Clinical Research Directory

Genetic Hallmarks of Patients With Congenital Portosystemic Shunts and Portopulmonary Hypertension

Congenital portosystemic shunt (CPSS) are rare vascular malformations causing blood from the intestines to bypass the liver and directly flow into body's general circulation. Such liver bypass can cause several health problems, one of the most severe being portopulmonary hypertension (PoPH). The goal of this study is to identify pathogenic and potentially pathogenic genetic variants in patients who have both CPSS and PoPH. Future research will assess the contribution of these genetic variants to the development of PoPH. The long-term goal is to use genetic information to identify patients with congenital portosystemic shunts (CPSS) or chronic liver disease who are at risk of developing PoPH to offer anticipatory management. Children and adult patients with both CPSS and PoPH, as well as their close relatives (patient's parents and siblings) can take part in the study. Genetic variations within each family will be studied.

International Registry of Congenital Portosystemic Shunt (IRCPSS)

Congenital Portosystemic Shunt (CPSS) is a rare condition important by the multiplicity and severity of associated complications. CPSS is venous anomaly in which blood coming from the intestines only partially passes through the liver. This leads to the accumulation of potentially toxic factors that cause systemic effects. Complications vary among the individuals, and currently, it is challenging to predict which individuals will develop severe complications. The IRCPSS registry is established with the aim of centralizing detailed clinical follow-up and biological information from participants around the world who suffer from Congenital Portosystemic Shunt (CPSS). A multidisciplinary consortium of experts is collaborating to enhance our understanding of the prevalence, natural history, individual risks, and physiopathology of the disease through the IRCPSS registry.