Significance of activation of reticuloendothelial function after hepatectomy in cirrhotic rats

Effect of hepatectomy on the prognosis of cirrhotic rats prepared by oral administration of thioacetamide was studied from the standpoint of the reticuloendothelial function and energy metabolism of the liver. OK-432, a streptococcal preparation, was used to activate reticuloendothelial functions. Administration of OK-432 to cirrhotic rats prior to 70% hepatectomy significantly prevented the elevation of serum GOT, GPT and LDH, the prolongation of blood coagulation and the decrease of serum complement level. Hepatic ATP synthesis and RNA content were significantly increase by the use of OK-432. These findings suggest that activation of reticuloendothelial functions at the time of massive hepatectomy in cirrhotic rats may diminish hepatic injury, maintain serum complement level, and improve protein synthesis of the liver.