Variation in the levels of inflammatory cytokines depending on ischemic time: effects on respiratory variables

Abstract

Objectives: We sought to evaluate the association between ischemic times, cytokines-interleukin (IL)-6, IL-1b, tumor necrosis factor-alpha, sIL-2r, IL-8, and IL-10-and alterations in gaseous exchange.

Materials and methods: This prospective study of 42 orthotopic liver transplantation (OLT) recipients examined ischemic times and respiratory variables measured as alterations in intrapulmonary shunt and in the Po(2)/Fio(2) ratio. Centrifuged blood samples were frozen at -80 degrees C for storage. The Inmulite-One system (Euro/Dpc, Gwynedd, UK) was used to determine the concentration of cytokines. For statistical analysis, we used the Pearson correlation coefficient.

Results: The average cold ischemic time was 478 minutes (range, 35-929) and warm ischemic time was 69.58 minutes (range, 20-180). The warm ischemic time affected the degree of shunt at the end of the operation (P < .027) and the levels of IL-10 (P < .018) and IL-6 (P < .000). The final degree of shunting and IL-10 (P < .044) showed a correlation. The cold ischemic time affected IL-1 (P < .046) and IL-8 levels (P < .023). The reperfusion syndrome was correlated with the final levels of IL-10 (P < .064) and of IL-8 (P < .066).

Conclusion: Warm and cold ischemic times affect the final cytokine levels and the degree of intrapulmonary shunt.