Experimental studies on the pathophysiology of acute hepatic failure (1)

Analysis of coagulation and fibrinolytic systems in galactosamine-induced hepatitis of rabbits

Abstract

Coagulation and fibrinolytic systems were investigated in acute hepatic failure of rabbits induced by the intravenous administration of D-galactosamine HCl (1 g per kg). Almost all rabbits died within 60 hour (mean±SD 34.2±15.1 hour) following a typical course of fulminant hepatic failure. The hemolytic activity of plasma complement (CH50) markedly decreaSed within 15 hour and endotoxemia thereafter appeared in 14 of 15 rabbits, Serial coagulation studies reflected the occurence of disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) prior to death in a high percentage. Coagulation factors and CH50 were valuable prognostic indicies in the course of fulminant hepatic failure. It is suggested that in acute hepatic failure endotoxemia and changes in complement systems are closely related to the development of DIC, which may finaly lead to lethal complications such as acute renal failure and gastrointestinal bleeding.