Abstract:Covert hepatic encephalopathy (CHE) is defined as presence of neuropsychological and/or neurophysiological abnormalities in cirrhotic patients without disorientation or asterixis. The West-Haven criteria are most often used to grade hepatic encephalopathy (HE), with scores ranging from 0 to 4. In 2011, the minimal (grade 0) and grade 1 hepatic encephalopathy were collectively referred to as CHE by SONIC classification. It is difficult for clinicians to diagnose CHE because its clinical manifestation is not obvious. So far, there is no consensus on CHE treatment. Here we have reviewed the articles regarding the diagnoses and treatment of CHE, hoping to provide guidance for the clinicians in clinical practice.