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Badura K, Frąk W, Hajdys J, Majchrowicz G, Młynarska E, Rysz J, Franczyk B. Hepatorenal Syndrome-Novel Insights into Diagnostics and Treatment. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:17469. [PMID: 38139297 PMCID: PMC10744165 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242417469] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2023] [Revised: 12/09/2023] [Accepted: 12/11/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatorenal syndrome (HRS) is a disorder associated with cirrhosis and renal impairment, with portal hypertension as its major underlying cause. Moreover, HRS is the third most common cause of acute kidney injury, thus creating a major public health concern. This review summarizes the available information on the pathophysiological implications of HRS. We discuss pathogenesis associated with HRS. Mechanisms such as dysfunction of the circulatory system, bacterial infection, inflammation, impaired renal autoregulation, circulatory, and others, which have been identified as critical pathways for development of HRS, have become easier to diagnose in recent years. Additionally, relatively recently, renal dysfunction biomarkers have been found indicating renal injury, which are involved in the pathophysiology of HRS. This review also summarizes the available information on the management of HRS, focusing on vasoconstrictive drugs, renal replacement therapy, and liver transplant together with currently being investigated novel therapies. Analyzing new discoveries for the underlying causes of this condition assists the general research to improve understanding of the mechanism of pathophysiology and thus prevention of HRS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Krzysztof Badura
- Department of Nephrocardiology, Medical University of Lodz, Ul. Zeromskiego 113, 90-549 Lodz, Poland
| | - Weronika Frąk
- Department of Nephrocardiology, Medical University of Lodz, Ul. Zeromskiego 113, 90-549 Lodz, Poland
| | - Joanna Hajdys
- Department of Nephrocardiology, Medical University of Lodz, Ul. Zeromskiego 113, 90-549 Lodz, Poland
| | - Gabriela Majchrowicz
- Department of Nephrocardiology, Medical University of Lodz, Ul. Zeromskiego 113, 90-549 Lodz, Poland
| | - Ewelina Młynarska
- Department of Nephrocardiology, Medical University of Lodz, Ul. Zeromskiego 113, 90-549 Lodz, Poland
| | - Jacek Rysz
- Department of Nephrology, Hypertension and Family Medicine, Medical University of Lodz, Ul. Zeromskiego 113, 90-549 Lodz, Poland
| | - Beata Franczyk
- Department of Nephrocardiology, Medical University of Lodz, Ul. Zeromskiego 113, 90-549 Lodz, Poland
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Mazumder NR, Junna S, Sharma P. The Diagnosis and Non-pharmacological Management of Acute Kidney Injury in Patients with Cirrhosis. Clin Gastroenterol Hepatol 2023; 21:S11-S19. [PMID: 37625862 DOI: 10.1016/j.cgh.2023.04.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2023] [Revised: 03/01/2023] [Accepted: 04/06/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023]
Abstract
Acute kidney injury in patients with cirrhosis is quite common, and is seen in up to 50% of patients hospitalized for decompensated cirrhosis. Causes of acute kidney injury include prerenal, renal, or postrenal etiologies. The diagnosis and early institution of nonpharmacologic and pharmacologic management are key to the recovery of renal function. The objective of this review is to provide a practical approach to the use of diagnostic biomarkers and highlight the nonpharmacologic management and prevention of acute kidney injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nikhilesh R Mazumder
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan; Gastroenterology Section, VA Ann Arbor Healthcare System, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Shilpa Junna
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Pratima Sharma
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan; Gastroenterology Section, VA Ann Arbor Healthcare System, Ann Arbor, Michigan.
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Del Risco-Zevallos J, Andújar AM, Piñeiro G, Reverter E, Toapanta ND, Sanz M, Blasco M, Fernández J, Poch E. Management of acute renal replacement therapy in critically ill cirrhotic patients. Clin Kidney J 2022; 15:1060-1070. [PMID: 35664279 PMCID: PMC9155212 DOI: 10.1093/ckj/sfac025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Renal replacement therapy (RRT) in cirrhotic patients encompasses a number of issues related to the particular characteristics of this population, especially in the intensive care unit (ICU) setting. The short-term prognosis of cirrhotic patients with acute kidney injury is poor, with a mortality rate higher than 65% in patients with RRT requirement, raising questions about the futility of its initiation. Regarding the management of the RRT itself, there is still no consensus with respect to the modality (continuous versus intermittent) or the anticoagulation required to improve the circuit life, which is shorter than similar at-risk populations, despite the altered haemostasis in traditional coagulation tests frequently found in these patients. Furthermore, volume management is one of the most complex issues in this cohort, where tools used for ambulatory dialysis have not yet been successfully reproducible in the ICU setting. This review attempts to shed light on the management of acute RRT in the critically ill cirrhotic population based on the current evidence and the newly available tools. We will discuss the timing of RRT initiation and cessation, the modality, anticoagulation and fluid management, as well as the outcomes of the RRT in this population, and provide a brief review of the albumin extracorporeal dialysis from the point of view of a nephrologist.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Gastón Piñeiro
- Nephrology and Renal Transplantation Department, Hospital Clínic de Barcelona. University of Barcelona, IDIBAPS, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Enric Reverter
- Liver and Digestive ICU, Liver Unit, Hospital Clínic de Barcelona, University of Barcelona, IDIBAPS, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Néstor David Toapanta
- Liver and Digestive ICU, Liver Unit, Hospital Clínic de Barcelona, University of Barcelona, IDIBAPS, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Miquel Sanz
- Liver and Digestive ICU, Liver Unit, Hospital Clínic de Barcelona, University of Barcelona, IDIBAPS, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Miquel Blasco
- Nephrology and Renal Transplantation Department, Hospital Clínic de Barcelona. University of Barcelona, IDIBAPS, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Javier Fernández
- Liver and Digestive ICU, Liver Unit, Hospital Clínic de Barcelona, University of Barcelona, IDIBAPS, Barcelona, Spain
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Lei Y, Liang Y, Zhang X, Wang X, Zhang Y, Chan YM, Tang C, Zheng Z. Alternating therapeutic plasma exchange (TPE) with double plasma molecular adsorption system (DPMAS) for the treatment of fulminant hepatic failure (FHF). Clin Case Rep 2021; 9:e05220. [PMID: 34938567 PMCID: PMC8667290 DOI: 10.1002/ccr3.5220] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2021] [Revised: 11/24/2021] [Accepted: 12/03/2021] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Alternating therapeutic plasma exchange with double plasma molecular adsorption system can rapidly remove bilirubin and ammonia and supplement the essential substance from the blood, which could be used as an effective treatment for fulminant hepatic failure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Lei
- Department of NephrologyCenter of Nephrology and UrologyThe Seventh Affiliated HospitalSun Yat‐sen UniversityShenzhenChina
| | - Yuling Liang
- Department of NephrologyCenter of Nephrology and UrologyThe Seventh Affiliated HospitalSun Yat‐sen UniversityShenzhenChina
| | - Xuemei Zhang
- Department of NephrologyCenter of Nephrology and UrologyThe Seventh Affiliated HospitalSun Yat‐sen UniversityShenzhenChina
| | - Xiaohua Wang
- Department of NephrologyCenter of Nephrology and UrologyThe Seventh Affiliated HospitalSun Yat‐sen UniversityShenzhenChina
| | - Yu Zhang
- Department of NephrologyCenter of Nephrology and UrologyThe Seventh Affiliated HospitalSun Yat‐sen UniversityShenzhenChina
| | - Yuk Ming Chan
- Department of NephrologyCenter of Nephrology and UrologyThe Seventh Affiliated HospitalSun Yat‐sen UniversityShenzhenChina
| | - Chun Tang
- Department of NephrologyCenter of Nephrology and UrologyThe Seventh Affiliated HospitalSun Yat‐sen UniversityShenzhenChina
| | - Zhihua Zheng
- Department of NephrologyCenter of Nephrology and UrologyThe Seventh Affiliated HospitalSun Yat‐sen UniversityShenzhenChina
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Deep A, Saxena R, Jose B. Acute kidney injury in children with chronic liver disease. Pediatr Nephrol 2019; 34:45-59. [PMID: 29497824 PMCID: PMC6244855 DOI: 10.1007/s00467-018-3893-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2017] [Revised: 01/10/2018] [Accepted: 01/11/2018] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a common accompaniment in patients with liver disease. The causes, risk factors, manifestations and management of AKI in these patients vary according to the liver disease in question (acute liver failure, acute-on-chronic liver failure, post-liver transplantation or metabolic liver disease). There are multiple causes of AKI in patients with liver disease-pre-renal, acute tubular necrosis, post-renal, drug-induced renal failure and hepatorenal syndrome (HRS). Definitions of AKI in liver failure are periodically revised and updated, but pediatric definitions have still to see the light of the day. As our understanding of the pathophysiology of liver disease and renal involvement improves, treatment modalities have become more advanced and rationalized. Treatment includes reversing precipitating factors, such as infections and gastrointestinal bleeding, volume expansion, paracentesis and vasoconstrictors. This approach is tried and tested in adults. A pediatric tailored approach is still lacking due to inadequate numbers of patients, differences in causes of AKI and paucity of literature. In this review, we attempt to explore the pathophysiological basis, treatment modalities and controversies in the diagnosis and treatment of AKI in pediatric patients with chronic liver disease and discuss our own personal practice. We recognize that, although it is not a very commonly encountered entity in pediatric population, HRS has specific diagnostic criteria and treatment modalities that differ from other causes of AKI in patients with chronic liver disease; hence among the etiologies of kidney injury in patients with chronic liver disease, we focus here on HRS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akash Deep
- Paediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU), King's College Hospital, Denmark Hill, London, SE5 9RS, UK.
| | - Romit Saxena
- Paediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU), King’s College Hospital, Denmark Hill, London, SE5 9RS UK
| | - Bipin Jose
- Paediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU), King’s College Hospital, Denmark Hill, London, SE5 9RS UK
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6
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Abstract
BACKGROUND In a liver transplant (LT) center, treatments with Prometheus were evaluated. The main outcome considered was 1 and 6 months survival. METHODS During the study period, 74 patients underwent treatment with Prometheus; 64 were enrolled, with a mean age of 51 ± 13 years; 47 men underwent 212 treatments (mean, 3.02 per patient). The parameters evaluated were age, sex, laboratorial (liver enzymes, ammonia) and clinical (model for end-stage liver disease and Child-Turcotte-Pugh score) data. RESULTS Death was verified in 23 patients (35.9%) during the hospitalization period, 20 patients (31.3%) were submitted to liver transplantation, and 21 were discharged. LT was performed in 4 patients with acute liver failure (ALF, 23.7%), in 7 patients with acute on chronic liver failure (AoCLF, 43.7%), and in 6 patients with liver disease after LT (30%). Seven patients who underwent LT died (35%). In the multivariate analysis, older age (P = .015), higher international normalized ratio (INR) (P = .019), and acute liver failure (P = .039) were independently associated with an adverse 1-month clinical outcome. On the other hand, older age (P = .011) and acute kidney injury (P = .031) at presentation were both related to worse 6-month outcome. For patients with ALF and AoCLF we did not observe the same differences. CONCLUSIONS In this cohort, older age was the most important parameter defining 1- and 6-month survival, although higher INR and presence of ALF were important for 1-month survival and AKI for 6-month survival. No difference was observed between patients who underwent LT or did not have LT.
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A case of living donor liver transplant recipient treated with novel blood purification "plasma diafiltration". Int Surg 2015; 98:428-31. [PMID: 24229036 DOI: 10.9738/intsurg-d-13-00047.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Blood purification therapy is indispensable for liver transplant recipients. The case of a living donor liver transplant recipient who represented graft insufficiency and was supported by novel blood purification "plasma diafiltration" immediately after operation is presented. A 60-year-old woman was referred for living donor liver transplant because of liver cirrhosis due to hepatitis C. Elective living donor liver transplant was performed, but the graft was small for size. Thus, the signs of graft insufficiency appeared immediately after the operation, and plasma diafiltration was used as a bridge to graft regeneration. After plasma diafiltration was started, the recipient recovered promptly, and withdrawal was performed 35 hours after induction without any complications. Plasma diafiltration is a useful and safe liver support for liver transplant recipients, including immediately after liver transplantation.
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Pőcze B, Fazakas J, Zádori G, Görög D, Kóbori L, Dabasi E, Mándli T, Piros L, Smudla A, Szabó T, Toronyi E, Tóth S, Tőzsér G, Végső G, Doros A, Nemes B. MARS therapy, the bridging to liver retransplantation - Three cases from the Hungarian liver transplant program. Interv Med Appl Sci 2013; 5:70-5. [PMID: 24265893 DOI: 10.1556/imas.5.2013.2.3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2013] [Accepted: 05/29/2013] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Besides orthotopic liver transplantation (OLT) there is no long-term and effective replacement therapy for severe liver failure. Artificial extracorporeal liver supply devices are able to reduce blood toxin levels, but do not replace any synthetic function of the liver. Molecular adsorbent recirculating system (MARS) is one of the methods that can be used to treat fulminant acute liver failure (ALF) or acute on chronic liver failure (AoCLF). The primary non-function (PNF) of the newly transplanted liver manifests in the clinical settings exactly like acute liver failure. MARS treatment can reduce the severity of complications by eliminating blood toxins, so that it can help hepatic encephalopathy (HE), hepatorenal syndrome (HRS), and the high rate mortality of cerebral herniation. This might serve as a bridging therapy before orthotopic liver retransplantation (reOLT). Three patients after a first liver transplantation became candidate for urgent MARS treatment as a bridging solution prior to reOLT in our center. Authors report these three cases, fo-cusing on indications, MARS sessions, clinical courses, and final outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Balázs Pőcze
- Clinic of Transplantation and Surgery, Semmelweis University Budapest Hungary
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Lee K, Mun CH, Min BG. Development of a multifunctional detoxifying unit for liver failure patients. Blood Purif 2012; 34:225-30. [PMID: 23171622 DOI: 10.1159/000341552] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2012] [Accepted: 07/03/2012] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND/AIMS Extracorporeal blood detoxification strategies aimed at supporting impaired liver function have been explored because of the imbalance between donor organs and waiting patients. A limited number of artificial devices are now available clinically, and these are characterized by the use of multistage adsorption procedures in conjunction with hemodialysis, but these features simultaneously increase system complexity and treatment costs. METHODS The authors developed a simpler strategy for liver dialysis based on the use of a multifunctional filter, which enables plasma separation and perfusion in a single unit. RESULTS Liver dialysis treatments were successfully performed using the devised unit when bovine blood containing uremic and hepatic toxins was circulated. Removal of the solutes under investigation was significant, and reduction ratios of 78% for urea, 98% for creatinine and 91% for bilirubin were achieved. Plasma free hemoglobin levels were reasonably maintained despite prolonged blood recirculation for 5 h, and platelet, hematocrit and hemoglobin levels remained uniform throughout liver dialysis sessions. CONCLUSION The devised liver support unit may offer a straightforward and efficient means of cleansing blood for patients with hepatic failure.
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10
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Abstract
The fact that liver failure constitutes a life-threatening condition and can, in most cases, only be overcome by orthotopic liver transplantation, lead to the development of various artificial and bioartificial liver support devices. While artificial systems are based on the principles of adsorption and filtration, the more complex concept of bioartificial devices includes the provision of liver cells. Instead of solely focussing on detoxification, these concepts also support the failing organ concerning synthetic and regulative functions.The systems were evaluated in a variety of clinical studies, demonstrating their safety and investigating the impact on the patient's clinical condition. This review gives an overview over the most common artificial and bioartificial liver support devices and summarizes the results of the clinical studies.
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11
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Catana AM, Medici V. Liver transplantation for Wilson disease. World J Hepatol 2012; 4:5-10. [PMID: 22312450 PMCID: PMC3272077 DOI: 10.4254/wjh.v4.i1.5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2011] [Revised: 11/15/2011] [Accepted: 01/15/2012] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The aim of this paper is to review the current status of liver transplantation (LT) for Wilson disease (WD), focusing on indications and controversies, especially in patients with neuropsychiatric disease, and on identification of acute liver failure (ALF) cases related to WD. LT remains the treatment of choice for patients with ALF, as initial presentation of WD or when anti-copper agents are stopped, and for patients with chronic liver disease progressed to cirrhosis, unresponsive to chelating medications or not timely treated with copper chelating agents. The indication for LT in WD remains highly debated in patients with progressive neurological deterioration and failure to improve with appropriate medical treatment. In case of Wilsonian ALF, early identification is key as mortality is 100% without emergency LT. As many of the copper metabolism parameters are believed to be less reliable in ALF, simple biochemical tests have been proposed for diagnosis of acute WD with good sensitivity and specificity. LT corrects copper metabolism and complications resulting from WD with excellent 1 and 5 year survival. Living related liver transplantation represents an alternative to deceased donor LT with excellent long-term survival, without disease recurrence. Future options may include hepatocyte transplantation and gene therapy. Although both of these have shown promising results in animal models of WD, prospective human studies are much needed to demonstrate their long-term beneficial effects and their potential to replace the need for medical therapy and LT in patients with WD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andreea M Catana
- Andreea M Catana, Valentina Medici, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of California, Davis, Sacramento, CA 95817, United States
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Acute-on-chronic liver failure (ACLF), a syndrome precipitated by acute liver injury in patients with advanced cirrhosis, is associated with multiorgan dysfunction and high rates of mortality. Liver support systems have been developed in an attempt to improve survival of patients with ACLF by providing a bridge until recovery of the native liver function. RECENT FINDINGS Nonbiological devices such as molecular adsorbent recirculating system (MARS) and fractionated plasma separation and adsorption (Prometheus) are effective in improving severe hepatic encephalopathy and cholestasis, have good safety and tolerability profiles and are frequently employed in patients with ACLD; however, randomized controlled trials (RCTs) failed to show improvement in survival. Biologic devices that incorporate hepatic cells in bioreactors are also under development. Recent data from pilot studies suggested improvement in survival rates in some groups of patients with ACLF; however, their effect on patient survival in RCT is still unknown. SUMMARY Liver support systems are safe and well tolerated when used in management of patients with ACLF. Their use should continue in controlled clinical trials to explore their role in bridging patients to liver transplantation or recovery in well defined patient groups.
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Sentürk E, Esen F, Ozcan PE, Rifai K, Pinarbaşi B, Cakar N, Telci L. The treatment of acute liver failure with fractionated plasma separation and adsorption system: Experience in 85 applications. J Clin Apher 2011; 25:195-201. [PMID: 20818714 DOI: 10.1002/jca.20238] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Artificial liver support systems represent a potential useful option for the treatment of liver failure. The outcomes of patients treated with the fractionated plasma separation and adsorption (FPSA) system are presented. PATIENTS AND METHODS FPSA was performed 85 times for 27 patients (median 3 treatments/patient) with liver failure [85.2% acute liver failure (ALF) and 14.8% acute-on-chronic liver failure] using the Prometheus 4008H (Fresenius Medical Care) unit. Citrate was used for anticoagulation. A variety of clinical and biochemical parameters were assessed. Comparisons between pretreatment and post-treatment data were performed using paired t-test. RESULTS The 85 sessions had a mean duration of 6 h. There were significant decreases in total bilirubin (13.18 +/- 9.46 mg/dL vs. 9.76 +/- 7.05 mg/dL; P < 0.0001), ammonia (167.6 +/- 75 mg/dL vs. 120 +/- 43.8 mg/dL; P < 0.0001), blood urea nitrogen (BUN; 12.55 +/- 13.03 mg/dL vs. 8.18 +/- 8.15 mg/dL; P < 0.0001), creatinine (0.54 +/- 0.47 mg/dL vs. 0.46 +/- 0.37 mg/dL; P = 0.0022) levels, and in pH (7.48 +/- 0.05 vs. 7.44 +/- 0.08; P = 0.0045). Four patients (14.8%) received liver transplantation after the treatments; in nine patients, transplantation was not necessary anymore (33%); the remaining 14 patients did not receive a transplantation because they were either not appropriate candidates or no organ was available. Overall survival was 48.1% (4 transplanted and 9 treated patients). No hematological complications related to FPSA were observed. CONCLUSIONS FPSA system is a safe and effective detoxification method for patients with liver dysfunction, including ALF. The system is useful as a symptomatic treatment before liver transplantation; in up to 1/3 of the cases, it can even be used as a sole method of treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Evren Sentürk
- Department of Anesthesiology, Istanbul Medical Faculty, Istanbul University, Capa, Istanbul, Turkey.
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Oppert M, Rademacher S, Petrasch K, Jörres A. Extracorporeal liver support therapy with Prometheus in patients with liver failure in the intensive care unit. Ther Apher Dial 2009; 13:426-30. [PMID: 19788460 DOI: 10.1111/j.1744-9987.2009.00761.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Acute liver failure (ALF) and acute-on-chronic liver failure (AoCLF) are associated with a high mortality. In these patients an accumulation of both water-soluble and water-insoluble, protein-bound, metabolic waste products occurs. Conventional extracorporeal blood purification techniques based on diffusion and/or convection such as hemodialysis or hemofiltration may only eliminate small molecular weight, water-soluble compounds. In recent years, fractionated plasma separation and adsorption (FPSA) with the Prometheus system has been introduced for extracorporeal liver support therapy. To date, however, only limited data is available regarding the effect of this treatment on mortality and outcome of patients with advanced liver disease. Here we report on our experience with 23 patients with severe liver failure who were treated with Prometheus in our medical intensive care unit. Fourteen patients had AoCLF, and nine patients experienced ALF. The median bilirubin level at the start of Prometheus therapy was 30.5 mg/dL and the median Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation II (APACHE II) score was 26. During 40 individual treatment sessions lasting 5-6 h, Prometheus therapy reduced serum bilirubin levels from 23.7 mg/dL to 15.0 mg/dL (median values) (P < 0.001), and the overall survival was 26%. ALF patients had a better survival compared to AoCLF patients (44% vs. 22%; P = 0.022). Apart from one patient who developed hemodynamic instability during a treatment session, Prometheus therapy was well tolerated without relevant side-effects. In conclusion, extracorporeal liver support therapy with Prometheus is a novel and safe treatment option in patients with severe liver failure. In this series, patients with ALF showed a significantly better outcome with Prometheus therapy compared to AoCLF patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Oppert
- Department of Nephrology and Medical Intensive Care, Charité Medical University Berlin, Campus Virchow-Klinikum, Berlin, Germany
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Escorsell Mañosa A, Mas Ordeig A. [Acute on chronic liver failure]. GASTROENTEROLOGIA Y HEPATOLOGIA 2009; 33:126-34. [PMID: 20005602 DOI: 10.1016/j.gastrohep.2009.10.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2009] [Accepted: 10/09/2009] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Acute-on-Chronic Liver Failure (ACLF) is a recently introduced term defined as severe acute deterioration of an established liver disease. This entity usually develops after an acute insult. The main clinical manifestations are hepatorenal syndrome, hepatic encephalopathy and organ failure, with a high risk of death in the short term. The true incidence of ACLF remains difficult to determine due to confusions surrounding the definition of this entity, but seems to be 40% at 5 years in patients with advanced cirrhosis, which translates into 4,000 cases in Europe within this time span. The treatment of choice is liver transplantation. However, due to the shortage of suitable organs and morbidity and mortality in these patients, other options must be used.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angels Escorsell Mañosa
- UCI-Institut de Malalties Digestives i Metabòliques, Hospital Clínic, IDIBAPS, Universitat de Barcelona, CIBERehd, Barcelona, España.
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Rifai K, Das A, Rosenau J, Ernst T, Kretschmer U, Haller H, Fliser D, Manns MP. Changes in plasma amino acids during extracorporeal liver support by fractionated plasma separation and adsorption. Artif Organs 2009; 34:166-70. [PMID: 19817727 DOI: 10.1111/j.1525-1594.2009.00763.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
In patients with liver failure, amino acid dysbalance is common and associated with hepatic encephalopathy. Prometheus is a newly designed extracorporeal liver support system based upon fractionated plasma separation and adsorption (FPSA). We evaluated the influence of FPSA on plasma amino acid patterns in patients with liver failure and hepatic encephalopathy. We studied nine patients with acute-on-chronic liver failure, hepatic encephalopathy, and concomitant renal failure. A single session of FPSA therapy for 5 +/- 1 h was performed in all patients. Twenty-six different plasma amino acids were measured by high-performance liquid chromatography before and after FPSA treatment. Total amino acids as well as Fischer index were calculated. Additionally, a variety of clinical and biochemical parameters were assessed. Before FPSA was started, plasma levels of most amino acids were elevated. Plasma ammonia levels correlated with glutamine levels (P < 0.04). During FPSA, plasma levels of nearly all amino acids significantly decreased except for branched-chain amino acids. The Fischer index improved without reaching statistical significance. FPSA therapy tends to normalize plasma amino acids in patients with combined liver and renal failure. This may contribute to positive pathophysiologic effects, especially on hepatic encephalopathy. However, the clinical significance of these findings needs to be further evaluated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kinan Rifai
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Endocrinology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany.
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW To describe the metabolism and function of albumin, and to scrutinize the evidence that infusion of albumin may be beneficial in disease. To explain why albumin infusion does not improve clinical outcome in most disease states, studied. RECENT FINDINGS Albumin acts as a binding protein and an oncotic agent. However, albumin may also act as an extracellular scavenger, which leads to oxidation of albumin. It is likely that this compromises its function and it is possible that this drives its degradation. In disease, these useful processes are accelerated leading to rapid ageing of the molecule.Albumin infusion does not improve clinical outcome despite increasing oncotic pressure in chronic disease. It is not superior to nonprotein colloids or electrolyte solutions in acute hypovolemia with one or two exceptions (liver failure, possibly cerebral infarction). One potential explanation is that pharmaceutical albumin does not have the oxidative qualities that freshly synthesized albumin has. SUMMARY Albumin infusion has not proven to achieve clinical benefit in many acute and chronic disease states with a few exceptions in acute hypovolemia (e.g. postparacentesis). Future studies should reveal whether infusion of freshly synthesized nonoxidized albumin is of greater clinical benefit.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter B Soeters
- Department of Surgery, Maastricht University Medical Center, The Netherlands.
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19
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Rifai K, Tetta C, Ronco C. Liver Support with Fractionated Plasma Separation and Adsorption and Prometheus®. Intensive Care Med 2009. [DOI: 10.1007/978-0-387-77383-4_72] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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20
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Abstract
Acute liver failure (ALF) is a widespread problem with typically unfavorable prognosis. With the implementation of a liver support device in the clinical setting for treatment of patients with ALF, anticipated improvements include prolonging time available for spontaneous recovery and bridging to liver transplantation. Liver support could also serve to prevent systemic manifestations of ALF such as renal failure, pulmonary edema, systemic inflammatory response syndrome and cerebral edema evolving to brain death. Both non-cell based and cell based (bio-artificial) systems have been used in clinical trials. Systems with closed or open loop organization present different advantages and disadvantages; systems also differ in the membrane pore size for filtrate/dialysate exchange. Further optimization of liver assist devices is still required; when a system has proved to be successful in treating the debilitating results of ALF, the benefits will be enormous to liver failure patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Colleen M Brophy
- Division of Transplantation Surgery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
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21
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Abstract
Patients with liver failure still present a high mortality. It can only be significantly improved by the rare resource of liver transplantation. Extracorporeal liver support devices have been developed to temporarily support liver detoxification. Artificial devices without hepatocytes ("liver dialysis" or "albumin dialysis") are already widely used in Europe. The two best-known systems, MARS and Prometheus, use a different technical approach to remove water-soluble as well as albumin-bound toxins from the blood. In MARS, toxins diffuse along a concentration gradient through an albumin-impermeable membrane into a secondary circuit that is pre-filled with an albumin solution. The albumin is continuously "recycled" inside the secondary circuit by different adsorber and low flux dialysis. In contrast, Prometheus includes an albumin-permeable filter allowing separation of the albumin fraction into the secondary circuit where the albumin-bound toxins are directly removed by two adsorbers. Thereafter, high flux dialysis is performed inside the primary circuit. For both extracorporeal systems, an improvement of hepatic encephalopathy and biochemical markers such as bilirubin is consistently reported. In-vivo comparisons of both systems showed significantly higher extraction capacities for protein-bound and water-soluble substances under Prometheus than under MARS treatment. Possible pathophysiological mechanisms could be a reduction of portal pressure or a removal of vasoactive cytokines. However, only few randomised controlled trials with low patient numbers and conflictive results regarding patient survival exist. Nevertheless, a Cochrane meta-analysis revealed a significant survival benefit for extracorporeal liver support devices in patients with acute-on-chronic liver failure. Other promising indications are severe refractory cholestatic pruritus, intoxication with protein-bound substances and graft dysfunction after liver transplantation. As large randomised controlled multi-center trials are currently underway, better evidence will be available soon to define the clinical role of extracorporeal liver support devices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kinan Rifai
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Endocrinology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
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22
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Takahashi K, Umehara Y, Umehara M, Nishimura A, Narumi S, Toyoki Y, Hakamada K, Yoshihara S, Sasaki M. Plasma Exchange-based Plasma Recycling Dialysis System as an Artificial Liver Support. Ther Apher Dial 2008; 12:264-70. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1744-9987.2008.00586.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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23
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Yang WS, Tan HK, Lui HF, Chow PK, Choong HL, Wong KS. Albumin Dialysis in Critically Ill Patients: Use Versus Omission of Intradialytic Heparin. Artif Organs 2008; 32:411-6. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1525-1594.2008.00560.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
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24
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Abstract
Acute liver failure (ALF) is a rare but challenging clinical syndrome with multiple causes; a specific etiology cannot be identified in 15% of adult and 50% of pediatric cases. The course of ALF is variable and the mortality rate is high. Liver transplantation is the only therapy of proven benefit, but the rapidity of progression and the variable course of ALF limit its use. Currently in the United States, spontaneous survival occurs in approximately 45%, liver transplantation in 25%, and death without transplantation in 30% of adults with ALF. Higher rates of spontaneous recovery (56%) and transplantation (31%) with lower rates of death (13%) occur in children. The outcome of ALF varies by etiology, favorable prognoses being found with acetaminophen overdose, hepatitis A, and ischemia (approximately 60% spontaneous survival), and poor prognoses with drug-induced ALF, hepatitis B, and indeterminate cases (approximately 25% spontaneous survival). Excellent intensive care is critical in management of patients with ALF. Nonspecific therapies are of unproven benefit. Future possible therapeutic approaches include N-acetylcysteine, hypothermia, liver assist devices, and hepatocyte transplantation. Advances in stem cell research may allow provision of cells for bioartificial liver support. ALF presents many challenging opportunities in both clinical and basic research.
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Affiliation(s)
- William M Lee
- Division of Digestive and Liver Diseases, University of Texas Southwestern Medical School, Dallas, TX 75390-8887, USA.
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25
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Liver Support with Fractionated Plasma Separation and Adsorption and Prometheus®. YEARBOOK OF INTENSIVE CARE AND EMERGENCY MEDICINE 2008. [DOI: 10.1007/978-3-540-77290-3_72] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
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Nakae H, Igarashi T, Tajimi K, Kusano T, Shibata S, Kume M, Sato T, Yamamoto Y. A Case Report of Hepatorenal Syndrome Treated With Plasma Diafiltration (Selective Plasma Filtration with Dialysis). Ther Apher Dial 2007; 11:391-5. [PMID: 17845400 DOI: 10.1111/j.1744-9987.2007.00505.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Plasma diafiltration (PDF) (selective plasma filtration with dialysis) is blood purification therapy in which simple plasma exchange is performed using a membrane plasma separator (Evacure EC-2A) while dialysate flows outside of the hollow-fibers. A 74-year old man with hepatorenal syndrome underwent four sessions of PDF and three sessions of HDF. Finally he recovered from hepatorenal syndrome. In this therapy, the levels of total bilirubin, interleukin-18, creatinine, and cystatin C were significantly reduced. On the other hand, there were no significant differences in the total protein and albumin levels before and after PDF. PDF may be one of the most useful blood purification therapies for hepatorenal syndrome in terms of medical economics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hajime Nakae
- Department of Integrated Medicine, Division of Emergency and Critical Care Medicine, Akita University School of Medicine, Akita, Japan.
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28
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Krisper P, Stauber RE. Technology Insight: artificial extracorporeal liver support—how does Prometheus® compare with MARS®? ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2007; 3:267-76. [PMID: 17457360 DOI: 10.1038/ncpneph0466] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2006] [Accepted: 01/30/2007] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Artificial extracorporeal liver support or 'liver dialysis' has been used in patients with severe liver failure with increasing frequency since the Molecular Adsorbents Recirculating System (MARS), a variant of albumin dialysis, was introduced in 1999. Nevertheless, liver dialysis must still be thought of as experimental because its contribution to improved patient survival has not been proven in large randomized trials. Prometheus is a novel device for fractionated plasma separation via an albumin-permeable filter that was developed to improve removal of albumin-bound toxins. Initial studies have proven clinical use of Prometheus to be feasible and safe. Head-to-head comparisons of Prometheus and MARS have shown treatment with the former to be more efficient with respect to removal of most albumin-bound and water-solved markers. As controlled studies with clinical end points are lacking, it is not known whether the observed greater detoxification capacity of Prometheus will translate into clinical benefit; two small studies indicate that there might be a beneficial effect in hepatic encephalopathy and pruritus. In a recent randomized comparison of MARS and Prometheus, however, hemodynamic improvement was observed in response to MARS, but not Prometheus, treatment. A large randomized controlled trial investigating the effect of Prometheus on survival--the HELIOS study--has been initiated. First results are expected in 2008 and will be crucial to establishing a role for Prometheus in the field of extracorporeal liver support.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter Krisper
- Universitaetsklinik für Innere Medizin, Abteilung für Nephrologie und Hämodialyse, Graz, Austria.
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29
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Oettl K, Stauber RE. Physiological and pathological changes in the redox state of human serum albumin critically influence its binding properties. Br J Pharmacol 2007; 151:580-90. [PMID: 17471184 PMCID: PMC2013999 DOI: 10.1038/sj.bjp.0707251] [Citation(s) in RCA: 259] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Binding and transport of a number of endogenous and exogenous compounds is an important function of the main plasma protein, albumin. In vivo and in vitro, albumin may be oxidatively modified in different ways with different agents at different sites. These modifications have various consequences on the physiological functions of albumin. Diabetes mellitus, liver diseases and nephropathy are just a few examples of disorders in which oxidative stress is involved and altered albumin functions have been described. This review is focussed on the consequences of oxidative modification on the binding properties of albumin. These range from no effect to decreased or increased binding affinities depending on the ligand under investigation and the type of modification. Indicators for modification include glycosylation, disulphide formation or the content of carbonyl groups. The redox state of albumin can affect the binding properties in several ways, including altered conformation and consequently altered affinities at binding sites and altered binding when the binding reaction itself is redox sensitive. The physiological or pathophysiological concentrations of different oxidatively modified albumin molecules vary over a wide range and are crucial in assessing the clinical relevance of altered ligand binding properties of a particularly modified albumin species in various disease conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- K Oettl
- Institute of Physiological Chemistry, Center of Physiological Medicine, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria.
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30
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Stadlbauer V, Krisper P, Aigner R, Haditsch B, Jung A, Lackner C, Stauber RE. Effect of extracorporeal liver support by MARS and Prometheus on serum cytokines in acute-on-chronic liver failure. CRITICAL CARE : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE CRITICAL CARE FORUM 2007; 10:R169. [PMID: 17156425 PMCID: PMC1794485 DOI: 10.1186/cc5119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 103] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2006] [Revised: 11/15/2006] [Accepted: 12/07/2006] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Introduction Cytokines are believed to play an important role in acute-on-chronic liver failure (ACLF). Extracorporeal liver support systems may exert beneficial effects in ACLF via removal of cytokines. At present, two systems are commercially available, the Molecular Adsorbent Recirculating System (MARS™) and Fractionated Plasma Separation, Adsorption and Dialysis (Prometheus™). The aim of this study was to compare the effects of MARS and Prometheus treatments on serum cytokine levels and their clearances. Methods Eight patients with ACLF underwent alternating treatments with either MARS or Prometheus in a randomized cross-over design. Thirty-four treatments (17 MARS, 17 Prometheus) were available for analysis. Serum cytokines were measured before and after each treatment, and cytokine clearance was calculated from paired arterial and venous samples and effective plasma flow one hour after the start of treatment. Results Baseline serum levels of interleukin (IL)-6, IL-8, IL-10, tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), and soluble TNF-α receptor 1 were significantly elevated in patients with ACLF. Measurable plasma clearances were detected for all cytokines tested, but no significant changes in serum levels of any cytokine were found after treatments with MARS or Prometheus. In MARS treatments, IL-10 was cleared from plasma more efficiently than IL-6. Clearance of IL-10 was higher in Prometheus than in MARS treatments. Conclusion Cytokines are cleared from plasma by both MARS and Prometheus, but neither system is able to change serum cytokine levels. This discrepancy is probably due to a high rate of cytokine production in patients with ACLF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vanessa Stadlbauer
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Medical University of Graz, Auenbruggerplatz 15, 8036 Graz, Austria
| | - Peter Krisper
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Nephrology and Hemodialysis, Medical University of Graz, Auenbruggerplatz 15, 8036 Graz, Austria
| | - Reingard Aigner
- Department of Radiology, Division of Nuclear Medicine, Medical University of Graz, Auenbruggerplatz 9, 8036 Graz, Austria
| | - Bernd Haditsch
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Nephrology and Hemodialysis, Medical University of Graz, Auenbruggerplatz 15, 8036 Graz, Austria
| | - Aleksandra Jung
- Department of Medical Physics, AGH University of Science and Technology, Mickiewicza Ave, PL-30 059 Krakow, Poland
| | - Carolin Lackner
- Institute of Pathology, Medical University of Graz, Auenbruggerplatz 25, 8036 Graz, Austria
| | - Rudolf E Stauber
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Medical University of Graz, Auenbruggerplatz 15, 8036 Graz, Austria
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Treatment of hepatorenal syndrome. VOJNOSANIT PREGL 2007; 64:773-7. [DOI: 10.2298/vsp0711773k] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
<zakljucak> Hepatorenalni sindrom je funkcionalna insuficijencija bubrega u sklopu terminalne insuficijencije jetre. U patogenezi ovog sindroma ucestvuju hemodinamske promene (snizeni srednji arterijski pritisak i perfuzioni pritisak bubrega) i povecano stvaranje sistemskih i bubreznih vazoaktivnih medijatora sa stimulacijom bubreznog simpatickog sistema. Standardna medicinska farmakoloska terapija usmerena je na prethodno navedene patofizioloske poremecaje. U poslednje vreme postupci detoksikacije, npr. jedan od vidova albuminske dijalize, pojavljuju se sve vise u lecenju bolesnika sa HRS, ali se jos ne preporucuju kao standardna procedura. Oba vida lecenja preduzimaju se samo kao premoscenje perioda do transplantacije jetre ili u slucajevima kada se ocekuje oporavak funkcije jetre, jer bubrezna funkcija direktno zavisi od funkcije jetre. Standardna hemodijaliza ne pomaze u poboljsanju funkcije bubrega. Jedino kauzalno resenje ovog problema donosi transplantacija jetre.
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Gaspari R, Avolio AW, Zileri Dal Verme L, Agnes S, Proietti R, Castagneto M, Gasbarrini A. Molecular Adsorbent Recirculating System in Liver Transplantation: Safety and Efficacy. Transplant Proc 2006; 38:3544-51. [PMID: 17175327 DOI: 10.1016/j.transproceed.2006.10.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2006] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
We assessed the safety and clinical efficacy of the Molecular Adsorbent Recirculating System (MARS) in liver failure patients admitted to our intensive care unit (ICU) from May 2000 to February 2006. Of 28 adult patients with bilirubin >15 mg/dL and hepatic encephalopathy (HE) grade > or =2 or hepato-renal syndrome, 22 patients were included in the study, because 6 patients were older than 65 years of age or showed recent alcohol abuse or extrahepatic malignancy. Patients were assigned to 2 groups according to whether MARS therapy was associated with a transplantation procedure: 11 patients received MARS therapy and liver transplantation (OLT group) and 11 patients received MARS therapy alone (non-OLT group). Five of 11 patients in the OLT group were listed for transplantation and 6 patients with graft failure for retransplantation. The patients in the OLT and non-OLT groups were similar in MELD, SOFA, and SAPS scores. All patients were stable and free from complications. MARS significantly reduced bilirubin, bile acids, and blood urea nitrogen (BUN) levels in both groups (P < .05), whereas a significant decrease in ammonia level was observed in the OLT group. Patient survival rates at 3 and 6 months in the OLT group were 91% and 73%, respectively, and in the non-OLT group, 9% and 9%, respectively (P < .001). MARS was safe and well tolerated, improving biochemical parameters, neurological function, and pruritus. In terms of survival, the use of MARS alone was not effective due to the high rate of multiple organ failure. Nevertheless, the association of MARS with a transplant/retransplantation procedure was highly effective.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Gaspari
- Department of Anesthesiology-Intensive Care Unit, Catholic University of Rome, Largo A Gemelli, Rome, Italy.
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