Extracorporeal liver support: a continuing challenge.
Given that liver failure continues to pose an enormous clinical challenge, the concept of hepatic dialysis has enjoyed significant interest. In particular, many investigations have examined the therapeutic mechanisms and efficacy of artificial albumin dialysis based systems in acute on chronic liver failure, the results of which have been conflicting. Albumin dialysis systems do not appear to significantly decrease serum concentrations of inflammatory cytokines in severe acute on chronic liver failure. Thus, if these treatments do result in clinical improvement, then other therapeutic mechanisms must be involved.
Subramanian
Ram M
RM
Department of Pulmonary & Critical Care, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA.
Kellum
John A
JA
D016207:Cytokines / Q000097:blood*; D003956:Dialysis; D006801:Humans; D017093:Liver Failure / Q000097:blood / Q000628:therapy*
D016207:Cytokines