In recent years it has become well established that nitric oxide (NO) plays a crucial role in the hemo-dynamic abnormalities that develop in chronic portal hypertension. The purpose of this review is to summarize the available data and current concepts regarding the involvement of NO in the pathophysiologic changes in the micro-circulation of the liver and the splanchnic and systemic circulation that associate portal hypertension.
nitric oxide - portal hypertension - liver cirrhosis - hyperdynamic circulation
