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Current Hepatology Reports
Published in: Current Hepatology Reports 2/2019

01-06-2019 | Ascites | Portal Hypertension (J Gonzalez-Abraldes and E Tsochatzis, Section Editors)

The Role of Hepatic and Splanchnic Lymphatic System in Portal Hypertension and Ascites

Authors: Jordi Ribera, Bernat Córdoba-Jover, Irene Portolés, Manuel Morales-Ruiz

Published in: Current Hepatology Reports | Issue 2/2019

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Abstract

Purpose of Review

The lymphatic network plays a major role in maintaining tissue fluid homeostasis. Therefore, several pathological conditions associated with edema formation result in deficient lymphatic function. However, traditionally, the lymphatic system has been underestimated until recent years when it has been noticed the importance of this system in chronic liver disease. This review highlights the knowledge of lymphatic biology in the context of portal hypertension and liver cirrhosis.

Recent Findings

Among different roles of lymphatic system in liver disease, two remarkable ones are the contribution in ascites accumulation and the hepatic lymphangiogenesis in portal hypertension which is regulated by sympathetic nerves.

Summary

The identification of novel pathological mechanisms has focused efforts into correction of structural changes and function affecting lymphatic vessels in liver disease. Despite the knowledge gained, we still have to face many unresolved questions concerning the role played by the lymphatic system in chronic liver disease and the design of therapeutic targeting.
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Metadata
Title
The Role of Hepatic and Splanchnic Lymphatic System in Portal Hypertension and Ascites
Authors
Jordi Ribera
Bernat Córdoba-Jover
Irene Portolés
Manuel Morales-Ruiz
Publication date
01-06-2019
Publisher
Springer US
Published in
Current Hepatology Reports / Issue 2/2019
Electronic ISSN: 2195-9595
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1007/s11901-019-00460-6

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