Non-Cirrhotic Portal Fibrosis - -H. S. Sandhu, Shamsher Singh

Opening of the article

Non- Cirrhotic Portal Fibrosis (NCPF) characterized by splenomegaly and well tolerated episodes of variceal bleeding is very commonly seen in India. The aetiopathogenesis is not well understood but various physical, chemical, biological and immunological factors have been documented to have a role.It Presents in 90% cases as variceal bleed which is massive, painless, recurrent and well tolerated. Signs of chronic liver failure are in variably absent- Endoscopy usually reveals Grade - III or IV oesophageal varices. The basis of diagnosis is exclusion of extra hepatic portal vein obstruction and, cirrhosis. NCPF is a benign disorder and has a good long term prognosis.