Assessment of adrenal response in patients with stable cirrhosis and ascites using different short Synacthen tests and definitions.

Background And Aims: The definition of relative adrenal insufficiency (RAI) in patients with cirrhosis remains controversial. We investigated the serum and salivary cortisol (SalC) response after low-dose and standard-dose Synacthen test in patients with stable cirrhosis and ascites.

Methods: Ninety-five cirrhotic patients with ascites were prospectively evaluated from January 2014 to January 2018.

Conversion of Propranolol to Carvedilol Improves Renal Perfusion and Outcome in Patients With Cirrhosis and Ascites.

Background: In recent years, concerns have been raised on the potential adverse effects of nonselective beta-blockers, and particularly carvedilol, on renal perfusion and survival in decompensated cirrhosis with ascites. We investigated the long-term impact of converting propranolol to carvedilol on systemic hemodynamics and renal function, and on the outcome of patients with stable cirrhosis and grade II/III nonrefractory ascites.

Patients And Methods: Ninety-six patients treated with propranolol for esophageal varices' bleeding prophylaxis were prospectively evaluated.