the study was to investigate the probability of delisting in patients who underwent antiviral therapy, and the clinical outcomes of these delisted patients.

The utility of the macro-aggregated albumin lung perfusion scan in the diagnosis and prognosis of hepatopulmonary syndrome in cirrhotic patients candidates for liver transplantation.

Background: The macro-aggregated albumin lung perfusion scan (99mTc-MAA) is a diagnostic method for hepatopulmonary syndrome (HPS).

Goal: To determine the sensitivity of 99mTc-MAA in diagnosing HPS, to establish the utility of 99mTc-MAA in determining the influence of HPS on hypoxemia in patients with concomitant pulmonary disease and to determine the correlation between 99mTc-MAA values and other respiratory parameters.

Methods: Data from 115 cirrhotic patients who were eligible for liver transplantation (LT) were prospectively analyzed.

Clinical characteristics of hepatocellular carcinoma in Spain. Comparison with the 2008-2009 period and analysis of the causes of diagnosis out of screening programs. Analysis of 686 cases in 73 centers.

Background And Objective: In 2010 we published that 53% of cases of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) detected in Spain were diagnosed outside the context of standard screening programs, which consequently leads to lower survival rates. The aim of this study was to analyze the current situation and the causes of diagnosis out of screening programs.

Material And Methods: Prospective registry of 73 second- and third-level Spanish healthcare centers carried out between October 1, 2014 and January 31, 2015.