Hyperdynamic circulation in cirrhosis: a role for nitric oxide?
Vallance, P.; Moncada, S.
Lancet 337(8744): 776-778
1991
ISSN/ISBN: 0140-6736
PMID: 1706449
DOI: 10.1016/0140-6736(91)91384-7
Accession: 041977632
Hypotension, low systemic vascular resistance, and a reduced sensitivity to vasoconstrictors are features of cirrhosis. These cardiovascular changes might be the result of increased synthesis of a vasodilator. Nitric oxide (NO), a potent vasodilator, is synthesised in and released from peripheral blood-vessels in man. Studies in animals indicate that bacterial endotoxin and cytokines induce NO synthase expression in vessel walls, with sustained NO release and consequent hypotension. Endotoxaemia is a common feature of cirrhosis; persistent induction of NO synthase may account for the associated haemodynamic changes.