Quantitation of neutrophil extra cellular traps (NETs) in liver cirrhosis patients and their relation to the incidence of different complications

Abstract

Abstract Backgrounds and aim Neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) have been shown to play an important role in inflammatory and thrombotic processes. Investigating the presence of NETs in liver cirrhosis to detect any contribution to occurrence of complications may help predict or prevent those complications. Methods Among 78 cirrhotic patients, the serum NETs level was measured using ELISA and compared to different etiologies of liver cirrhosis (Viral, HCC, Bilharzial, NASH, cardiac cirrhosis and undetermined etiology) as well as markers of inflammation and complications in those patients. Results We found that NETs are substantially found in LCF and have a significant relation to malignant portal vein thrombosis but not other studied complications or etiology of liver cirrhosis. Conclusion NETs however found in liver cirrhosis patients may not play as a significant role in occurrence of complications as thought. So, NETs cannot be reliably used as a biomarker or predictor for occurrence of thrombosis in liver cirrhosis patients. Lay summary Liver cirrhosis patients have many factors at play that lead to development of thrombosis. NETS may play a role with the development of malignant thrombosis in those patients. Further evaluation for their level and action should be studied before considering NETs as a key player in development of complications.

Keywords

• Liver cell failure
• Malignant portal vein thrombosis
• Neutrophil extracellular traps
• Neutrophils
• Inflammatory process