A paradoxical role for an acute phase reactant in decompensated cirrhosis.

Background: This study aims to determine the predictive power of baseline C-reactive protein (CRP) value in cirrhotic patients with ascites, without overt infection, that might lead to spontaneous bacterial peritonitis (SBP)/ cellullitis.

Methods: 152 consecutive cirrhotic patients with ascites, without overt infection were included in the study, after measuring the baseline CRP value. All patients were followed up for a duration of one year, or till development of SBP/cellulitis.

QT interval prolongation: a risk factor for development of hepatorenal syndrome in cirrhotic patients with acute variceal bleeding.

Background: This study aimed to assess whether QT interval prolongation is an independent risk factor for development of hepatorenal syndrome (HRS) in cirrhotic patients with acute variceal bleeding.

Methods: 78 consecutive cirrhotic patients with acute variceal bleeding were included in the study. All patients were evaluated before bleeding (T0), during bleeding (T1) and 6 weeks later (T2).