Albumin regeneration for extracorporeal liver support using prometheus: a step in the right direction

Albumin Apheresis for Artificial Liver Support: In Vitro Testing of a Novel Filter

Currently there is no direct therapy for liver failure. We have previously described selective plasma exchange therapy using a hemofilter permeable to substances that have a molecular mass of up to 100 kDa. The proof-of-concept studies and a Phase I study in patients with decompensated cirrhosis demonstrated that hemofiltration using an albumin-leaking membrane is safe and effective in removing target molecules, alleviating severe encephalopathy and improving blood chemistry. In this study a novel large-pore filter for similar clinical application is described. The performance of the filter was studied in vitro; it was found to effectively remove a wide spectrum of pathogenic factors implicated in the pathophysiology of hepatic failure, including protein bound toxins and defective forms of circulating albumin. Data on mass transport characteristics and functionality using various modes of filtration and dialysis provide rationale for clinical evaluation of the filter for artificial liver support using albumin apheresis.

Human albumin solution for patients with cirrhosis and acute on chronic liver failure: Beyond simple volume expansion

To provide an overview of the properties of human serum albumin (HSA), and to review the evidence for the use of human albumin solution (HAS) in critical illness, sepsis and cirrhosis. A MEDLINE search was performed using the terms “human albumin”, “critical illness”, “sepsis” and “cirrhosis”. The references of retrieved articles were reviewed manually. Studies published between 1980 and 2014 were selected based on quality criteria. Data extraction was performed by all authors. HSA is the main plasma protein contributing greatly to its oncotic pressure. HSA demonstrates important binding properties for endogenous and exogenous toxins, drugs and drug metabolites that account for its anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. In disease states, hypoalbuminaemia is secondary to decreased HSA production, increased loss or transcapillary leakage into the interstitial space. HSA function can be also altered in disease with reduced albumin binding capacity and increased production of modified isoforms. HAS has been used as volume expander in critical illness, but received criticism due to cost and concerns regarding safety. More recent studies confirmed the safety of HAS, but failed to show any survival benefit compared to the cheaper crystalloid fluids, therefore limiting its use. On the contrary, in cirrhosis there is robust data to support the efficacy of HAS for the prevention of circulatory dysfunction post-large volume paracentesis and in the context of spontaneous bacterial peritonitis, and for the treatment of hepato-renal syndrome and hypervolaemic hyponatraemia. It is likely that not only the oncotic properties of HAS are beneficial in cirrhosis, but also its functional properties, as HAS replaces the dysfunctional HSA. The role of HAS as the resuscitation fluid of choice in critically ill patients with cirrhosis, beyond the established indications for HAS use, should be addressed in future studies.