Reversibility of hepatic encephalopathy after liver transplantation.
Until the advent of Liver transplantation, it was widely believed that Hepatic Encephalopathy (HE) was usually reversible. The exceptions were the so called "Acquired Hepatocerebral Degeneration cases" which were considered irreversible. Paradoxically, it seems, with liver transplantation, we have seen cases that contradict these rules. Whether the "residual effects" of HE, degenerative brain injury or independent neurological insults are causing post transplant neurological deficits is not easy to discern. As more emphasis is being put on maintaining brain 'status' after liver transplantation, we are finding confirmation of the largely reversible nature of HE. But, enough important exceptions to this rule are occurring to make further research on this topic mandatory.
Atluri
Dileep K
DK
Gastroenterology/ Hepatology Division, MetroHealth Medical Center, 2500 Metrohealth Drive, Cleveland, OH 44109, USA.
Asgeri
Mehrdad
M
Mullen
Kevin D
KD
D001921:Brain / Q000378:metabolism / Q000473:pathology / Q000503:physiopathology*; D006501:Hepatic Encephalopathy / Q000378:metabolism / Q000503:physiopathology* / Q000601:surgery*; D006801:Humans; D017114:Liver Failure, Acute / Q000150:complications / Q000601:surgery*; D016031:Liver Transplantation / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D009413:Nerve Fibers, Myelinated / Q000473:pathology; D011170:Portasystemic Shunt, Surgical / Q000009:adverse effects; D011237:Predictive Value of Tests; D011379:Prognosis; D020127:Recovery of Function / Q000502:physiology*