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Pathophysiology of portal hypertension and esophageal varices.

Abstract

Esophageal varices are the major complication of portal hypertension. It is detected in about 50% of cirrhosis patients, and approximately 5-15% of cirrhosis patients show newly formed varices or worsening of varices each year. The major therapeutic strategy of esophageal varices consists of primary prevention, treatment for bleeding varices, and secondary prevention, which are provided by pharmacological, endoscopic, interventional and surgical treatments. Optimal management of esophageal varices requires a clear understanding of the pathophysiology and natural history. In this paper, we outline the current knowledge and future prospect in the pathophysiology of esophageal varices and portal hypertension.

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    • Authors

    Maruyama H, Yokosuka O

    Institution

    Department of Medicine and Clinical Oncology, Chiba University, Graduate School of Medicine, 1-8-1, Inohana, Chuo-ku, Chiba 260-8670, Japan.

    Source

    International journal of hepatology 2012: 2012 pg 895787

    Pub Type(s)

    Journal Article

    Language

    eng

    PubMed ID

    22666604