Octreotide inhibits hepatic fibrosis, bile duct proliferation and bacterial translocation in obstructive jaundice

The protective effect of octreotide on bacterial translocation, bile duct epithelial proliferation and hepatic fibrosis was studied in an experimental obstructive jaundice model.

Forty-five healthy Wistar albino rats were randomly divided into three groups. Group I (n = 15): Median laparotomy and common bile duct manipulation performed (Sham group). Group II (n = 15): Laparotomy and common bile duct ligation performed. Group III (n = 15): After laparotomy and common bile duct ligation octreotide (Sandostatin, sandoz) was given. Simultaneously group I and II received 3 cc 0.9% NaCl and group III received 20 micrograms/kg/daily octreotide subcutaneously every 8 hours during 9 days. Two days after the procedure all rats were opened under ether anesthesia and sterile conditions. Group I had simple laparotomy but group II and III also had common bile duct ligation by 5/0 prolene. Seven days after the surgery (9th day after treatment) all rats underwent laparotomy and tests for bacterial translocation, liver biochemical tests and histopathologic analysis of liver and small bowel were carried out.

In group II cecal population levels of bacteria were significantly higher than group I and group III (p < 0.05). In group II there was also statistically significant bacterial translocation to the mesenteric lymph nodes. Pathological changes were found in terminal ileum samples in group II which seemed to improve in group III. Hepatocyte function was preserved with octreotide treatment which also significantly decreased bile duct proliferation and periportal fibrosis in response to biliary obstruction.

This experimental study showed that octreotide is effective in preventing bacterial translocation, bile duct proliferation and hepatic fibrosis in obstructive jaundice.