Ying Zhu1, Hui Cheng1,2, Jianyong Chen3, Yifei Huang4, Hao Liu5, Xiaolong Qi4. 1. Department of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian. 2. Department of Gastroenterology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian. 3. Department of Gastroenterology, Jiangxi Provincial People's Hospital, Nanchang. 4. CHESS Center, Institute of Portal Hypertension, The First Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China. 5. Department of Surgery, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA.
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Gastroesophageal varices are common complications of chronic liver diseases (CLDs) and portal hypertension. Small varices have the risk of progressing to larger varices, causing bleeding or even death. Thus, early detection and appropriate management of small varices are necessary. The purpose of this review is to summarize the advance in the recent 5years about diagnosing and managing the small varices in CLDs. RECENT FINDINGS: The diagnosing methods of small varices in recent studies include improved endoscopic examinations, such as capsule endoscopy, and many noninvasive methods, including blood tests, ultrasound, computed tomography and magnetic resonance. For the management of small varices, though it is controversial, prevention using nonselective beta-blockers is still an essential part. SUMMARY: In this review, we summarize the classification of varices, the invasive and noninvasive diagnostic methods, their performances, and the emerging progression in the management of small varices in the recent 5 years. We hope that this review provides relevant information to understand better and appropriately manage small varices.
PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Gastroesophageal varices are common complications of chronic liver diseases (CLDs) and portal hypertension. Small varices have the risk of progressing to larger varices, causing bleeding or even death. Thus, early detection and appropriate management of small varices are necessary. The purpose of this review is to summarize the advance in the recent 5years about diagnosing and managing the small varices in CLDs. RECENT FINDINGS: The diagnosing methods of small varices in recent studies include improved endoscopic examinations, such as capsule endoscopy, and many noninvasive methods, including blood tests, ultrasound, computed tomography and magnetic resonance. For the management of small varices, though it is controversial, prevention using nonselective beta-blockers is still an essential part. SUMMARY: In this review, we summarize the classification of varices, the invasive and noninvasive diagnostic methods, their performances, and the emerging progression in the management of small varices in the recent 5 years. We hope that this review provides relevant information to understand better and appropriately manage small varices.