Background: Acetaminophen poisoning continues to be a major cause of liver failure that can lead to liver transplantation. N-acetylcysteine (NAC) is the cornerstone of treatment. Some authors use a Molecular Adsorbent Recirculating System (MARS) system in acetaminophen poisoning. It is reported that the MARS system eliminates acetaminophen more efficiently than conventional dialysis. It is theoretically possible that treatment with MARS administered after NAC will increase the effectiveness of treatment.
Case reports: The first patient, a woman of 14 years old, presented blood levels of 112 mg/dL 12 hours after ingestion of 15 g of acetaminophen. Treatment with NAC was initiated. At 17 and 23 hours after ingestion, blood levels were 23.5 μg/mL and 5.9 μg/mL, respectively. The second patient, a woman of 28 years old, presented blood levels of 115 mg/dL 4 hours after ingestion of 40 g of acetaminophen. Treatment with NAC was initiated. At 14 and 23 hours after ingestion, blood levels were 15.8 μg/mL and <2 μg/mL, respectively. In both patients, we performed MARS after completing treatment with NAC, and after the first session, blood levels were below the lower limit of detection (≤2 μg/mL).
Discussion: The correct timing of MARS to avoid interactions with the administered dose of NAC in acetaminophen overdose is essential so as to not impair the effectiveness of this treatment. These considerations in the management of this entity help in the resolution of liver failure, thus avoiding the need for a liver transplant.
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