Serum zonulin levels in patients with liver cirrhosis: Prognostic implications

BACKGROUND: Increased gut permeability and bacterial translocation play an important role in liver cirrhosis. Zonulin is a recently recognized protein involved in the disintegration of the intestinal barrier. AIM: To investigate possible differences in serum zonulin levels among patients with different cirrhosis stages and their potential prognostic implications. METHODS: Consecutive cirrhotic patients who attended our liver clinic were included in the study. Serum zonulin levels, clinical, radiological and biochemical data were collected at baseline. Patients who accepted participation in a regular surveillance program were followed-up for at least 12 mo. RESULTS: = 0.022) were independent predictors of mortality. CONCLUSION: Serum zonulin levels are higher in patients with more advanced chronic liver disease and have significant prognostic value in identifying patients who will develop decompensation.