Description

Lutgens et al used serum citrulline concentration to monitor small bowel toxicity following myeloablative therapy given prior to hematopoietic stem cell transplant (HSCT). This is inexpensive and indicates recovery sooner than sugar permeability tests. The authors are from the Masstricht University and University Medical Centre St. Radboud in The Netherlands.


 

Formula weight for citrulline: 175.19 g

 

Following initiation of myeloablative therapy the serum citrulline levels declines to a nadir then gradually increases during gut recovery.

 

Day

Serum Citrulline

Time Course

1 week prior to HSCT

100%

baseline

4-5 days after HSCT

35%

minimum

21 days after HSCT

77% (2x nadir value)

recovery

after Figure 1, page 194

 

Limitations:

• Serum citrulline levels may be increased in patients with liver disease.

 


To read more or access our algorithms and calculators, please log in or register.