A perspective on cirrhotic cardiomyopathy

Abstract

Cardiac dysfunction in patients with cirrhosis and potential clinical implications have long been known, but the pathophysiology and potential targets for therapeutic intervention are still under investigation and are only now becoming understood. The pathophysiological changes result in systolic dysfunction, diastolic dysfunction, and electrophysiological changes. Here, we aim to review cirrhotic cardiomyopathy from a cellular and physiological model and how these patients develop overt heart failure in the setting of stress, such as infection, ascites, and procedures including transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt, portocaval shunts, and orthotopic liver transplantation. We will also review the most current, although limited, available therapeutic modalities.