The Hepatic Microcirculation in Experimental Cirrhosis a Scanning Electron Microscopy Study of Microcorrosion Casts

Authors

E. Gaudio, State University of L'Aquila
L. Pannarale, State University of Rome "La Sapienza"
M. Ripani, State University of Rome "La Sapienza"
P. Onori, State University of Rome "La Sapienza"
O. Riggio, State University of Rome "La Sapienza"

Abstract

The experimental model of liver cirrhosis induced by intragastric administration of CCl₄ reproduces not only the histological picture of the postnecrotic cirrhosis but also its pathophysiological features.

Corrosion casts of livers affected by CCl₄-induced cirrhosis show the loss of the lobular pattern. Once the cirrhosis has completely developed, the whole microvascular bed appears to be composed of groups of sinusoid nodules of diameters varying between 0.3 and 1.5 mm.. Pre- and post-sinusoidal vessels and anastomoses between the former and the latter are mainly located at the perinodular spaces.

This microvascular situation modifies the normal perfusion gradient within the parenchyma. Nevertheless, it can allow a still viable function.

Recommended Citation

Gaudio, E.; Pannarale, L.; Ripani, M.; Onori, P.; and Riggio, O. (1991) "The Hepatic Microcirculation in Experimental Cirrhosis a Scanning Electron Microscopy Study of Microcorrosion Casts," Scanning Microscopy: Vol. 5: No. 2, Article 17.
Available at: https://digitalcommons.usu.edu/microscopy/vol5/iss2/17