Phagocytic function of neutrophils of patients with decompensated liver cirrhosis is restored by oral supplementation of branched-chain amino acids

It has been reported that phagocytic function of neutrophils is impaired in cirrhotic patients. We examined the effects of oral supplementation of branched-chain amino acids (BCAA) on phagocytic function of neutrophils in peripheral blood of patients with decompensated cirrhosis. Five patients with decompensated cirrhosis received 12 g of BCAA daily for 3 months. Phagocytic function of neutrophils and NK activities of lymphocytes in peripheral blood as well as serum albumin levels and Fisher's ratios were determined before and at 1 and 3 months of BCAA supplementation. Phagocytic function of neutrophils was significantly improved by 3-month BCAA oral supplementation. NK activity of lymphocytes was improved in four of five patients at 3 months of BCAA supplementation, although the changes were not statistically different. In conclusion, BCAA supplementation improved phagocytic function of neutrophils in cirrhotic patients. BCAA supplementation may reduce the risk of bacterial infection in patients with decompensated liver cirrhosis. (C) 2004 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.