UPPER GASTROINTESTINAL BLEEDING IN PATIENTS WITH CHRONIC LIVER DISEASE: CLINICAL CHALLENGES AND CURRENT THERAPEUTIC STRATEGIES

Abstract

Upper gastrointestinal bleeding (UGIB) in patients with chronic liver disease is a severe clinical condition associated with high morbidity and mortality, posing significant challenges in therapeutic management. The main cause of bleeding is variceal hemorrhage secondary to portal hypertension, requiring a multidisciplinary approach that includes hemodynamic stabilization, endoscopic and pharmacological treatment, and invasive procedures in selected cases. This article reviews the main clinical challenges and current therapeutic strategies, emphasizing the importance of early diagnosis, primary and secondary prevention, and continuous follow-up to improve clinical outcomes. It concludes that evidence-based management combined with integrated healthcare team efforts is crucial to reduce mortality and enhance patients’ quality of life.