Effects of Furosemide on Kidney Function in Liver Cirrhosis
Author Information
Author(s): Assy Nimer, Kayal Mohib, Mejirisky Yoram, Gorenberg Miguel, Hussein Osamah, Schlesinger Sorina
Primary Institution: Sieff Hospital, Safed, Israel
Hypothesis
Does a single dose of intravenous furosemide affect renal function in patients with compensated liver cirrhosis?
Conclusion
A single furosemide injection increases renal functional mass in 55% of patients with compensated cirrhosis and identifies 45% of patients at risk for renal impairment.
Supporting Evidence
- 55% of patients showed increased renal DMSA uptake after furosemide injection.
- DMSA uptake changes persisted for up to three hours post-injection.
- 80% of patients had decreased GFR by DMSA despite normal creatinine levels.
Takeaway
This study shows that giving a medicine called furosemide can help some people with liver problems have better kidney function, but not everyone benefits.
Methodology
Eighteen cirrhotic patients received either low (40 mg) or high (120 mg) doses of furosemide, and renal function was assessed using DMSA uptake before and after administration.
Potential Biases
Potential bias due to the small sample size and the exclusion of patients with certain conditions.
Limitations
The study had a small sample size and did not measure plasma renin and aldosterone levels.
Participant Demographics
18 cirrhotic patients, 10 men and 8 women, mean age 54 years.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.001
Statistical Significance
p<0.001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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