[Portal hypertension].
This review covers the most recent advances regarding the anatomy, physiology, etiology, clinical features, laboratory examinations and treatment of portal hypertension. The importance of the increased sensitivity of the S2 receptors for serotonin at the portal circulation level in cases of portal hypertension of cirrotic origin is stressed. An update of non invasive diagnostic methods is made as well as comments on laboratory tests with clinical value. Finally, due emphasis is given to the usage of vasodilators to modify portal pressure.
Humans↗