HEPATIC SINUSOIDAL MACROPHAGES (KUPFER'S AND ENDOTHELIAL CELLS) IN THE HEROIN ADDICTS

The histological, histo-chemical and ultrastructural examinations of the liverliave been done in order to have a precise view of the livcr damages induced by theheroin abuse. The change in the number of the hepatic sinusoidal macrophages(Kupfer's and endothelial cells) has been determined with respect to the present livertissue damages. The study has comprised an analysis of 50 autopsies, while 40 ofthem were from the group of the intravenous heroin addicts and 10 autopsiesrepresented a control group. The number of the Kupfer's and endothelial cells hasbeen significantly greater in the autopsy cases of the intravenous heroin addicts withthe chronic active hepatitis regerdless of whether there was any posthepatic cirrhosisat the same lime or not. In the intravenous heroin addict aulopsies where together with other morphological changes there were also alcohol obese changes there was not anysignificant difference in the number of the Kupfer's and endothelial cells with respectto the control group liver which is most probably a consequence of the alcoholimmune-suppressive effect.