Kupffer cell phagocytosis in relation to BSP clearance in liver and inflammatory bowel diseases.

Experience using microaggregated human serum albumin for a Kupffer cell phagocytic capacity "stress test" in patients with liver and inflammatory bowel diseases is described. Each result has been related to a 1-hr BSP clearance in order to account for variations in liver blood flow. Kupffer cell clearances are reduced in proportion to BSP clearance in obstructive jaundice and in secondary biliary cirrhosis but are increased in patients with chronic hepatocellular inflmmation. Conversely Kupffer cell phagocytosis is often depressed in patients with alcoholic hepatitis. In Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis RES function is normal unless patients are receiving corticosteroid suppression.