PDE5 Inhibitors Lower Portal and Pulmonary Pressure in Portopulmonary Hypertension
Author Information
Author(s): Bremer Hinrich C, Kreisel Wolfgang, Roecker Kai, Dreher Michael, Koenig Daniel, Kurz-Schmieg Anna Katharina, Blum Hubert E, Roessle Martin, Deibert Peter
Primary Institution: University Hospital, Freiburg, Germany
Hypothesis
The effect of phosphodiesterase 5 inhibitors on portal hypertension has not yet been investigated.
Conclusion
Phosphodiesterase 5 inhibitors lower both portal and pulmonary pressure in portopulmonary hypertension.
Supporting Evidence
- Tadalafil lowered mean pulmonary arterial pressure from 45 to 39 mmHg within 60 minutes.
- Cardiac output increased from 6.8 to 7.9 l/min after Tadalafil administration.
- Hepatovenous pressure gradient decreased from 10 to 7 mmHg.
Takeaway
This study shows that a medication called Tadalafil can help lower blood pressure in both the lungs and the liver for a patient with a specific type of high blood pressure related to liver disease.
Methodology
The patient was given Tadalafil and Sildenafil while monitoring pulmonary and portal hemodynamics.
Limitations
The study is based on a single case report, limiting generalizability.
Participant Demographics
A 55-year-old male with alcoholic liver cirrhosis.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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