title: Carnitine and sepsis: a review of an old clinical dilemma.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  The precise role of carnitine as the key regulator of lipid metabolism in sepsis is unclear. In this review, available experimental as well as clinical evidences regarding the probable beneficial effects of carnitine in sepsis were evaluated.
  
  
  METHODS
  A comprehensive literature search was performed in the related medical databases. Related experimental and clinical studies were included.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  The plasma and tissue level of carnitine or its derivatives in septic condition is variable and inconclusive. Survival and outcomes are considered in only few studies. Despite its favorable safety profile, due to limited clinical evidence, it seems reasonable not to currently consider carnitine as a mandatory and beneficial supplement under septic conditions. Further well-designed, standard clinical trials are warranted in this regards.
authors.affiliation: Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
authors.forename: Shima
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Hatamkhani
authors.forename: Iman
authors.initials: I
authors.lastname: Karimzadeh
authors.forename: Sepideh
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Elyasi
authors.forename: Shadi
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Farsaie
authors.forename: Hossein
authors.initials: H
authors.lastname: Khalili
mesh_terms: D000818:Animals; D002331:Carnitine / Q000097:blood* / Q000378:metabolism*; D019587:Dietary Supplements; D006801:Humans; D018805:Sepsis / Q000097:blood* / Q000378:metabolism*
chemical_list: D002331:Carnitine