Abstract
Cirrhosis associated with a number of cardiovascu¬lar abnormalities. Charactenstic features in cirrhotic patients include hyperdynamic splanchnic as well as systemic circulation.
This is related to arterial vasodilation leading to centrál hypovolaemia, sodium retention and increased intravascular volume. As a result of these changes, signs of systolic and diastolic dysfunction of the heart with electrophysiological correlates can develop; this condition is referred to as cirrhotic cardiomyopathy.
Since early diagnosis may be difficult, undiscovered cardiovascular changes can manifest in cardiac failure. It can negatively affect morbid¬ity and mortality of what is already a serious condition such as cirrhosis, and what is a good enough reason for continued research.