AIM: To analyze the related indices about the prognoses of chronic liver failure caused by hepatitis virus. METHODS: Retrospectively reviewed 320 cases of chronic liver failure caused by hepatitis viruses. An improved...AIM: To analyze the related indices about the prognoses of chronic liver failure caused by hepatitis virus. METHODS: Retrospectively reviewed 320 cases of chronic liver failure caused by hepatitis viruses. An improved group and an ineffective group (IG) were made to compare and analyze their clinical manifestations, laboratory examination indices and complications. Logistic regression was also carried out. RESULTS: There were significant differences (P<0.05) between the improved group and the IG upon such indices as age, bilirubin, prothrombin time, albumin, alpha fetoprotein, the size of liver and complications (P<0.05). The regression formula was as follows: P=1/(1+e^(-y)) (y=1.7262-0.0948X_1+2.9846X_2+0.6992X_3+1.6019X_4+2.0398X_5). (Note: X_1-Prothrombin activity; X_2-digestive tract hemorrhage; X_3-hepatic encephalopathy; A_4-hepatorenal syndrome; X_5-pulmonary infection.). CONCLUSION: Laboratory examination such as bilirubin, prothrombin time and alpha fetoprotein can be regarded as indices of the prognoses of chronic liver failure caused by hepatitis. Moreover, the regression equation can evaluate prognoses more comprehensively and direct our treatments.展开更多
Acute liver failure (ALF) is relatively frequent during heat stroke (HS). This risk must be emphasized, because its inddence is higher than is usually thought. In a recent study by Weigand et al, two cases were re...Acute liver failure (ALF) is relatively frequent during heat stroke (HS). This risk must be emphasized, because its inddence is higher than is usually thought. In a recent study by Weigand et al, two cases were reported in which liver failure was the leading symptom. We have confirmed their conclusion in a study of 25 cases of HS with ALF, compared with 25 other cases without ALE Moreover, we observed that hypophosphatemia on admission could predict occurrence of ALF during HS. As for clinical and other biological parameters, phosphatemia should be monitored for at least 3 d in all cases of HS, even when it is thought to be mild.展开更多
Chronic heart failure (CHF) is the leading cause of hospitalization for those over the age of 65 and represents a significant clinical and economic burden. About half of hospital re-admissions are related to co-morb...Chronic heart failure (CHF) is the leading cause of hospitalization for those over the age of 65 and represents a significant clinical and economic burden. About half of hospital re-admissions are related to co-morbidities, polypharmacy and disabilities associated with CHF. Moreover, CHF also has an enormous cost in terms of poor prognosis with an average one year mortality of 33%–35%. While more than half of patients with CHF are over 75 years, most clinical trials have included younger patients with a mean age of 61 years. Inadequate data makes treatment decisions challenging for the providers. Older CHF patients are more often female, have less cardiovascular diseases and associated risk factors, but higher rates of non-cardiovascular conditions and diastolic dysfunction. The prevalence of CHF with reduced ejection fraction, ischemic heart disease, and its risk factors declines with age, whereas the prevalence of non-cardiac co-morbidities, such as chronic renal failure, dementia, anemia and malignancy increases with age. Diabetes and hypertension are among the strongest risk factors as predictors of CHF particularly among women with coronary heart disease. This review paper will focus on the specific consideration for CHF assessment in the older population. Management strategies will be reviewed, including non-pharmacologic, pharmacologic, quality care indicators, quality improvement in care transition and lastly, end-of-life issues. Palliative care should be an integral part of an interdiscipli-nary team approach for a comprehensive care plan over the whole disease trajectory. In addition, frailty contributes valuable prognostic in-sight incremental to existing risk models and assists clinicians in defining optimal care pathways for their patients.展开更多
A 55-year-old male patient with hepatitis B-related liver cirrhosis was found to have advanced hepatocellular carcinoma.His AFP was initially 9828μg/L and rapidly dropped to 5597μg/L in ten days after oral sorafenib...A 55-year-old male patient with hepatitis B-related liver cirrhosis was found to have advanced hepatocellular carcinoma.His AFP was initially 9828μg/L and rapidly dropped to 5597μg/L in ten days after oral sorafenib treatment.However,he developed acute renal failure, hyperkalemia,and hyperuricemia 30 d after receiving the sorafenib treatment.Tumor lysis syndrome was suspected and intensive hemodialysis was performed. Despite intensive hemodialysis and other supportive therapy,he developed multiple organ failure(liver, renal,and respiratory failure)and metabolic acidosis. The patient expired 13 d after admission.展开更多
NONI juice (Morinda citrifolia) is an increasingly popular wellness drink claimed to be beneficial for many illnesses.No overt toxicity has been reported to date. We present two cases of novel hepatotoxicity of NONI j...NONI juice (Morinda citrifolia) is an increasingly popular wellness drink claimed to be beneficial for many illnesses.No overt toxicity has been reported to date. We present two cases of novel hepatotoxicity of NONI juice. Causality of liver injury by NONI juice was asses-sed. Routine laboratory tests and transjugular or percutaneous liver biopsy were performed. The first patient underwent successful liver transplantation while the second patient recovered spontaneously after cessation of NONI juice.A 29-year-old man with previous toxic hepatitis associated with small doses of paracetamol developed sub-acute hepatic failure following consumption of 1.5 L NONI juice over 3 wk necessitating urgent liver transplantation. A 62-year-old woman without evidence of previous liver disease developed an episode of self-limited acutehepatitis following consumption of 2 L NONI juice for over 3 mo. The most likely hepatotoxic components of Morinda citrifolia were anthraquinones. Physicians should be aware of potential hepatotoxicity of NONI juice.展开更多
Objective:This study aimed to examine the effects of mindfulness meditation on trait mindfulness,perceived stress,emotion regulation,and quality of life in end-stage renal disease patients undergoing hemodialysis.Meth...Objective:This study aimed to examine the effects of mindfulness meditation on trait mindfulness,perceived stress,emotion regulation,and quality of life in end-stage renal disease patients undergoing hemodialysis.Methods:An experimental study with repeated measures design was conducted among a sample of 74 end-stage renal disease patients undergoing hemodialysis between January and May 2021 in the dialysis center at Jahra hospital,Kuwait.The patients were randomly assigned to the experimental(n?37)and control groups(n?37).The experimental group participated in 30-min mindfulness meditation sessions(three sessions a week for five weeks)held during their hemodialysis sessions;the participants in the control group were instructed to sit with their eyes closed and relaxed for 30 min three times a week for five weeks during hemodialysis sessions.The dependent variables of both groups were measured at baseline(T0),middle of intervention(T1),and end of intervention(T2)using the Mindful Attention Awareness Scale(MAAS),Perceived Stress Scale(PSS),Emotion Regulation Questionnaire(ERQ),and Kidney Disease Quality of Life(KDQOL-36)questionnaire.The study was registered in the ClinicalTrial.gov(Identifier:NCT05176730).Results:The repeated measures ANOVA(within-subject)results for the experimental group showed that mindfulness meditation had significantly decreased perceived stress by the end of the intervention.Also,mindfulness meditation improved mindfulness,emotion regulation,and kidney disease-related quality of life in the experimental group,and this improvement occurred significantly at both T1 and T2.The repeated measures ANOVA(within and between-subject)results showed that the experimental group,as compared to the control group,had lower perceived stress,higher trait mindfulness,higher emotional regulation,and higher kidney disease-related quality of life over time.Conclusions:The positive findings of this study offer health policy-makers and hospital administrators a promising tool to use with patients undergoing hemodialysis as a way to manage stress and improve quality of life.However,this study should be replicated in multiple settings with follow-up assessments.展开更多
In this paper,the experience in the treatment of complications due to continuousambulatory peritoneal dialysis for chronic renal failure with traditional Chinese medicine(TCM)is reported.Modified Renshen Yangrong Tang...In this paper,the experience in the treatment of complications due to continuousambulatory peritoneal dialysis for chronic renal failure with traditional Chinese medicine(TCM)is reported.Modified Renshen Yangrong Tang(Ginseng Nutrition Decoction)wasused for anorexia and hypoproteinemia;modified Xiangsha Liujunzi Tang(Decoction ofCyperus and Amomum with Six Noble Ingredients)for abdominal pain and distension;modified Da Chaihu Tang(Major Bupleurum Decoction)for peritonitis;modifiedShenling Baizhu San(Powder of Ginseng,Poria and Atractylodes)for diarrhea due toinsufficiency of the spleen with abundance of dampness;Lizhong Tang(Decoction forRegulating the Function of Middle-jiao)and modified Sishen Wan(Pills of FourMiraculous Drugs)for insufficiency of both the spleen and the kidney;Siwu Tang(Decoction of Four Ingredients)added with other drugs for cutaneous pruritus,andGuishao Sijunzi Tang(Decoction of Four Noble Drugs added with Chinese Angelica Rootand white Peony Root)for renal anemia.The therapeutic principles of invigorating theliver and kidney,strengthening the bones and muscles,and promoting blood circulation toeliminate blood stasis were adopted in the treatment of renal osteopathy,and thetherapeutic principles of invigorating the liver and kidney,expelling phlegm and resolvingdampness,and promoting blood circulation to eliminate blood stasis in the treatment ofhyperlipemia.Shen Tekang capsules(capsules for improving the renal function)wasadministered to patients for strengthening the viability and improving the nutrition state,and the recipe for treating renal function failure(both formulated by the authors)forimproving the renal function so as to decrease the frequency and duration of dialysis.展开更多
AIM: To evaluate the effect of intrahepatic transplantation of hepatic oval cells (HOC) on fulminant hepatic failure (FHF) in rats.METHODS: HOC obtained from rats were labeled with green fluocescent protein (GF...AIM: To evaluate the effect of intrahepatic transplantation of hepatic oval cells (HOC) on fulminant hepatic failure (FHF) in rats.METHODS: HOC obtained from rats were labeled with green fluocescent protein (GFP) or 5, 6- carboxyfluorescein diacetate succinmidyl ester (CFDASE). Cell fluorescence was observed under fluorescent microscope at 6, 24, 48 and 72 h after labeling. CFDA- SE labeled HOC (5 × 10^6 cells each rat) were injected into livers of rats with FHF induced by D-galactosamine. Serum albumin (ALB), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and total bilirubin (TBil) levels were measured at different time points. Liver function of rats was examined on days 3, 7, 14 and 21 after HOC transplantation.RESULTS: The positive rate of GFP and CFDA-SE labeled HOC was 10% and 90%, respectively, with no significant change in cell viabilities. The survival rate was higher in HOC transplantation group than in control group, especially 48 (9/15 vs 6/15) and 72 h (9/15 vs 4/15) after HOC transplantation. The serum ALT, AST and TBil levels were decreased while the serum AIb level was increased after HOC transplantation. Fluorescence became faded and diffused in liver tissues, suggesting that proliferation and differentiation occur in transplanted HOC.CONCLUSION: CFDA-SE is superior to GFP in labeling HOC, although fluorescence intensity is decreased progressively with cell division. HOC transplantation can improve the liver function and increase the survival rate of recipients.展开更多
AIM: To identify the risk factors in predicting the out- come of acute-on-chronic hepatitis B liver failure pa- tients. METHODS: We retrospectively divided 113 patients with acute-on-chronic liver failure-hepatitis ...AIM: To identify the risk factors in predicting the out- come of acute-on-chronic hepatitis B liver failure pa- tients. METHODS: We retrospectively divided 113 patients with acute-on-chronic liver failure-hepatitis B virus (ACLF-HBV) and without concurrent hepatitis C or D virus infection and hepatocellular carcinoma into two groups according to their outcomes after anti-HBV therapy. Their demographic, clinical, and biochemical data on the day of diagnosis and after the first week of treatment were analyzed using the Mann-Whitney U test, Fisher's exact test, and a multiple logistic regres- sion analysis. RESULTS: The study included 113 patients (87 men and 26 women) with a mean age of 49.84 years. Fifty- two patients survived, and 61 patients died. Liver failure (85.2%), sepsis (34.4%), and multiple organ failure (39.3%) were the main causes of death. Mul- tivariate analyses showed that Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation (APACHE) Ⅱ scores ≥ 12 [odds ratio (OR) = 7.160, 95% CI: 2.834-18.092, P 〈 0.001] and positive blood culture (OR = 13.520, 95% CI: 2.740-66.721, P = 0.001) on the day of diagnosis and model for end-stage liver disease (MELD) scores 28 (OR = 8.182, 95% CI: 1.884-35.527, P = 0.005) after the first week of treatment were independent predictors of mortality. CONCLUSION: APACHE II scores on the day of diag- nosis and MELD scores after the first week of anti-HBV therapy are feasible predictors of outcome in ACLF- HBV patients.展开更多
AIM: To investigate the pathogenic role of cathepsin B and the protective effect of a cathepsin B inhibitor (CA074Me) in fulminant hepatic failure in mice. METHODS: LPS/D-Gal N was injected into mice of the model grou...AIM: To investigate the pathogenic role of cathepsin B and the protective effect of a cathepsin B inhibitor (CA074Me) in fulminant hepatic failure in mice. METHODS: LPS/D-Gal N was injected into mice of the model group to induce fulminant hepatic failure; the protected group was administered CA-074me for 30 min before LPS/D-Gal N treatment; the normal group was given isochoric physiologic saline. Liver tissue histopathology was determined with HE at 2, 4, 6 and 8 h after Lps/D-Gal injection. Hepatocyte apoptosis was examined by TUNEL method. The expression of cathepsin B in liver tissues was investigated by immunohistochemistry, Western blot and RT-PCR. RESULTS: Compared with the normal group, massive typical hepatocyte apoptosis occurred in the model group; the number of apoptotic cells reached a maximum 6 h after injection. The apoptosis index (AI) in the protected group was clearly reduced (30.4 ± 2.8 vs 18.1 ± 2.0, P < 0.01 ). Cathepsin B activity was markedly increased in drug-treated mice compared with the normal group (P < 0.01). Incubation with LPS/D-Gal N at selected time points resulted in a timedependent increase in cathepsin B activity, and reached a maximum by 8 h. The expression of cathepsin B was significantly decreased in the protected group (P < 0.01). CONCLUSION: Cathepsin B plays an essential role in the pathogenesis of fulminant hepatic failure, and the cathepsin B inhibitor CA-074me can attenuate apoptosis and liver injury.展开更多
Hepatorenal syndrome(HRS) is defined as a functional renal failure in patients with liver disease with portal hypertension and it constitutes the climax of systemic circulatory changes associated with portal hypertens...Hepatorenal syndrome(HRS) is defined as a functional renal failure in patients with liver disease with portal hypertension and it constitutes the climax of systemic circulatory changes associated with portal hypertension.This term refers to a precisely specified syndrome featuring in particular morphologically intact kidneys,where regulatory mechanisms have minimised glomerular filtration and maximised tubular resorption and urine concentration,which ultimately results in uraemia.The syndrome occurs almost exclusively in patients with ascites.Type 1 HRS develops as a consequence of a severe reduction of effective circulating volume due to both an extreme splanchnic arterial vasodilatation and a reduction of cardiac output.Type 2 HRS is characterised by a stable or slowly progressive renal failure so that its main clinical consequence is not acute renal failure,but refractory ascites,and its impact on prognosis is less negative.Liver transplantation is the most appropriate therapeutic method,nevertheless,only a few patients can receive it.The most suitable "bridge treatments" or treatment for patients ineligible for a liver transplant include terlipressin plus albumin.Terlipressin is at an initial dose of 0.5-1 mg every 4 h by intravenous bolus to 3 mg every 4 h in cases when there is no response.Renal function recovery can be achieved in less than 50% of patients and a considerable decrease in renal function may reoccur even in patients who have been responding to therapy over the short term.Transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt plays only a marginal role in the treatment of HRS.展开更多
Pseudomelanosis duodeni (PD) is a rare dark speckled appearance of the duodenum associated with gastrointestinal bleeding,hypertension,chronic heart failure,chronic renal failure and consumption of different drugs.We ...Pseudomelanosis duodeni (PD) is a rare dark speckled appearance of the duodenum associated with gastrointestinal bleeding,hypertension,chronic heart failure,chronic renal failure and consumption of different drugs.We report four cases of PD associated with chronic renal failure admitted to the gastroenterology outpatient unit due to epigastric pain,nausea,melena and progressive reduction of hemoglobin index.Gastroduodenal endoscopy revealed erosions in the esophagus and stomach,with no active bleeding at the moment.In addition,the duodenal mucosa presented marked signs of melanosis;later confirmed by histopathological study.Even though PD is usually regarded as a benign condition,its pathogenesis and clinical significance is yet to be defined.展开更多
Although plasma cell infiltration is not rare in autopsy of patients with multiple myeloma (MM), it is very rarely detected in living patients. This is because MM rarely causes significant liver dysfunction that req...Although plasma cell infiltration is not rare in autopsy of patients with multiple myeloma (MM), it is very rarely detected in living patients. This is because MM rarely causes significant liver dysfunction that requires further evaluation. A 49-year-old man presented with acute renal failure and was diagnosed with kappa light chain MM stageⅡB. Thalidomide and dexamethasone were initiated. The patient developed a continuous increase in bilirubin that led to severe cholestasis. A liver biopsy revealed plasma cell infiltration. He then rapidly progressed to liver failure and died. Treatment options are limited in MM with significant liver dysfunction. Despite new drug therapies in MM, those patients with rapidly progressive liver failure appear to have a dismal outcome.展开更多
Managing patients with heart failure (HF) is a challenging task within itself, but the presence of associated worsening renal function can greatly increase mortality and morbidity. Early diagnosis and treatment is t...Managing patients with heart failure (HF) is a challenging task within itself, but the presence of associated worsening renal function can greatly increase mortality and morbidity. Early diagnosis and treatment is the key to prevent re-hospitalizations and reduce healthcare costs. Biomarkers have long been established as highly sensitive and specific tools in diagnosing and prognosticating patients with HF. Reflecting distinct pathophysiological events and ongoing cellular insult, biomarkers have been proven superior to conventional laboratory tests. Availability of better assays and rapid analysis has allowed the use of biomarkers as point-of-care tests in the emergency department and at the patient's bed-side. Acute HF patients often go on to develop worsening renal function, termed as acute cardiorenal syndrome. The growing breadth of studies has shown the implications of combining multiple biomarkers to better chart outcomes and produce desirable results in such patients.展开更多
AIM: To investigate the protective effects of ethyl py- ruvate (EP) on acute-on-chronic liver failure (ACLF) in rats. METHODS: An ACLF model was established in rats, and animals were randomly divided into normal...AIM: To investigate the protective effects of ethyl py- ruvate (EP) on acute-on-chronic liver failure (ACLF) in rats. METHODS: An ACLF model was established in rats, and animals were randomly divided into normal, mod- el and EP treatment groups. The rats in EP treatment group received EP (40 mg/kg) at 3 h, 6 h, 12 h and 24 h after induction of ACLF. Serum endotoxin, high mobility group box-1 (HMGB1), alanine transaminase (ALT), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interferon-α (IFN-γ), interleukin (IL)-10 and IL-18 levels, changes of liver histology and HMGB1 expressions in liver tis- sues were detected at 48 h after induction of ACLF. The effects of EP on the survival of ACLF rats were also observed.RESULTS: Serum levels of endotoxin (0.394 ± 0.066 EU/mL vs 0.086±0.017 EU/mL, P 〈 0.001), HMGB1 (35.42±10,86 μg/L vs 2.14 ± 0.27 μg/L, P 〈 0.001), ALT (8415.87 ± 3567.54 IU/L vs 38.64 ± 8.82 IU/L, P 〈 0.001), TNF-α (190.77 ± 12.34 ng/L vs 124.40 ± 4.12 ng/L, P 〈 0.001), IFN-γ (715.38 ± 86.03 ng/L vs 398.66 ± 32.91 ng/L, P 〈 0.001), IL-10 (6.85 ± 0.64 ng/L vs 3.49 ± 0.24 ng/L, P 〈 0.001) and IL-18 (85.19 ±3.49 ng/L vs 55.38 ±1.25 ng/L, P 〈 0.001) were significantly increased, and liver tissues presented se- vere pathological injury in the model group compared with the normal group, Howeverr EP administration significantly improved hepatic histopathology and re- duced the serum levels of endotoxin (0.155±0.045 EU/mL vs 0.394 ± 0.066 EU/mL vs P 〈 0.001) and in- flammatory cytokines (11.13 ± 2.58 μg/L vs 35.42 ± 10.86 μg/L for HMGB1, 3512.86 ± 972.67 IU/L vs 8415.87 ± 3567.54 IU/L for ALT, 128.55 ± 5.76 ng/L vs 190.77 ± 12.34 ng/L for TNF-α 438.16 ± 38.10 ng/L vs 715.38 ± 86.03 ng/L for IFN-γ 3.55 ± 0.36 ng/L vs 6.85 ± 0.64 ng/L for IL-10, and 60.35 ± 1.63 ng/L vs 85.19 ± 3.49 ng/L for IL-18, respectively, P 〈 0.001), and the levels of HMGB1 in liver tissues re- gardless of treatment time after induction of ACLF. EP treatment at the four time points prolonged the me- dian survival time of ACLF rats (60 h) to 162 h, 120 h, 102 h and 78 h, respectively (χ2 = 41.17, P 〈 0.0001). CONCLUSION: EP administration can protect against ACLF in rats, and is a potential and novel therapeutic agent for severe liver injury.展开更多
Anemia is the most common complication of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Control and inadequate treatment leads to a worse quality of life and increased morbidity and hospitalization. Blood loss, and to a lesser ex...Anemia is the most common complication of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Control and inadequate treatment leads to a worse quality of life and increased morbidity and hospitalization. Blood loss, and to a lesser extent, malabsorption of iron are the main causes of iron def iciency in IBD. There is also a variable component of anemia related to chronic inflammation. The anemia of chronic renal failure has been treated for many years with recombinant human erythropoietin (rHuEPO), which significantly improves quality of life and survival. Subsequently, rHuEPO has been used progressively in other conditions that occur with anemia of chronic processes such as cancer, rheumatoid arthritis or IBD, and anemia associated with the treatment of hepatitis C virus. Erythropoietic agents complete the range of available therapeutic options for treatment of anemia associated with IBD, which begins by treating the basis of the inflammatory disease, along with intravenous iron therapy as f irst choice. In cases of resistance to treatment with iron, combined therapy with erythropoietic agents aims to achieve near-normal levels of hemoglobin/hematocrit (11-12 g/dL). New formulations of intravenous iron (iron carboxymaltose) and the new generation of erythropoietic agents (darbepoetin and continuous erythropoietin receptor activator) will allow better dosing with the same eff icacy and safety.展开更多
AIM:To evaluate the treatment options for nephrotoxicity due to cisplatin combination chemotherapy.METHODS:We retrospectively reviewed patients who had received cisplatin combination chemotherapy for gastric cancer be...AIM:To evaluate the treatment options for nephrotoxicity due to cisplatin combination chemotherapy.METHODS:We retrospectively reviewed patients who had received cisplatin combination chemotherapy for gastric cancer between January 2002 and December 2008.We investigated patients who had shown acute renal failure(ARF),and examined their clinical characteristics,laboratory data,use of preventive measures,treatment cycles,the amount of cisplatin administered,recovery period,subsequent treatments,and renal status between the recovered and unrecovered groups.RESULTS:Forty-one of the 552 patients had serum creatinine(SCR)levels greater than 1.5 mg/dL.We found that pre-ARF SCR,ARF SCR,and ARF glomerular filtration rates were significantly associated with renal status postARF between the two groups(P=0.008,0.026,0.026,respectively).On the receiver operating characteristic curve of these values,a 1.75 mg/dL ARF SCR value had 87.5%sensitivity and 84.8%specificity(P=0.011).CONCLUSION:Cessation or reduction of chemotherapy should be considered for patients who have an elevation of SCR levels during cisplatin combination chemotherapy.展开更多
Men with chronic renal failure (CRF) on hemodialysis have been frequently associated with erectile dysfunc-tion (ED), with an of between 20% to 87.7%. As a result of the multi-system disease processes present in m...Men with chronic renal failure (CRF) on hemodialysis have been frequently associated with erectile dysfunc-tion (ED), with an of between 20% to 87.7%. As a result of the multi-system disease processes present in many uremic men, it is apparent that the pathogenesis of ED is most probably multifactorial. Factors to be con-sidered include peripheral vascular disease, neurogenic abnormalities, hormonal disturbances and medications used for treatment of conditions associated with CRF. These physiological abnormalities may be supplement-ed by signifcant psychological stresses and abnormali-ties resulting from chronic illness. Treatment must start with the determination and treatment of the underlying causes. In addition to psychological treatment, furtherlines of treatment of ED in CRF can be classifed as 1stline (medical treatment which includes oral phosphodi-esterase-5 inhibitors and hormone regulation), 2nd line(intracavernosal injection, vacuum constriction devicesand alprostadil urethral suppositories) or 3rd line (sur-gical treatment). Renal transplantation improves thequality of life for some patients with CRF and subse-quently it may improve erectile function in a signifcantnumber of them, however still there is high incidenceof ED after transplantation.展开更多
AIM: To evaluate the effect of an intravenous bolus of mannitol in altering brain metabolites, brain water content, brain parenchyma volume, cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) volume and clinical signs in controls and in pa...AIM: To evaluate the effect of an intravenous bolus of mannitol in altering brain metabolites, brain water content, brain parenchyma volume, cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) volume and clinical signs in controls and in patients with acute liver failure (ALF) and acute- on-chronic liver failure (ACLF), by comparing changes in conventional magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), in vivo proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy (PMRS) and diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) before and after its infusion.METHODS: Five patients each with ALF and ACLF in grade 3 or 4 hepatic encephalopathy and with clinical signs of raised intracranial pressure were studied along with five healthy volunteers. After baseline MRI, an intravenous bolus of 20% mannitol solution was given over 10 min in controls as well as in patients with ALF and ACLE Repeat MRI for the same position was acquired 30 rnin after completing the rnannitol injection. RESULTS: No statistically significant difference was observed between controls and patients with ALF and ACLF in metabolite ratios, DTI metrics and brain volume or CSF volume following 45 rain of mannitol infusion. There was no change in clinical status at the end of post-mannitol imaging. CONCLUSION: The osmotic effect of mannitol did not result in significant reduction of brain water content, alteration in metabolite ratios or any change in the clinical status of these patients during or within 45 min of mannitol infusion.展开更多
文摘AIM: To analyze the related indices about the prognoses of chronic liver failure caused by hepatitis virus. METHODS: Retrospectively reviewed 320 cases of chronic liver failure caused by hepatitis viruses. An improved group and an ineffective group (IG) were made to compare and analyze their clinical manifestations, laboratory examination indices and complications. Logistic regression was also carried out. RESULTS: There were significant differences (P<0.05) between the improved group and the IG upon such indices as age, bilirubin, prothrombin time, albumin, alpha fetoprotein, the size of liver and complications (P<0.05). The regression formula was as follows: P=1/(1+e^(-y)) (y=1.7262-0.0948X_1+2.9846X_2+0.6992X_3+1.6019X_4+2.0398X_5). (Note: X_1-Prothrombin activity; X_2-digestive tract hemorrhage; X_3-hepatic encephalopathy; A_4-hepatorenal syndrome; X_5-pulmonary infection.). CONCLUSION: Laboratory examination such as bilirubin, prothrombin time and alpha fetoprotein can be regarded as indices of the prognoses of chronic liver failure caused by hepatitis. Moreover, the regression equation can evaluate prognoses more comprehensively and direct our treatments.
文摘Acute liver failure (ALF) is relatively frequent during heat stroke (HS). This risk must be emphasized, because its inddence is higher than is usually thought. In a recent study by Weigand et al, two cases were reported in which liver failure was the leading symptom. We have confirmed their conclusion in a study of 25 cases of HS with ALF, compared with 25 other cases without ALE Moreover, we observed that hypophosphatemia on admission could predict occurrence of ALF during HS. As for clinical and other biological parameters, phosphatemia should be monitored for at least 3 d in all cases of HS, even when it is thought to be mild.
文摘Chronic heart failure (CHF) is the leading cause of hospitalization for those over the age of 65 and represents a significant clinical and economic burden. About half of hospital re-admissions are related to co-morbidities, polypharmacy and disabilities associated with CHF. Moreover, CHF also has an enormous cost in terms of poor prognosis with an average one year mortality of 33%–35%. While more than half of patients with CHF are over 75 years, most clinical trials have included younger patients with a mean age of 61 years. Inadequate data makes treatment decisions challenging for the providers. Older CHF patients are more often female, have less cardiovascular diseases and associated risk factors, but higher rates of non-cardiovascular conditions and diastolic dysfunction. The prevalence of CHF with reduced ejection fraction, ischemic heart disease, and its risk factors declines with age, whereas the prevalence of non-cardiac co-morbidities, such as chronic renal failure, dementia, anemia and malignancy increases with age. Diabetes and hypertension are among the strongest risk factors as predictors of CHF particularly among women with coronary heart disease. This review paper will focus on the specific consideration for CHF assessment in the older population. Management strategies will be reviewed, including non-pharmacologic, pharmacologic, quality care indicators, quality improvement in care transition and lastly, end-of-life issues. Palliative care should be an integral part of an interdiscipli-nary team approach for a comprehensive care plan over the whole disease trajectory. In addition, frailty contributes valuable prognostic in-sight incremental to existing risk models and assists clinicians in defining optimal care pathways for their patients.
文摘A 55-year-old male patient with hepatitis B-related liver cirrhosis was found to have advanced hepatocellular carcinoma.His AFP was initially 9828μg/L and rapidly dropped to 5597μg/L in ten days after oral sorafenib treatment.However,he developed acute renal failure, hyperkalemia,and hyperuricemia 30 d after receiving the sorafenib treatment.Tumor lysis syndrome was suspected and intensive hemodialysis was performed. Despite intensive hemodialysis and other supportive therapy,he developed multiple organ failure(liver, renal,and respiratory failure)and metabolic acidosis. The patient expired 13 d after admission.
文摘NONI juice (Morinda citrifolia) is an increasingly popular wellness drink claimed to be beneficial for many illnesses.No overt toxicity has been reported to date. We present two cases of novel hepatotoxicity of NONI juice. Causality of liver injury by NONI juice was asses-sed. Routine laboratory tests and transjugular or percutaneous liver biopsy were performed. The first patient underwent successful liver transplantation while the second patient recovered spontaneously after cessation of NONI juice.A 29-year-old man with previous toxic hepatitis associated with small doses of paracetamol developed sub-acute hepatic failure following consumption of 1.5 L NONI juice over 3 wk necessitating urgent liver transplantation. A 62-year-old woman without evidence of previous liver disease developed an episode of self-limited acutehepatitis following consumption of 2 L NONI juice for over 3 mo. The most likely hepatotoxic components of Morinda citrifolia were anthraquinones. Physicians should be aware of potential hepatotoxicity of NONI juice.
基金funding from Jordan University of Science and Technology,Deanship of Research.
文摘Objective:This study aimed to examine the effects of mindfulness meditation on trait mindfulness,perceived stress,emotion regulation,and quality of life in end-stage renal disease patients undergoing hemodialysis.Methods:An experimental study with repeated measures design was conducted among a sample of 74 end-stage renal disease patients undergoing hemodialysis between January and May 2021 in the dialysis center at Jahra hospital,Kuwait.The patients were randomly assigned to the experimental(n?37)and control groups(n?37).The experimental group participated in 30-min mindfulness meditation sessions(three sessions a week for five weeks)held during their hemodialysis sessions;the participants in the control group were instructed to sit with their eyes closed and relaxed for 30 min three times a week for five weeks during hemodialysis sessions.The dependent variables of both groups were measured at baseline(T0),middle of intervention(T1),and end of intervention(T2)using the Mindful Attention Awareness Scale(MAAS),Perceived Stress Scale(PSS),Emotion Regulation Questionnaire(ERQ),and Kidney Disease Quality of Life(KDQOL-36)questionnaire.The study was registered in the ClinicalTrial.gov(Identifier:NCT05176730).Results:The repeated measures ANOVA(within-subject)results for the experimental group showed that mindfulness meditation had significantly decreased perceived stress by the end of the intervention.Also,mindfulness meditation improved mindfulness,emotion regulation,and kidney disease-related quality of life in the experimental group,and this improvement occurred significantly at both T1 and T2.The repeated measures ANOVA(within and between-subject)results showed that the experimental group,as compared to the control group,had lower perceived stress,higher trait mindfulness,higher emotional regulation,and higher kidney disease-related quality of life over time.Conclusions:The positive findings of this study offer health policy-makers and hospital administrators a promising tool to use with patients undergoing hemodialysis as a way to manage stress and improve quality of life.However,this study should be replicated in multiple settings with follow-up assessments.
文摘In this paper,the experience in the treatment of complications due to continuousambulatory peritoneal dialysis for chronic renal failure with traditional Chinese medicine(TCM)is reported.Modified Renshen Yangrong Tang(Ginseng Nutrition Decoction)wasused for anorexia and hypoproteinemia;modified Xiangsha Liujunzi Tang(Decoction ofCyperus and Amomum with Six Noble Ingredients)for abdominal pain and distension;modified Da Chaihu Tang(Major Bupleurum Decoction)for peritonitis;modifiedShenling Baizhu San(Powder of Ginseng,Poria and Atractylodes)for diarrhea due toinsufficiency of the spleen with abundance of dampness;Lizhong Tang(Decoction forRegulating the Function of Middle-jiao)and modified Sishen Wan(Pills of FourMiraculous Drugs)for insufficiency of both the spleen and the kidney;Siwu Tang(Decoction of Four Ingredients)added with other drugs for cutaneous pruritus,andGuishao Sijunzi Tang(Decoction of Four Noble Drugs added with Chinese Angelica Rootand white Peony Root)for renal anemia.The therapeutic principles of invigorating theliver and kidney,strengthening the bones and muscles,and promoting blood circulation toeliminate blood stasis were adopted in the treatment of renal osteopathy,and thetherapeutic principles of invigorating the liver and kidney,expelling phlegm and resolvingdampness,and promoting blood circulation to eliminate blood stasis in the treatment ofhyperlipemia.Shen Tekang capsules(capsules for improving the renal function)wasadministered to patients for strengthening the viability and improving the nutrition state,and the recipe for treating renal function failure(both formulated by the authors)forimproving the renal function so as to decrease the frequency and duration of dialysis.
基金Supported by Tianjin Science Committee,Grant No.05SYSYJC02600Tianjin Health Bureau,Grant No.05KYR01
文摘AIM: To evaluate the effect of intrahepatic transplantation of hepatic oval cells (HOC) on fulminant hepatic failure (FHF) in rats.METHODS: HOC obtained from rats were labeled with green fluocescent protein (GFP) or 5, 6- carboxyfluorescein diacetate succinmidyl ester (CFDASE). Cell fluorescence was observed under fluorescent microscope at 6, 24, 48 and 72 h after labeling. CFDA- SE labeled HOC (5 × 10^6 cells each rat) were injected into livers of rats with FHF induced by D-galactosamine. Serum albumin (ALB), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and total bilirubin (TBil) levels were measured at different time points. Liver function of rats was examined on days 3, 7, 14 and 21 after HOC transplantation.RESULTS: The positive rate of GFP and CFDA-SE labeled HOC was 10% and 90%, respectively, with no significant change in cell viabilities. The survival rate was higher in HOC transplantation group than in control group, especially 48 (9/15 vs 6/15) and 72 h (9/15 vs 4/15) after HOC transplantation. The serum ALT, AST and TBil levels were decreased while the serum AIb level was increased after HOC transplantation. Fluorescence became faded and diffused in liver tissues, suggesting that proliferation and differentiation occur in transplanted HOC.CONCLUSION: CFDA-SE is superior to GFP in labeling HOC, although fluorescence intensity is decreased progressively with cell division. HOC transplantation can improve the liver function and increase the survival rate of recipients.
基金Supported by Tri-Service General Hospital,No.TSGH-C101-137
文摘AIM: To identify the risk factors in predicting the out- come of acute-on-chronic hepatitis B liver failure pa- tients. METHODS: We retrospectively divided 113 patients with acute-on-chronic liver failure-hepatitis B virus (ACLF-HBV) and without concurrent hepatitis C or D virus infection and hepatocellular carcinoma into two groups according to their outcomes after anti-HBV therapy. Their demographic, clinical, and biochemical data on the day of diagnosis and after the first week of treatment were analyzed using the Mann-Whitney U test, Fisher's exact test, and a multiple logistic regres- sion analysis. RESULTS: The study included 113 patients (87 men and 26 women) with a mean age of 49.84 years. Fifty- two patients survived, and 61 patients died. Liver failure (85.2%), sepsis (34.4%), and multiple organ failure (39.3%) were the main causes of death. Mul- tivariate analyses showed that Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation (APACHE) Ⅱ scores ≥ 12 [odds ratio (OR) = 7.160, 95% CI: 2.834-18.092, P 〈 0.001] and positive blood culture (OR = 13.520, 95% CI: 2.740-66.721, P = 0.001) on the day of diagnosis and model for end-stage liver disease (MELD) scores 28 (OR = 8.182, 95% CI: 1.884-35.527, P = 0.005) after the first week of treatment were independent predictors of mortality. CONCLUSION: APACHE II scores on the day of diag- nosis and MELD scores after the first week of anti-HBV therapy are feasible predictors of outcome in ACLF- HBV patients.
基金Supported by(in part)A grant from the China Postdoctoral Science Foundation
文摘AIM: To investigate the pathogenic role of cathepsin B and the protective effect of a cathepsin B inhibitor (CA074Me) in fulminant hepatic failure in mice. METHODS: LPS/D-Gal N was injected into mice of the model group to induce fulminant hepatic failure; the protected group was administered CA-074me for 30 min before LPS/D-Gal N treatment; the normal group was given isochoric physiologic saline. Liver tissue histopathology was determined with HE at 2, 4, 6 and 8 h after Lps/D-Gal injection. Hepatocyte apoptosis was examined by TUNEL method. The expression of cathepsin B in liver tissues was investigated by immunohistochemistry, Western blot and RT-PCR. RESULTS: Compared with the normal group, massive typical hepatocyte apoptosis occurred in the model group; the number of apoptotic cells reached a maximum 6 h after injection. The apoptosis index (AI) in the protected group was clearly reduced (30.4 ± 2.8 vs 18.1 ± 2.0, P < 0.01 ). Cathepsin B activity was markedly increased in drug-treated mice compared with the normal group (P < 0.01). Incubation with LPS/D-Gal N at selected time points resulted in a timedependent increase in cathepsin B activity, and reached a maximum by 8 h. The expression of cathepsin B was significantly decreased in the protected group (P < 0.01). CONCLUSION: Cathepsin B plays an essential role in the pathogenesis of fulminant hepatic failure, and the cathepsin B inhibitor CA-074me can attenuate apoptosis and liver injury.
文摘Hepatorenal syndrome(HRS) is defined as a functional renal failure in patients with liver disease with portal hypertension and it constitutes the climax of systemic circulatory changes associated with portal hypertension.This term refers to a precisely specified syndrome featuring in particular morphologically intact kidneys,where regulatory mechanisms have minimised glomerular filtration and maximised tubular resorption and urine concentration,which ultimately results in uraemia.The syndrome occurs almost exclusively in patients with ascites.Type 1 HRS develops as a consequence of a severe reduction of effective circulating volume due to both an extreme splanchnic arterial vasodilatation and a reduction of cardiac output.Type 2 HRS is characterised by a stable or slowly progressive renal failure so that its main clinical consequence is not acute renal failure,but refractory ascites,and its impact on prognosis is less negative.Liver transplantation is the most appropriate therapeutic method,nevertheless,only a few patients can receive it.The most suitable "bridge treatments" or treatment for patients ineligible for a liver transplant include terlipressin plus albumin.Terlipressin is at an initial dose of 0.5-1 mg every 4 h by intravenous bolus to 3 mg every 4 h in cases when there is no response.Renal function recovery can be achieved in less than 50% of patients and a considerable decrease in renal function may reoccur even in patients who have been responding to therapy over the short term.Transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt plays only a marginal role in the treatment of HRS.
文摘Pseudomelanosis duodeni (PD) is a rare dark speckled appearance of the duodenum associated with gastrointestinal bleeding,hypertension,chronic heart failure,chronic renal failure and consumption of different drugs.We report four cases of PD associated with chronic renal failure admitted to the gastroenterology outpatient unit due to epigastric pain,nausea,melena and progressive reduction of hemoglobin index.Gastroduodenal endoscopy revealed erosions in the esophagus and stomach,with no active bleeding at the moment.In addition,the duodenal mucosa presented marked signs of melanosis;later confirmed by histopathological study.Even though PD is usually regarded as a benign condition,its pathogenesis and clinical significance is yet to be defined.
文摘Although plasma cell infiltration is not rare in autopsy of patients with multiple myeloma (MM), it is very rarely detected in living patients. This is because MM rarely causes significant liver dysfunction that requires further evaluation. A 49-year-old man presented with acute renal failure and was diagnosed with kappa light chain MM stageⅡB. Thalidomide and dexamethasone were initiated. The patient developed a continuous increase in bilirubin that led to severe cholestasis. A liver biopsy revealed plasma cell infiltration. He then rapidly progressed to liver failure and died. Treatment options are limited in MM with significant liver dysfunction. Despite new drug therapies in MM, those patients with rapidly progressive liver failure appear to have a dismal outcome.
文摘Managing patients with heart failure (HF) is a challenging task within itself, but the presence of associated worsening renal function can greatly increase mortality and morbidity. Early diagnosis and treatment is the key to prevent re-hospitalizations and reduce healthcare costs. Biomarkers have long been established as highly sensitive and specific tools in diagnosing and prognosticating patients with HF. Reflecting distinct pathophysiological events and ongoing cellular insult, biomarkers have been proven superior to conventional laboratory tests. Availability of better assays and rapid analysis has allowed the use of biomarkers as point-of-care tests in the emergency department and at the patient's bed-side. Acute HF patients often go on to develop worsening renal function, termed as acute cardiorenal syndrome. The growing breadth of studies has shown the implications of combining multiple biomarkers to better chart outcomes and produce desirable results in such patients.
基金Supported by The National Natural Science Foundation of China,No.81071342
文摘AIM: To investigate the protective effects of ethyl py- ruvate (EP) on acute-on-chronic liver failure (ACLF) in rats. METHODS: An ACLF model was established in rats, and animals were randomly divided into normal, mod- el and EP treatment groups. The rats in EP treatment group received EP (40 mg/kg) at 3 h, 6 h, 12 h and 24 h after induction of ACLF. Serum endotoxin, high mobility group box-1 (HMGB1), alanine transaminase (ALT), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interferon-α (IFN-γ), interleukin (IL)-10 and IL-18 levels, changes of liver histology and HMGB1 expressions in liver tis- sues were detected at 48 h after induction of ACLF. The effects of EP on the survival of ACLF rats were also observed.RESULTS: Serum levels of endotoxin (0.394 ± 0.066 EU/mL vs 0.086±0.017 EU/mL, P 〈 0.001), HMGB1 (35.42±10,86 μg/L vs 2.14 ± 0.27 μg/L, P 〈 0.001), ALT (8415.87 ± 3567.54 IU/L vs 38.64 ± 8.82 IU/L, P 〈 0.001), TNF-α (190.77 ± 12.34 ng/L vs 124.40 ± 4.12 ng/L, P 〈 0.001), IFN-γ (715.38 ± 86.03 ng/L vs 398.66 ± 32.91 ng/L, P 〈 0.001), IL-10 (6.85 ± 0.64 ng/L vs 3.49 ± 0.24 ng/L, P 〈 0.001) and IL-18 (85.19 ±3.49 ng/L vs 55.38 ±1.25 ng/L, P 〈 0.001) were significantly increased, and liver tissues presented se- vere pathological injury in the model group compared with the normal group, Howeverr EP administration significantly improved hepatic histopathology and re- duced the serum levels of endotoxin (0.155±0.045 EU/mL vs 0.394 ± 0.066 EU/mL vs P 〈 0.001) and in- flammatory cytokines (11.13 ± 2.58 μg/L vs 35.42 ± 10.86 μg/L for HMGB1, 3512.86 ± 972.67 IU/L vs 8415.87 ± 3567.54 IU/L for ALT, 128.55 ± 5.76 ng/L vs 190.77 ± 12.34 ng/L for TNF-α 438.16 ± 38.10 ng/L vs 715.38 ± 86.03 ng/L for IFN-γ 3.55 ± 0.36 ng/L vs 6.85 ± 0.64 ng/L for IL-10, and 60.35 ± 1.63 ng/L vs 85.19 ± 3.49 ng/L for IL-18, respectively, P 〈 0.001), and the levels of HMGB1 in liver tissues re- gardless of treatment time after induction of ACLF. EP treatment at the four time points prolonged the me- dian survival time of ACLF rats (60 h) to 162 h, 120 h, 102 h and 78 h, respectively (χ2 = 41.17, P 〈 0.0001). CONCLUSION: EP administration can protect against ACLF in rats, and is a potential and novel therapeutic agent for severe liver injury.
文摘Anemia is the most common complication of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Control and inadequate treatment leads to a worse quality of life and increased morbidity and hospitalization. Blood loss, and to a lesser extent, malabsorption of iron are the main causes of iron def iciency in IBD. There is also a variable component of anemia related to chronic inflammation. The anemia of chronic renal failure has been treated for many years with recombinant human erythropoietin (rHuEPO), which significantly improves quality of life and survival. Subsequently, rHuEPO has been used progressively in other conditions that occur with anemia of chronic processes such as cancer, rheumatoid arthritis or IBD, and anemia associated with the treatment of hepatitis C virus. Erythropoietic agents complete the range of available therapeutic options for treatment of anemia associated with IBD, which begins by treating the basis of the inflammatory disease, along with intravenous iron therapy as f irst choice. In cases of resistance to treatment with iron, combined therapy with erythropoietic agents aims to achieve near-normal levels of hemoglobin/hematocrit (11-12 g/dL). New formulations of intravenous iron (iron carboxymaltose) and the new generation of erythropoietic agents (darbepoetin and continuous erythropoietin receptor activator) will allow better dosing with the same eff icacy and safety.
文摘AIM:To evaluate the treatment options for nephrotoxicity due to cisplatin combination chemotherapy.METHODS:We retrospectively reviewed patients who had received cisplatin combination chemotherapy for gastric cancer between January 2002 and December 2008.We investigated patients who had shown acute renal failure(ARF),and examined their clinical characteristics,laboratory data,use of preventive measures,treatment cycles,the amount of cisplatin administered,recovery period,subsequent treatments,and renal status between the recovered and unrecovered groups.RESULTS:Forty-one of the 552 patients had serum creatinine(SCR)levels greater than 1.5 mg/dL.We found that pre-ARF SCR,ARF SCR,and ARF glomerular filtration rates were significantly associated with renal status postARF between the two groups(P=0.008,0.026,0.026,respectively).On the receiver operating characteristic curve of these values,a 1.75 mg/dL ARF SCR value had 87.5%sensitivity and 84.8%specificity(P=0.011).CONCLUSION:Cessation or reduction of chemotherapy should be considered for patients who have an elevation of SCR levels during cisplatin combination chemotherapy.
文摘Men with chronic renal failure (CRF) on hemodialysis have been frequently associated with erectile dysfunc-tion (ED), with an of between 20% to 87.7%. As a result of the multi-system disease processes present in many uremic men, it is apparent that the pathogenesis of ED is most probably multifactorial. Factors to be con-sidered include peripheral vascular disease, neurogenic abnormalities, hormonal disturbances and medications used for treatment of conditions associated with CRF. These physiological abnormalities may be supplement-ed by signifcant psychological stresses and abnormali-ties resulting from chronic illness. Treatment must start with the determination and treatment of the underlying causes. In addition to psychological treatment, furtherlines of treatment of ED in CRF can be classifed as 1stline (medical treatment which includes oral phosphodi-esterase-5 inhibitors and hormone regulation), 2nd line(intracavernosal injection, vacuum constriction devicesand alprostadil urethral suppositories) or 3rd line (sur-gical treatment). Renal transplantation improves thequality of life for some patients with CRF and subse-quently it may improve erectile function in a signifcantnumber of them, however still there is high incidenceof ED after transplantation.
基金The Indian Council of Medical Research (Saksena S), IndiaNew Delhi (Nath K), IndiaThe National Institute of Mental Health,MH58284 and MH06595 (Thomas MA)
文摘AIM: To evaluate the effect of an intravenous bolus of mannitol in altering brain metabolites, brain water content, brain parenchyma volume, cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) volume and clinical signs in controls and in patients with acute liver failure (ALF) and acute- on-chronic liver failure (ACLF), by comparing changes in conventional magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), in vivo proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy (PMRS) and diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) before and after its infusion.METHODS: Five patients each with ALF and ACLF in grade 3 or 4 hepatic encephalopathy and with clinical signs of raised intracranial pressure were studied along with five healthy volunteers. After baseline MRI, an intravenous bolus of 20% mannitol solution was given over 10 min in controls as well as in patients with ALF and ACLE Repeat MRI for the same position was acquired 30 rnin after completing the rnannitol injection. RESULTS: No statistically significant difference was observed between controls and patients with ALF and ACLF in metabolite ratios, DTI metrics and brain volume or CSF volume following 45 rain of mannitol infusion. There was no change in clinical status at the end of post-mannitol imaging. CONCLUSION: The osmotic effect of mannitol did not result in significant reduction of brain water content, alteration in metabolite ratios or any change in the clinical status of these patients during or within 45 min of mannitol infusion.