The changes in dynamics of ornithine cycle components levels during the acute period of Polytrauma

Introduction: Polytrauma or multiple organ damage is associated with shock and lead to systemic inflammation, oxidative stress and endothelial dysfunction. A severe mechanical injury causes an increased proinflammatory mediators and cytokines levels. Among them, the overproduction of nitric oxide and its oxidation products play a key role in tissue damage. The aim: To evaluate the changes in dynamics of some ornithine cycle components levels during acute period of polytrauma.

Materials and methods: We measured standard biomechanical parameters and serum levels of NO, sum of nitrite and nitrate (NOx), L-arginine, arginase, and peroxynitrite. According to the ISS, the study included patients with moderate (n=15) to severe (n=15) polytrauma.

Results: In 24 hours after polytrauma on the background of intensive care, it was observed significant increasing of NO, NOx, and arginase levels (severe cases) with decreasing of L-arginine and peroxynitrite levels.

Conclusions: Elevated NO and NOx serum levels in patients with polytrauma is associated with increasing of arginase activity with decreasing of L-arginine and peroxynitrite levels on the background of intensive care.