PHOSPHOLIPASE A(2) - ACUTE-PHASE PROTEIN FOLLOWING LIVER SURGERY

Introduction: The exact source of phospholipase A(2) is unknown. In th is context the liver is discussed because the secretion of phospholipa se A(2) could be initiated during an acute phase response. Patients an d methods: Three groups of patients were prospectively established: A liver resection (n = 12); B control (n = 22; oesophageal resection, ga strectomy, rectum resection); C sepsis (n = 5). Blood was collected pr eoperatively, each day postoperatively for seven days and at the day o f discharge. Biochemical procedures: Phospholipase A(2), PMN-elastase, C-reactive protein, GPT, GOT. GLDH, cholinesterase. Results: Postoper atively phospholipase A(2) is unchanged in the liver resection and con trol group, whereas it increases significantly in septic patients. Onl y following liver resection GPT. GOT and GLDH increase. C-reactive pro tein is increased in all groups. Discussion: Unchanged phospholipase A (2) after liver surgery de spite an acute phase response indicated by C-reactive protein does not support the view of phospholipase A(2) bei ng of hepatic origin.