HEPATO-GASTROENTEROLOGY, vol.52, no.64, pp.1240-1243, 2005 (SCI-Expanded)
An overview of the impairments of immune function present and the type as well as frequency of infections seen in individuals with advanced liver disease is presented. Where data are available, the use of antibiotic prophylaxis to prevent these complications is identified. Physicians and surgeons caring for individuals with advanced liver disease need to be aware of these issues and be vigilant to the recognition, early detection and aggressive treatment of infections in patients with advanced liver disease and particularly cirrhosis of any etiology.