Endothelial cell changes in acute hepatitis. A light and electron microscopic study

Area of Science:

• Hepatology
• Cell Biology
• Pathology

Background:

• Acute hepatitis, caused by viruses or drugs, affects hepatic endothelial cells.
• Activated endothelial cells exhibit unique morphological and staining characteristics.
• These cells are observed in various forms of acute hepatitis, particularly in necrotic areas.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the characteristics of hepatic endothelial cells in acute hepatitis.
• To determine the role of activated endothelial cells in liver injury.

Main Methods:

• Light and electron microscopy were used to examine liver biopsies from 48 patients with acute hepatitis.
• Specific staining methods (amylase PAS, Perls' method) were employed.
• Morphological analysis of endothelial cells and intracytoplasmic granules was performed.

Main Results:

• Swollen hepatic endothelial cells with dense, refractile intracytoplasmic granules were observed.
• These granules stained positive for PAS and iron, indicating siderosomes.
• Activated endothelial cells were prevalent in necrotic areas and lined newly formed capillaries.
• Basement membrane material was present on activated cells in areas of capillarization.

Conclusions:

• Activated hepatic endothelial cells, characterized by siderosomes, are a feature of acute hepatitis.
• These cells are associated with liver necrosis and capillarization.
• Activated endothelial cells might play a protective role for hepatocytes during acute liver injury.