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Updated: Jun 14, 2026
11:06
Human Liver Microphysiological System for Assessing Drug-Induced Liver Toxicity In Vitro
Published on: January 31, 2022
[The effects of diethylene glycol on liver function]
Chao-Shuang Lin1, Zhi-Xin Zhao, Bing-Liang Lin
1Department of Infectious Diseases, the Third Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510630, China.
Summary
Accidental intravenous diethylene glycol (DEG) poisoning can worsen liver damage in patients with pre-existing liver disease. This study found significant mortality and kidney injury in affected individuals, highlighting DEG
Area of Science:
- Toxicology
- Hepatology
- Nephrology
Background:
- Diethylene glycol (DEG) poisoning is a serious public health concern.
- Patients with liver disease may be at increased risk of adverse outcomes from toxic exposures.
- Understanding the specific effects of DEG in this population is crucial for clinical management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the hepatotoxic and overall toxic effects of accidental intravenous diethylene glycol (DEG) poisoning in patients with liver disease.
- To identify risk factors associated with adverse outcomes in this patient group.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of clinical data and liver function tests from 64 patients with liver diseases who received DEG-contaminated agents.
- Inclusion of 45 cases with hepatorenal failure for comparison.
- Multivariable logistic regression analysis to assess DEG's hepatotoxic effects and identify risk factors.
Main Results:
- 15 out of 64 patients (23.4%) with liver disease developed toxic presentations after accidental DEG administration.
- All affected patients were male, and 80% died within 7 days.
- Common manifestations included kidney damage, renal failure, metabolic acidosis, and neurological disturbances, with only mild liver function impairment observed.
- Male gender and severity of jaundice were significant risk factors for toxin-induced renal failure.
Conclusions:
- Diethylene glycol (DEG) administration can exacerbate liver damage in patients with pre-existing liver disease.
- Intravenous DEG poisoning poses a high mortality risk, particularly in male patients with liver disease and severe jaundice.
- Renal failure is a prominent complication, with specific risk factors identified.
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