DR. KIMBERLY A. FORDE, MD

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This study examined the impact of smoking on patients with severe liver disease who are being considered for liver transplants. Researchers found that current smokers had a 2.17 times higher risk of dying compared to non-smokers, and for every 5 years of smoking, the risk of death increased by 7%. These findings highlight the importance of quitting smoking to potentially improve survival rates for these patients. Who this helps: This benefits patients with advanced liver disease and those involved in their care, including doctors and transplant teams.

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This study focused on how the distance a patient can walk in six minutes (the 6-minute walk distance or 6MWD) can predict health outcomes for people with severe liver disease preparing for a transplant. Researchers found that for each 50-meter decrease in walk distance, the risk of death increased by 25%. This matters because it provides a simple way to assess how well patients might do after a liver transplant and helps identify those who may need more support. Who this helps: This benefits patients with liver disease and their healthcare providers.

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This study looked at a condition called hepatopulmonary syndrome, which affects 10-30% of patients with severe liver disease and makes it harder for them to get enough oxygen. Researchers found that patients with this syndrome experienced more complications and had a higher risk of death—specifically, they were 1.8 times more likely to die compared to those without the syndrome. This matters because it highlights the serious impact of hepatopulmonary syndrome on liver transplant candidates, indicating a need for careful monitoring and treatment strategies. Who this helps: Patients with liver disease and their doctors.

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This study looked at a complication called Disconnected Pancreatic Duct Syndrome (DPDS) that can develop after severe pancreatitis. Among 171 patients with pancreatitis, 16% (27 patients) developed a specific form of this condition which increased the risk of new-onset diabetes, with 36% of the patients eventually developing diabetes after pancreatitis. This matters because recognizing DPDS can help doctors better manage and prevent diabetes in patients who have had pancreatitis. Who this helps: Patients who have experienced severe pancreatitis.

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This study examined how different types of phone messages could improve the rates of colorectal cancer screening among people aged 50 to 75 who hadn't scheduled their colonoscopy. Researchers found that only 18.5% of those who received standard mailed letters completed their colonoscopy, while 34.5% of those who received tailored messages and 32.0% of those who received generic messages completed the screening. This shows that personalized communication can significantly increase the likelihood of individuals getting screened for colorectal cancer, which is crucial for early detection and better outcomes. Who this helps: This helps patients who need colorectal cancer screening.

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This study looked at the long-term stomach and digestive problems in people with 22q11.2 deletion syndrome, a genetic condition. Out of 206 patients over 17 years old, 91% reported ongoing gastrointestinal issues, while only a small number had major digestive malformations or autoimmune diseases. This matters because it highlights that many individuals with this syndrome experience chronic gastrointestinal symptoms that can affect their quality of life, and it suggests that healthcare providers should check for this genetic deletion in patients with similar digestive problems. Who this helps: This helps patients with 22q11.2 deletion syndrome and their doctors.

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This study examined how well patients with hepatitis C were receiving care and treatment in the U.S. between 2014 and 2019. Out of an estimated 120,311 people with the virus, 90.8% were diagnosed, but only 34.2% received treatment. These findings highlight significant gaps in hepatitis C care that need to be addressed to reach national goals for eliminating the disease. Who this helps: This helps patients with hepatitis C by identifying the need for better access to treatment.

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This study focused on a condition called portopulmonary hypertension (POPH), which affects patients with severe liver disease. Researchers found that a specific genetic variant (rs7175922) linked to estrogen levels was associated with an increased risk of POPH, with patients carrying this variant being 2.36 times more likely to develop POPH compared to those who do not. Additionally, lower levels of certain estrogen metabolites and other hormonal measures were also linked to higher risks of POPH. Who this helps: This research benefits patients with liver disease by improving understanding of POPH and potential risk factors.

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This study looked at how well healthcare providers followed guidelines for treating pregnant women with hepatitis B and protecting their newborns from the virus. Out of 372 women studied, 62% were referred to a specialist, and 85% had necessary tests done, but only 68% of those who needed antiviral treatment received it. For the infants, 81% got the second dose of the vaccine, but many missed getting their vaccinations on time. Improving how care for hepatitis B is organized in hospitals can help ensure mothers and infants get better care. Who this helps: This helps pregnant women with hepatitis B and their infants.

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This study developed a new scoring system, called the LiTES-HCC score, to predict how long people with liver cancer (hepatocellular carcinoma or HCC) will live after receiving a liver transplant. By analyzing data from over 6,500 liver transplant recipients, the researchers identified 11 important factors that affect survival, showing that their score can help identify patients most likely to benefit from a transplant. This scoring system could improve decision-making on who gets transplants, ultimately helping to extend patients' lives. Who this helps: This helps patients waiting for a liver transplant.

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This study looked at how obesity impacts people who receive a liver transplant and their chances of needing a kidney transplant later. Out of over 68,000 liver transplant patients, those who were obese (about 27.4%) were 10% more likely to be put on the kidney transplant waitlist, with the risk being even higher (57%) for those with severe obesity (BMI of 35 or higher) within the first year after their liver transplant. This matters because it highlights the additional health challenges for obese liver transplant patients, helping doctors identify who may need closer monitoring for kidney issues. Who this helps: Patients who undergo liver transplants, especially those with obesity.

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This study looked at three different treatments for patients with a serious liver disease complication called ascites, where fluid builds up in the abdomen. Researchers reviewed the records of 192 patients and found that those treated with the Peritoneovenous Shunt (PVS) had fewer hospital visits but shorter survival times than those treated with Transjugular Intrahepatic Portosystemic Shunt (TIPS). Specifically, patients on TIPS lived an average of 155 days without a liver transplant, compared to 44 days for those on PVS, while those on Large-Volume Paracentesis (LVP) had the longest survival at 213 days. Who this helps: This information is useful for doctors treating patients with end-stage liver disease to choose the best treatment option.

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The study looked at how much patients with Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) understand about their illness and how this knowledge affects their feelings of stigma. Researchers surveyed 265 patients in Philadelphia and found that while more than 80% had a good grasp of HCV (answering 9 out of 11 questions correctly), those with higher knowledge levels actually felt more stigma associated with the disease. This highlights the need for doctors to address misunderstandings about HCV to potentially reduce stigma as patients learn more about their condition. Who this helps: This helps patients with Hepatitis C and their healthcare providers.

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This study looked at how useful a specific heart test, called right heart catheterization (RHC), is for patients waiting for a heart transplant. Out of 194 patients, about half (50%) had important changes in their treatment after this test—almost all of those changes happened after tests done due to new clinical issues (90.4%) compared to those done just for routine checks (42.9%). The findings show that regular monitoring through RHC can help doctors adjust treatments more effectively, leading to more patients getting heart transplants without increasing the risk of death. Who this helps: This helps patients waiting for heart transplants and their doctors.

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This study looked at the effectiveness of two medications, tacrolimus and rectal indomethacin, in reducing the risk of pancreatitis after a procedure called endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) in patients who had liver transplants. The study found that pancreatitis occurred in only 2.2% of ERCP procedures, and patients with a tacrolimus level above 2.5 ng/mL had a 79% lower chance of developing pancreatitis. Additionally, using indomethacin reduced this risk by 91%, and when combined with high tacrolimus levels, it lowered the risk of severe pancreatitis by 93%. Who this helps: This benefits liver transplant patients undergoing ERCP, their doctors, and healthcare providers.

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This study looked at the effects of a heart procedure called percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) on patients with severe liver disease. Researchers found that 50% of those who underwent PCI experienced negative outcomes after a year, compared to 40% of those treated with medication alone, but this difference wasn't statistically significant. However, PCI patients had a much higher rate of serious complications, with 40% experiencing issues like severe bleeding or kidney injury, compared to just 17% in the medication group. Who this helps: This information benefits doctors and patients with cirrhosis and heart disease by helping them make more informed treatment decisions.

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This study looked at the differences between men and women when it comes to receiving liver transplants and how long they wait for them. Researchers found that women were about 8.6% more likely to die while waiting for a liver transplant and 14.4% less likely to receive one compared to men. These disparities are largely tied to how the MELD score, which is used to determine who gets a transplant, does not accurately reflect the health status of women compared to men, particularly when considering certain medical measurements. Who this helps: This research benefits patients waiting for liver transplants, especially women.

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This study looked at gastrointestinal bleeding (GIB) in patients who received left ventricular assist devices (LVADs) for severe heart failure. Among 271 patients, 22% experienced GIB, with those affected during their initial hospital stay for LVAD implantation facing more severe issues—like longer hospital stays (24 days vs. 11 days) and needing more blood transfusions (7 units vs. 4 units). This information is important because it helps doctors understand when and where to look for bleeding complications after LVAD surgery, improving patient care. Who this helps: This helps patients with advanced heart failure who receive LVADs and their healthcare providers.

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This research looked at how well pulse oximetry, a common device that measures oxygen levels in the blood, can detect hepatopulmonary syndrome (HPS) in patients being evaluated for liver transplants. Out of 363 patients, 75 had HPS, but pulse oximetry correctly identified just 28% of those cases, showing it’s not reliable for screening. This matters because patients with HPS may need special consideration for their transplant evaluations, and better diagnostic methods like blood gas tests and echocardiograms are necessary for accurate diagnosis. Who this helps: This helps doctors in making better decisions for patients needing liver transplants.

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This study looked at hormone levels in women with chronic hepatitis C (HCV) infection and cirrhosis—a serious liver condition. Researchers found that women with cirrhosis had higher levels of certain hormones (estradiol and estrone) and lower levels of sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG) and follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) compared to those without cirrhosis. Specifically, cirrhotic women had SHBG levels about 55% lower and FSH levels over 94% lower than noncirrhotic women. These findings matter because lower levels of SHBG and FSH are linked to higher risks of heart and metabolic diseases, suggesting that monitoring these hormone levels could help manage health risks in women with cirrhosis. Who this helps: This helps women with chronic hepatitis C and their healthcare providers.

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This study looked at how liver transplants can be used to treat people with alcoholic hepatitis, a serious liver disease caused by excessive drinking. Researchers examined the ethical and practical issues surrounding the use of donor organs for this purpose, as liver transplants can save lives. They are focusing on how to make sure that these organs are distributed fairly and effectively to those in need. Who this helps: This helps patients with alcoholic hepatitis who need a liver transplant.

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This study looked at kidney transplant offers for patients with HIV compared to those without and those with hepatitis C. Researchers found that HIV-positive patients waited longer for their first kidney offer and were less likely to receive a transplant—specifically, they had only 88% the chance of receiving an offer and 82% the chance of getting a transplant after an offer compared to uninfected patients. This matters because it highlights a significant barrier that HIV-positive patients face in accessing lifesaving treatments, signaling a need for improvements in how these patients are treated in the transplant system. Who this helps: This helps patients with HIV who need kidney transplants.

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This study looked at how well patients with hepatitis C who are on long-term dialysis fare regarding survival and access to kidney transplants. Out of over 442,000 dialysis patients, about 31,600 (7.2%) were positive for hepatitis C. These patients had a slightly higher risk of death while on dialysis but were much less likely to get on the kidney transplant waiting list. However, once they were on the waiting list, their chances of getting a transplant were similar to those without hepatitis C, and they lived significantly longer after receiving a transplant compared to staying on dialysis. Who this helps: This research benefits patients with hepatitis C who are on dialysis, as well as their doctors in making treatment decisions.

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This study looked at new rules requiring additional clothing for staff in operating rooms to reduce infections after surgery. The researchers analyzed data from 1,122 patients who had abdominal surgery before and after these rules were put in place, finding that the changes didn't lower the rate of surgical site infections, which remained at 57 cases overall. These results suggest that the new attire guidelines may not be necessary, as they do not make a difference in patient outcomes and add extra costs and complications for hospitals. Who this helps: This helps hospitals and healthcare providers by questioning unnecessary regulations that may increase costs without improving patient care.

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This study looked at how well a non-invasive test called transient elastography (TE) can estimate liver damage in patients with autoimmune hepatitis, comparing it to traditional liver biopsy methods. Researchers found that higher TE measurements (measured in kilopascals) corresponded to worse liver damage in 53 patients, with an important link established where increasing TE scores related to worsening fibrosis stage. This is significant because it shows that TE can reliably indicate liver problems without the need for invasive procedures. Who this helps: This benefits patients with autoimmune hepatitis who need regular monitoring of liver health without undergoing painful biopsies.

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This study looked at how different types of diabetes affect the risk of major heart problems in people who have received a liver transplant. Out of nearly 1,000 patients studied, those with ongoing diabetes after their transplant had a significantly higher risk of heart events, with 13% affected by 5 years and 27% by 10 years. This matters because identifying those who are at greater risk can help doctors better manage their patients’ health after surgery. Who this helps: This helps patients who have had liver transplants and their doctors.

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This study looked at how often serious liver problems and reactivation of hepatitis B virus (HBV) occur in U.S. veterans who were treated for chronic hepatitis C with specific antiviral medications. Researchers found that while serious liver problems were rare during treatment, they became more common afterward; for example, 85 cases occurred after treatment compared to just 31 during treatment. It’s important for doctors to monitor patients for liver issues in the months following treatment, especially those who have had hepatitis B in the past. Who this helps: This helps patients with a history of hepatitis B, their doctors, and healthcare providers monitoring liver health after treatment.

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This study looked at patients with liver disease to understand the clinical significance of a condition called intrapulmonary vascular dilatation (IPVD). Out of 127 patients studied, 46 had IPVD, and those patients tended to have more severe liver disease and a specific type of liver condition called autoimmune hepatitis. This finding matters because it helps identify which liver disease patients might be at higher risk and might need closer monitoring before undergoing a liver transplant. Who this helps: Patients with liver disease and their doctors.

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This study looked at how race and Hepatitis C co-infection affect the survival of people with HIV who are on dialysis. They found that for non-Caucasian individuals with HIV, the risk of death was higher (1.44 times more likely) compared to those without it, while in Caucasians, HIV did not significantly increase the risk of death (1.03). However, having both HIV and Hepatitis C increased the risk of death for all races (1.48 for Caucasians and 1.71 for non-Caucasians), highlighting the importance of better care interventions for these groups. Who this helps: This helps patients with HIV and high-risk groups, especially those of different races and those with Hepatitis C.

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This study looked at patients with liver cancer who were assessed for surgery to remove their liver and replace it with a donor liver. Researchers found that of the 318 patients evaluated through imaging, about 78% were correctly assessed as eligible for surgery based on their actual tumor characteristics after the surgery. However, those whose tumors were underestimated before surgery had a significantly lower chance of being cancer-free after the transplant (64 months vs. 140 months) and were more likely to die earlier after the procedure (96 months vs. 143 months). This matters because accurately assessing liver cancer before surgery can greatly affect patient outcomes. Who this helps: This helps patients with liver cancer and their doctors in making better treatment decisions.

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This study looked at liver transplant patients with Hepatitis C and how successfully treating the virus (called sustained virological response or SVR) affects their chances of developing diabetes after the transplant. The researchers found that among the 256 patients studied, 27.7% developed posttransplant diabetes, but those who achieved SVR had a 60% lower risk of developing this diabetes. This is important because lowering the risk of diabetes can lead to fewer health problems and better outcomes after a liver transplant. Who this helps: This helps liver transplant patients and their doctors by emphasizing the importance of treating Hepatitis C before and after the surgery.

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The study looked at the occurrence of hepatitis B flare-ups in pregnant women with the virus. They found that 14% of these women experienced a flare during pregnancy and 16% after giving birth, with a small percentage developing jaundice (12%) or severe liver issues (2%). The main risk factor for these flare-ups was testing positive for a specific type of virus marker (HBeAg), and many women didn't receive proper monitoring or follow-up care during their pregnancies. Who this helps: This helps pregnant women with hepatitis B and their healthcare providers.

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This study compared two medications, belatacept and tacrolimus, used to prevent organ rejection in patients who received kidney transplants. The researchers found that while belatacept users had a higher risk of acute rejection in the first year—three times more likely compared to tacrolimus users—there were no significant differences in overall patient survival or kidney graft failures between the two groups. These findings suggest that belatacept might be a viable alternative to tacrolimus for long-term use, although more research is needed. Who this helps: This benefits kidney transplant patients looking for safer medication options.

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This study focused on patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and how it relates to nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). The researchers found that 23% of the 84 patients studied had metabolic syndrome (MetS), which was linked to higher NAFLD severity. Specifically, patients with MetS had significantly higher liver enzyme levels and fibrosis scores compared to those without MetS, highlighting that MetS, rather than the severity of IBD, affects liver health. Who this helps: This benefits patients with IBD and their doctors by identifying the importance of monitoring metabolic syndrome to better manage liver health.

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This study looked at why women are less likely than men to receive liver transplants and more likely to die while waiting for one. Researchers analyzed data from nearly 65,000 patients and found that 23.1% of men received special consideration (called exception points) for a transplant, compared to only 15.6% of women. Additionally, women were less likely to be first in line for a transplant and were more likely to decline an organ due to size mismatch; this ultimately increases their risk of becoming too sick or dying before transplant. Who this helps: This research benefits women waiting for liver transplants and highlights the need for fairer treatment policies.

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This study looked at the risk of liver injury in people taking HIV medication, specifically how this risk is affected by having viral hepatitis. Researchers found that among the 10,083 people they followed, only 2% experienced high liver enzyme levels within a year of starting treatment, with a significantly higher rate in those with both HIV and hepatitis (116.1 cases compared to 20.7 for those without hepatitis). The findings suggest that while serious liver damage is rare, those with both infections are at greater risk of liver problems, particularly when taking certain types of HIV medications. Who this helps: This information benefits patients living with HIV and viral hepatitis, helping them and their doctors make more informed treatment choices.

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This study looked at whether receiving a kidney from a deceased donor who had diabetes is better than staying on the waitlist for a kidney transplant. Researchers found that recipients of diabetic donor kidneys had a 9% lower risk of dying compared to those who stayed on the waitlist. This is important because it suggests that for many patients, especially those at risk due to long wait times, getting a kidney from a diabetic donor can improve survival chances even though these kidneys typically carry higher risks. Who this helps: This benefits kidney transplant candidates, particularly those with high mortality risk on waitlists.

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This study looked at how receiving a kidney from a donor with hepatitis C (HCV) impacts the health outcomes of kidney transplant recipients who also have HCV. It found that recipients of HCV-positive kidneys had a 43% higher risk of death and a 39% higher risk of losing their new kidney compared to those who received HCV-negative kidneys. However, there was no increased risk of immediate rejection of the transplant. Who this helps: This information is important for patients with kidney disease and their doctors when considering transplantation options.

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This study looked at whether starting statin medication increases the risk of serious liver injury among people with HIV, chronic hepatitis C, or neither. Researchers analyzed data from over 50,000 individuals and found that those starting statins had significantly lower risks of liver problems and death compared to those who did not use statins. For example, HIV and hepatitis C patients who initiated statins had a 34% lower risk of increased liver enzymes and a 64% lower risk of severe liver injury. Who this helps: This information benefits patients with HIV and hepatitis C, as well as their doctors in making treatment decisions.

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This study looks at how chronic hepatitis B affects African Americans and Hispanic Americans, revealing that these groups face significant barriers to care and have higher rates of untreated infections. The research indicates that African Americans are not only experiencing disparities in infection rates and access to care, but also in getting screened and receiving treatment, contributing to ongoing health issues. Addressing these inequalities is crucial for improving outcomes and reducing the burden of hepatitis B in these communities. Who this helps: This helps patients living with hepatitis B, particularly African Americans and Hispanics, by highlighting the need for better access to care and treatment.

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This study looked at new treatments for Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) Genotype 1, specifically focusing on all-oral direct-acting antiviral (DAA) medications. Researchers found that over 90% of patients treated with DAAs achieved a lasting virus-free status, leading to a significant decrease in serious health issues related to chronic HCV. These medications are easier to tolerate and are effective for patients who previously struggled with older treatments or have other health complications. Who this helps: This helps patients with Hepatitis C, especially those who have not responded well to previous treatments.

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This study looked at patients with severe liver disease to see who gets placed on the liver transplant waiting list. It found that 29% of patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (a type of liver cancer) are added to the waitlist, compared to only 12% of those with more advanced liver cirrhosis. This matters because it highlights the fact that cancer patients have better access to transplant opportunities than patients with severe liver damage, suggesting a need to better understand and address this disparity. Who this helps: This helps patients with liver disease and healthcare providers who manage their care.

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This study examined the occurrence and causes of low muscle mass in people who are simultaneously infected with HIV and viral hepatitis. Out of 3,518 participants, those with both infections were found to have more than three times the odds of having low muscle mass compared to those with just one infection or none at all. Specifically, individuals coinfected with HIV and hepatitis had a 3.5 times higher chance of low muscle mass than those with only hepatitis. This is concerning because low muscle mass can lead to poorer health outcomes and lower survival rates. Who this helps: This information helps patients with HIV and hepatitis, as well as their healthcare providers, by highlighting the need for monitoring and treatment strategies for muscle health.