Experimental galactosamine-induced hepatitis. Effect of anticoagulant and antifibrinolytic agents on microclot formation.

An experimental hepatitis was induced in rabbits by intravenous infusion of 1 g galactosamine per kilogram of body weight. Galactosamine administration caused microclot formation in kidneys, liver, lungs, and spleen in a low percentage. If, however, animals were infused with the fibrinolysis inhibitor epsilon-aminocaproic acid in addition to galactosamine, microclots were generated in a high percentage. The microclots exhibited typical staining characteristics like those observed in the generalized Shwartzman reaction. Some animals developed bilateral renal cortical necrosis. Heparin treatment prevented the occurrence of microclot fromation after galactosamine administration, but it neither prolonged the survival time of the animals nor prevented or reduced liver cell damage. Increases in serum GPT and bilirubin levels were similar in heparin-treated and untreated rabbits. The experiments indicate that disseminated intravascular coagulation is involved in galactosamine-induced hepatitis but does not contribute to the severity of the liver injury.