Volume Expanders for Spontaneous Bacterial Peritonitis: Are We Comparing Oranges With Oranges?

摘要

Spontaneous bacterial peritonitis (SBP) is a common and often fatal complication occurring in approximately 20%-30% of patients with cirrhosis and ascites.It is associated with significant morbidity and mortality. In addition to the usual problems associated with infection, patients with SBP are particularly susceptible to the development of hepatorenal syndrome (HRS), a functional but potentially reversible form of renal failure that is seen in patients with advanced cirrhosis. It is estimated that at least 30% of patients with SBP will develop hepatorenal syndrome despite adequate treatment of their infection.