[Parenteral and enteral nutritional support for patients with liver cirrhosis]

In liver cirrhosis, metabolic processes deteriorate, and serum amino acid imbalances may develop. Aromatic amino acids accumulate and branched-chain amino acids (BCAA) deficiencies develop, leading to hepatic encephalopathy and malnutrition. According to Fischer's reports, parenteral nutritional support with BCAA rich solution (Aminoleban (Otsuka), Morihepamin (Morishita)) is useful in patients with hepatic encephalopathy. Enteral nutritional support with BCAA rich solution (Aminoleban EN (Otsuka), Hepan-ED (Morishita)), together with low protein diet, may correct the specific metabolic abnormalities in patients with chronic hepatic failure and contribute to regain the quality of life and survival.