Alterations in Body Fluids During Acute Infectious Hepatitis

Abstract

Summary

Interstitial fluid volume (thiocyanate space), total blood volume and plasma volume were measured at frequent intervals in 14 young adult males with acute infectious hepatitis. In each patient, the body fluid movement pattern was similar. Detailed data presented in one typical case disclose an increase in the interstitial fluid compartment during the preconvalescent period and a tendency to store ingested water as measured by a water tolerance test. Diminished plasma and urinary chloride values are also found during this period, probably because of chloride storage in the increased interstitial fluid compartment. With convalescence and the restitution of liver function, the interstitial fluid and its retained chloride are mobilized and the interstitial fluid volume falls to lower values. There is an accompanying fall in body weight and frequently a diuresis follows. Less tendency to store ingested fluid is also observed at this time. Plasma chlorides are now restored and urinary chlorides appear in normal amounts. A slight drop in plasma volume and total blood volume accompany these changes and appear to be independent of alterations in the plasma proteins.

It is suggested that these movements in the body fluids may have an endocrine basis.