Study on the Relationship Between Changes of Portal System Hemodynamics and Levels of Plasma Endothelin in Patients with Liver Cirrhosis

ObjectiveTo explore the relationship between the plasma levels of endothelin and changes of portal system hemodynamics.The changes of portal system hemodynamics in 32 patients with liver cirrhosis were observed by Doppler ultrasonography and their plasma endothelin levels in peripheral blood were detected with RIA. The correlation of portal hemodynamic indices with plasma endothelin levels was analyzed.The plasma endothelin levels in patients with liver cirrhosis were positively correlated with the inner diameters of portal and splenic veins, but revealed no significant correlation to the quantity and speed of blood flow in portal and splenic veins.[Conclusion]Plasma endothelin may play an important role in the occurrence and development of portal hypertension.