Influence of the acute alcoholism on the phagocytic function of the mononuclear phagocytic system

RATIONALE Alcoholics are more likely to have infections, mainly in the respiratory system. Alcohol seems to inhibit the immune system. Despite the extensive literature related to alcoholism, data related to the immune system are still not conclusive. OBJECTIVE The purpose of this study was to verify the influence of acute alcohol intake on colloid distribution in the organs of the mononuclear phagocyte system. METHODS AND RESULTS Thirteen male Swiss mice were divided into two groups: Group 1 (n = 5) - control, and Group 2 (n = 8) - animals that received 0.5 ml ethanol 50%, 30 minutes before the experiment. Colloidal sulphur labeled with 99mTc was used to evaluate colloid distribution in the liver, spleen and lungs. Colloid clearance was assessed as well. A gamma camera was used to measure the radioactivity of these organs and of a blood clot. No difference was found in the presence of colloid in the organs of both groups. The liver showed the highest phagocytic intake, followed by the spleen and lungs (p = 0.021 for Group 1 and p = 0.003 for Group 2). A minimum amount of radiation remained in the blood of both groups. DISCUSSION According to the experiential conditions of this work, acute ingestion of alcohol did not interfere with the phagocytic function of the mononuclear phagocyte system in mice.