Objective: To study the hepatic steatosis-minimizing effects of carnitine supplemented total parenteral nutrition (TPN).
Methods: Eighteen normal Wistar rats and nineteen cirrhotic Wistar rats were randomly divided into three groups, respectively: group A (12), chow and libitum; group B (13), TPN for one week group C (12), TPN with carnitine. Liver functions were tested at the seventh day, and also, the liver was resected for histological studies and lipid content determination.
Results: Hepatic lipid content was significantly elevated and hepatic steatosis was noted in group B. Hepatic lipid content and hepatic lipid deposit were significantly lowered when carnitine was added to the TPN solution.
Conclusions: Carnitine can minimize hepatic steatosis caused by TPN.