Study of Breath Markers to Understand and Predict Outcomes in Chronic Liver Disease and Cirrhosis

What this Trial Is About

Cirrhosis is a common digestive system disease representing the final stage of various chronic liver diseases. It affects the intestinal environment due to liver damage and increased portal venous pressure. Changes in gut microbiota linked to cirrhosis can alter levels of breath markers like nitric oxide NO, hydrogen H, methane CH, and hydrogen sulfide HS. This study explores these breath markers alongside blood tests, gut microbiota analysis, and radiomics to find new diagnostic markers and treatment targets, aiming to identify high-risk patients early and improve survival and quality of life. Participants will undergo molecular breath tests measuring exhaled gases such as hydrogen, methane, hydrogen sulfide, and nitric oxide. Abnormal levels may indicate bacterial overgrowth or intestinal inflammation. The study includes groups based on breath marker abnormalities like excessive hydrogen-producing bacteria, methanogenic archaea, hydrogen sulfide-producing bacteria, or low-grade intestinal inflammation. These tests are performed within one week of admission. During the study, participants will be monitored for gastrointestinal bleeding over two months and tracked for clinical events at six months, one year, and two years. Researchers will analyze breath test results along with serological and microbiota data to understand disease characteristics and prognosis. This observational study is conducted by Shanghai Zhongshan Hospital and involves adults diagnosed with chronic liver disease or cirrhosis who can complete the breath test.

Exploring Clinical Characteristics of Liver Disease Patients Based on Digestive Metabolic Exhaled Air