Elevated intracranial pressure after head trauma can be suppressed by antisecretory factor-a pilot study

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Biochemistry
• Clinical Medicine

Background:

• Intracranial pressure (ICP) management is crucial in neurointensive care for severe traumatic brain injury (TBI).
• The anti-inflammatory protein antisecretory factor (AF) has shown promise in reducing ICP in animal models.
• This study explores the clinical application of AF for elevated ICP in TBI patients.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the safety and efficacy of antisecretory factor (AF) in reducing elevated intracranial pressure (ICP) in patients with severe traumatic brain injury (TBI).
• To assess the absorption and influence of AF supplementation on ICP control in a clinical setting.

Main Methods:

• Four severe TBI patients with refractory intracranial hypertension were treated with Salovum®, an AF-rich egg yolk powder.
• Administration was via nasogastric or rectal tube, supplemented with conventional neurointensive care.
• ICP was continuously monitored, and plasma AF levels were measured via ELISA to confirm absorption.

Main Results:

• Nasogastric administration led to gastric retention and difficulties in ICP control.
• Rectal administration in two patients with extensive brain edema successfully controlled ICP.
• ICP reduction was statistically significant, correlated with increased plasma AF levels, and no adverse events were observed.

Conclusions:

• Antisecretory factor (AF) demonstrates potential as a suppressor of high ICP in TBI-induced brain edema.
• Rectal administration of AF may be a viable route for clinical application.
• AF supplementation offers a potential new therapeutic strategy for managing cerebral edema in TBI patients.