Disturbed volume homeostasis in patients with cirrhosis of the liver

Abstract

While the clinical manifestations of cirrhosis have been amply documented, the pathogenesis of the perplexing and common complication of disturbed volume control in this disease has remained elusive. The purpose of this communication is to critically analyze the current view of the mechanism of the circulatory impairment in cirrhosis. It is hoped that a clearer understanding of this disorder in cirrhosis may improve the management of these patients.