Investigation by scintigraphic methods of platelet kinetics under normal and septic shock conditions in the experimental baboon model.

This study concerned the correlation of platelet kinetics with the pathogenic course of septic shock and adult respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) in the anesthetised baboon model. 111In-tropolonate platelets were traced in vivo in normal baboons (n = 7) and in Escherichia coli-infected baboons, which were reinjected with the labeled autologous platelets either 2 hr after the onset of the E. coli infusion (procedure A: n = 4) or simultaneously with the infusion (procedure B; n = 3). One minute images were taken hourly for 5 hr, using a gamma camera and data processor. Time-activity curves were obtained for platelet clearance from the blood and the lungs and for platelet accumulation in the liver and spleen. A significant retention of platelets in the lungs of baboons with E. coli-induced septic shock was noted, as well as an accelerated clearance from the circulation. Platelets were distributed mainly to the spleen after induction of bacteremia, later substantially moved to the liver, and even later moved back to the spleen.