Cardiac Hemodynamic Profiles and Pro-B-Type Natriuretic Peptide in Cirrhotic Patients Undergoing Liver Transplantation

Background. The aim of our study was to determine concentrations of amino-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) in patients with cirrhosis, thereby describing the hemodynamic and cardiac profiles to verify the existence of cirrhotic cardiomyopathy. Methods. Clinical data, NT-proBNP levels, echocardiography, and right heart hemodynamic measurements were performed on all patients undergoing liver transplantation for cirrhosis. Results. Our patients showed a hyperdynamic circulation with elevated left-sided pressures despite high cardiac outputs. This observation suggested abnormalities in left ventricular diastolic compliance. We verified these results, because our cohort showed a significant left ventricular mass index and, consequently, diastolic dysfunction. Mean NT-proBNP levels were high. The great expansion of central volume may explain these results and the later development of left ventricular hypertrophy. Conclusion. We concluded that elevated concentrations of NT-proBNP indicated the presence of hyperdynamic syndrome and cardiac dysfunction.