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01-03-2009 | Original Paper

The brain in acute liver failure. A tortuous path from hyperammonemia to cerebral edema

Authors: Peter Nissen Bjerring, Martin Eefsen, Bent Adel Hansen, Fin Stolze Larsen

Published in: Metabolic Brain Disease | Issue 1/2009

Abstract

Acute liver failure (ALF) is a condition with an unfavourable prognosis. Multiorgan failure and circulatory collapse are frequent causes of death, but cerebral edema and intracranial hypertension (ICH) are also common complications with a high risk of fatal outcome. The underlying pathogenesis has been extensively studied and although the development of cerebral edema and ICH is of a complex and multifactorial nature, it is well established that ammonia plays a pivotal role. This review will focus on the effects of hyperammonemia on neurotransmission, mitochondrial function, oxidative stress, inflammation and regulation of cerebral blood flow. Finally, potential therapeutic targets and future perspectives are briefly discussed.

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Title: The brain in acute liver failure. A tortuous path from hyperammonemia to cerebral edema
Authors: Peter Nissen Bjerring
Martin Eefsen
Bent Adel Hansen
Fin Stolze Larsen
Publication date: 01-03-2009
Publisher: Springer US
Published in: Metabolic Brain Disease / Issue 1/2009
Print ISSN: 0885-7490
Electronic ISSN: 1573-7365
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11011-008-9116-3

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The brain in acute liver failure. A tortuous path from hyperammonemia to cerebral edema

Abstract

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Abstract

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