The effect of oral N-acetylcystein on prevention of extensive tissue destruction in electrical burn injury

Background: Electric burn patients usually suffer permanent injury and sequelae. Salvage of the zone of stasis is an important topic in the treatment of burn patients. N-Acetylcysteine (NAC), as an antioxidant, has effect on the saving zone of stasis and extensive rhabdomyolisis. The aim of this study was therefore to evaluate the effect of oral NAC on tissue destruction indicators in an electric burn rat model. Material and methods: An experimental study was conducted with thirty six male Wistar albino rats divided into 2 groups. Group A (n = 18) and group B (n = 18) were electrical burn injury groups without and with NAC therapy, respectively. The extent of burn wounds were evaluated by planimetry using a digital wound measuring device. Blood samples were obtained to analyze creatine kinase (CK) levels as a marker of extensive rhabdomiolysis on the first hour after electric injury (baseline) and on the 7th day to see the antioxidant effect of NAC. Results: A significant decrease in tissue destruction was seen by the necrotic area on day 7 in the NAC therapy group compared to the control group (mean 2.26 ± 1.05 cm ² versus mean 7.12 ± 3.30 cm ² respectively; p = 0.001), which was confirmed by the level of serum CK (day 7: group A, mean 140 ± 51 U/L versus Group B, mean 102 ± 6 U/L; p = 0.007). Conclusion: A decrease in electric burn necrotic area and tissue damage in the group using NAC treatment was demonstrated. NAC might have a beneficial effect in the treatment of electrical burns. Further experimental and clinical studies with NAC treatment are necessary to confirm these results.