Galactosamine- "hepatitis" in rats with different phagocytic activity of liver RES

Morphological investigations by lightmicroscopy were performed to evaluate the influence of an altered liver RES-function state on the course of Gal-N-hepatitis. There was a good correlation between the biochemical data and the morphological alterations. The simultaneous infusion of Gal-N 1 g/kg b.w. and carbon particles (2.6 mg/100 g b.w) into the portal vein was followed by subtotal necrosis of the liver and Sanarelli-Shwartzmann-phenomenon. Signs of RES-activity were nearly absent. 8 days after pretreatment with carbon, Gal-N application did not produce Gal-N hepatitis; 21 days after carbon infusion the morphological changes normally found after Gal-N application were present. The morphological studies confirm the concept that an altered RES-function state is a very important factor for the development of liver cell necrosis.