Introduction: Decompensated cirrhosis has traditionally been considered an irreversible stage of liver disease, associated with poor survival and frequent complications such as ascites, variceal bleeding, and hepatic encephalopathy. However, emerging evidence challenges this paradigm, suggesting that effective etiological treatment can lead to “recompensation,” defined as resolution of decompensating events with sustained improvement in liver function.
Introduction:
Decompensated cirrhosis has traditionally been considered an irreversible stage of liver disease, associated with poor survival and frequent complications such as ascites, variceal bleeding, and hepatic encephalopathy. However, emerging evidence challenges this paradigm, suggesting that effective etiological treatment can lead to “recompensation,” defined as resolution of decompensating events with sustained improvement in liver function. This evolving concept represents a fundamental shift in cirrhosis management, moving from palliation toward potential disease modification.
Summary:
This systematic review and meta-analysis involving over 9000 patients demonstrates that recompensation occurs in approximately one-third of patients with decompensated cirrhosis, particularly in viral etiologies such as hepatitis B. Importantly, recompensation is associated with significantly lower risks of hepatocellular carcinoma and mortality, highlighting its prognostic and clinical relevance. Despite these promising findings, heterogeneity across studies and limited high-quality evidence indicate that predictors, durability, and mechanisms of recompensation remain incompletely understood.
Clinical Implication:
Recompensation should be recognised as an achievable and meaningful therapeutic endpoint, emphasising early etiological treatment, aggressive disease modification, and a dynamic approach to cirrhosis care rather than a static irreversible model.
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