Acute Renal Failure Post Liver Transplantation

Acute Renal Failure Post Liver Transplantation: The Role of Cytokines and Oxidative Stress

Trial to test the effect of administering N-acetylcysteine on cytokines and markers of oxidant stress and the incidence of acute renal failure post liver tranplant

1. To determine levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines and oxidative stress markers in liver transplant patients during post-transplant period
2. To correlate changes in pro-inflammatory cytokines and markers of oxidative stress to acute renal failure and acute rejection
3. To determine the impact of using N-acetylcysteine on cytokines and markers of oxidative stress and the incidence of acute renal failure post liver transplantation

Inclusion Criteria:

• First liver transplant
• Normal renal function before transplantation [serum creatinine ≤ 1.5 mg / dl]
• No requirements for dialysis before transplantation
• Age greater than 18 years

Exclusion Criteria:

• Re-transplant
• Renal dysfunction i.e. serum creatinine > 1.5 mg/dl
• Need for dialysis before transplantation
• Presence of Hepatorenal or Hepatopulmonary syndrome*
• Combined liver and kidney transplant
• Peptic ulcer disease
• Pregnancy