Publications by authors named "Thomas Henry Tranah"
Background & Aims: Rifaximin-α is efficacious for the prevention of recurrent hepatic encephalopathy (HE), but its mechanism of action remains unclear. We postulated that rifaximin-α reduces gut microbiota-derived endotoxemia and systemic inflammation, a known driver of HE.
Methods: In a placebo-controlled, double-blind, mechanistic study, 38 patients with cirrhosis and HE were randomised 1:1 to receive either rifaximin-α (550 mg BID) or placebo for 90 days.
Article Synopsis
- Cirrhotic portal hypertension involves serious complications such as ascites, encephalopathy, and bleeding due to liver dysfunction and immune system issues associated with cirrhosis.
- The immune system in these patients shows inflammation but is unable to effectively respond to infections, which often stem from gut bacteria and can lead to further health issues.
- The review focuses on how disturbances in gut health and immune responses can worsen liver disease, along with strategies for therapies that could help restore gut balance and improve immune function in patients with advanced liver disease.