RADIATION INDUCED HEPATIC INJURY

Abstract

1. Radiation induced suppression of hepatic reticuloendothelial function was demonstrated by scintillation scanning in 6 patients undergoing therapeutic irradiation of the liver. In the 1 patient so tested, suppressed hepatocellular function was also demonstrated.2. Evidence of injury to the liver was the de novo appearance of a well defined area of diminished or absent radioactivity on the scintillation scan, corresponding to the position of the radiation portals in each case.3. In 3 patients, reappearance of normal function was observed 84-106 days post irradiation. Follow-up of the remaining patients was limited to shorter periods.4. There were no clinical findings attributable to radiation induced hepatic injury.5. These data are additional evidence that the liver is a relatively radiosensitive organ.