Xuebijing alleviates high-voltage electrical burn-induced acute kidney injury by inhibiting neutrophils and inflammation.

This study aimed to investigate the clinical effect of Xuebijing in alleviating acute kidney injury (AKI) after high-voltage electrical burns by inhibiting neutrophils, inflammatory cells, and its potential influence on reactive oxygen species (ROS). Ninety-six patients with AKI following high-voltage electrical burns, admitted to our hospital from February 2023 to December 2024, were included. They were randomized using a computer-generated random number sequence into two groups: a study group (Xuebijing, n = 48) and a control group (n = 48). This study was conducted in an open-label manner. Neutrophil, inflammatory cell, and ROS levels, as well as kidney function and oxidative stress factors (SOD, MDA), were compared at baseline (1 h before treatment) and 7 days post-treatment. Adverse reactions were recorded. The sample size was determined based on previous similar studies indicating clinically significant differences with comparable group sizes. Prior to treatment, there were no significant differences in BUN, SCr, or urinary protein between groups (P > 0.05). After 7 days, both groups showed significant improvements in BUN, SCr, and urinary protein levels, with the study group showing greater improvement (P < 0.05). Similarly, neutrophils, CRP, IL-18, and IL-6 levels decreased significantly in both groups, with the study group showing greater reductions (P < 0.05). Regarding oxidative stress markers, SOD levels decreased and MDA levels increased post-treatment in both groups. However, compared to the control group, the study group showed a more pronounced decrease in SOD levels and a more pronounced increase in MDA levels (P < 0.05), findings that are contrary to an expected direct antioxidant effect measured by these specific markers. Adverse reactions were mild in both groups, with the control group having a slightly higher rate (8.16% vs. 4.08%), but no significant differences were observed (P = 0.399). Xuebijing can alleviate AKI after high-voltage electrical burns by inhibiting neutrophils and inflammatory cells. While it improves kidney function and reduces inflammation, its effects on SOD and MDA levels suggest a complex interaction with the oxidative stress system that requires further investigation, as the observed changes in these markers (decreased SOD, increased MDA) in the Xuebijing group were more pronounced than in the control group. It shows potential as an effective treatment option for improving kidney function and reducing inflammation, warranting further clinical application.Clinical trial registration This trial is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov under NCT07026227 (Date of registration: 18/06/2025).