In-vitro assessment of the removal of phenols by ACAC hemoperfusion

The in-vitro removal of free phenols by means of perfusion over albumin coated cellulose nitrate microencapsulated activated charcoal (ACAC) was studied. The phenols tested were in the form of a standard solution comprised of phenol, p-cresol, and p-hydroxyphenylacetic acid in a ratio of 1:5:14. Four different activated charcoals were tested for their adsorption capacity. Further studies were conducted to determine; the effect of microencapsulation and albumin coating of the activated charcoal on the adsorption of phenols; the adsorption isotherm of phenols; the capacity; and the clearance values. The results obtained suggest that ACAC used in the management of patients with uremia or hepatic coma is extremely efficient in removing phenols in aqueous solution in the in-vitro situation.