Non-selective beta-blocker treatment does not impact on kidney function in patients on primary and secondary prophylaxis of variceal bleeding

Background: Non-selective beta-blocker (NSBB) treatment is used for bleeding prophylaxis in cirrhotic patients with gastroesophageal varices (GEVs). Recent data suggested that NSBB treatment might increase the risk of renal dysfunction in subgroups of patients with refractory ascites due to impaired adrenergic/sympathomimetic compensation of the circulatory reserve. Methods: Retrospective longitudinal assessment of kidney function in a cohort of cirrhotic patients with GEVs with versus without NSBB therapy. Serum creatinine, the incidence of acute kidney injury (AKI), new onset of large volume ascites, and TIPS/…