THE IMPACT OF LIVER CIRRHOSIS ON THE INTESTINAL MICROBIOTA AND RISK FACTORS FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF ENCEPHALOPATHY IN PATIENTS

Abstract

Liver cirrhosis is a complex pathophysiological process characterized not only by fibrotic changes in liver tissues but also by alterations in the intestinal microbiota. This article analyzes the effects of liver cirrhosis on the intestinal microbiota and the role of microbiota alterations in the development of hepatic encephalopathy. The study results showed that dysbiosis in the microbiota contributes to the development of encephalopathy through endotoxemia, impaired ammonia metabolism, and toxic effects on the central nervous system [1]. In addition, bacterial translocation, impaired intestinal barrier function, and changes in the immune system were identified as major risk factors. A direct association was observed between severe dysbiosis and a worsening disease prognosis. It was also found that alterations in the intestinal microbiota become more pronounced as liver failure progresses. The article further examined the effects of qualitative and quantitative changes in the microbiota on clinical manifestations. Furthermore, dysfunction of the gut–liver axis was found to be closely associated with metabolic and immune disorders. Based on the findings, the scientific rationale for the effectiveness of therapeutic approaches targeting the microbiota was established . At the same time, it was emphasized that microbiota biomarkers may play an important role in the early diagnosis of hepatic encephalopathy