Portal Hypertension
Portal Hypertension Causes
In developed nations, portal hypertension are often caused by cirrhosis of the liver. In other parts of the world, the condition is mainly caused by schistosomiasis.
Portal Hypertension Definition
Portal hypertension is called as such because it is a type high blood pressure condition that occurs in the portal vein and its branches. The condition is often defined by the difference in pressure between the portal vein and the hepatic veins, which is known as the portal pressure gradient, of 5 mm HG or higher.
Portal Hypertension Symptoms and Signs
The symptoms of portal hypertension include ascites (free fluid in the peritoneal cavity, elevated risk of spontaneous bacterial peritonitis, elevated risk of hepatorenal syndrome, hepatic encephalopathy, splenomegaly (enlargement of the spleen) and portacaval anastomoses. The symptoms of portal hypertension results from the blood being forced down alternate channels due to increases resistance to flow through the portal system.
Portal Hypertension Treatment
Patients with portal hypertension are often prescribed with non-selective beta blockers once the condition have been diagnosed. Nitrate may be added to the beta blocker for individuals who have already had variceal bleeding. Intravenous terlipressin is often administered to individuals with acute portal hypertension to decrease portal pressure. Sometimes, surgical or percutaneous interventions may be necessary. Liver transplant is the most definitive treatment for portal hypertension.