Cirrhosis in over 16s: assessment and management—updated summary of NICE guidance

What you need to knowNon-selective beta blockers (NSBBs) are likely to prevent or delay decompensation in people with cirrhosis and clinically significant portal hypertensionNSBBs can be used safely in people with cirrhosis but need to be used with caution and should be started at low dosesNSBBs are as effective as endoscopic variceal band ligation for preventing oesophageal variceal bleeding, and are more cost effectiveRoutine prophylactic antibiotics are unlikely to be effective in preventing spontaneous bacterial peritonitisLiver cirrhosis affects 110 people per 100 000 in the UK1 and is closely linked with deprivation. The British Liver Trust2 estimates premature deaths from liver disease to be four times higher in the most deprived areas compared with the most affluent. Early identification and management can delay decompensation events such as variceal bleeding, ascites, and hepatic encephalopathy, leading to longer, better quality life for people with liver disease.In 2015, the National Institute for Health…
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