Pharmacological treatment of portal hypertension.
In liver cirrhosis, increased resistance to portal blood flow is the primary factor in the pathophysiology of portal hypertension. The recognition of a dynamic component in hepatic resistance due to the active-reversible contraction of different elements of the portohepatic bed, has led to the active development of hepatic vasodilators. On the other hand, a significant increase in portal blood flow caused by arteriolar splanchnic vasodilation and hyperkinetic circulation, aggravates portal hypertension and provides the rational for the use of splanchnic vasoconstrictors, such as beta-blockers, vasopressin derivatives and somatostatin and its analogs. This review covers current developments in the treatment of portal hypertension.
González-Abraldes
J
J
Liver Unit, Hospital Clinic, Barcelona, Spain.
Bosch
J
J
García-Pagán
J C
JC
D000818:Animals; D000959:Antihypertensive Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D004347:Drug Interactions; D006801:Humans; D006975:Hypertension, Portal / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000209:etiology / Q000503:physiopathology; D008102:Liver Circulation / Q000187:drug effects; D008103:Liver Cirrhosis / Q000503:physiopathology; D013152:Splanchnic Circulation / Q000187:drug effects
D000959:Antihypertensive Agents