The need for histological subclassification of cirrhosis: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Background & Aims The need for further histological subclassification of cirrhosis has been increasingly recognized because of the heterogeneity of severity within cirrhosis. We sought to identify evidence in the literature regarding the histological subclassification of cirrhosis using the Laennec stage. Methods We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis by searching databases, including MEDLINE, EMBASE and the COCHRANE library, for relevant studies. Results Of 208 studies identified, 16 were eligible according to the inclusion criteria. With higher grades of the Laennec stage, clinical stages of cirrhosis and Child–Pugh scores/Model for end-stage liver disease scores increased (P