Patrizia Burra

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This study examined liver transplant recipients in the US and Europe over 20 years, looking specifically at the reasons for their transplants. It found that alcohol-related liver disease (ALD) and a type of fatty liver disease called NASH are now the most common reasons for liver transplants, with ALD being more prevalent in Europe (30%) compared to the US (23%). Understanding these trends helps improve patient care and resource allocation for those needing liver transplants. Who this helps: This helps patients with liver disease and healthcare providers involved in liver transplantation.

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This study focused on the future impact of metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH) over the next two decades in nine countries, including the U.S., Germany, and Japan. It found that the number of people with MASH will rise, with costs associated with the disease in the U.S. expected to jump from $35 billion to nearly $79 billion. This matters because if no action is taken, there will be significant increases in healthcare costs, loss of productivity, and declines in quality of life as more people develop serious liver diseases linked to MASH. Who this helps: This helps patients suffering from MASH and the healthcare systems that support them.

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This study looked at whether changes in blood clotting and breakdown had any effect on recovery in patients with severe liver damage from alcohol. Researchers found that only 5.4% of the 224 patients studied improved over about 15 months, and those who did had less severe liver disease and higher platelet counts. The findings suggest that recovery is unlikely related to blood clotting issues, and instead, the severity of liver disease at the start is the key factor. Who this helps: This helps doctors treating patients with alcohol-related liver disease.

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This study looked at how sex hormones like estrogen and testosterone affect liver health and disease. It found that while estrogen can help protect the liver and reduce the risk of liver cancer in postmenopausal women, testosterone may worsen liver conditions. It's important for doctors to consider these effects when prescribing hormonal therapies, especially for patients with existing liver issues. Who this helps: This information benefits patients with liver disease, doctors prescribing hormonal treatments, and specific patient groups like postmenopausal women and those undergoing gender-affirming therapies.

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This study looked at how two different software programs measure body composition in patients with cirrhosis using CT scans. The researchers found that both software programs provided very similar results, with a reliability score of 0.984 to 0.999, indicating they can accurately assess muscle and fat areas in the body. This is important because accurate body composition analysis can help doctors better understand and manage the health of patients with cirrhosis. Who this helps: Patients with cirrhosis and their healthcare providers.

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This study looked at 604 hospitalized patients with Enterococcus faecium bloodstream infections over five years to identify factors that predict whether patients will survive 30 days after being hospitalized. It found that 25.8% of patients died within 30 days, with serious conditions like septic shock, a high Pitt bacteremia score, and liver cirrhosis increasing the risk of death. Helping patients early, through methods like managing the source of the infection and getting advice from infectious disease specialists, significantly improved survival rates. Who this helps: This helps patients at risk of severe infections and healthcare providers working to improve treatment outcomes.

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This research looked at how being stigmatized affects the mental health of people with liver diseases like hepatitis and cirrhosis. The findings revealed that those facing stigma reported higher rates of depression and anxiety, with stigma causing emotional pain, social isolation, and a lower quality of life. For example, people with hepatitis C often faced blame related to their condition, leading to feelings of shame and fear of disclosing their illness. Who this helps: This benefits patients with liver disease, particularly marginalized groups who experience stigma.

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This study looked at how liver transplantation (LT) has changed over the last ten years, particularly focusing on the types of patients being considered for transplants. Researchers found that more sicker, older, and frailer patients are being accepted for LT, and they can now include people with alcohol-related liver disease after just six months of sobriety and those with certain cancers that were previously excluded. This matters because it helps more people who need liver transplants get the treatment they require, potentially saving their lives. Who this helps: This helps patients needing liver transplants, especially those with alcohol-related issues or specific cancers.

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This study looked at how a specific treatment called targeted peri-operative prophylaxis (T-PAP) can help prevent infections in patients with a type of bacteria known as Carbapenem-Resistant Enterobacterales (CRE) who are having liver transplants. They found that 21.4% of patients developed CRE infections within 15 days after surgery, and 26.0% had infections by 30 days. Patients who received the new T-PAP treatment reduced their risk of infection significantly within the first 15 days, but the effect was less strong after a month. Who this helps: This benefits patients undergoing liver transplants who are at risk of CRE infections.

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This paper discusses how Artificial Intelligence (AI) is changing the field of liver health by improving how we diagnose and treat various liver diseases. The Italian Association for the Study of the Liver highlights both the benefits and challenges of using AI, including the importance of high-quality data and fairness in AI systems. They call for responsible AI use that prioritizes ethical practices to enhance patient care. Who this helps: This helps patients with liver diseases, doctors, and researchers.

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This study looked at how doctors in Italy prevent the return of hepatitis B virus (HBV) in patients who have received a liver transplant. The researchers found that while most experts agree that using a combination of hepatitis B immunoglobulin (HBIG) and certain medications is the best approach, there is still a lot of inconsistency in how these treatments are given, especially for low-risk patients. This matters because having clear guidelines could improve patient care and outcomes after liver transplants. Who this helps: This helps patients receiving liver transplants and their healthcare providers.

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This study focused on how immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs), which are new cancer treatments, can be safely used before and after liver transplants for patients with liver cancer. The experts found that while ICIs can help make patients eligible for transplant, using them can also lead to serious issues like organ rejection, especially when used after transplantation. This matters because it provides crucial guidelines for doctors to ensure the best care for liver cancer patients considering a transplant. Who this helps: This helps patients with liver cancer and their doctors.

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This study looked at a procedure called under-dilated transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (U.N-TIPS) to help patients with liver cirrhosis and high blood pressure in the veins of the liver (portal hypertension) get surgery for cancers outside the liver. Out of 34 patients, 94% were able to undergo planned surgery after the procedure, with significant improvements in their vein pressure from 21 to 11 mmHg. The results are important because they show that U.N-TIPS can make it safer for these patients to receive necessary cancer treatments that would otherwise be too risky. Who this helps: This benefits patients with liver cirrhosis and cancers outside the liver, as well as the doctors treating them.

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This study examined how vancomycin resistance affects the risk of dying within 30 days for transplant patients with serious bloodstream infections. Out of 79 patients studied, 12.7% died in that timeframe, with septic shock being the biggest predictor of mortality, showing a much higher risk (over 11 times more likely to die) than other factors. The research highlights the importance of quickly identifying and treating septic shock rather than focusing primarily on antibiotic resistance. Who this helps: This helps patients who have undergone organ transplants and their medical teams.

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This study looked at the ongoing challenges faced by patients with liver diseases in Italy, focusing on issues like stigma, age-related concerns, economic barriers, gender differences, and quality of life. The researchers found that despite progress in treating conditions like hepatitis C, many patients still struggle to get diagnosed and manage their illnesses effectively. They proposed actionable solutions to improve care by addressing these unmet needs, recognizing that a collaborative approach involving various disciplines is essential. Who this helps: This helps patients with liver diseases and healthcare providers working to improve their care.

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This study focused on ensuring the safety of people who donate part of their liver for transplant. Researchers gathered 28 specific recommendations to improve donor safety before surgery, looking at factors like donor health, medical assessments, and psychological support. It’s important because these guidelines help protect living donors while still providing critical help to patients in need of liver transplants. Who this helps: This helps liver donors and the patients who receive their transplants.

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This study looked at the safety of living liver donors during surgery, as they play a crucial role in providing organs for patients in need. Researchers gathered at a global conference to create guidelines for the safest surgical practices, addressing aspects like monitoring, fluid management, and crisis handling during surgery. These recommendations aim to improve outcomes for living donors, ultimately ensuring their safety while helping more patients with liver issues. Who this helps: This helps patients needing liver donations and the medical teams performing the surgeries.

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This study looked at a procedure called TACATO, which is used to treat severe bleeding from gastric varices in patients with liver cirrhosis who have a specific type of shunt called a gastrorenal shunt. Out of 20 patients treated with TACATO, 90% achieved effective blockage of their shunt, and over 23 months of follow-up, none experienced further bleeding or worsening of liver function, while a comparison group saw some complications. This matters because gastric varices are dangerous, with a high risk of bleeding and death, and TACATO appears to be a safer, more efficient way to manage this serious condition. Who this helps: This helps patients with cirrhosis and gastric varices who are at risk of severe bleeding.

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This study looked at patients with severe liver disease (decompensated cirrhosis) who have low MELD scores, which are used to determine eligibility for liver transplant. Researchers found that many of these patients (about half) face a high risk of dying from liver issues despite their low MELD score, and liver transplants could lower that risk by around 40%. This is important because it suggests that doctors should consider referring these patients for transplants sooner, even when their MELD scores are low. Who this helps: Patients with severe liver disease and their doctors.

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This study looked at liver transplants performed around the world to find out how likely they are to fail within 90 days and one year after surgery. It included nearly 5,000 patients, with 750 being part of a current study and the rest from past records. The goal is to improve predictions of transplant success and figure out the best timing for re-transplantation based on factors like donor type and complications after the surgery, ultimately aiming to enhance patient outcomes. Who this helps: This benefits patients undergoing liver transplantation and their healthcare providers.

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This research looked at how liver disease, especially cirrhosis, affects sexual health in both men and women. It found that many people with liver problems experience sexual dysfunction, and while liver transplants can help, only a small number fully recover their sexual health. Understanding these issues is important because it helps identify patients who need support and provides ways to improve their sexual well-being. Who this helps: This benefits patients with liver disease and their healthcare providers.

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Researchers examined different guidelines for managing Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease (MASLD) and Steatohepatitis (MASH), which negatively affect health and quality of life. They found 61 documents containing various recommendations but noticed that many had conflicting views, leading to confusion and poor care of these conditions. The team created a clear set of 8 widely agreed upon recommendations, which can improve patient treatment and outcomes. Who this helps: This benefits patients suffering from MASLD and MASH by providing doctors with consistent treatment guidelines.

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This study looked at 166 patients who had liver transplants due to specific autoimmune liver diseases known as variant syndromes. Researchers found that 23% of these patients experienced a recurrence of their autoimmune disease within 5 years, and this increased the risk of graft loss and reduced overall survival rates—only 41% of those with recurrence were still alive after 10 years compared to 60% of those without recurrence. Understanding these patterns helps doctors develop strategies to improve treatment and monitoring, which can lead to better outcomes for patients. Who this helps: Patients undergoing liver transplantation for autoimmune liver diseases.

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This study looked at how age and frailty affect hospital visits and survival in older people who are considering liver transplantation. Researchers found that frailty had a significant impact, with frail patients having a higher risk of death compared to healthier ones, regardless of their age. Specifically, 26 patients died during the study, and those who were frail had a higher mortality rate, showing that addressing frailty could be crucial for improving outcomes in these patients. Who this helps: This helps patients awaiting liver transplants and their doctors by highlighting the importance of assessing frailty in treatment decisions.

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This study examined a graphic novel called "Our New Selves," created to help patients understand the journey of organ transplantation. Researchers interviewed 36 healthcare professionals and found that the novel significantly improved communication and understanding among patients, doctors, and the general public. Specifically, it helped patients stick to their treatment by making complex information more accessible and relatable. Who this helps: This benefits patients undergoing transplants, healthcare professionals, and their families.

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This paper discusses ways to protect solid organ transplant recipients (SOTRs) from COVID-19, a group at higher risk due to their weaker immune systems. It highlights that while vaccines can reduce the chances of severe illness, their effectiveness varies based on the type of organ transplanted and the immunosuppressive drugs used. The researchers recommend giving vaccines and monoclonal antibody treatments at different times—vaccines first, followed by antibody treatment at least 15 days later—to improve protection. Who this helps: This helps patients who have received organ transplants and their doctors by providing clear guidelines for COVID-19 prevention.

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This study looked at postpancreatectomy diarrhea, a common and serious issue for patients who have had surgery to remove part or all of their pancreas. Researchers tracked 237 patients and found that about one-third experienced this diarrhea at various stages after surgery, with severity peaking at 41% around one month after surgery. The diarrhea was linked to poorer quality of life, and patients with certain conditions had a higher risk of severe symptoms, showing the need for better management strategies after surgery. Who this helps: This information benefits patients who have undergone pancreatic surgery, as well as doctors managing their postoperative care.

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This study examined how the blood clotting and dissolving processes work in patients with liver damage known as cirrhosis. Researchers found that these patients have a lower ability to dissolve blood clots, and as the severity of liver disease increases, their capacity to generate a key protein needed for clot breakdown decreases. The study included 101 patients and 20 healthy individuals, revealing that cirrhosis patients experience a troubling imbalance that makes them more likely to form clots, despite having some normal clotting functions. Who this helps: This research benefits patients with liver disease, helping doctors better understand their risks for blood clots.

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This research studied patients with chronic hepatitis B who received liver transplants over 30 years at a hospital in Italy. It found that 1-year and 5-year survival rates after transplantation were 87.6% and 82.6%, respectively, and that using certain antiviral medications significantly reduced patient mortality. The results indicate that hepatitis B has remained a major reason for liver transplants, with improved outcomes thanks to better treatment strategies. Who this helps: This helps patients with hepatitis B needing liver transplants.

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This paper discusses the practice of combining liver transplantation with other organ transplants, like heart or kidney transplants, for patients with multiple organ failures. It reports that when patients are carefully selected, they can have better survival rates, although the complex procedures carry significant risks and ethical challenges, particularly around how to fairly allocate organs. The authors stress the need for standardized protocols and better teamwork among healthcare providers to improve patient outcomes and ensure fair access to transplants. Who this helps: This benefits patients needing multi-organ transplants and the doctors managing their care.

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This study looked at a new way to help patients with severe liver disease get access to liver transplants and receive ongoing care after surgery. The program connected hospitals in Trento and Padua from 2020 to 2023, allowing 27 patients to be referred for transplants, with 22% actually receiving a transplant. Meanwhile, 70% of stable liver transplant recipients who returned for follow-up care at their local hospital had medical issues, but most were managed well there, showing that this system is effective for ongoing patient care. Who this helps: This helps patients with liver disease and liver transplant recipients.

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This study examined how complications and death rates in people with chronic liver disease and cirrhosis changed over a decade in northeastern Italy, including before and during the COVID-19 pandemic. Researchers found that the risk of developing serious complications like fluid buildup in the abdomen and liver failure decreased by 14% from 2013 to 2020, particularly among those with hepatitis C—a virus causing liver disease. However, deaths related to alcohol consumption remained stable or even increased during the pandemic, indicating ongoing challenges for patients with alcohol-related liver issues. Who this helps: This helps patients with chronic liver diseases, especially those with hepatitis C, and highlights the need for better care for those with alcohol-related conditions.

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This study looked at how a sustained virological response (SVR) to treatment affects patients with severe liver damage from Hepatitis C. Researchers found that 91.2% of the 914 patients achieved SVR, and those who did had a lower risk of serious liver-related problems—47.5% experienced these issues compared to 58.6% of those who did not achieve SVR. This information is important because it shows that treating Hepatitis C can lead to better health outcomes for patients with less severe liver damage. Who this helps: This helps patients with Hepatitis C who have decompensated cirrhosis.

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This study looked at the ongoing issues in liver transplantation, focusing on the need to increase organ donors and improve the long-term health of transplant patients. It highlighted that more awareness and willingness to donate organs is essential, as well as better understanding of the outcomes after surgery. The authors emphasized that refining how doctors evaluate donor organs and enhancing monitoring methods for patients after surgery could lead to better survival rates. Who this helps: This helps patients needing liver transplants and healthcare professionals involved in organ donation and transplantation.

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This study looked at how well a common blood test, alanine aminotransferase (ALT), helps diagnose and manage chronic liver diseases like fatty liver disease and chronic hepatitis. Researchers found that while ALT is still important, its effectiveness varies based on factors like age and gender, and suggested adjusting the normal ranges for ALT levels to improve its use in detecting liver issues. This matters because refining ALT testing could lead to earlier diagnosis and better treatment for liver diseases, especially in people who don't show obvious symptoms. Who this helps: Patients with chronic liver diseases and healthcare providers.

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This study looked at the gut bacteria (microbiota) of patients with colitis caused by immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs), a type of cancer treatment, and compared it to patients with inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) like Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis, as well as healthy individuals. The researchers found that the gut bacteria profile of the ICI-colitis patients was significantly different from those with IBD, showing that machine learning can effectively identify these differences. This matters because it may help doctors diagnose ICI-colitis more accurately and improve treatment strategies for patients facing these immune-related side effects. Who this helps: Patients undergoing treatment with immune checkpoint inhibitors.

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The ITA-MASLD study investigated patients with metabolically-dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) across specialized clinics in Italy. It gathered comprehensive data, revealing that MASLD is underdiagnosed and needed attention, as it affects many patients with other health issues. The findings will help improve early diagnosis and treatment, shaping future healthcare policies and strategies for managing this growing health concern. Who this helps: Patients with MASLD and healthcare providers involved in their care.

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This study looked at how to prevent the recurrence of hepatitis B (HBV) in patients who received a liver transplant for liver disease caused by HBV, focusing specifically on those with liver cancer. Researchers analyzed data from over 1,200 liver transplant recipients in Italy between 2010 and 2021 and found that using a combination of treatments (lifelong hepatitis B immunoglobulin plus nucleos(t)ide analogues) effectively reduced HBV recurrence to only 2.1% for patients without cancer and 3.1% for those with cancer. Importantly, while HBV recurrence was low and did not affect survival for non-cancer patients, it was linked to a higher risk of cancer recurrence in patients who had liver cancer, with a rate of 10.8%. Who this helps: This research benefits patients undergoing liver transplantation, especially those dealing with HBV and liver cancer.

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This study looked at a new way to detect and predict outcomes for patients with liver cancer (hepatocellular carcinoma, or HCC) by analyzing small pieces of DNA found in their blood. Researchers examined DNA from 60 patients and found that 21.7% of those with HCC showed signs of aggressive cancer behavior, which was related to poorer survival rates—patients with detectable DNA in their blood lived around 17 months on average, while those without it lived about 24 months. This research is important because it highlights a non-invasive method to better identify patients who are at higher risk and may need more urgent treatment. Who this helps: This benefits patients with liver cancer and their doctors by providing better tools for urgent care decisions.

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This study looked at patients in Italy who had both hepatitis D virus (HDV) and hepatitis B virus (HBV) and were on the liver transplant waiting list from 2011 to 2020. Among 1,731 patients, those with both infections had a better chance of surviving five years after transplant (83.2%) than those with only HBV (71.6%). This is important because it shows that patients with both viruses can have positive outcomes and might not need as complicated treatment plans after their transplants. Who this helps: This benefits patients with hepatitis D and B, as well as healthcare providers managing their care.

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This research paper looks at how men and women experience hepatic encephalopathy (HE), a brain problem caused by liver failure. It found that men and women may face different rates and types of risks related to HE, but not much is known about how these differences affect treatment or outcomes. Understanding these differences is important for improving how HE is managed and treated for different patients. Who this helps: This helps patients with liver disease and healthcare providers looking to tailor treatments based on gender differences.

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This study looked at how men and women in Italy experience differences in access to liver transplants from 2017 to 2021. Researchers found that men were more likely to receive a liver transplant than women, even though survival rates after the transplant were similar; for example, men had a 1.13 to 1.20 times higher chance of undergoing a transplant compared to women for liver cirrhosis and liver cancer. It's important because it highlights that women face barriers in getting liver transplants in Italy, calling for better health policies to ensure fair treatment for everyone. Who this helps: This helps patients, particularly women needing liver transplants.

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This study looked at how well children who have had liver or kidney transplants respond to COVID-19 vaccinations compared to adults who have had similar transplants. Researchers found that children had much higher levels of antibodies against the virus both 7 weeks (average of 114,220) and 32 weeks (average of 46,113) after vaccination, compared to adults (averages of 8,757 and 8,207, respectively). This is important because it shows that the vaccine is effective in protecting children with organ transplants, which may help reduce fears about vaccinating these vulnerable patients. Who this helps: This helps pediatric organ transplant recipients and their families.

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Researchers examined the safety of living liver donors after surgery, focusing on early complications that occur within 90 days. They found that there's a need for better care guidelines, including regular monitoring and follow-up to prevent issues like infections and liver dysfunction. Improving these practices is important to ensure the health and safety of living liver donors as this life-saving procedure becomes more common.

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This study focused on the long-term health and well-being of people who donate part of their liver to others in need. Experts gathered to create guidelines that will help monitor and support these living donors, addressing their medical, psychological, and social needs. This is important because it ensures that donors can stay healthy and maintain a good quality of life after their donation, making more people willing to consider being donors in the future.