Albumin use in decompensated cirrhosis

European Association for the Study of the Liver (EASL) clinical practice guidelines on the management of decompensated cirrhosis, including ascites, spontaneous bacterial peritonitis (SBP), and hepatorenal syndrome in cirrhosis are available (European Association for the Study of the Liver, 2018).

The progression from compensated to decompensated cirrhosis is marked by numerous overt clinical signs such as ascites, bleeding, encephalopathy, and jaundice. The progression of the disease and the associated complications can reduce median survival from 12 years to approximately 2 years. The need for effective management of these symptoms has led the European Association for the Study of the Liver to publish their first Clinical Practice Guidelines for the management of decompensated cirrhosis. The recommendation of albumin infusion is seen across the guidelines for a number of the complications discussed. This infographic highlights the role of albumin has in managing the signs and symptoms of decompensated cirrhosis.

Catch-up on the debate surrounding hydroxyethyl starch use as we take you on an interactive journey through its changing fortunes. Do you think current restrictions will be enough to change clinical practice?

A short animation providing further information on the EASL guidelines for the use of albumin in decompensated cirrhosis can be found here.  

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