Hepatic Encephalopathy: Diagnosis and Treatment in Advanced Liver Disease

Abstract

This article aims to focus on identifying hepatic encephalopathy (HE) due to portal hypertension and cirrhosis and implementing the most appropriate treatment. The occurrence of hepatic encephalopathy is prognostic in the life expectancy and quality of life of individuals with cirrhosis. Patients diagnosed with cirrhosis should be thoroughly assessed for HE. Many studies have identified that even HE in a subclinical (covert) presentation is a predicator of increased mortality before and after liver transplant. HE, rather minimal or overt, indicates diminished quality of life and increased health care dollars and mortality.

Keywords: Acute liver failure; Decompensation; Hepatic encephalopathy; Hyperammonemia; Neuronal dysfunction; Portal hypertension; Portosystemic shunting; Rifaximin.