"Is oral antioxidant (Vit C & E) helpful in minimizing shock wave induced renal damage? A study from a tertiary care...

Extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL) causes trauma to the renal parenchyma. Due to the kidney injury, free radicals are generated, and an inflammatory process develops. Inflammatory markers like interleukin's (IL), C-reactive protein (CRP), and procalcitonin (PCT) are released into the circulation. Antioxidants have the potential to mitigate the effects of the inflammatory process. Our objectives were the measurement of the effect of supplementation with Vit C and Vit E (antioxidants) and their effect on the reduction of CRP and procalcitonin and further kidney damage.

There were two groups with 100 patients each. Group A, receiving oral Vitamin E (400 mg twice a day) and oral Vitamin C (500 mg twice a day) beginning 3 days before the lithotripsy and continuing for up to 7 days after the lithotripsy (total of 10 days). Group B served as the control group. Serum levels of CRP and procalcitonin were measured on the day of lithotripsy, day 2, and day 10 post ESWL.

In Group B, CRP and PCT values are statistically significantly elevated as compared to Group A. In Group A, pre-ESWL, day 2 and day 10 CRP values are 1.23, 3.58, and 1.61. In Group B pre-ESWL, day 2 and day 10 CRP values are 1.38, 6.70, and 3.09 (p value < 0.001 in day 2 and 10). In Group A, pre-ESWL, day 2 and day 10 PCT values are 0.41, 1.42, and 0.44. In Group B pre-ESWL, day 2 and day 10 PCT values are 0.36, 3.03, and 1.10 (p value < 0.001 in day 2 and 10).

The serum levels of the inflammatory marker for acute renal injury are decreased when vitamins C and E are taken orally, which can help to minimize kidney damage after lithotripsy for renal stone disease.