Metal ions catalytic for free radical reactions in the plasma of patients with fulminant hepatic failure.

We propose that the frequency and severity of multi-organ failure (MOF) in fulminant hepatic failure (FHF) involves free radical damage caused by the presence of circulating iron and copper ions, catalytic for free radical reactions. The presence of such metal ions is demonstrated by using the sensitive bleomycin and phenanthroline assays. Antioxidant therapy, e.g., using chelating agents that prevent metal ions from stimulating free radical reactions, may have benefit in the treatment of FHF and its consequences.