Effect of different lipid emulsions on the immunological function in humans: a systematic review with meta-analysis.
OBJECTIVE
Reports regarding the pro- or anti-inflammatory effects of lipid emulsion used in parenteral nutrition are conflicting. Aim was to assess the effect of different intravenous lipid emulsions on immunological function in humans.


METHODS
We performed a computerized bibliographic search, searched reference lists in trial reports, hand-searched journals and contacted experts in the field. Randomized clinical trials evaluating the immunological effects of different parenteral lipid emulsions were included. Three authors independently performed data extraction, statistical processes were performed by two experts. Immunological parameters were classified by two immunologists as marker of improved or worsened immune function. A meta-analysis with standardized effect size estimation was performed for the comparison between long-chain triglycerides vs. glucose or other fat emulsions.


RESULTS
Of 682 assessed studies, 120 compared the immunological effects of intravenously applied lipid emulsions. Of 30 randomized trials, 14 were included in the meta-analysis. None of the lipid regimens showed any clear effect on the evolution of the immunological status or mortality in humans. Length of hospital stay and stay in the intensive care unit could not be evaluated.


CONCLUSIONS
We found no evidence that lipid emulsions and in particular those containing long-chain triglycerides have an unfavorable effect on immune function.
Wirtitsch
Melanie
M
Surgical Research Laboratories, Department of Surgery, Medical University of Vienna, Währinger Gürtel 18-20, A-1090 Vienna, Austria.
Wessner
Barbara
B
Spittler
Andreas
A
Roth
Erich
E
Volk
Thomas
T
Bachmann
Lucas
L
Hiesmayr
Michael
M
D016207:Cytokines / Q000096:biosynthesis; D004750:Enteral Nutrition / Q000379:methods*; D005217:Fat Emulsions, Intravenous / Q000494:pharmacology* / Q000627:therapeutic use; D005526:Food, Formulated; D006801:Humans; D007107:Immune System / Q000187:drug effects*; D007902:Length of Stay; D018655:Lymphocyte Count; D016032:Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic; D014280:Triglycerides / Q000276:immunology* / Q000494:pharmacology / Q000627:therapeutic use
D016207:Cytokines; D005217:Fat Emulsions, Intravenous; D014280:Triglycerides