BACKGROUND: Parenteral nutrition has been associated with the development of several hepatobiliary complications. The aim of this article was to review the current available literature associated with parenteral nutrition-induced hepatotoxicity. METHODS: We performed a literature search and reviewed all related articles published within the past 5 years, from 1999 to 2003. RESULTS: As a result of this review, we were able to determine the suspected etiology and pathogenesis, commonly used diagnostic tests and procedures, and current methods used for prevention and treatment of parenteral nutrition-associated hepatotoxicity. CONCLUSIONS: Regardless of current advances in research, much is left to be determined in the areas of etiology, pathogenesis, prevention, and treatment of parenteral nutrition-induced hepatobiliary complications. Practitioners should be encouraged to participate in further research, particularly in studies involving human subjects.
BACKGROUND: Parenteral nutrition has been associated with the development of several hepatobiliary complications. The aim of this article was to review the current available literature associated with parenteral nutrition-induced hepatotoxicity. METHODS: We performed a literature search and reviewed all related articles published within the past 5 years, from 1999 to 2003. RESULTS: As a result of this review, we were able to determine the suspected etiology and pathogenesis, commonly used diagnostic tests and procedures, and current methods used for prevention and treatment of parenteral nutrition-associated hepatotoxicity. CONCLUSIONS: Regardless of current advances in research, much is left to be determined in the areas of etiology, pathogenesis, prevention, and treatment of parenteral nutrition-induced hepatobiliary complications. Practitioners should be encouraged to participate in further research, particularly in studies involving human subjects.