A case of hepatopulmonary syndrome

Abstract

SummaryThis report presents the case of a 42-year-old man with liver cirrhosis who presents with breathlessness. Initial investigations are unable to explain his persistent hypoxia and a diagnosis of hepatopulmonary syndrome is considered. Saline contrast echocardiography is utilised in confirming the diagnosis. Details of this case as well as practicalities in performing and interpreting saline contrast echocardiography are reviewed.Learning pointsKey features of hepatopulmonary syndrome are liver disease, hypoxia and pulmonary vascular dilatations.Saline contrast echocardiography is a simple inexpensive procedure to perform and key to confirming the diagnosis of hepatopulmonary syndrome. Detection can be improved by performing the scan in the stand-up position.Agitated saline contrast studies are more commonly performed to identify intra-cardiac shunts. Timing of contrast arrival in the left heart chambers is key to differentiating intra-cardiac shunting from extra-cardiac pulmonary transit.