Variability in the management of portal hypertension across European countries: A survey-study by ESPGHAN Portal Hypertension Special Interest Group.

Abstract

Portal hypertension (PHT) remains a significant burden in children with chronic liver disease (CLD) or portal vein thrombosis (PVT). Management strategies vary depending on the underlying cause and clinical presentation. There is a lack of consensus on various aspects of PHT, including the optimal approach to screening, prophylactic endoscopy and treatment, and pharmacological interventions. This brief communication summarizes the results of a recent questionnaire-based study conducted by the European Society for Paediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition Portal Hypertension Special Interest Group to explore current practices in the management of PHT among its members. Screening for the presence of varices and the approach to primary and secondary prophylaxis differ across Europe. The survey also demasked a high variability of both pharmacological and surgical management of PHT and highlights knowledge gaps and areas for future research.